Going to Denver for the NHL Playoffs: How to Plan Your Visit
First things, first. We must start a petition to keep the Avs from wearing the Nordique Jerseys during the playoffs. They are beautiful, but it’s clear that they’re also cursed. If you’re a fan of one of the teams the Colorado Avalanche will be playing against during the Playoffs-you’re probably hoping that they will wear those jerseys. Whether you’re a fan or foe-if you’re going to Denver for the NHL Playoffs-make sure to read, bookmark and use this post while planning your trip.
Affiliate Disclosure
* In order for me to support my blogging activities, I may receive monetary compensation or other types of remuneration for my endorsement, recommendation, testimonial and/or link to any products or services from this blog. As an Amazon Affiliate, I may earn money from qualifying purchases. Please read my disclosure here.*
Book a Tour While in Denver
Denver has so many fun activities to enjoy while you’re here in town that it would be a shame if you came here and only watched the games. Booking a tour is a great way to explore a new place without having to do any of the heavy lifting related to planning trip related fun. Below are some of the best tours in Denver (they get booked FAST) Reserve your spot today.
Let me know what you ended up doing and how things went.
Where to Stay
(Close to Ball Arena)
All of the hotels listed below are within CLOSE proximity to Ball Arena which is where the NHL Playoffs are held in Denver. The first 5 are my absolute top picks.
Springhill Suites by Marriott Denver Downtown
This hotel is within walking distance to the Ball Arena, downtown and the light rail which is adjacent to Ball Arena.
Hilton Garden Inn Downtown Denver Union Station
I love this hotel because it’s two blocks from Union Station, a Whole Foods, restaurants and other mass transit. I also consider this hotel to be pretty affordable given its location. This hotel has an indoor pool.
Similar to the Hilton, the location of Hotel Indigo is fantastic. All of the same perks as the Hilton Garden Inn.
This hotel is consistently ranked as one of the best hotels in the city of Denver. Similar to the other hotels above-it’s very well situated, close to mass transit, Whole Foods, nice restaurants and the light rail direct to Ball Arena (1 stop).
One of the nicest hotels in Denver, it’s part of Union Station. If you love trains (both public and Amtrak) you can take the train direct from Denver International Airport and get off at the last stop-Union Station. There are restaurants, coffee shops and ice cream parlor and bars located in this space. You can also walk over to Coors Field if you feel like watching a baseball game while here.
Final Best Hotel Picks
This hotel is located a couple of blocks away from Union Station. It’s on the 16th Street Mall, has access to the Free Mall Ride, bars, restaurants and more. It’s also walking distance to Dairy Block Denver and Coors Field.
If you love baseball as much as hockey-this hotel is the one that you should be staying at. Positioned directly across from Coors Field, the Rally Hotel is a part of the McGregor Square Development that weirdly, many Denverites are still discovering (it was completed during COVID).
I really love this hotel for a number of different reasons. It’s part of the Dairy Block/Free Market development one of my favorite new(er) spots in Denver. There’s a Michelin rated restaurant in that development, a couple of coffee shops and a speakeasy. It’s also across the street from McGregor Square and a couple of blocks away from Coors Field.
I feel like this is a great starter list for someone coming into Denver for a playoff game and looking for a great location that’s close (enough) to Ball Arena and other amenities while visiting Denver.
Where to Eat
Denver gets a bad rep for its food and while it’s not a food city, there IS good food here. I thought I would start you off with some restaurant suggestions to get you started.
- Dragonfly Noodle-Ramen and Pho
- 1350 16th St, Denver, CO 80202
Let’s Go Avalanche!
I hope this helps you plan your playoff trip to Denver. Don’t just attend games, enjoy some of the many things that Denver has to offer. Going to Denver for the NHL Playoffs is a great time to explore town, especially if Denver is new to you. Finally, make sure to check out a show at the Denver Center for Performing Arts and enjoy some live music at one
Michelle Jackson is the founder of the website and podcast Square State Colorado. She’s focused on supporting local businesses, sustainability and sharing a more nuanced and thoughtful experience of Denver and the state of Colorado. She grew up in Colorado and is excited to square this Square State with her readers and listeners. Go to: https://squarestateco.com to learn more about Denver and the state of Colorado if you live here or are planning to visit or move here.