Which CFL Stadium Is the Best? A City-by-City Breakdown

The Canadian Football League is full of passionate fanbases, historic rivalries, and unique venues that create some of the best atmospheres in North American sports. But which CFL stadium truly stands above the rest? Here’s a city-by-city breakdown of all nine CFL stadiums — looking at atmosphere, history, fan experience, location, and overall game-day vibe.

Calgary – McMahon Stadium

Opened: 1960
Capacity: ~35,000

McMahon Stadium is one of the league’s oldest venues, and while it has hosted legendary moments for the Stampeders, it’s also showing its age. Fans love its old-school feel, but many agree the city is due for a modern replacement. Still, on cold playoff nights, the atmosphere is electric.

Best feature: Loud, loyal fanbase
Needs work: Ageing facilities

Edmonton – Commonwealth Stadium

Opened: 1978
Capacity: ~56,000

Commonwealth is the CFL’s biggest stadium and feels like it. With wide concourses, good sight lines, and strong acoustics, it delivers a big-league environment. The Elks may be rebuilding on the field, but the stadium itself remains top tier.

Best feature: Massive capacity & great atmosphere
Needs work: Could use more modernization in some areas

Saskatchewan – Mosaic Stadium

Opened: 2017
Capacity: ~33,000

Mosaic Stadium is widely considered the gold standard for CFL venues. Built specifically for football, it offers state-of-the-art amenities, excellent views, and unmatched fan energy. Riders fans are known across Canada for creating one of the toughest places to play.

Best feature: Modern design + unreal atmosphere
Needs work: Nearly nothing — it’s the CFL leader

Winnipeg – IG Field

Opened: 2013
Capacity: ~33,000

IG Field is modern, sleek, and incredibly loud when the Bombers are rolling. The roof canopy keeps the noise in, making it one of the most intimidating stadiums for visiting teams. It’s also known for great fan amenities and a strong game-day environment.

Best feature: Noisy atmosphere & modern structure
Needs work: Occasional traffic issues on game days

Hamilton – Tim Hortons Field

Opened: 2014
Capacity: ~23,000

A huge upgrade from the old Ivor Wynne Stadium, Tim Hortons Field offers solid views and great crowd energy. The Labour Day Classic here is one of the best games of the year, with a packed stadium and intense rivalry vibes.

Best feature: Excellent sight lines
Needs work: Smaller capacity limits big-event potential

Toronto – BMO Field

Opened: 2007 (converted for CFL in 2016)
Capacity: ~25,000 (expandable)

BMO Field gives the Argonauts a modern home with great Toronto skyline views. While NFL-style crowds haven’t always been guaranteed, the atmosphere is incredible when fans fill the seats — especially during the playoffs.

Best feature: Beautiful outdoor venue in a great location
Needs work: Attendance consistency

Ottawa – TD Place Stadium

Opened: Renovated 2014
Capacity: ~24,000

TD Place blends modern football amenities with a lively urban setting in Lansdowne Park. Redblacks fans bring great energy, and the south-side stands offer one of the league’s coolest backdrops.

Best feature: Vibrant neighbourhood + strong fan section
Needs work: Weather exposure during colder months

Montreal – Percival Molson Memorial Stadium

Opened: 1919 (renovated multiple times)
Capacity: ~20,000

Historic and unique, Percival Molson sits on the slopes of Mount Royal, offering arguably the most scenic views in the CFL. While it’s one of the smaller venues, its charm, atmosphere, and location make it unforgettable.

Best feature: Stunning views & intimate feel
Needs work: Limited size and older infrastructure

BC – BC Place

Opened: 1983 (renovated 2011)
Capacity: ~54,000

BC Place is a dome with one of the most impressive retractable-roof systems in the world. The stadium feels massive, and when the Lions draw big crowds, it becomes a powerhouse environment. It’s easily the CFL’s most modern indoor venue.

Best feature: Roof + huge, modern interior
Needs work: Atmosphere can dip during smaller crowds

So… Which CFL Stadium Is the Best?

Most fans and analysts agree:

🏆 1st Place: Mosaic Stadium (Saskatchewan Roughriders)

The CFL’s crown jewel — modern, loud, and built for football.

🥈 Runner-Up: IG Field (Winnipeg Blue Bombers)

A close second with great acoustics and strong fan culture.

🥉 Third Place: BC Place (BC Lions)

A world-class venue with a retractable roof and major-event appeal.

Of course, every CFL stadium has its own charm — from Montreal’s hillside views to Hamilton’s rivalry nights — but Mosaic Stadium stands out as the league’s top football environment.