Toronto Raptors Arena (Toronto, ON)
Scotiabank Arena Address: 40 Bay St., Toronto, ON M5J 3A5, Canada
About the Arena:
The building was constructed in 1941 as the Toronto Postal Delivery Building for postal deliveries and was temporarily used by the Department of National Defence during World War II. When the NBA awarded the expansion team to Toronto in 1993 they played two seasons in a temporary arena (SkyDome) while seeking property for their own arena. The Toronto Raptors basketball team acquired the Postal Delivery Building in December 1994 but after major rifting with the Maple Leafs, who also needed a new arena, the Raptors were sold to the Maple Leafs owners and the current arena was completed/opened in 1999 for both teams. It is the 13th most busiest arena in the world, and the busiest in Canada.
Notable in this Arena:
Check out Maple Leaf Square beforehand: the area just outside is very alive and often decorated, with vendors or fans gathering, especially for big games. It sets “Jurassic Park” mood. Note: Not a basketball attraction but it’s worth it to go check out the Legends Row -There are 14 statues honoring some of the greatest players from the first 100 years of the Toronto Maple Leafs hockey team. Pictures with this is iconic for the visit.
Exterior signage changes: the signage and lighting around Scotiabank Arena adapt depending on if it’s a Raptors game, Leafs game, or special event. For Raptors games you’ll see red/black.
There is now a museum-quality collection of art pieces throughout the arena, curated in collaboration with Sports & The Arts (SATA). As of the latest phase, nearly 76 commissioned art pieces by 34 artists (photos, mixed media) have been added. They reflect sport, music, and Toronto/Canada culture. You can see more of the artwork here.
The Mastercard Lounge (200 Level, south-west corner) is a high-end shared members’ space with elevated views, improved finishes and all-inclusive dining. If you get access, this adds “wow.”
Is it your first time at Scotiabank Arena for a Raptors game? Visit a Fan Services Desk (Gate 1 or outside of section 301) for a First Game Lanyard. If you are bringing a child under the age of 12 you can request a special in-seat celebration box here.
If you arrive early the entrance to the practice court is up in the 300 level. Players might practice here before the game – and the roped off area is a good place to have a player siting before the game starts. During the game, you might see Torontonian rapper Drake, a superfan, and official Global Ambassador for the Raptors. He’s often seen courtside cheering on the team.
Notable Food & Drinks:
Hot Stove: a steakhouse / club level restaurant inside the arena, with an upgraded interior and new entrance (from the Galleria). A good option for something more upscale inside.
Try Caribbean cuisine at Wicked Carib (Section 104): Try the Chicken, Beef or Vegan Roti, the Wicked Jerk Chicken Sandwich, Doubles and Jamaican Patties.
The Poutinerie (Section 322 ): Anything with good poutine is worth trying in Ontario. Fresh fries, cheese curds, gravy—perfect after a big moment in the game.
Chungchun Rice Dog (Section 300 & 308):