Elton John is one of the most popular and successful musical artists of all time. He has sold over 300 million records worldwide and has had over 50 Top 40 hits. At 75 years old, Elton John is currently on his Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour, performing concerts around the world one final time before retirement. Vancouver is lucky to be one of the cities where Elton John will perform on this farewell tour. His concert is highly anticipated by music fans in Vancouver and is expected to sell out quickly. This article will provide all the key details on where and when the Elton John concert will take place in Vancouver.
When is Elton John Performing in Vancouver?
Elton John will perform at Rogers Arena in Vancouver on October 21, 2023 as part of his Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour. The concert is scheduled to begin at 8:00 pm. Doors to the venue will likely open 90 minutes prior to showtime, at around 6:30 pm. Elton John is known for putting on elaborate productions and playing lengthy setlists at his concerts, so fans should expect him to perform for 2-3 hours once he hits the stage. Unless there is an opening act added to the bill, which has not yet been announced, Elton John will likely begin his performance promptly at 8:00 pm.
Where is the Elton John Concert in Vancouver?
The concert venue for Elton John’s stop in Vancouver is Rogers Arena, located at:
800 Griffiths Way
Vancouver, BC V6B 6G1
Rogers Arena is located in downtown Vancouver, near the intersection of Griffiths Way and Abbott Street. It is in close proximity to the downtown core and is accessible via public transit, with the Stadium-Chinatown SkyTrain station located right outside the arena. Rogers Arena is a large indoor venue with a concert capacity of around 18,900 for music events.
Some key details on Rogers Arena:
- Opened in 1995
- Home to the NHL’s Vancouver Canucks
- Hosts major concerts and live events
- Concert capacity of approx. 18,900
- Accessible via SkyTrain at Stadium-Chinatown station
Rogers Arena has state-of-the-art sound, lighting, and production capabilities for major concerts. It is one of the premier venues in Vancouver for seeing world-class musical acts like Elton John.
How to Get to Rogers Arena
Rogers Arena is conveniently located right next to a major SkyTrain station, making it very accessible via public transit. The Stadium-Chinatown SkyTrain station is on the Expo and Millennium lines, so fans can get to Rogers Arena from many parts of Metro Vancouver.
To get to Rogers Arena via SkyTrain:
- Take the Expo or Millennium line to Stadium-Chinatown station
- Exit the station at the west side onto Abbott Street
- Rogers Arena will be directly across the street
The SkyTrain is typically the easiest and most affordable way to get to events at Rogers Arena. Trains run frequently, with service every 5 to 12 minutes. The Expo Line provides direct service from downtown Vancouver, Surrey, New Westminster, and other suburbs.
Driving to Rogers Arena is also an option, though parking can be limited. If driving, some nearby parking garages and lots include:
- Rogers Arena Parkade – entrance off Griffiths Way
- BCIT Parkade – 755 Expo Blvd
- Plaza of Nations – 750 Pacific Blvd
Allow extra time to find parking if driving to the concert. Arriving early is recommended to ensure you make it into the venue on time.
Ride sharing services like taxis, Uber and Lyft also frequently serve Rogers Arena. This can be a good option for those looking to be dropped off directly at the main entrance.
No matter how you get there, be sure to arrive early to get into the venue before Elton John takes the stage!
Where to Stay in Vancouver for the Concert
Vancouver offers many great hotel options for those traveling to the city to see Elton John in concert. When choosing where to stay, look for locations that are centrally located and near public transit lines. Recommended areas include:
- Downtown Vancouver: Close to Rogers Arena and transit. Offers easy access to restaurants and attractions.
- Yaletown: Trendy neighborhood south of downtown. Just two SkyTrain stops from the arena.
- West End: Lively area with shops, parks, and waterfront access. Quick trip to Rogers Arena via SkyTrain.
Some top-rated hotels convenient for the Elton John concert include:
| Hotel | Location | Avg. Nightly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Fairmont Pacific Rim | Downtown Vancouver | $550 |
| Shangri-La Vancouver | Downtown Vancouver | $495 |
| The Douglas | West End | $260 |
| L’Hermitage Hotel | Downtown Vancouver | $475 |
| Delta Hotels Vancouver Downtown Suites | Downtown Vancouver | $220 |
Rates are approximate for October 2023 and will vary depending on specific dates. Book early for the best selection and prices.
Fans should consider staying as close to downtown Vancouver as possible. Look for accommodations near SkyTrain stations, allowing easy transit access to Rogers Arena on the night of the concert.
Where to Park for the Concert
Parking right at Rogers Arena can be limited and expensive, with most event parking passes costing $25-$50. Nearby parking garages and lots fill up fast as well. It is recommended to take public transit to avoid parking headaches.
However, if driving is a must, here are some of the closest parking options:
- Rogers Arena Parkade – Attached to venue, entrance off Griffiths Way. Rates $25-$50.
- BCIT Parkade – 755 Expo Blvd. Large covered lot a 10 min walk away. Approx. $20.
- EasyPark Lots – Several nearby lots like Howe St, Dunsmuir St, and Georgia Viaduct. Around $10-$20 for evening rates.
- Vancouver General Hospital Parkade – 855 W 12th Ave. 20 min walk. Evenings approx. $6.
Try to arrive as early as possible if parking near Rogers Arena, as stalls fill up fast. Be prepared to pay high rates and factor in extra time to find an acceptable lot with availability. Consider taking a taxi or ride share service for convenience.
Many downtown Vancouver hotels also offer parking packages. Overnight guests can get easy, guaranteed parking at the hotel often for cheaper rates.
Ultimately, public transit, walking, or getting dropped off is ideal to avoid the parking challenges around major events at Rogers Arena.
Things to Do Before the Concert in Vancouver
Vancouver offers many great things to see and do within close proximity to Rogers Arena while waiting for the Elton John concert. Here are some top pre-concert activities fans might enjoy:
- Explore Granville Island – Take the AquaBus ferry over from downtown Vancouver to wander around this lively island with artisan shops, food stalls and more.
- Check out Canada Place – This waterfront area near downtown features a promenade, pier, Float Plane terminal and the iconic sails archway.
- Ride the SkyTrain -Hop on the SkyTrain at nearby Stadium-Chinatown station and tour downtown, Yaletown, Olympic Village and other sights.
- Shop on Robson Street – Just a 15 minute walk away, this busy street offers high-end boutiques and big brand name stores.
- Try Craft Breweries – Sample some of Vancouver’s famous craft beer at tasting rooms like Brassneck Brewery or 33 Acres Brewing.
- Stanley Park – Vancouver’s iconic urban park. Stroll the Seawall, visit Vancouver Aquarium, or tour tranquil gardens.
- Gastown – Historic neighborhood with steam clock, galleries, restaurants and unique boutiques.
- Science World – Interactive science museum with rotating exhibits, an IMAX Dome theatre and more.
With a lively downtown core and plenty of attractions, Vancouver offers no shortage of things to see and do before catching Elton John’s farewell concert at Rogers Arena.
Where to Eat Dinner Before the Show
Vancouver’s downtown area right near Rogers Arena offers many excellent dining options for concert goers. Here are some top restaurant picks:
| Restaurant | Type of Cuisine | Avg. Price Per Entree |
|---|---|---|
| JOEY Burrard | Canadian | $25 |
| Five Sails Restaurant | Seafood | $40 |
| Kimura | Sushi | $20 |
| The Keg Steakhouse | Steakhouse | $45 |
| Rogers Arena – Various Concessions | Arena Food | $10-$20 |
Rogers Arena itself also offers a wide selection of food concessions where you can grab a quick bite right inside the venue. Prices are similar to major sporting events.
For the widest selection of dining options, head to the downtown Vancouver area. Look for restaurants along Robson Street, Davie Street or in the Yaletown neighborhood. Reserve ahead to avoid long waits before showtime.
Where to Stay Near Rogers Arena in Vancouver
When seeing a concert at Rogers Arena, staying close by can maximize convenience. Here are some of the top hotel recommendations in the downtown Vancouver vicinity:
| Hotel | Distance from Rogers Arena | Average Nightly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| The Westin Bayshore Vancouver | 0.5 km / 5 min walk | $420 |
| Fairmont Waterfront | 1.2 km / 15 min walk | $550 |
| Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre | 1.4 km / 18 min walk | $260 |
| The Sutton Place Hotel Vancouver | 2.3 km / 28 min walk | $490 |
| Delta Hotels Vancouver Downtown Suites | 2.5 km / 12 min drive | $220 |
Rates are approximate for October 2023 dates. They can vary drastically depending on demand.
For utmost walking convenience, hotels like Westin Bayshore, Fairmont Waterfront or Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre put you within a half hour stroll or quicker taxi ride away. Other downtown properties like Delta Suites or Sutton Place work well for those driving or using transit.
Booking early maximizes the odds of finding an ideal hotel nearby at a reasonable price point. Be ready to pay prime rates given the major demand influx for a concert by Elton John.
Conclusion
Seeing Elton John live in concert before he retires will be an unforgettable experience for music lovers in Vancouver. The October 21, 2023 show taking place at Rogers Arena is bound to be an extraordinary production and sing-along celebration. Fans are already eager to snatch up tickets, so they are encouraged to buy early before the inevitable sellouts.
Getting to Rogers Arena via SkyTrain from downtown Vancouver could not be simpler. Those traveling from out of town will find no shortage of convenient hotel options in downtown Vancouver, steps away from the arena and music venues. Arrive early to soak in Vancouver’s many restaurant, bar and attraction offerings right in the vicinity.
With Elton John’s long-running career of hits to draw from, this is sure to be a marathon, hit-filled show. Vancouver is privileged to be among the select cities still to host this living legend before his curtain call. The excitement and demand will be high when Elton John finally makes his fantastic farewell in Vancouver.