Where Did Blue Jays Play Before SkyDome? A Look at Their Historic Home Stadiums

Before the SkyDome opened in 1989, the Toronto Blue Jays played their home games at Exhibition Stadium. This venue, located on the Canadian National Exhibition grounds, was the team’s home from their inception in 1977 until the move to SkyDome.

Exhibition Stadium was primarily a multi-purpose facility, and while it hosted baseball games, it was also used for football and various events.

The transition to SkyDome marked a significant change for the Blue Jays, as they moved into a state-of-the-art facility with a retractable roof. This allowed for a more reliable playing environment, regardless of the weather.

The team’s success at SkyDome culminated in memorable moments, including Joe Carter’s walk-off home run in the 1993 World Series, solidifying the Blue Jays’ place in baseball history.

Fans often recall the charm of Exhibition Stadium, despite its limitations. It provided a unique atmosphere that was integral to the Blue Jays’ early years.

Exploring the history of where the team played before SkyDome reveals much about its growth and the evolution of baseball in downtown Toronto.

Home Before The Dome

Before the Toronto Blue Jays moved to the SkyDome, they called Exhibition Stadium their home. This stadium faced numerous challenges but played a significant role in the team’s early history.

The transition between venues also affected fan experience and team operations.

Exhibition Stadium Years

Exhibition Stadium served as the home for the Blue Jays from their inaugural season in 1977 until the opening of SkyDome in 1989. Located near the waterfront in Toronto, the stadium was initially designed for the Toronto Argonauts, a Canadian Football League (CFL) team.

Its capacity was around 32,000 for baseball, which created an intimate atmosphere for fans.

The Blue Jays often struggled with attendance, as many viewing spots were far from the action. Despite these limitations, Exhibition Stadium hosted important moments, including postseason games.

The stadium was grassy and outdoor, making it challenging for play during inclement weather. The Blue Jays’ experience here laid the groundwork for future successes.

Changing Venues And Impacts

The move to the SkyDome in 1989 marked a new era for the Blue Jays. Before this, Exhibition Stadium influenced the fan experience significantly.

Toronto’s sports fans also supported other teams like the Buffalo Bills, complicating attendance.

As the Blue Jays built their fan base, the limitations of Exhibition Stadium became evident. Many games had low attendance figures, partly due to seating distance and poor amenities. The desire for a retractable roof stadium, like SkyDome, grew.

The transition improved various aspects, such as capacity and comfort. SkyDome offered a roof that could open, fostering a better game day experience. This move ensured the Blue Jays’ future in Major League Baseball, allowing the team to thrive in a modern venue.

From Concept To Reality

The journey from the initial idea of a new stadium to the opening of SkyDome involved careful planning, innovative design, and significant investment. This section explores the design phase and establishment of what would become a pivotal sports venue in Toronto.

Designing The Future: SkyDome

The concept for SkyDome emerged in the early 1980s as a response to the growing need for a multi-purpose sports facility in Toronto.

The aim was to create a stadium that could host not only baseball but also football and other events, making it a hub for entertainment.

The unique retractable roof was a groundbreaking feature that allowed for games to be played in any weather. This innovation was made possible by advancements in engineering and materials.

The design incorporated premium clubs and social spaces to enhance the fan experience.

Collaborations with Labatt Breweries ensured that the venue would serve a wide selection of beverages, contributing to a vibrant atmosphere. The stadium officially opened in June 1989, becoming a landmark not just for baseball but for Canadian sports as a whole.

Establishing The Rogers Centre

After the successful launch of SkyDome, the venue underwent several renovations to remain competitive and meet changing audience expectations.

In the late 2000s, it was rebranded as the Rogers Centre following a naming rights agreement.

The renovations included upgrades to the FieldTurf playing surface and improvements in technological advancements to enhance game-day experiences.

New premium clubs and lounges were added, providing a modern touch that appealed to a diverse audience.

These changes helped solidify the Rogers Centre’s status as a leading sports and entertainment venue.

It not only continued to host the Toronto Blue Jays but also became a site for Toronto Raptors games and other major events, showcasing its versatility.