Nearby places

Choosing the right venue for your day out

The places listed above cover almost every kind of live event Denver hosts, but they suit very different plans. Knowing a little about each one helps you pick the right outing and avoid surprises on the day.

Downtown and the Central Platte Valley

Empower Field at Mile High, Ball Arena and Coors Field sit close to downtown, which makes them easy to combine with a meal or a walk around LoDo. That convenience has a cost on big nights. Streets and parking fill quickly when two events overlap, so check the schedules for all three before you set off. Light rail and walking from Union Station are often less stressful than driving. Even a short walk can take longer than expected when the crowds are leaving.

Concert halls and theatres

The Paramount Theatre is a historic downtown venue for seated shows, comedy and touring acts. The Mission Ballroom in the RiNo area is a modern music hall with a flexible floor. For both, read the ticket details carefully: whether the show is seated, standing or general admission changes how early you should arrive.

Outdoor and out-of-town venues

Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Morrison is in the foothills, so plan for a longer drive or a shuttle. Expect steep stairs and a higher elevation, and bring layers, because evenings can turn cold fast. Dick's Sporting Goods Park in Commerce City is a large outdoor complex. It is popular for soccer and big tournament weekends, which suits families and youth teams. Sunscreen, water and a plan for afternoon storms are worth having at both.

Arena shows and motorsports

The Denver Coliseum is known for rodeo, monster trucks and other arena events. Ear protection is a smart idea for younger fans at the louder shows.

Before you go

• Confirm dates, entry times and bag policies on each venue's official website.
• Buy tickets only through official or verified sellers.
• Save a meeting point in case your group gets separated or phone signal drops.

Coordinating a club or team trip? Our guides and club email tips can help you get everyone the same plan.