It’s the most wonderful time of the year… Nuggets Basketball Season! For many of us with kids, going to sporting events looks different than it used to, but going to see the former NBA Champions can be a fun experience for the whole family.
Walking into Ball arena as DJ Paws is playing upbeat music, the Nuggets dancers are performing, and the crowd bustles with excitement is such an electric feeling. It is a good idea to arrive early so you can get the full experience of the pre-game show! You will also want to pay attention to super mascot Rocky as he entertains the audience and attempts his famous half-court shot!
Nuggets Game Arrival
Ball Arena, formerly known as the Pepsi Center, is located in the heart of Downtown Denver at 1000 Chopper Cir, Denver, CO 80204.
Ball Arena is card payment only so you need to make sure you are ready to be using a debit or credit card for purchases. This includes parking, food and beverage, and any shopping you plan to do. There are multiple parking lots so make sure to review the map for a good reference. The cost is $30 for Nuggets games. Another great option is public transportation. The Ball Arena/Elitch Gardens stop is served by multiple light rail lines (D, E, H & W lines) and allows for an easy drop off next to the arena.
Mom Tip: If you are a Clear member (like at airport security), they also have these services at Ball Arena. Find the signs by the SW entrance and have your clear app open along with your tickets for the expedited entry.
What to Bring
Strollers are allowed in suites, but otherwise guests are encouraged not to bring strollers into Ball arena. Larger strollers may be checked into the Guest Relations kiosks located in the Grand Atrium main entrance, outside of Section 120 and outside of Section 375.
Mom Tip: For infants/babies, since strollers are prohibited, bring your baby carrier. These are much easier to get through the large crowds!
All food and drinks are prohibited at Ball arena except for baby and infant supplies including: baby food, snacks, formula, pumps, bottles, hot water, etc. Empty water bottles are also allowed and can be filled up after you have entered the arena. Ball Arena also offers UC Health Nursing Suites located near Section 132 and 348 for preferred privacy.
Bags are not allowed at Ball Arena, unless it is a medical or diaper bag 14” x14” x6” or smaller.
At the Game
Basketball games are usually fast paced with a lot of action so tends to be a little easier to keep kids excited and to stay in their seat. The Nuggets organization and staff does a great job keeping the crowd engaged between the pre-game show, games and activities during timeouts, music from the DJ, and halftime performances; however, we know it is never easy for them to sit still for the entire game (which is just over 2 hours on average).
It can be nice to go out and walk around the halls during the game when it’s less busy. This is also a great time to check out the team stores if you plan to purchase any merchandise or toys because it allows you to get some energy out and the stores will be less busy. There are also some fun photo opportunities with player statues from Denver teams and different art as you walk around.
Mom Tip: Make sure to stop by the restrooms before heading to your seats. It can be a lot of work to get in and out of the aisles with everyone.
It’s a good idea to pay attention to the announcements in the game because many times the mascot, Rocky, will pose for pictures with fans during the game. This is usually by the main escalators around the SW entrance, but they will announce the location if Rocky is available to meet up.
If you plan to eat at the game there are a variety of options at concessions stands located around the venue. All of the food and drink options are cashless. There is also a full restaurant (Michelob Ultra Mountain House) with a full menu and reservations can be made ahead of time.
Mom Tip: Discuss beforehand with your family what drinks, treats, merchandise etc. will be purchased. It can be very exciting to see all of the different options so it helps to set expectations for how much will be allowed!
Nuggets Tickets and Schedule
Preseason usually starts in September with the regular season starting at the end of October. The regular season will last until May or June if the Nuggets make the playoffs!
Many NBA games occur in the evening so it can be helpful to look ahead at the schedule and find the afternoon games. If you decide to try the night games it is best to try for a Friday or Saturday so the kids are not overtired for school and other activities the following day. It is also fun to look ahead at the theme nights before purchasing. Many of these theme nights have special celebrations and events to make the game even more memorable.
Purchasing tickets through Ticketmaster via the Nuggets website is the best option. Buying tickets through other 3rd part websites or apps can lead to ticket scams. If you have a group of 10 or more you can book through a Nuggets sales team member and receive 10% savings.
Mom Tip: If the Nuggets make the playoffs, Ball Arena usually hosts watch parties during the away games. These can be less expensive than going to the home games and includes all of the in-game entertainment while the games plays on the jumbotron. This is a relaxed environment and can be a ton of fun for the family to attend!
