Where To Park For Broncos Games

Where to Park for Broncos Games

Getting ready to cheer on the Denver Broncos? That’s awesome! But before you get to the stadium, there’s one big question: where are you going to park? Finding the perfect parking spot can make a huge difference in how much fun you have on game day. Nobody wants to start their football day stressed out, right? This guide will help you navigate all your parking options near Empower Field at Mile High, so you can focus on enjoying the game.

Official Parking Options at Empower Field

First, let’s talk about the official parking lots owned by the stadium. These lots are the closest you can get to the action, which is super convenient, but they fill up quickly and can be pricey. The closer you are, the more you’re likely to pay, this is typical of any stadium parking anywhere.

Lot A, B, C: The Heart of the Action

These are the lots you see right by the stadium. They’re great because you can walk to the gates in just a few minutes. That means less time walking and more time tailgating or getting settled into your seats. However, because of their prime location, these lots are generally more expensive and they require purchasing parking passes in advance. It’s best to buy passes for these as soon as they go on sale, as they almost always sell out quickly. Keep your eyes on the Broncos official website or their partner ticket sellers for the upcoming game information to get early access to parking passes. You should probably expect to pay a pretty penny if you choose to park here, this is the most convenient but not the most affordable option.

Lot G and J: Slightly Further, Still Convenient

If Lots A, B, or C are all full, or if you’re looking for something a little cheaper, Lots G and J are good alternatives. These lots are a little farther from the stadium, but you’re still within easy walking distance. You might not have the closest spot, but you’ll still be able to get to the gates within a reasonable amount of time. Expect to pay slightly less compared to the closer in lots, but you’ll need to factor the extra walk into your day.

Things to Remember About Official Lots

• Purchase in Advance: Always, always, always buy your parking pass ahead of time. Don’t count on being able to pay at the gate; it will likely be sold out or cost a whole lot more.
• Arrive Early: Even if you have a pass, the lots will fill up so it’s important to arrive early for the best choice of parking spaces and to avoid traffic congestion.
• Traffic: Be ready for traffic as game day brings a lot of cars all at once. Plan for some extra time getting in and out of the parking areas.

Off-Site Parking Options

Okay, what if the official stadium lots aren’t for you? Maybe they’re too expensive or already sold out. Don’t worry – there are plenty of other places to park near Empower Field. These off-site options can be more affordable, and sometimes they offer a different experience. Let’s explore some popular choices.

Public Transportation and Parking

A great and often less stressful way to get to the game is using public transportation. Denver’s Regional Transportation District (RTD) offers convenient light rail and bus services. Some light rail stations have free parking areas, where you can park and then ride the train directly to the stadium area. The downside of this option is you might have to walk a little bit more to get to the stadium, but overall it’s very good for your budget and the traffic.

Parking Garages Near the Stadium

Several parking garages are located within walking distance of Empower Field. These garages can offer covered parking, which is excellent if the weather is bad. Parking garages can be a bit further away compared to the stadium parking, but they may be easier to get in and out of after the game. Here’s some pros and cons you can expect from garages:

• Pros: Covered parking (great for rain or snow), generally secure, sometimes a little more affordable than official lots.
• Cons: Can be a bit of a walk, may have limited access/exit points which might increase wait time getting out after the game.

Private Lots and Shuttle Services

Some local businesses and private property owners open up their parking lots on game days. These lots can be more budget friendly, but their level of convenience and security can vary. Many also operate shuttle services to take you to and from the stadium. Here are some considerations when it comes to these types of lots:

• Cost: Usually more affordable than the official lots, but not always cheaper than public transport.
• Convenience: Shuttle services can be good, but wait times can vary greatly.
• Security: Make sure you pick a reputable lot with some kind of security measures if possible.

Street Parking: Proceed with Caution

Street parking is available in some areas near the stadium, but you need to be very careful when considering this option. Some streets have parking restrictions on game days, and you could get a ticket or even have your car towed if you park in the wrong place. Make sure you pay close attention to the signs. Only consider this option if you’re very familiar with the area and are aware of all possible regulations to avoid problems.

Tips for a Stress-Free Parking Experience

Alright, now that we’ve covered the main parking options, let’s get into some tips to make game day parking easier and less stressful.

Plan Ahead

This one is huge! The earlier you plan your parking, the better chance you have at getting a spot that fits your budget and convenience needs. Don’t wait until the last minute to look for parking. Book online, check public transport schedules, or scope out the area days before the event.

Know Your Budget

Parking costs can vary greatly. Official lots can be pricey while off-site options may be cheaper. Decide how much you are willing to spend on parking. Consider cheaper alternatives like public transportation, walking a little more, or using a park-and-ride service. By knowing your budget you can make the right choices that will ensure you get the best parking for your situation.

Arrive Early

No matter where you decide to park, try to arrive early. Traffic gets very heavy as game time gets closer, and the parking lots fill up quickly. Coming early means you will have your pick of parking spots, you’ll have a chance to tailgate, and you won’t have to worry about rushing or missing the kickoff. Extra time also means you can walk around and look at the scene and enjoy the energy of game day.

Follow Directions

Game days can be chaotic and crowded. There will be many parking attendants or signs to help people find the right spots. Make sure you follow the instructions from staff and watch for signage to avoid confusion. They are doing their best to get you parked safely and as quickly as possible. Always follow the directions you’re given, it’s for everyone’s safety.

Be Aware of Traffic Patterns

Traffic before and after the game can be very heavy. Try to familiarize yourself with the routes to and from your parking area, especially if it’s somewhere you’ve not been before. Try to have a couple of routes planned in case one road is especially backed up. Check traffic apps to see what roads are the best options, and it might be better to stay at your tailgate or nearby spot for a while longer after the game to avoid gridlock.

Consider Tailgating

If you plan on tailgating, which can be a lot of fun, make sure you park in a location that allows tailgating. Not all lots allow it, so check before you make your final selection. Some of the official lots are great for tailgating because they have plenty of space, but you should always check. Be aware of the stadium’s guidelines to ensure a fun time for everyone.

Be Patient and Polite

Game days bring a lot of excitement but also a lot of people and traffic. It’s important to be patient and polite to the other drivers and parking attendants. Everybody is there to have a good time, and a bad attitude will not make things better. Treat everyone with respect, it will make the whole day a better experience.

Specific Parking Recommendations

To make your choice easier, here are some very specific scenarios and recommendations:

For the Budget-Conscious Fan

If saving money is your main goal, public transportation is your best bet. Park at a free light rail station and ride the train to the stadium area. Private lots with shuttle services can be good for the budget minded fan too, but you should do some research on those options first to ensure you’re going with a reliable choice. The extra walk or shuttle wait will be well worth the savings.

For the Ultimate Convenience Seeker

If getting as close to the stadium as possible is most important, then the official stadium lots (A, B, or C) are your only real choice. Just be prepared to pay a premium for the convenience, and buy your pass well in advance. Arriving early is also super important here. The shorter walk will mean you can get to the action faster.

For Families

If you are with kids, a parking garage is often a very good option. These garages offer safe and covered parking, and they’re generally easier to get in and out of, compared to the large stadium lots. Plus the walk, although a little bit longer, is generally easier on families with young children than walking across a crowded parking lot.

For Tailgating Groups

If tailgating is a must, you need to research official lots that are known for tailgating. Some of these lots actually have tailgating areas. Be sure you know the stadium’s policy about tailgating to avoid problems before you get to the event. Plan to arrive extra early to claim a spot that will allow you to get setup and enjoy your day.

Summary Table of Parking Options

To help you quickly compare the different choices, here’s a handy table summarizing all the parking options:

Parking for a Denver Broncos game doesn’t have to be a pain. By planning ahead, knowing your budget, and considering your needs, you can choose the parking option that’s best for you. Have fun at the game, and Go Broncos!