Ball Arena: Home of the Denver Nuggets & Colorado Avalanche

Here’s everything you need to know about the iconic Ball Arena, the vibrant epicenter of sports and entertainment in Denver, Colorado!

As the proud home of two professional sports franchises – the high-flying Denver Nuggets of the NBA and the hard-hitting Colorado Avalanche of the NHL – Ball Arena has cemented its status as a must-visit destination for fans and tourists alike.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the rich history, state-of-the-art facilities, and unforgettable experiences that make this arena truly exceptional. From the electrifying atmosphere on game nights to the numerous concerts and events hosted throughout the year, the Ball Arena offers a dynamic experience for all.

So, fasten your seatbelts and get ready to immerse yourself in the world of sports, entertainment, and unparalleled excitement that awaits you at the heart of the Mile High City – the Ball Arena.

Ball Arena: Key Facts

Ball Arena is a multi-purpose indoor arena located in Denver, Colorado. Here are some key facts about the arena:

1. Ball Arena was originally known as the Denver Coliseum and was built in 1951. It underwent major renovations in 1993 and 2013, which included a new scoreboard, sound system, and upgraded seating.
   
2. The arena has a seating capacity of 18,007 for basketball games, 18,000 for hockey games, and 19,155 for concerts and other events.
   
3. The arena is home to the Denver Nuggets of the National Basketball Association (NBA) and the Colorado Avalanche of the National Hockey League (NHL).
   
4. Ball Arena has hosted many notable events over the years, including the 2008 Democratic National Convention, the 2016 NCAA Men’s Frozen Four, and the 2020 NHL Stadium Series outdoor game.
   
5. In addition to basketball and hockey games, the arena also hosts concerts, family shows, and other sporting events such as UFC fights and professional wrestling events.
   
6. The arena features several amenities for fans, including a variety of food and beverage options, a team store, and premium seating areas such as suites and club seats.
   
7. Ball Arena is owned by the City and County of Denver and managed by Kroenke Sports and Entertainment, which also owns the Nuggets and Avalanche.
   
8. The arena is located in the heart of downtown Denver, close to many hotels, restaurants, and other attractions. It is easily accessible by public transportation and offers ample parking for those who drive.
   
9. Ball Arena is committed to sustainability and has implemented several green initiatives, including using energy-efficient lighting and water-saving fixtures, recycling and composting, and encouraging fans to use public transportation to reduce emissions.
   
10. The arena has also implemented several health and safety protocols in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including requiring masks and vaccinations for staff and fans, increasing cleaning and sanitization efforts, and promoting social distancing.

Where Is Ball Arena Located?

Ball Arena is located in Denver, Colorado, United States. It is situated in the downtown area of Denver, close to many hotels, restaurants, and other attractions. The arena is easily accessible by public transportation, with several bus and light rail stops located nearby. For those who drive, there are several parking options available in the area, including on-site parking at the arena and other parking garages.

Address	1000 Chopper Cir, Denver, CO 80204, United States
Map link	Ball Arena

What Is the Best Way to Get to Ball Arena?

The best way to get to Ball Arena depends on your location and transportation preferences. Here are some options:

Public transportation

Ball Arena is easily accessible by public transportation. The arena is located near several bus stops and light rail stations. The C, E, and W light rail lines all stop at the Pepsi Center/Elitch Gardens Station, which is just a short walk from the arena. The RTD bus routes 1, 15, and 20 also have stops near the arena. You can plan your trip using the RTD website or app.

Driving

If you prefer to drive, there are several parking options available near Ball Arena. The arena has on-site parking, but it can be expensive and fills up quickly. There are several nearby parking garages that offer more affordable rates. You can reserve a parking spot in advance using a service like ParkWhiz or SpotHero.

Ridesharing

Another option is to use a ridesharing service like Uber or Lyft. The arena has a designated pickup and drop-off area for rideshare services.

Biking or walking

If you live or are staying nearby, you can also bike or walk to the arena. The arena is located in a pedestrian-friendly area, and there are several bike lanes and paths in the area. The arena also has bike racks available for those who choose to bike.

Parking Near Ball Arena

Elitch Gardens Parking

Elitch Gardens Parking offers a convenient and affordable parking option for those attending events at Ball Arena. Rates for parking vary based on the event, with prices typically ranging from $10-$30 per vehicle. Payment can be made in cash or with a credit card. It’s important to note that parking can fill up quickly, especially for popular events. It’s recommended to arrive early to secure a parking spot.

Address	2000 Elitch Cir, Denver, CO 80204, United States
Map link	Elitch Gardens Parking
Timings	Open 24 hours
Distance from Ball Arena	0.3 mile (6 minutes)
Phone number	+17205043620

Auraria Campus Parking

Auraria Campus Parking is a parking facility located in downtown Denver, Colorado. The campus is located across the street from Ball Arena and offers several parking options for those attending events at the arena.

Auraria Campus Parking has several parking lots and garages in Colorado, with rates ranging from $7-$15 depending on the location and time of day. The lots and garages are open to the public. Overall, this is a convenient and affordable parking lot for visitors at Ball Arena.

Address	Unnamed Road, Denver, CO 80204, United States
Map link	Auraria Campus, Dogwood (Parking Lot)
Timings	Open 24 hours
Distance from Ball Arena	0.2 mile (4 minutes)
Phone number	+13035562003

Tabor Center Parking Garage

The Tabor Center Parking Garage is a multi-level garage that offers both covered and uncovered parking options. The garage is open 24/7 and offers hourly, daily, and monthly parking rates.

The hourly rate for parking at Tabor Center Parking Garage varies depending on the time of day and day of the week but typically ranges from $3 to $6 per hour. The daily maximum rate is $25, with a flat rate of $10 for evening and weekend parking.

Monthly parking options are also available at Tabor Center Parking Garage. Monthly rates vary depending on the location and level of the parking space. Customers interested in monthly parking should contact the garage management for current rates and availability.

Address	1200 17th St, Denver, CO 80202, United States
Map link	Tabor Center Parking Garage – ParkChirp
Timings	Open 24 hours
Distance from Ball Arena	0.6 mile (13 minutes)
Phone number	+13035726680

Best Restaurants Near Ball Arena

Stoic & Genuine

Stoic & Genuine is a seafood restaurant located in downtown Denver, Colorado. It is known for its fresh and sustainable seafood, oyster bar, and craft cocktails. The restaurant is a collaboration between James Beard Award-winning chefs Jennifer Jasinski and Beth Gruitch.

The restaurant’s name, Stoic & Genuine, is a nod to the philosophy of Stoicism, which emphasizes self-control, rationality, and acceptance of the present moment. The restaurant’s design reflects this philosophy with a minimalist and modern aesthetic.

In addition to its seafood offerings, Stoic & Genuine also have a selection of meat and vegetarian dishes, as well as a variety of desserts. The restaurant has received positive reviews for its food, service, and atmosphere.

Address	1701 Wynkoop St, Denver, CO 80202, United States
Map link	Stoic & Genuine
Phone number	+13036403474

Rioja

Rioja is a highly acclaimed restaurant located in Denver, Colorado, known for its contemporary Mediterranean cuisine. The restaurant was opened in 2004 by executive chef Jennifer Jasinski and her business partner Beth Gruitch.

Rioja is located in the historic Larimer Square neighborhood and has won numerous awards and accolades for its food, wine, and service. The restaurant’s menu features a wide range of Mediterranean-inspired dishes, including seafood, pasta, meat, and vegetarian options.

Some of the most popular dishes at Rioja include the grilled Spanish octopus, the pan-seared scallops, the lamb shank, and the house-made pasta. The restaurant also offers a carefully curated wine list that features both domestic and international wines.

Address	1431 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80202, United States
Map link	Rioja
Phone number	+13038202282

Guard and Grace

Guard and Grace is a modern steakhouse located in Denver, Colorado. It is known for its high-quality meat, extensive wine list, and elegant atmosphere.

The restaurant is named after the owners’ daughter, Grace, and their desire to create a space where customers can feel both guarded and indulged. It features a stylish, contemporary design with high ceilings, large windows, and an open kitchen where diners can watch the chefs at work.

Guard and Grace’s menu offers a variety of dry-aged and wet-aged steaks, as well as seafood dishes, salads, and sides. Some of the most popular items include the bone-in ribeye, Wagyu beef tartare, and lobster mac and cheese. The restaurant also has a large selection of wines, cocktails, and craft beers to complement the food.

Address	1801 California St, Denver, CO 80202, United States
Map link	Guard and Grace
Phone number	+13032938500

Best Bars Near Ball Arena

Wynkoop Brewing Company

Wynkoop Brewing Company is a brewery and restaurant located in Denver, Colorado. It was founded in 1988 by a group of friends, including John Hickenlooper, who later went on to become the Governor of Colorado.

The brewery is housed in a historic building in the heart of downtown Denver, which was originally built in 1899 as the J.S. Brown Mercantile Building. The building was renovated and opened as the Wynkoop Brewing Company in 1988, making it one of the oldest craft breweries in Denver.

Wynkoop Brewing Company offers a range of beers, including their flagship Rail Yard Ale, as well as seasonal and limited edition brews. They also offer a full menu of food, including pub favorites like burgers, wings, and fish and chips.

Address	1634 18th St, Denver, CO 80202, United States
Map link	Wynkoop Brewing Company
Phone number	+13032972700

Society Sports and Spirits

Society Sports and Spirits is a popular sports bar located in Denver, Colorado. The bar features multiple large screens for watching sports events, a variety of beer and cocktail options, and a menu of classic pub-style food.

Society Sports and Spirits is known for its lively atmosphere, friendly staff, and wide selection of drinks. They offer happy hour specials and host events such as trivia nights and watch parties for major sporting matches.

The bar is located at 1434 Blake Street in downtown Denver, making it easily accessible for both locals and visitors to the city. It is a popular destination for sports fans looking for a fun and relaxed atmosphere to watch their favorite teams play.

Address	1434 Blake St, Denver, CO 80202, United States
Map link	Society Sports and Spirits
Phone number	+17205177303

Rhein Haus Denver

Rhein Haus Denver is a German-inspired restaurant and bar located in Denver, Colorado. The restaurant features a wide selection of German beers on tap, as well as traditional German dishes such as sausages, pretzels, and schnitzel.

The atmosphere of Rhein Haus Denver is designed to be reminiscent of a Bavarian beer hall, with long communal tables and a lively, social atmosphere. In addition to the main dining area, the restaurant also has a rooftop beer garden that offers views of downtown Denver.

Rhein Haus Denver is located in the LoDo (Lower Downtown) neighborhood of Denver, which is known for its historic buildings, trendy restaurants and bars, and proximity to attractions such as Coors Field and the Union Station transportation hub.

Address	1415 Market St, Denver, CO 80202, United States
Map link	Rhein Haus Denver
Phone number	+13037315374

Best Hotels Near Ball Arena

Hotel Indigo Denver Downtown

The Hotel Indigo Denver Downtown offers a unique and stylish design, with local artwork and decor throughout the property. It features 180 guest rooms and suites, each equipped with modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and comfortable bedding.

Guests can enjoy a range of on-site amenities, including a fitness center, a rooftop bar with stunning views of the city, and a restaurant that serves locally sourced, farm-to-table cuisine. The hotel also has a 24-hour business center and event space for meetings and social events.

Address	1801 Wewatta St, Denver, CO 80202, United States
Map link	Hotel Indigo Denver Downtown-Union Station, an IHG Hotel
Phone number	+13036234422

The Maven Hotel

The Maven Hotel is situated in the heart of the city’s vibrant LoDo neighborhood, which is known for its trendy restaurants, bars, and nightlife. The hotel is adjacent to Coors Field, the home stadium of the Colorado Rockies baseball team, and is within walking distance of many other attractions, such as the Denver Union Station and the 16th Street Mall.

The Maven Hotel is part of the larger Dairy Block development, which includes a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars. Guests can enjoy meals at the hotel’s own restaurant, Kachina Cantina, which offers modern Mexican cuisine and a variety of tequila and mezcal-based cocktails.

Address	1850 Wazee St, Denver, CO 80202, United States
Map link	The Maven Hotel at Dairy Block
Phone number	+17204602727

The History of Ball Arena

Ball Arena is an indoor sports and entertainment venue located in Denver, Colorado. The venue, which was originally known as the Pepsi Center, opened its doors on October 1, 1999. It is owned and operated by Kroenke Sports & Entertainment, which is owned by Stan Kroenke.

The Pepsi Center was built at the cost of $187 million and was designed by architect HOK Sport. It is located in the heart of Denver’s Central Platte Valley, near the South Platte River. 

In 2020, the venue underwent a name change and was renamed the Ball Arena after a partnership was formed with Ball Corporation, a leading producer of sustainable aluminum beverage packaging. The renaming coincided with a $7 million renovation of the arena that included upgrades to the sound and lighting systems, as well as improvements to the seating and concourse areas.

The arena has a seating capacity of approximately 18,000 for basketball and 20,000 for concerts.

Today, Ball Arena is a popular destination for sports fans and concert-goers. It has hosted numerous high-profile events over the years, including the 2001 NHL All-Star Game, the 2005 NBA All-Star Game, the 2008 Democratic National Convention, and the 2016 Stanley Cup Finals.

Where to Get Tickets for Ball Arena?

Tickets for events at Ball Arena can be purchased through several authorized ticketing providers, including

1. The Ball Arena Box Office – Tickets can be purchased in person at the Ball Arena Box Office located at 1000 Chopper Circle, Denver, CO 80204.
2. Ticketmaster – Tickets can be purchased online at Ticketmaster.com or by calling their toll-free number at 1-800-745-3000.
3. AXS – Tickets can be purchased online at AXS.com or by calling their toll-free number at 1-888-929-7849.
4. StubHub – Tickets can be purchased online at StubHub.com, which is a secondary ticket marketplace where fans can buy and sell tickets to events.

Does Ball Arena Offer Tours?

Yes, Ball Arena offers guided tours of the venue. The tours offer visitors a behind-the-scenes look at the arena and provide information about its history, architecture, and operations.

During the tour, visitors will have the opportunity to see various areas of the arena, including the concourse, locker rooms, press box, and the arena floor. Visitors will also learn about the arena’s sustainability initiatives, which include the use of recycled materials and energy-efficient systems.

Tours are typically offered on weekdays and are subject to availability. They typically last about an hour and are led by knowledgeable guides who can answer questions and provide insights about the venue. It’s recommended to check the Ball Arena website or contact their box office for current tour schedules and pricing information.