The Eras Tour in Vancouver: Ultimate Guide for Swifties

Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour is set to hit Vancouver with three electrifying shows at BC Place on December 6, 7, and 8, 2024! If you’re one of the lucky Swifties who got a ticket, it’s time to start planning your adventure. There’s much to consider, but don’t sweat it—we’ve got you covered. This guide will provide you with essential information on transportation, the venue, dining options, activities in the city, and the best places to stay. Check it out and prepare for the Eras Tour in Vancouver now!

Read also:

• Best Places to Stay in Vancouver
• Things to do in Vancouver
• Top Restaurants in Vancouver
• Best Tours in Vancouver

About the Concert Venue: BC Place

Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour in Vancouver will be held at BC Place. It’s one of the largest stadiums in Canada, with a capacity of over 54,500 people. The stadium’s retractable roof and modern facilities make it ideal for large-scale concerts.

• Location: 777 Pacific Blvd, Vancouver, BC V6B 4Y8, Canada
• Stadium map: here
• Seating Arrangements: The venue offers various seating options, from floor seats close to the stage to higher-level seats that provide a broader view of the entire performance. Check your seat location in advance to familiarize yourself with entrances and exits.
• Bag storage policy: Clutch purses or belt bags no bigger than 6.5″ x 8.5″ are allowed. Clear plastic bags (including clear freezer bags) must not exceed 12″ x 12″ x 6″.

Transportation

Getting to the Venue

• Public Transit: The SkyTrain is the most convenient way to get to BC Place. Use the Expo Line or Canada Line to reach the Stadium Chinatown station. After exiting the Skytrain, go up the stairs to Beatty Street and turn left. Gates A, B, and H are about a five-minute walk up Beatty Street. Alternatively, you can head down the stairs to Expo Boulevard, and the Stadium is a five-minute walk to the right.
• Buses: Vancouver’s bus network connects well to downtown. You can catch buses no.15 or no.17 to get to BC Place.
• Car Rentals or Ride-Sharing: If you prefer to drive, remember that parking fills up quickly on concert days, so arriving early is key. Click here to see parking information. Alternatively, consider using ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft to get to the Eras Tour in Vancouver hassle-free.

Getting Around the City

• SkyTrain & Buses: Vancouver’s public transit efficiently explores neighborhoods like Gastown, Yaletown, Granville Island, and beyond.
• Bike Rentals: Rent bikes through Mobi by Shaw Go to explore the city’s bike-friendly paths, including Stanley Park and the Seawall. Some hotels also offer bike rentals, and some even offer free bikes. 
• Walking: Vancouver is pedestrian-friendly, especially downtown. Walking allows you to explore local shops, cafes, and parks easily.

SIM Card for Use in Vancouver

For staying connected during your trip, consider purchasing a local SIM card or an eSIM for international travelers:

• Bytesim: Offers eSIM options for travelers in Canada with data packages suitable for short-term visits. Use our code here to get a 5% discount.
• Klook: They offer physical SIM cards or eSIMs for convenient pickup at Vancouver International Airport (YVR) or direct delivery to your accommodation.
• Local Providers: Canadian carriers like Rogers, Telus, and Bell offer prepaid SIM cards at convenience stores and airport kiosks. So, if you haven’t prepared your SIM yet, you can get one right after landing at the airport.

Vancouver Best Attractions

Make the most of your time in the city before the Eras Tour in Vancouver. Here are some must-see attractions:

Stanley Park

• Address: Vancouver, BC V6G 1Z4, Canada
• Open hours: 9:00 – 17:00 daily
• Website: vancouver.ca
• Contact: +1 604-681-6728

Stanley Park is Vancouver’s biggest and oldest park, covering over 1,000 acres and serving as a hub for the city. It perfectly combines nature and city life, offering amazing ocean, mountains, and skyline views. You’ll often see people jogging, cycling, or walking.

The park has plenty to explore. The Totem Poles at Brockton Point are popular spots that offer a glimpse into Indigenous culture. Nature lovers can check out Lost Lagoon to see ducks, swans, and turtles. If you’re looking for a peaceful spot, visit the Rose Garden in summer or enjoy a picnic by the water.

Granville Island

• Address: Vancouver, BC, Canada (Find on map)
• Website: granvilleisland.com
• Open hours: Public Market 9 AM – 6 PM | Net Loft 10 AM – 6 PM

Granville Island is a lively district in Vancouver located just south of the Granville Street Bridge along False Creek. The name “Granville” comes from the city’s original name. In the early 1900s, it was mainly a site for sawmills and factories, but now it’s known as a “food lover’s paradise.”

Today, Granville Island is a favorite spot for both tourists and locals. The area features a bustling public market with fresh food, artisan products, and unique shops. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a meal by the waterfront and enjoy beautiful city views.

Gastown

Gastown was once a sawmill area in 1967, but now it’s a trendy neighborhood in northeast downtown Vancouver and a national historic site. It features modern restaurants, shops, nightclubs, and beautiful Victorian-style buildings.

Gastown is perfect for experiencing the local vibe. It has stylish boutiques and art galleries. At night, it comes alive with clubs and lounges, like “The Cambie,” “The Columbia,” and “Lamplighter Public House.” 

Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

• Address: 3735 Capilano Rd, North Vancouver, BC V7R 4J1, Canada
• Open hours: 9:00 – 20:00 daily (change by season; check the website before heading out)
• Website: www.capbridge.com
• Admission: Adults (18 – 64) $71.95 | Youth (13- 17) $42.95 | Students (over 18) $59.95 | Seniors (over 65 )$66.95 | Children (6 -12 ) $24.95 | Children under six years old Free

The Capilano Suspension Bridge is a stunning rope bridge that stretches 137 meters (450 feet) across the Capilano River and stands 70 meters (230 feet) high in North Vancouver’s beautiful forest. At the end of the bridge, you can enjoy breathtaking views and explore totem poles that showcase Indigenous artistry.

Plan to spend about two hours there. The bridge is just a 20-minute drive from downtown Vancouver, and a free shuttle runs every 15 minutes from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, making it easy to visit​.

VanDusen Botanical Garden

• Address: 5251 Oak St, Vancouver, BC V6M 4H1, Canada
• Open hours: 9:00 – 17:00 daily
• Website: vandusengarden.org
• Contact:  +1 604-257-8463
• Admission: $4.9 – $13.8 vary on season ( check out their website for more details)

VanDusen Botanical Garden is a beautiful 55-acre park with over 7,500 plant species. It’s a peaceful place to enjoy nature, with a Japanese Garden and a lovely Rose Garden.

The garden changes with the seasons, featuring cherry blossoms in spring and colorful leaves in autumn. In winter, the Festival of Lights decorates the garden with festive lights and a fun hedge maze to explore!

Yaletown

• Location on the map: Here

Start by walking along the Yaletown Seawall to see lovely views of False Creek and the marina. The area has dining and drinking options, from upscale restaurants to casual patio bars for sipping cocktails. Yaletown is especially charming in the evenings, with string lights that create a cozy European atmosphere. It’s a great place to shop, eat, and enjoy the lively vibe!

To see more exciting attractions, check out our complete guide here.

Best restaurants and cafes near BC Place

Frankie’s Italian Vancouver

• Address: 765 Beatty St, Vancouver, BC V6B 2M4, Canada
• Open hours: Breakfast  Daily 7 am-11 am | Lunch & Dinner Sun- Tues: 11 am-10 pm, Wed-Sat: 11 am-11 pm
• Contact: 604-688-6368
• Website: www.frankiesitaliankitchen.ca

If you love Italian food, you’ll find a lot to enjoy on Frankie’s menu. They offer a variety of pasta dishes made from house-made and imported pasta, along with delicious hand-stretched pizzas made fresh every day. You can also try their hearty entrées, stuffed Italian ciabatta sandwiches, and traditional antipasto platters.

Frankie’s has a relaxed wine list highlighting great Italian selections, Okanagan Valley wines, and classic New and Old World choices. Additionally, Frankie’s Jazz hosts live music four nights a week, featuring local and international Jazz and Blues musicians.

Patron Tacos & Cantina

• Address: 265 Robson St, Vancouver, BC V6B 0E7, Canada
• Open hours: Monday Closed Tuesday 3 pm – 9 pm | Wednesday & Thursday 11 am – 9 pm | Friday 11 am – 10 pm | Saturday 10 am – 10 pm | Sunday 10 am – 9 pm
• Contact:  +1 604-558-3368
• Website: www.patrontc.com

This restaurant near the Vancouver Public Library (Central Library Branch) is a hit for its tasty Mexican food. People love the flautas, tortilla soup, and burritos. You can’t go wrong with their churros, waffles, and ice cream for dessert.

They also have a great drink selection, with popular margaritas, draft beer, and micheladas picks. If you want something refreshing, try their horchata or lemonade. You can sit inside for a cozy atmosphere or enjoy the outdoor seating for a more relaxed vibe.

Pho Khanh Express

• Address: 910 Beatty St, Vancouver, BC V6B 1M7, Canada
• Open hours: 10:00 – 22:30 Wednesday to Saturday | 10:00 – 22:00 Sunday to Tuesday
• Contact: +1 604-841-4268
• Website: khanhexpress.ca

If you’re in the mood for something hearty yet quick, Pho Khanh Express is the place to be. This restaurant specializes in Vietnamese cuisine and is known for its flavorful pho. The broth is simmered for hours, producing a rich, aromatic soup that warms the soul. They also serve delicious banh mi and spring rolls and a range of tasty rice and noodle bowls to satisfy your cravings.

Fanny Bay Oyster Bar & Shellfish Market

• Address: 762 Cambie St, Vancouver, BC V6B 2P2, Canada
• Open hours: 14:00 – 22:00 daily
• Contact: +1 778-379-9510
• Website: www.fannybayoysters.com

This is Vancouver’s only tide-to-table oyster bar and shellfish market, located in the stadium district. As the main location, it offers the freshest shellfish and seafood in British Columbia. It’s a great spot for drinks and snacks before or after games, a fun happy hour, or a tasty seafood dinner. You can even pick up something special from their shellfish market to take home.

They also have exciting oyster tasting and shucking lessons led by professional shuckers. Known for having one of the best happy hours downtown, you can enjoy a fantastic selection of snacks, drinks, and oysters daily.

The Flying Pig Yaletown

• Address: 1168 Hamilton St, Vancouver, BC V6B 2S2, Canada
• Open hours: Monday to Wednesday – 3 pm to 11 pm | Thursday – 11:30 am to 11 pm | Friday & Saturday- 11:30 am to 12 am | Sunday – 11:30 am to 10 pm
• Contact: +1 604-568-1344
• Website: theflyingpigvan.com

The Flying Pig Yaletown is a local favorite for Canadian comfort food. It offers hearty dishes made with fresh West Coast ingredients, giving classic meals a flavorful twist. The braised meatballs and tender pork belly stand out on the menu.

Seafood fans will also enjoy the fish options, such as tuna and salmon, which showcase local flavors. It’s a great spot for a casual, satisfying meal.

Cafe Medina

• Address: 780 Richards St, Vancouver, BC V6B 3A4, Canada
• Open hours: 9:00 – 15:00 daily
• Contact: +1 604-879-3114
• Website: www.medinacafe.com

Café Medina has been a local favorite for brunch since it opened in 2008. The café is known for its lively atmosphere, tasty bistro-style dishes, and top-notch coffee. Their Belgian waffles are especially popular with both locals and tourists. Whether you’re stopping by for breakfast, lunch, or brunch, it’s a spot that always delivers flavor and good vibes.

Rocanini Coffee Roasters

• Address: 863 Beatty Street, Vancouver, BC V6B 2M6
• Open hours: Mon-Fri: 7:15am~5:00pm  | Sat-Sun: 8 am-5 pm
• Contact: 778-379-1863
• Website: www.rocanini.com

Rocanini Coffee Roasters is a cozy café on Beatty Street in Yaletown, close to Robson Street. It’s a friendly spot perfect for coffee lovers, offering a range of espresso drinks, pour-over coffee, and cold brews. They also serve assorted teas, hot chocolate, and fresh juices.

In addition to great coffee, the café offers delicious pastries and sandwiches, making it ideal for a light lunch. The café has plenty of seating, so it’s a great spot to relax or meet up with friends. Plus, they provide soy and almond milk options for those who prefer alternatives!

Tips for the Concert

• Arrive Early: With thousands attending, arriving early will help you navigate the crowds and enjoy pre-show activities.
• Prepare for the Weather: Vancouver in December can be chilly and rainy. If you plan to arrive early and wait outside, wear layers and bring a waterproof jacket.
• Merchandise Booths: If you want to buy tour merchandise, arrive even earlier, as lines can be long. Alternatively, check if there’s an online pre-order with a pickup option.
• Dress for the Occasion: Many fans dress up in outfits inspired by different Taylor Swift “eras.” Choose a look that reflects your favorite album or style.
• Public Transit After the Show: SkyTrain runs late but can be crowded. Before returning, consider waiting at a nearby café or bar to let the crowds thin out.

Best Places to Stay During The Eras Tour in Vancouver

Finding the perfect place to stay during the Eras Tour in Vancouver is key. You’ll want to be close to the action! Here are a few suggestions:

JW Marriott Parq Vancouver

This is a fancy spot just a five-minute walk from BC Place. It’s part of a complex with a casino and several restaurants, so you have plenty to do without going far. The rooms are stylish, with big windows offering views of the city or mountains, plus comfy beds and sleek bathrooms. For relaxation, there’s a rooftop hot tub and a spa where you can treat yourself.

Staying here also puts you close to places like Rogers Arena and the scenic Seawall for a nice walk or bike ride. There’s a fitness center if you like to keep up your workouts, and being in the middle of downtown means you can easily explore cool neighborhoods like Yaletown and Gastown.

Hampton Inn & Suites Vancouver-Downtown

This place is a good choice if you want something comfortable and budget-friendly. It’s just 100m from BC Place Vancouver, you can even see the Eras tour through you window. The modern rooms come with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and mini-fridges. Some even have kitchenettes if you prefer to prepare your meals. Enjoy the fitness center, sauna, and rooftop patio with city and BC Place views.

The hotel offers a free shuttle service to nearby spots, making it easy to get around. It’s close to Yaletown’s trendy restaurants and bars and Granville Street, known for its nightlife. Perfect for travelers who want comfort and a central location without the high price tag!

YWCA Hotel Vancouver

Another affordable choice is just 10 minutes from BC Place. The rooms are simple but cozy, with options for shared or private bathrooms depending on your budget. The hotel is clean and welcoming, with useful amenities like a fitness room and guest kitchens where you can cook your meals. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a wallet-friendly stay in a central location.

The hotel is close to popular shopping attractions like Robson Street and the Vancouver Art Gallery. It’s a good base for exploring downtown on foot, with plenty of dining and cultural options nearby.

DOUGLAS, Autograph Collection

This boutique hotel is next to JW Marriott in the Parq Vancouver complex. It’s steps from BC Place and has a modern, stylish design, with rooms featuring natural touches like wood details. The DOUGLAS shares amenities with JW Marriott, including access to the casino, dining spots, and a rooftop lounge.

Its central location makes exploring downtown attractions like False Creek and nearby entertainment districts easy. If you appreciate unique design and luxury, this hotel gives you a chic, upscale experience with all the convenience of being close to the action.

With this guide, you’re set for an unforgettable time at Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour and can make the most of your visit to Vancouver! Make sure to plan for accommodations and transportation, as the city will be bustling with excitement during the concert dates. Vancouver is ready to welcome Swifties from near and far, so pack your bags, prepare your outfits, and prepare for an unforgettable Eras Tour experience!