Thanks to its 10-acre, white fabric roof, BC Place Stadium is sometimes called a giant marshmallow or an enormous fluffy pillow. In 2010, it will also be home to the Opening and Closing Ceremonies for the 2010 Winter Games. Here’s a sample of what visitors can expect to find when they explore the surrounding neighbourhood.

Visit: Learn about British Columbia's sports heroes - including Terry Fox and Rick Hansen - at the BC Sports Hall of Fame and Museum. Located inside BC Place Stadium, this engaging facility recently opened the Aboriginal Sport Gallery recognizing the contributions of Aboriginal people to BC’s sporting heritage. Stroll the pedestrian and bike-friendly seawall around False Creek and see dragon boat racers and kayakers enjoying their sports. Stop by Science World to see the latest gizmos, games, galleries and giant-screen movies. Catch an Aquabus to Granville Island or stop in at the Edgewater Casino to try your hand at poker, craps, roulette and the slots.

Eat: Prime cuts of steak and primo sports action on plasma screens are on offer at the stylish Players Chophouse Restaurant and Lounge. Rediscover white linen tablecloths and gracious Swiss-French dining at the William Tell restaurant in the Georgian Court Hotel. Or meander along the False Creek seawall to Provence Marinaside where the focus is on fresh local seafood, friendly service and an extensive wine list.

Stay: Just steps from BC Place Stadium, the boutique-style Georgian Court Hotel offers understated elegance and contemporary comfort. Nearby is The Hampton Inn & Suites with its welcoming lobby fireplace and cozy mezzanine where a complimentary breakfast is served daily. A little further north is the YWCA Hotel, an affordable family-friendly alternative that offers single to quintuple rooms with private or semi-private baths.