The NBA Finals in Denver

Are You Going to the NBA Finals in Denver: Here’s How to Plan Your trip

Blog, Denver, Sports, things to do in Denver, Uncategorized, Visit Denver Michelle@SquareState
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Growing up in Denver, you get used to not getting a lot of respect for a lot of things. When you live in flyover country, people just don’t take you seriously. When it comes to basketball, we’re like the Chicago Cubs of Basketball…except we very rarely go close enough to touch the sun. Well, it looks like after a lifetime of being a Denver Nuggets basketball fan this might be our year.

In fact, I don’t want to jinx it. But, if you’re thinking what I’m thinking and you live outside of Denver-you’re probably beginning to plan your trip to Denver to watch the NBA Finals or experience the energy somewhere in town. I’m going to breakdown what to consider, how to plan and what to consider before you buy your tickets. If you’re going to the NBA Finals in Denver and haven’t visited before, here’s some tips to help you plan your trip to the Mile High City.

* 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. Please read my disclosure here.*

When Are the NBA Finals

The 2023 NBA Finals begin June 1-June 18, 2023. This is a fantastic time to be in Denver for so many reasons. There is so much to do at that time because winter has (basically) released its grip on Denver.

What is Ball Arena Like

Ball Arena is located in downtown Denver and is easy to walk to if you’re staying in proximity to Denver’s Union Station on the Western end of the downtown Denver. It’s seats around 20,000 for basketball games and is also home to the Colorado Avalanche Hockey team. This venue hosts a ton of different events ranging from concerts such as LL Cool J’s F.O.R.C.E. Tour and Cirque du Soleil. It’s also accessible by light rail, walking, pedi cabs, driving and car shares.

What is Denver’s Weather Like in June

If you’re flying in from Miami, you will need to bring layers to Denver. The weather can change throughout the day. Also, if you plan on doing anything in the mountains, the weather typically is cooler because of the higher altitude. You can expect the following:

  • Heat
  • Cold (if you’re from tropical places)
  • Rain
  • Sun

Basically, you need to be prepared for a little bit of everything because the weather can be unpredictable here.

What to Pack

Denverites are pretty casual. You can dress up or down and most people aren’t going to be bothered with what you choose to do. Some things you must pack.

High Altitude Destinations

Denver is a high altitude destination located a mile above sea level. If you’re visiting from a lower altitude you may experience some unwanted discomfort due to the altitude. I’m serious.

  • Dizziness
  • Shortness of breath
  • Slight headaches
  • Dry mouth

In addition to consulting with your doctor about any concerns, make sure to read up on what is altitude sickness and what to watch out for. Visitors are encouraged to drink a lot of water and be aware that 1 beer or glass of wine often will feel like two while you’re here.

What Airline to Fly

Hopefully you’ll be able to rock out your mileage points. If not Frontier and United do have hubs at Denver International Airport.

Where to Stay

There are plenty of hotels that you can choose from. I would recommend booking with a hotel that is close to Ball Arena. Here are a few hotels that I recommend. I’ve also included 3 super cute hostels as well that are an option too.

Hostels

Hotels

It’s important to figure out where you’re going to stay quickly and then BOOK NOW on Booking(dot) com.

Will You Need to Rent a Car

I would consider a couple of different factors before booking a car. Do you plan on exploring outside of the downtown Denver business district? I actually strongly recommend doing this. Are you traveling with two or more people? Would you like to explore the mountains? You will need a car unless you’re comfortable taking public transportation. If you decide to rent a car use Discover Cars a tool that helps users compare prices at different car rental locations. Get the best price for your wallet before saying “yes” to your rental.

What to Do in Denver

Now, I’m working on this post before the schedule has been released and also before the Denver Nuggets have finished playing the Western Conference Finals. I’m nervous to be cocky about this…but, I do know that it will be helpful to folks to have this available for planning purposes. Fortunately, June has SO MUCH going on in town and you’ll have plenty to do.

  • May 28, 2023-Vibes in the Park
  • Friday, June 2, 2023–Colorado Rapids (Major League Soccer) Fireworks game
  • June 4, 2023–¡Viva Streets Denver! Ride, walk, roller skate, scoot up and down 3.5 miles of Broadway without worrying about cars. This is a new car free event that I’m OBSESSED with happening once a month during the summer months.
  • June 10, 2023–SWV Block Party (Free!) But, you do need to sign up for a ticket. Levitt Pavillion.
  • June 19, 2023-Film on the Rocks: Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (At Red Rocks Ampitheater)
    • I am so excited to watch this at Red Rocks. I watched Black Panther with a sold out crowd of 9,000 people and I expect it will be just as amazing as the first time.

Cannabis Tour

It’s not my thing, but I do think it’s great that people can safely indulge while you’re in town. Let the experts show you around town and learn more about the Colorado Cannabis Industry. I also recommend stopping by Simply Pure, owned by Wanda James, the first African American woman to get a license to sell cannabis legally.

Denver also has a ton of really cool speakeasies and unique experiences to check out. Here are a few listed below.

  • Casa Bonita-Long time local favorite (hopefully it reopens soon)

Book a Tour of the Mountains

If you’re in Denver, make sure to plan a trip to the mountains. If you’re not a fan of driving in the mountains and would like to leave it to someone else, book a tour. I highly recommend touring Red Rocks, the Continental Divide and Breckenridge. Leave the driving to someone else! I also love that this tour picks up participants from Union Station-an easy to get to access point in downtown Denver (close to the hotels that I recommended).

Where to Eat

Let’s be clear, Denver is not a food city. There are way too many people who don’t eat all of things that make good food great. They are saying “no” to gluten, sugar, butter and lard. However, there is good food and drinks in the city.

I’ve included some suggestions below:

  • bb.q-I’m a HUGE fan of Korean Fried Chicken. This is a Korean chain with a location a block from the Capitol. Their website isn’t working: 1360 N. Grant (address)
  • Dragonfly Noodle (downtown Denver) Absolutely OBSESSED with Dragonfly Noodle. They make ramen noodles fresh in-house.
  • Milk Tea People (downtown Denver) Yummy Asian inspired drinks
    • Ube Jasmine Sweet Cream is my current favorite drink

The NBA Finals in Denver

I can’t believe that this is FINALLY happening. I will admit that I may have teared up a little bit. I’m a lifelong fan of the Denver Nuggets and I am so proud of this team. I also hope that visitors have a great time while they are here. I often say that “You Experience Denver and Visit Philly” I’ve talked about the best way to experience Denver in a previous episode. Denver and Philly are in my top 10 favorite US towns to visit, but how you experience them are a bit different. Have an open mind about Denver if it’s your first visit and have fun!

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