Visiting Denver for the Broncos vs Chargers Game: Here’s a Visitor’s Guide to Denver
Never in a million years would I have thought that the Broncos would be in playoff contention at based on how last year and the beginning of this year went. I’m a forever fan and I always hope for the best, but things have been rough for years. I’m working on this post after we won against the Brown’s and it’s not crazy to say that we have a fighting chance to make our way to the playoffs. No matter what if you’re planning on visiting Denver for the Broncos vs. Chargers Game, it’s going to be a fight to the end. Here’s a guide to planning a trip to Denver on Christmas Eve what to expect while you’re here and how to have a good time while in town.
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Denver Has A LOT of Californians
For folks who grew up in Colorado this may be…a bone of contention. But, I think we’ve just let it go at this point and are excited to lean into our regional rivalries. I love any opportunity to beat the Lakers, Clippers or Los Angeles Kings, you get the gist.
My point?
If you’re flying into town to watch a game there will likely be a surprisingly solid contingent supporting your team somewhere in town.
Buy Your Football Ticket
For most of life, it has been pretty challenging to get Broncos tickets. The fan base is across states and heavily represented in Mexico as well. When the Broncos are in town typically the tickets are pretty much sold out. For awhile now we’ve seen fairly empty seats as far as Empower Field goes (or, Mile High Stadium if you grew up here). It’s clear that fans will be buying out the tickets so I recommend buying your tickets sooner rather than later.
Book Your Flight ASAP
Flying into Denver International Airport at any time of the year can be eventful. But, flying during the height of the Holiday travel season takes some planning and consideration.
- Don’t fly in the day of the game-Yes, the game starts at 6:15 pm but I can guarantee that the one time we have a random snowstorm it’s going to be when you fly in the day of the game.
- Arrive a minimum of one day earlier if not 2 or 3-Basically, if you can make it a family holiday trip…do.
- If you’re randomly stranded for 24 hours in Denver-See if you can find a ticket for the game.
Here’s Where Should You Stay in Denver
I’ve included an interactive map below as well as some hotel suggestions as well. The properties that I’ve included are a nice range of prices but all are basically located in Denver’s city center. This will make it easy to get to Empower Field Stadium the day of the game by light rail, car share or even by riding a bike.
- The Source Hotel
- You would actually exit the train at the 38th and Blake stop (one stop before Union Station)
- Espadin
How to Get Around Town
Even though you may hear New Yorkers bitching about transit in Denver, it’s actually surprisingly easy to get around town. If you’re staying at any of the hotels that I’ve suggested in one or more of the following ways.
- Walking
- Scooters (I hate these damn things)
- Bus
- Lightrail
- You can take the light rail from Denver International Airport direct to Union Station which is in the heart of downtown Denver.
- Rideshare
What is Denver’s Weather Like in December
Even though I mentioned the possibility of a snow storm disrupting travel, it’s more than likely that it will be a nice, chilly and sunny day. In fact, even if the mountains are getting hit by snow more often than not Denver is dry and sunny.
Most important tip: Don’t trust Denver’s weather!
You should be checking the weather report about 5 days before you arrive. Pack as if it will be warm, hot or cold. Basically, you need to wear layers.
If it’s sunny during the day, it will be chilly or cold during the evening. If it snows during the day…clearly it will be cold later. If you plan on doing anything in the mountains-there will be snow.
And, it’s almost always sunny so mach sure to bring a pair of sunnies (sunglasses) with you.
Remember to Book Some Tours
Keep things simple and leave the planning to someone else. If you’re not used to driving in winter conditions and would like to visit the mountains-book a tour.
Don’t have enough time to visit the mountains? Here are some tours to enjoy while you’re in town. Bundle up because you may have to walk around.
Where to Eat and Happy Hour
- Le French-I’ve eaten at the 9th and Colorado Blvd location and it was wonderful. It’s not in downtown it’s around a 15 minute drive from the city center.
- Dragonfly Noodle-If you like ramen, this is my number one spot in downtown Denver.
- Vibe Coffee and Wine-I’m actually working on this post while hanging out at Vibe.
- Chopstickers-If you like dumplings, this is where to go. Not a fan of the beef noodle soup though.
- Zoe Ma Ma-Great beef noodle soup!
Obviously this is not an exhaustive list of places to eat, but a starting point for you.
Try the Senegalese Chicken!
16th Street Mall Construction Project
One of the most iconic parts of Denver is going through a major reconstruction project. It has been pretty painful for us, but the end result will be wonderful.
Unfortunately, we’re a year out from the end of this project.
What does that mean for you? The 16th Street Mall will have around 10 blocks of construction taking place. Be prepared to navigate around it when you’re downtown. I will share some activities below that you can check out while you’re here.
If the weather is clear and sunny, exploring the Five Points/RINO murals, breweries and other fun spaces to check out.
What is Empower Field Like
It’s a beautiful field that recently has undergone over $100 million in renovations including the addition of a massive scoreboard to better see the Broncos beat the Chargers.
You will have to go through security and it’s important to review the clear bag before you head to the game.
Clear Bag Policy
Empower Field follows a “Clear Bag Policy” I’ve included a link to the policy for you to review. I’ve also included links to some cute bags that you can order before your trip.
Should You Go Skiing
Maybe the better question should be: should you go and enjoy the activities involving snow in the mountains? Not everyone wants to go skiing or enjoys skiing. So, I thought I would share a few things that you can do in the mountains.
Before you head to Colorado make sure to purchase some trip insurance because it’s always a good idea. Now, here are a few activities to enjoy while you’re in the mountains.
- Cross country skiing-It’s so much cheaper to do and it’s a lot of fun.
- Tubing-There’s nothing better than flying down a mountain on an inner tube.
- Hiking-This is for people who truly enjoy making their way through the outdoors.
- Soaking in the hot tub or hot springs-One of my favorite things to do after a day in the mountains.
- Snowmobiling-Weirdly, I’ve never done this before and it’s on my list.
- Dog sledding-I still haven’t done this either. On my list for this winter.
Visiting Denver for the Broncos vs. Chargers Game
If you’re thinking about visiting Denver for the Broncos vs. Chargers game I say go for it! Denverites are very friendly, a little flaky and a lot of fun. We would be happy to have you here and also…Let’s GO BRONCOS! Safe travels and see you soon.