To call Denver a sports town would be something of an understatement. The city is home to major professional franchises in the National Football League, National Basketball Association, Major League Baseball, National Hockey League, National Lacrosse League, and Major League Soccer — an impressive feat for a city of just over 700,000 people.
From the crack of the bat at Coors Field to the deafening roar of the crowd at a sold-out Broncos game, Denver’s love of sports is nothing short of legendary. Ensure you don’t miss a single play with this guide to the Mile High City’s must-see events and attractions for sports fans.
Cheer on the Denver Broncos at Empower Field at Mile High
Denver’s 1,600-foot elevation isn’t only advantageous on the baseball diamond. It’s also been credited (alongside the city’s lively crowds) with creating one of the best home-field advantages in the NFL at Empower Field at Mile High. Home turf of the Denver Broncos, the stadium is a testament to Denver’s place as a dyed-in-the-wool sports town, having sold out every Broncos’ home game since it first opened its doors in 2001.
Located just over the South Platte River and less than a ten-minute drive from The Crawford Hotel, Empower Field hosts NFL games from September through January. It is also home to the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame. Guided public and private tours are also available both on and off-season, offering fans a glimpse into the inner workings of one of the most state-of-the-art stadiums in North America.
Catch All the NHL, NBA, and NLL Action at Ball Arena
When it comes to versatile sports venues, Ball Arena scores a hat trick. Located in the heart of downtown, just ten minutes from The Crawford Hotel, the 18,000-seat arena is the home of professional basketball, hockey, and lacrosse in Denver. Here, you can cheer courtside for the NBA’s Denver Nuggets, take in all the action of the National Lacrosse League’s Colorado Mammoth, or even watch the NHL’s Colorado Avalanche play on the same ice where they took home the coveted Stanley Cup in 2001.
If that sounds like an impressive range for a singular venue, that’s because it is. As a matter of fact, the arena plays host to more than 225 events annually, including sports games, concerts, comedy shows, and more. Learn all about how this flexible space goes from rink to court to field on an all-access venue tour. If you’re lucky, you might even get a sneak peek inside the Denver Nuggets Practice Court or Colorado Avalanche Locker Room for the ultimate behind-the-scenes experience.
Get Your Fútbol Fix from the Colorado Rapids
Some call it soccer. Others say football. Whatever you want to call it, one thing is for sure: the world’s most popular sport has found an enthusiastic fan base here in Denver. For almost three decades, the city has been the proud home of the Colorado Rapids, a founding member of Major League Soccer. The Pids, as they’re affectionately known, play from March to October at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park, a quick eight-mile/twenty-minute drive north of downtown Denver.
And recently, the Mile High City has given lovers of the beautiful game even more reasons to cheer. In January, Denver was awarded the 16th National Women’s Soccer League team. Scheduled to start play in 2026, the as-yet-unnamed franchise is set to make history as Colorado’s first top-tier professional women’s team. And while you can’t catch them on the pitch just yet, you can help make your mark on this milestone organization by casting your vote to help name the club!
Dress to Impress for Derby Day
From center ice to the 50-yard line, sports-loving Denver offers plenty to entertain even the most passionate fans. But the Mile High City’s lively sports scene goes beyond the bustling arenas, all-star lineups, and history-making teams. Each spring, iconic Denver Union Station hosts the best Kentucky Derby watch party this side of Louisville — perfect for those who prefer to spectate and cheer in true high-society style.
With live music on the Terminal Bar patio, an exclusive Millionaires Row VIP experience in the Cooper Lounge, plus photo booths, drink specials, and a hotly contested Best Dressed award, it’s the ideal way to take in the thrill of the most exciting two minutes in sports. So, don your fanciest hat, grab a round of mint juleps, and join us on Saturday, May 3rd, 2025, for Derby Day at the Station.
Plan an MVP-Worthy Stay in Downtown Denver
Right in the heart of Denver’s lively LoDo neighborhood, The Crawford Hotel puts you within walking distance of Coors Field, Ball Arena, and Empower Field at Mile High, making it the ideal home base for sports fans looking to experience all the action play-by-play. Looking to give your getaway the MVP treatment? Explore exclusive offers, curated packages, and special rates that are sure to have you on your feet and cheering.