Planning to See LL Cool J in Denver: Here’s How to Plan Your Trip
I’m going to say it, I was low-key a little shocked that Denver was added as a stop on LL Cool J’s The FORCE Tour. I’m glad that I’m living in town at a time when we’re (finally) becoming a semi regular stop for a lot of acts as they make their way around the world. If you’ve decided to combine a visit to Denver as an excuse to see the concert-I’ve got you covered. Think of this as a guide to what you can do in Denver, a loose framework to guide your trip. I even made a soundtrack to listen to as you plan your trip to see LL Cool J in Denver.
Soundtrack: LL Cool J in Denver
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50 Years of Hip Hop
It’s wild to me to think that hip hop has been around for 50 years. Maybe that’s why I love this tour so much. It’s a clear celebration across the genre with all of the acts that I grew up with and love. Surprisingly, most of my hip hop experiences have been in Denver. From attending a Cypress Hill concert at Red Rocks, seeing the Up in Smoke tour with Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg and Eminem and seeing Public Enemy. Even now the music that you hear in Denver is a mix of hip hop, acoustic guitars and rock. There is a huge audience of music lovers ready to celebrate with LL Cool J and all of the other artists joining the stage. I can’t wait.
What is Denver’s Weather Like
The concert will be held at the end of August so typically the weather is pretty hot. There is a likelihood of rain, thunder and maybe some hail-but, it’s hard to say because the weather here can be all over the place. If you’re visiting for a week, I would recommend bringing layers just in case you visit the mountains which typically are a bit cooler than Denver due to the higher elevations.
What to Pack
Denver is an incredibly casual place to visit. But, if you’re a person who enjoys dressing up-go for it! You’ll just have a lot of people telling you that you look great and asking where you’re going. There are a few MUST haves that you pack because of the climate and constant sunshine.
It is dry AF here and if you’re from a humid place, your skin will feel very itchy and uncomfortable as soon as you arrive.
Altitude Sickness
We’re also at a high altitude IN DENVER so you should focus on staying hydrated and understanding the symptoms of altitude sickness. Don’t ruin your trip because you were caught unaware of the fact that high altitude can make you sick.
Speak with your doctor, do your research and stay hydrated. Coloradans will also caution that 1 drink=2 drinks for people new to the elevation. We will also advise to not do your regular exercise routine the first couple of days after arrival.
What Hotels to Stay at in Denver
There are a nice range of hotels offering different experiences throughout town. Because Ball Arena is downtown, I would recommend staying closer to the city center. Do know that the 16th Street Mall is currently in the process of being renovated, but that there is plenty to do while in town. Below is a map of hotels that you can stay at and their proximity to cool places as well as Ball Arena.
Ready to Book Your Hotel
Here are some suggestions starting from budget, mid range to high end.
- Hostel Fish-Great downtown location with walking access to Coors Field if you would like to catch a baseball game. There’s also a music venue below the hostel called Orphelia’s Electric Soapbox where you can catch live music.
- Hilton Garden Inn Union Station–Fantastic location about 2 blocks from Denver’s Union Station. You can literally take the train from the airport, get off the train and walk two blocks to the hotel.
- Restaurant: Woodie Fisher
- Kimpton Born Hotel-Very Scandinavian modern. Think wood accents, minimalism. I also love that you can add a Meow Wolf package to your booking. *You have to book your tickets via Meow Wolf* but, the transportation, etc. is on Kimpton Born.
- Citizen Rail
All three hotels have fantastic restaurant concepts connected to them that you can enjoy as well.
Will You Need a Car When You Visit Denver
If you’re staying at one of the hotels close to Union Station, you won’t need a car for the majority of your trip. However, you will need a car if you have several people traveling with you and are planning to:
- Check out Red Rocks
- Go to the mountains
- Explore Denver outside of downtown (STRONGLY recommend)
Compare Car Rental Prices
Before you book your rental car, use Discover Cars , a tool that helps travelers compare the cost of their rentals. You can find the best rental for your wallet and then book your car. Don’t overspend on transportation.
Visiting the Mountains: Book a Tour
One of the most common complaints that you’ll hear from Coloradans is centered around the amount of traffic there is on the roads. Especially if you’re heading to the mountains. In fact, I try to avoid driving to the mountains because it has become so stressful. Instead I do the following:
- Take the Bustang to the mountains
- Visit the mountains during the week
If you’re visiting Denver then there’s another option to consider which is booking a tour of the mountains. Leave the driving to someone else! The cool thing about these tours is that they typically start from Union Station. So, if you’re staying at any of the hotels above, you can walk over and meet your tour guide and bus in about 5 minutes. Save yourself the stress and let someone else help you explore the mountains. Also, driving in the mountains if you haven’t done it before is pretty technical. Avoid it if possible.
Things to Do in Denver
There are so many things to do in Denver that it will be hard to decide where to start. I’ve often shared that you “Experience Denver, Visit Philly” I have some examples to share to get you started.
- Visit Meow Wolf-It’s an interactive art experience, it’s hard to explain. There are both regular hours and some days that are adults only happy hours. Both experiences are wonderful.
- Casa Bonita-Want a slightly more kitschy experience than Meow Wolf? Casa Bonita is a long-time Denver staple that most Denver kids have visited. Adults love it too and it’s now owned by the South Park guys (I’m serious) if you’re into indoor cliff diving and a uniquely local experience-Casa Bonita has you covered.
- Colorado Rockies Games-These are painful because the Rockies are a painful team to watch. Coors Field, however, is a beautiful place to watch a baseball game.
- Denver Broncos Game-We might still be in pre-season at this time. But, Empower Field (or, Mile High) is a great place to catch a football game. Hopefully Russell will be used to the altitude this year.
- Explore one of the many museums in town.
Here is a list of 87 Things to Do in Denver. I tried to stay away from creating the same repetitive lists that seem to be shared all the time.
Cannabis Culture in Denver
When Colorado legalized cannabis, I think we were all a little caught off-guard by how excited everyone else was about it. For us, it wasn’t a big deal. That said there are some things you need to know.
- Simply Pure-I only send visitors to Simply Pure because it is Black woman owned. Wanda James is the first Black woman in the US to get a license to legally sell cannabis. The shop is located in a great area to explore and eat. Below are a few suggestions
- Don’t assume that everyone smokes pot-It’s very annoying
- Don’t just smoke anywhere-there are regulations and public consumption is frowned upon unless you’re at a concert or cannabis related event.
There are tons of shops in town and they are typically marked by a green cross. It’s pretty easy to find cannabis focused adventures through a general Google search.
Where to Eat in Denver
I’m going to be blunt. Denver is not a “food” city. There are way too many people preparing to compete in triatholons, hiking 14ers, etc. who are regularly avoiding sugar, lard, salt and gluten-many of the components that make good food GREAT.
That said, there is good food here…you just have to know where to go.
- Mimosas-Head over to Five Points and enjoy some brunch. This is a Black-Owned business.
- Agave Shore-Love tropical drinks and tacos? This is the place to go. This is a Black-Owned business.
- Whittier Cafe-Love their new location! This is a Black-Owned business.
- Genna Rae’s Wings and More-The name says it all. This is a Black-Owned business.
- TK’s Surf and Turf-Every time I see pictures from this restaurant I want to hop into my car. This is a Black-Owned Business.
One thing to note: you will be seeing Denver prices at these restaurants LOL! So, I am warning you now.
What are People Like in Denver
I’ve had the good fortune to visit 45 of the United States. I’ve also lived in a couple of other states. what I find is that many people aren’t sure what to expect while they’re in town.
- Denverites are pretty friendly-This may be overwhelming to people who aren’t used to it. We tend to talk to random strangers anywhere and are pretty chill (on brand)
- We can be a little flaky-It’s nothing personal. Just seems to be a thing here.
- Socializing will likely include some type of physical experience like hiking, biking, walking or skiing (during winter)
- We’re typically very casual-You won’t feel pressure to dress up. But, if you’re attending LL Cool J’s concert…people WILL look good.
- Live and let live-Most people are friendly and will be focused on what they’re doing.
People also tend to be pretty generous here as well. When I attend local events there’s the hospitality part of the experience typically exceeds my expectations. Tons of food, drinks, etc.
We love any excuse for a good party. If there’s an opportunity to hang out, eat and have fun-we’re going to make it happen.
How to Get to Ball Arena
It’s pretty easy to get to Ball Arena from the Union Station area. Here are the different modes of transportation.
- Walk over-It’s about a 5-10 minute walk depending on the hotel that you’re staying at.
- Lightrail-If you get on at the Union Station originating point you’ll get off at the next stop. When the concert ends, you can get on the light rail and head back to Union Station. CHECK THE SCHEDULE. I would pay $6 for your pass.
- Scooters-I’m not a fan tbh because I think they’re dangerous to ride downtown. But, if you are comfortable using scooters-that’s an option.
- Pedicabs-You’ll see these around downtown. Grab one and they will get you to Ball Arena (don’t forget to tip)
- Ride shares-Lyft/Uber are both in Denver. Lyft has a slightly larger presence because it has a corporate office in town.
Again, if you’re staying in the Union Station area it will be easy to get to the Ball Arena venue.
What to Budget?
Denver is not a cheap city. So, I recommend budgeting more than you feel like you should. Budget like you’re going to Los Angeles or New York City. The cost of food can be expensive as well as the cost of additional activities. Don’t be caught off-guard while you’re here.
Hopefully, this has been useful and a helpful starting point as you begin making your plans to attend the LL Cool J concert in Denver.