Square State Colorado

Colorado Rockies Home Opener: Baseball Season Is Here

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It is a gorgeous day and the Colorado Rockies home opener is this afternoon. I thought it would be helpful to share some tips and tricks on how to enjoy baseball season, have an amazing time, and get a ton of bang for your buck.

Let’s be honest. Denver LOVES opening day. I have the theory that opening day is basically the start of all of the summer shenanigans that we love to get into here. Once Opening Day happens we have the parties up in the mountains signaling the end of ski season, the Cherry Creek Sneak, 420 for the pot heads, and the Derby Day Party (just got my tickets). Basically, the Colorado Rockies Opening Day signals to Denverites that it’s  about to get real fun in Denver for the next 6 months or so.

So, let’s talk about the ins and outs of having an amazing time a the Colorado Rockies Home Opener without losing your mind. First, 50,000 of your closest friends will be inside Coors Field. Then, there’s the other people who plan on watching the game from one of the dozens of sports bars, breweries, and restaurants throughout downtown Denver. That’s a ton of people!

How to Get There

If you’re from the Denver/Boulder metro area or in-town visiting to support the Rockies or a visiting team one of the most important logistical issues you have to manage is how to get to Coors Field to watch the game. Coors Field is located at 2001 Blake and fortunately for everyone is within walking distance of downtown Denver’s gorgeous Union Station.

My favorite option for going downtown during baseball/football/hockey/basketball season is the Light Rail. It works really well and is pretty straightforward to use. Purchase a day pass for $5.20 when you get to the light rail station that is located nearest to you. On game days it will be crowded and rowdy in all of the best of ways.

My second favorite way to get to the game is to take LYFT. I love ridesharing and am a particular fan of LYFT because I’ve had a fantastic experience with them. Click here if you’re a first time user and get $15 in LYFT credit towards your first couple of rides.

If you drive. Ok, if you drive I would still VERY STRONGLY recommend parking at a Park-n-Ride along the light rail or A-Line and taking the train in. It will make your life easier. If you drive in double-check traffic jams, etc. utilizing the Waze app or CDOT’s website.

I also recommend buying a book of round trip light rail tickets a week from the Union Station bus depot (if you’re near there) so that you just have to validate your ticket at the light rail station and get on the train.

But, if you’re honest with yourself…you’re going to want to drink beer. Take public transit and have a good time!

Related Post:

The Ultimate Transit Guide to Denver and Boulder

Colorado Rockies Gear

You’ve got to represent! And, if you’re a Rockies fan it’s always nice to show your support with a baseball cap (it’s going to be sunny) or a jersey. You can order one off of Amazon and save a little money compared to buying in the stadium. Check out some gear suggestions below.

Money

In an effort to make things a bit more affordable have a couple of financial strategies in mind.  Use cash. By the time you hit your 3rd beer you may find your financial defenses down. Set aside a specific amount for spending in the stadium. Expenses to consider:

• Transportation-Light rail tickets, gas, parking

• Food-Eating during game and potential meal after the game.

• Shenanigans

• Whatever your kids may need. You know.

There are, of course, atms located in the and around the stadium.

Security

I’m not sure why but there are still people who seem to be confused by the fact that stadiums have stepped up their security protocols. Don’t be that person. Click here for Coors Field Security information. 

But, here is a quick brief run through of what to expect.

• Don’t bring a big bag.
• You will walk through security screening
• Your bags WILL be searched

Again, read through the Coors Field Security information so that you can avoid being “that guy.” Remember, the staff is working hard to insure that you and other participants have a safe and enjoyable experience. Don’t hassle them.

Miscellaneous

If you’re visiting or new to Denver there are a couple of things to remember.

• Wear sunscreen! You will burn.
• Drink water.
• The people love having a good time and you may find yourself talking to strangers. East Coast people don’t freak out.
• We love rooftop bars. If you can’t get watch the game in the stadium there are some great venues near and around the stadium.

There is nothing better than watching the Colorado Rockies on opening day. Have fun. Don’t go broke.