50 Facts About Rogers Centre

History and Construction

Rogers Centre, originally known as SkyDome, has a rich history and fascinating construction details. Here are some intriguing facts about its origins and development.

1. Opened in 1989, it was the first stadium with a fully retractable roof.
2. The construction cost was approximately $570 million CAD.
3. It took three years to build, starting in 1986.
4. The stadium was renamed Rogers Centre in 2005 after Rogers Communications purchased the naming rights.
5. The roof takes about 20 minutes to open or close.
6. The stadium's roof weighs 11,000 tons.
7. It covers an area of 8 acres when fully extended.
8. The roof consists of four panels, three of which are movable.
9. The idea for a retractable roof came after a rain-soaked Grey Cup game in 1982.
10. It was designed by architect Rod Robbie and structural engineer Michael Allen.

Design and Features

Rogers Centre boasts unique design elements and features that make it stand out among other stadiums.

11. The stadium can seat up to 53,506 people for baseball games.
12. For concerts, the seating capacity can expand to 55,000.
13. It has a hotel with 70 rooms overlooking the field.
14. The hotel includes 348 rooms in total.
15. The stadium's field is made of AstroTurf, a type of artificial grass.
16. The scoreboard is one of the largest in Major League Baseball.
17. The stadium has a 110-foot high center field wall.
18. It features a 33,000-square-foot video board.
19. The stadium's roof is designed to withstand heavy snow loads.
20. Rogers Centre has hosted over 2,000 events since its opening.

Memorable Events

Over the years, Rogers Centre has been the venue for many memorable events, from sports to concerts.

21. The first event held was a Toronto Blue Jays game on June 5, 1989.
22. It hosted the 1991 MLB All-Star Game.
23. The stadium was the site of the 1992 and 1993 World Series.
24. It hosted WrestleMania VI in 1990.
25. The Rolling Stones performed there in 1994.
26. It was the venue for the 2015 Pan American Games opening ceremony.
27. The Toronto Argonauts played their home games there until 2015.
28. The stadium has hosted numerous monster truck rallies.
29. It was the site of the 2016 NHL Centennial Classic.
30. U2 performed there during their 360° Tour in 2009.

Technological Innovations

Rogers Centre has been at the forefront of technological advancements in stadium design and operations.

31. It was the first stadium to have a fully automated retractable roof.
32. The roof's movement is controlled by a computer system.
33. The stadium features state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems.
34. It has Wi-Fi coverage throughout the entire venue.
35. The stadium's video board uses high-definition technology.
36. It has a sophisticated HVAC system to maintain comfortable temperatures.
37. The field's AstroTurf is designed to reduce injuries.
38. The stadium has an advanced security system with numerous cameras.
39. It features a modern press box with advanced communication tools.
40. The stadium's lighting system can be customized for different events.

Fun and Quirky Facts

Rogers Centre has some fun and quirky facts that add to its charm and character.

41. The stadium's roof has been struck by lightning multiple times.
42. It has a time capsule buried in its walls, set to be opened in 2089.
43. The stadium once had a Hard Rock Café inside.
44. It has hosted over 60 million visitors since opening.
45. The stadium's field can be converted for different sports in just 24 hours.
46. It has a dedicated mascot named Ace.
47. The stadium's roof has a unique "clamshell" design.
48. It was featured in the movie "Resident Evil: Afterlife."
49. The stadium has a special "Rogers Centre" beer brewed exclusively for it.
50. It has a giant baseball bat sculpture outside the main entrance.

Rogers Centre: A Marvel of Modern Architecture

Rogers Centre isn't just a stadium; it's a symbol of innovation and entertainment. From its retractable roof to its multi-purpose design, this venue has set a benchmark for sports and events. The Blue Jays call it home, but it's also hosted concerts, conventions, and even monster truck rallies. Its unique features and versatility make it a must-visit for anyone in Toronto.

Whether you're a sports fan, a concert-goer, or just someone who appreciates architectural marvels, Rogers Centre offers something for everyone. Its history and continued relevance in the world of entertainment and sports make it a fascinating subject. So next time you're in Toronto, make sure to check out this iconic venue. You'll be impressed by what you find.