Empire Field Vancouver: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide
Date: 14/06/2025
Introduction
Empire Field in Vancouver, Canada, is a site of rich sporting and cultural heritage. Originally constructed as Empire Stadium in 1954 for the British Empire and Commonwealth Games, it has been the stage for historic athletic achievements, legendary concerts, and pivotal moments in Canadian sports. Today, Empire Field is a vibrant, multi-use public sports facility nestled within the expansive Hastings Park, offering a unique blend of recreation, history, and community engagement. This comprehensive guide details Empire Field’s historical significance, visiting hours, facilities, accessibility, nearby attractions, and practical tips to help you make the most of your visit.
Table of Contents
- Historical Overview
- Empire Field Today
- Visiting Empire Field
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Summary and Final Recommendations
- Official Sources and Further Reading
Historical Overview
Origins and Construction
Empire Stadium was constructed in 1954 in Hastings Park, Vancouver, to host the British Empire and Commonwealth Games, marking the city’s debut as a major international sporting venue. Designed for over 32,000 spectators, it symbolized Vancouver’s ambitions on the world stage, hosting 662 athletes from 24 nations (Empire Stadium Vancouver: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Guide).
The Miracle Mile and International Fame
The 1954 Games at Empire Stadium became legendary with the “Miracle Mile,” when Roger Bannister and John Landy both ran the mile in under four minutes—the first time this feat occurred in a single race. This achievement is commemorated by a statue near the north entrance of the Pacific National Exhibition, honoring one of athletics’ most celebrated moments (Empire Field Vancouver: Visiting Hours, History, and Things to Do).
The Sporting Legacy
Empire Stadium became the inaugural home of the BC Lions (CFL) and hosted the Grey Cup seven times, including the first held west of Ontario. It also saw the debut of the “gooseneck” goalposts and Canada’s first artificial playing surface. Beyond football, the stadium was home to the Vancouver Whitecaps (NASL) and hosted rugby, high school championships, and other multi-sport events.
Cultural Significance
Empire Stadium was not only significant for sports but also for its cultural contributions, hosting legendary concerts by Elvis Presley in 1957 and The Beatles in 1964, leaving an indelible mark on Vancouver’s entertainment history.
Decline and Transformation
With the opening of BC Place Stadium in the early 1980s, Empire Stadium’s prominence faded, and it was demolished in 1993. The site transitioned to support the Pacific National Exhibition and Playland as a parking lot before its temporary revival.
Temporary Revival as Empire Field (2010–2011)
Amid renovations at BC Place, Empire Field was constructed on the original site in 2010 as a modular stadium, quickly built to accommodate the BC Lions and Vancouver Whitecaps. With a 27,500-seat capacity and modern amenities, it demonstrated Vancouver’s commitment to its sporting heritage before being dismantled in 2011 (TourbyTransit).
Empire Field Today
Site Layout and Features
Empire Field now serves as a community sports hub within Hastings Park, featuring two high-quality artificial turf soccer pitches, a running track, BMX bike park, basketball and volleyball courts, playgrounds, and open green spaces. The park also hosts amenities such as seating, modern washrooms, and lighting for safe evening activities (Empire Field Vancouver: Visiting Hours, Facilities, and Attractions).
Facilities and Amenities
- Sports Facilities: Two top-tier artificial turf fields for soccer, football, and other sports, surrounded by a wide recreational running track.
- Spectator Seating: Designated seating, including the unique “Home + Away” bleacher installation.
- Recreational Spaces: BMX park, playground, beach volleyball courts, basketball courts, and skateboarding area.
- Essential Services: Drinking fountains, accessible restrooms, changing rooms, and parking (pay parking—spaces fill quickly during events).
- Nearby Food Options: Closest is McDonald’s at East Hastings and Cassiar, with more eateries along Hastings Street (BC Soccer Web).
Public Art and Commemoration
The “Miracle Mile” bronze statue near the running track commemorates Bannister and Landy’s historic achievement. The newly installed “Home + Away” bleachers serve as functional art, paying homage to the site’s sports history (Urbanized, Daily Hive).
Community Use and Events
Empire Field is a lively venue for local sports leagues, school tournaments, and community festivals. It is integral to the annual PNE Fair and Playland Amusement Park festivities, and is slated to be part of the Vancouver T100 Triathlon World Tour in June 2025 (T100 Triathlon).
Visiting Empire Field
Visiting Hours and Admission
Empire Field and Hastings Park are open daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM (sometimes 11:00 PM during summer or special events). General access is free; tickets are only required for PNE, Playland, or special events (Vancouver Parks Board).
Getting There
- By Public Transit: Multiple TransLink bus routes (#14, #16, #95 B-Line) stop near the park; SkyTrain connections available (AAA Vancouver Guide).
- By Car: Enter via East Hastings Street; pay parking available but limited during major events (Vancouver Parks Board).
- By Bicycle/On Foot: Connected to Vancouver’s cycling and pedestrian greenways; bike racks onsite.
Accessibility
Empire Field is fully accessible, with flat terrain, wide paved paths, accessible washrooms, and designated parking for visitors with disabilities (MyPacer).
Best Times to Visit
- Spring to Early Fall: Pleasant weather and lively events.
- PNE Season (mid-August to early September): Exciting but crowded.
- Weekdays/Off-peak: Quieter for recreation or sightseeing.
Nearby Attractions
- Pacific National Exhibition (PNE): Historic fairground with annual summer fair, concerts, and exhibitions (PNE Official Site).
- Playland Amusement Park: Seasonal rides and games.
- Hastings Racecourse: Live horse racing with scenic views.
- Pacific Coliseum: Major events and concerts.
- Commercial Drive & Burnaby Heights: Diverse dining and shopping.
- Stanley Park: Vancouver’s iconic green space, accessible via transit (Vancouver City Guide).
Practical Tips
- Arrive Early: Parking fills up fast during events.
- Bring Water & Snacks: No concession stands at Empire Field.
- Dress for Weather: Layered, waterproof clothing recommended.
- Check Event Schedules: Plan your visit for special events or avoid crowds.
- Permits for Organized Play: Book via Vancouver Park Board (Vancouver Parks Board).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are Empire Field’s visiting hours?
A: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM (sometimes 11:00 PM during summer/special events).
Q: Is admission free?
A: Yes, general access is free. Tickets required for PNE, Playland, or certain special events.
Q: How do I book a soccer field or organize an event?
A: Book through the Vancouver Park Board’s online system or email [email protected].
Q: Is Empire Field accessible?
A: Yes. There are accessible paths, restrooms, and parking.
Q: Can I bring my pet?
A: Dogs are allowed on leash in most areas, but not on fields during games or events.
Q: Are there guided tours?
A: Occasionally, local historical societies offer tours; check community event listings.
Q: Are there food vendors onsite?
A: No food vendors at Empire Field, but options are available nearby.
Summary and Final Recommendations
Empire Field stands as a testament to Vancouver’s sporting heritage and community spirit. From the legendary Miracle Mile to modern-day community events, it bridges past and present with accessible facilities, commemorative art, and a lively park atmosphere. Visitors enjoy top-tier recreational spaces, scenic views of the North Shore Mountains, and proximity to iconic city attractions like the Pacific National Exhibition and Playland (Empire Stadium Vancouver: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Guide; Empire Field Vancouver: Visiting Hours, Facilities, History, and Practical Tips; Empire Field Vancouver: Visiting Hours, Facilities, and Attractions).
For a seamless experience:
- Use public transit or arrive early for parking.
- Check event calendars to align with your interests.
- Download the Audiala app for interactive maps, event listings, and exclusive content.
- Dress appropriately for Vancouver’s variable weather.
- Take time to enjoy the historical markers and public art installations.
Empire Field is a must-visit for sports fans, families, and anyone seeking a meaningful connection to Vancouver’s history and culture (Vancouver City Guide).
Official Sources and Further Reading
- Empire Stadium Vancouver: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Guide
- Empire Field Vancouver: Visiting Hours, History, and Things to Do
- Empire Field Vancouver: Visiting Hours, Facilities, and Attractions
- Empire Field Vancouver: Visiting Hours, Facilities, History, and Practical Tips
- TourbyTransit
- Urbanized, Daily Hive
- Vancouver Sun
- The Unconventional Route
- T100 Triathlon
- AAA Vancouver Guide
- BC Soccer Web
- ICSF Columbus FC
- MyPacer
Images to include:
- Empire Field panoramic aerial (alt: “Empire Field Vancouver soccer pitches and seating”)
- Miracle Mile bronze statue (alt: “Miracle Mile sculpture at Empire Field Vancouver”)
- North Shore Mountains view (alt: “Scenic North Shore Mountains from Empire Field Vancouver”)
Interactive elements:
- Map of Hastings Park and Empire Fields
- Virtual tour via local historical society (link to be added)
Internal links:
- History of Vancouver Sports Venues
- Visiting Pacific National Exhibition
- Vancouver Cultural Landmarks
