The Complete Visitor’s Guide to Toronto Stadium – BMO Field for the FIFA World Cup 2026

Introduction

Toronto is preparing to welcome the world in 2026, and BMO Field will take center stage as one of Canada’s premier FIFA World Cup venues. For many fans, this will be their first time experiencing Toronto's vibrant energy, one of North America’s most multicultural and dynamic cities. Whether you're planning your match itinerary, figuring out transportation, or looking for the best neighborhoods to stay in, this guide brings everything together in one place.

BMO Field, located along the waterfront inside Exhibition Place, is home to Toronto FC and the Toronto Argonauts. It’s a modern, open-air stadium known for its lively atmosphere and scenic views over Lake Ontario. The stadium has hosted numerous major sporting events, and with upgrades specifically for the World Cup, its role in 2026 will be more significant than ever.

This comprehensive guide covers stadium history, transportation, seating, hotels, restaurants, travel tips, and full match schedules so you can plan your Toronto World Cup experience with confidence.

For more FIFA-focused travel planning, you can explore our FIFA World Cup 2026 Stadiums Transportation here, and for more information about Toronto, visit our Toronto travel guide article.

History & Significance of the Stadium

BMO Field opened in 2007 as Canada’s first soccer-specific stadium. Originally built for Toronto FC’s entry into Major League Soccer, the venue has since undergone several expansions, transforming it into a world-class facility suitable for international tournaments.

Home Teams

• Toronto FC (MLS)
• Toronto Argonauts (CFL)

Iconic Events

BMO Field has hosted:

• The 2016 MLS Cup Final
• The 2017 MLS Cup Final (Toronto FC’s historic win)
• Various Canadian National Team matches
• The 2015 Pan American Games events

Role in the FIFA World Cup 2026

Toronto will host six World Cup matches, including key group fixtures and a knockout match. Temporary seating expansions will increase the capacity for the event, making it one of Canada’s main stages for the tournament.

Stadium Location & How to Get There

BMO Field sits inside Exhibition Place, west of downtown Toronto and directly on the waterfront. The area is well-connected with multiple highways, transit routes, and pedestrian paths.

Main Highways

• Gardiner Expressway: The primary route into the Exhibition Place district.
• Highway 401: Connects travelers from northern Toronto and the airport zone.
• Highway 427: Links to Toronto Pearson International Airport.

Public Transit

Toronto benefits from a highly efficient and reliable transit system.

TTC Options (Toronto Transit Commission):

• 509 Harborfront Streetcar directly to Exhibition Place
• 29 Dufferin Bus stops at Dufferin Gate
• 504 King Streetcar with connections to Exhibition Loop

GO Transit (Regional Rail):

• Exhibition GO Station is just a short walk to BMO Field
  Perfect for fans staying in the suburbs or nearby cities like Hamilton or Mississauga.

Walking Access

If you’re staying downtown, walking to the stadium from Liberty Village or Fort York is easy and scenic. Paths along the waterfront offer direct pedestrian access.

Parking Restrictions During the World Cup

Exhibition Place normally has large parking lots, but during the World Cup:

• Most lots will be reserved for officials, media, and permit holders.
• Limited public parking will require pre-booking and early arrival.
• Street parking in surrounding neighborhoods will be heavily restricted.

Recommended: Pre-Booked Transportation

Crowds in Toronto during major events are no joke. Pre-arranging your ride helps you avoid last-minute chaos.
You can explore premium options here:
BMO Field transportation: https://lavishride.com/services/toronto-bmo-field-transportation
Main Toronto city hub: https://lavishride.com/cities/luxury-transportation-toronto

Seating Map, Capacity & Spectator Experience

BMO Field will temporarily expand its seating, increasing capacity beyond its MLS standard.

Stadium Layout Overview

• East & West Grandstands: Central viewing areas with premium seating options
• South Stand: Traditionally the most lively supporters’ section
• North Stand: Expanded seating zone for major events

Accessibility Features

The stadium offers:

• Wheelchair-accessible seating across multiple levels
• Elevators, ramps, and designated entrances
• Accessible restrooms
• Visual and hearing accessibility services upon request

Family-Friendly Notes

BMO Field is known for its safe, welcoming environment. Expect:

• Family washrooms
• Stroller parking in designated zones
• Kid-friendly food options
• Clear signage making navigation easy for first-time visitors

Things to Know Before Attending a Match

Security Protocols

Visitors can expect:

• Airport-level security screening
• Metal detectors
• No re-entry once inside
• Strict adherence to FIFA’s global matchday rules

Bag Policies

• Small clear bags only
• No backpacks
• Medical and childcare exceptions allowed

Weather Expectations

June and July in Toronto bring mild to warm weather:

• Daytime: 20–28°C (68–82°F)
• Occasional humidity
• Evening breezes from Lake Ontario

Bring sunscreen for daytime matches and a light jacket for night games.

When Gates Open

Typically 2–3 hours before kickoff, allowing ample time to enjoy pre-match festivities.

Amenities Inside

• Large food courts with local and international cuisine
• Merchandise shops
• Free Wi-Fi
• Cashless payments

Where to Stay Near the Stadium

Toronto offers a wide range of accommodations for all budgets.

Luxury Hotels

• The Ritz-Carlton Toronto
• Fairmont Royal York
• Shangri-La Toronto
  Located downtown with direct transit links to BMO Field.

Mid-Range Hotels

• Hotel X Toronto (closest to BMO Field)
• Delta Hotels by Marriott Toronto
• Radisson Blu Toronto Downtown

Budget Options

• Super 8 by Wyndham
• HI Toronto Hostel
• The Clarence Park Hostel

Popular Neighborhoods Nearby

• Liberty Village: Trendy area within walking distance
• King West: Toronto’s nightlife hub
• Harbourfront: Scenic, quiet, upscale waterfront stays
• Downtown Core: Close to transit, dining, and sightseeing

Best Restaurants & Areas to Explore Nearby

Toronto is a culinary hub with some of the best dining scenes in North America.

Near BMO Field

• Liberty Commons (BBQ and comfort food)
• Mildred’s Temple Kitchen (brunch favorite)
• Local Public Eatery (casual dining with great crowds on game day)

Downtown Favorites

• Kōjin (steakhouse with Latin American influence)
• Pai (famous Thai restaurant)
• Harbour 60 (high-end steakhouse)

Areas to Explore

• The Entertainment District
• Distillery Historic District
• Queen Street West
• Harbourfront Center

For a complete Toronto travel guid vidit our Toronto Travel Guide, and for more travel insights  (advice and tips), explore our Lavish Ride Travel Tips hub

Transportation Recommendations for Game Day

Toronto’s traffic during events can be unpredictable, especially near Exhibition Place.

All Options Compared

• Transit: Cheap, convenient, yet crowded
• Rideshare: Surge pricing and heavy delays likely
• Driving: Limited parking and long exit queues
• Walking/Biking: Great if you’re close by
• Chauffeured Transportation: Stress-free, private, comfortable

Why Consider a Chauffeured Service

• Direct drop-off near designated entry points
• Avoiding traffic congestion thanks to optimized routing
• Early pickups to accommodate large crowds
• Perfect for airport-to-hotel-to-stadium transfers

Explore more of Toronto Transportation services:

• Toronto city-wide luxury transportation service hub
• Toronto Black Car & Chauffeur Service
• Toronto YYZ Airport Transfer 
• Toronto Long-Distance Luxury Transportation
• Toronto Stadium - BMO Field Transportation

World Cup 2026 Match Schedule for This Stadium

Below is the full list of matches at BMO Field, with context to help you plan your visits.

Group Stage Fixtures

• Friday, 12 June 2026 – Match 3 (Group B, Canada #1) - Canada v Bosnia and Herzegovina/Italy/Northern Ireland/Wales - Canada’s opening match will electrify the entire city. Expect massive crowds, street festivals, and record-breaking attendance.
• Wednesday, 17 June 2026 – Match 21 (Group L) - Ghana v Panama - A midweek matchup that will bring fans from around the world to Toronto’s waterfront.
• Saturday, 20 June 2026 – Match 33 (Group E) - Germany v Côte d'Ivoire - Weekend fixtures draw the biggest crowds, making transportation planning essential.
• Tuesday, 23 June 2026 – Match 46 (Group L) - Panama v Croatia - This match may determine group standings, increasing demand for tickets and access.
• Friday, 26 June 2026 – Match 62 (Group I) - Senegal v Bolivia/Iraq/Suriname - A high-stakes late-group match with strong international fanbases.

Round of 32 Fixture

• Thursday, 2 July 2026 - Match 83 – Group K runners-up vs Group L runners-up - Knockout-stage drama arrives in Toronto with two powerful teams vying for a place in the last 16.

Phases Hosted:

• Group Stage
• Round of 32

Conclusion

Toronto is ready to deliver an unforgettable World Cup experience, from energetic fan zones to world-class cuisine and iconic waterfront views. With careful planning, the right transportation, and a well-chosen place to stay, your matchday experience at BMO Field can be seamless and memorable. Whether you're arriving from overseas or exploring Canada’s cultural capital, enjoy every moment of this historic tournament.