Ultimate Colorado Avalanche Fan Guide 2025

Exploring hockey cities across North America? Browse our complete Arena Series collection for insider guides to every NHL destination after you've mastered Denver.

Colorado Avalanche Tickets: Complete Buying Guide

How to Get Cheap Avalanche Tickets

Timing your Avalanche ticket purchase can save hundreds of dollars. Single-game tickets release in late August through Altitude Tickets (the team's official partner), with early-season games often offering the best values. While weekend matchups against Original Six teams command premium prices, weeknight games against non-playoff teams like Arizona Coyotes or Seattle Kraken frequently see 40-60% discounts.

The secondary market thrives in Denver's tech-savvy environment. Check the Altitude Tickets app around 2 p.m. on game days—season ticket holders regularly release their seats at declining prices as game time approaches. The "Flash Seats" mobile transfer system makes last-minute purchases seamless.

Best Times to Buy Avalanche Tickets

Cheapest Options:

• Tuesday-Thursday games: Typically 35-55% cheaper than weekends
• January midweek games: Post-holiday slump creates bargains
• Non-divisional opponents: Eastern Conference teams draw smaller crowds
• Day-of purchases: Prices plummet 1-2 hours before puck drop

Most Expensive Games:

• Minnesota Wild rivalry: Always premium pricing
• Saturday nights: Weekend games command top dollar
• Original Six visits: Blackhawks, Red Wings pack the arena
• Banner raising ceremonies: Championship celebrations

Where to Buy Avalanche Tickets

Official Sources:

• ColoradoAvalanche.com: Direct from team, best for new releases
• Altitude Tickets: Official partner, includes Flash Seats transfers
• Ball Arena Box Office: No fees on walk-up purchases

Secondary Markets:

• StubHub: Extensive inventory, price tracking tools
• Gametime: Specializes in last-minute mobile deals
• SeatGeek: Deal scoring helps identify values
• Vivid Seats: Loyalty rewards for frequent buyers

Avalanche Season Tickets & Packages

Colorado's championship success creates strong season ticket demand, but various packages accommodate different budgets:

• Full Season (41 games): Guaranteed playoff access, best pricing
• Half Season (21 games): Choice of plans with flexible payment
• 12-Game Plans: Mix of premium and value games
• 6-Game Mini Plans: Entry-level commitment
• Flex Memberships: Credit-based system for ultimate flexibility

Ball Arena Seating Guide & Best Views

Best Seats at Ball Arena

Premium Experiences ($175-500+ USD)

Lower Bowl Center Ice (Sections 120-122, 144-146): The gold standard for hockey viewing at Ball Arena. Perfect elevation to track plays developing through the neutral zone, ideal for analyzing Nathan MacKinnon's blazing speed and Cale Makar's defensive wizardry. Expect $250-500 for rivalry games.

Glass Seats - Avalanche Attack Zone (Sections 102-104, 148): Front row seats where the Avs attack twice put you at ice level for bone-crushing hits and spectacular saves. The player bench side (Sections 114-118) offers glimpses of coaching strategies and line changes.

Coors Light Ice House (Section 144): All-inclusive premium experience with craft beer selection, gourmet food stations, and comfortable lounge seating. The $300+ tickets include parking and exclusive merchandise discounts.

Great Value Options ($85-175 USD)

Club Level Corners (Sections 242-246, 266-270): Ball Arena's best-kept secret. These seats provide excellent sightlines with wider seats, improved legroom, and access to upscale concessions. The slight angle actually improves play visibility compared to straight-on views.

Lower Bowl Corners (Sections 106-110, 134-138): Perfect balance of proximity and perspective. Close enough to hear skate cuts and stick taps, positioned to see plays develop end-to-end. Typically $60-100 less than center ice.

Club Level Center (Sections 252-256): Elevated center ice perspective with club amenities. Shorter concession lines and premium food options make intermissions enjoyable. Great for business entertainment.

Budget-Friendly Seats ($35-85 USD)

Upper Bowl Center (Sections 334-340, 360-366): Don't dismiss the "Loud House"—these sections house the most passionate fans creating electric atmosphere. The bird's-eye view actually helps track defensive systems and breakout patterns.

Family Night Sections (Sections 370-380): Special pricing on select games includes ticket, hot dog, and soda for $35. Perfect for introducing kids to live hockey without breaking budgets.

College Rush (Varies): Students with valid ID purchase $35 tickets starting 90 minutes before puck drop. Seats range from upper corners to unsold lower bowl gems.

Seats to Avoid

• Sections 312-318, 356-362 last rows: Overhang obstructs jumbotron
• Sections 124-130 Rows 1-3: Player benches block ice-level views
• Section 301-302, 379-380: Extreme corner angles limit far-end visibility
• Upper bowl Row 20+: Very steep grade causes vertigo for some

2024-25 Season Schedule & Key Games

Game Times & Schedule Patterns

• Weekday games: 7:00 PM or 7:30 PM starts
• Friday games: 7:00 PM (occasional 6:00 PM)
• Saturday games: 7:00 PM (some 5:00 PM matinees)
• Sunday games: 5:00 PM or 6:00 PM (family-friendly)
• Holiday games: Special afternoon starts

Getting to Ball Arena: All Transportation Options

Best Way to Get to Ball Arena

RTD Light Rail (Recommended): Denver's extensive light rail system makes public transit the smartest choice for Avalanche games. The C, E, and W lines stop at Pepsi Center/Ball Arena Station, delivering you directly to the arena entrance. Trains run every 15 minutes on game nights with extended service after games.

Light Rail Routes to Ball Arena

Denver's RTD system connects suburbs and airport directly to Ball Arena, making it the preferred choice for locals and visitors.

Major Lines:

• C & E Lines: From south suburbs (Littleton, Lone Tree)
• W Line: From western suburbs (Lakewood, Golden)
• A Line to Union Station: From Denver Airport ($10.50)
• Free Mall Ride: Connects downtown hotels to arena area

Travel Times:

• From Union Station: 10 minutes via mall shuttle
• From DIA: 45 minutes via A Line + transfer
• From suburbs: 20-40 minutes direct
• From downtown hotels: 5-15 minutes walk or shuttle

Driving & Traffic Patterns

While light rail is recommended, driving remains popular for suburban fans. Downtown Denver's grid system simplifies navigation, though event traffic requires planning.

Major Routes:

• From North: I-25 South to Speer Boulevard exit
• From South: I-25 North to 6th Avenue exit
• From West: I-70 East to I-25 South or 6th Avenue
• From East: I-70 West to I-25 South

Rideshare Strategy

Uber and Lyft thrive in Denver, with designated pickup/dropoff zones at Ball Arena making rideshare convenient for groups.

Typical Rideshare Costs:

• From LoDo/RiNo: $8-15 USD
• From Cherry Creek: $15-25 USD
• From Tech Center: $25-40 USD
• From Boulder: $45-70 USD

Alternative Transportation

Denver B-Cycle: The city's bike-share system includes stations near Ball Arena. The Cherry Creek Trail provides scenic routes from eastern neighborhoods. Secure bike racks accommodate personal bikes.

E-Scooters: Lime and Bird scooters blanket downtown Denver. While fun for short distances, cold weather and post-game crowds limit practicality. Use bike lanes and follow helmet laws.

Pedicabs: Bicycle rickshaws operate around LoDo and Ball Arena on game nights. Negotiate fares before riding—typical cost is $5-10 per person for short distances.

Complete Parking Guide & Costs

Official Ball Arena Parking

Camry Lot ($40 USD): The premium lot sits adjacent to Ball Arena's main entrance. Limited to 500 spaces, it fills quickly but offers covered parking and shortest walk. Season ticket holders get priority access.

Lexus Lot ($35 USD): Located across Auraria Parkway, this lot provides 800 spaces with easy arena access via pedestrian bridge. Less expensive than Camry but still convenient.

Ball Arena Garage ($25-30 USD): The attached parking garage offers weather protection and direct arena access. Enter from 9th Street for best availability. Pre-purchase online to guarantee space.

Nearby Parking Alternatives

Money-Saving Parking Tips

• Auraria Campus: Student lots open to public after 5 PM for $10-15
• SpotHero App: Pre-book downtown lots for 30-50% savings
• Metered streets: Free after 10 PM in most areas
• Park & Ride: Free lots at light rail stations
• LoDo lots: Park for dinner, walk 15 minutes to arena

Best Hotels Near Ball Arena (All Budgets)

Luxury Hotels ($250-500+ USD/night)

The Crawford Hotel at Union Station: Denver's most unique luxury property occupies the historic train station. Classic Pullman rooms evoke railroad glamour while modern lofts offer contemporary comfort. The Terminal Bar hosts pre-game gatherings, and you're one light rail stop from Ball Arena.

Four Seasons Hotel Denver: Downtown's newest luxury addition features a rooftop pool with mountain views and spa treatments at 5,280 feet. Edge Restaurant showcases Colorado ingredients while the bar crafts premium cocktails. Ten-minute walk to Ball Arena through vibrant downtown.

The Oxford Hotel: Denver's oldest operating hotel blends Victorian elegance with modern amenities. The Cruise Room Art Deco bar serves classic cocktails since 1933. Located in LoDo, walking distance to both Ball Arena and Coors Field.

Mid-Range Hotels ($100-250 USD/night)

The Maven at Dairy Block: Boutique property in the trendy Dairy Block micro-district. Modern rooms feature local artwork while Poka Lola Social Club serves elevated comfort food. Five-minute walk to Ball Arena through the bustling LoDo neighborhood.

Hyatt Regency Denver: Colorado's largest hotel connects to the Convention Center via skybridge. Multiple restaurants, heated outdoor pool, and mountain views from upper floors. The 16th Street Mall free shuttle stops outside, connecting to Ball Arena.

Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown: Reliable chain delivering consistent quality in restored 1920s building. Complimentary hot breakfast and evening reception provide value. Located on free mall shuttle route with easy arena access.

Budget-Friendly Options ($50-100 USD/night)

Hostel Fish: Denver's premier hostel offers both private rooms and dorms in a restored Victorian mansion. The communal kitchen and daily activities create a social atmosphere. Located in Capitol Hill with easy light rail access to Ball Arena.

Super 8 Downtown Denver: Basic but clean accommodations near the Auraria campus. Walking distance to Ball Arena through safe, well-lit streets. Free breakfast and parking provide added value for budget-conscious fans.

Days Inn Denver Downtown: No-frills option that delivers the essentials at reasonable prices. The location near civic center provides easy access to free mall shuttle. Perfect for fans prioritizing game experience over hotel amenities.

Alternative Accommodations

RiNo Airbnbs: The River North Art District offers trendy lofts and apartments via vacation rental platforms. The neighborhood's breweries and galleries provide pre-game entertainment with quick rideshare access to Ball Arena.

Cherry Creek Condos: Upscale vacation rentals in Denver's shopping district offer luxury amenities and mountain views. Light rail connects directly to Ball Arena in 20 minutes.

Denver Hockey Bars & Pre-Game Restaurants

Breweries & Beer Culture

Great Divide Barrel Bar

Colorado craft beer pioneer's downtown location specializes in barrel-aged beers and experimental brews. The industrial-chic taproom pours 20+ exclusive beers not available elsewhere. Food trucks provide sustenance while cornhole and giant Jenga entertain groups. Ten-minute walk to Ball Arena through Ballpark neighborhood.

Wynkoop Brewing Company

Denver's first brewpub occupies a massive LoDo warehouse with pool hall upstairs. Founded by former governor John Hickenlooper, the brewery maintains political and cultural significance. The Rail Yard Ale remains a local classic while seasonal rotations showcase innovation. Kitchen serves reliable pub classics.

Bierstadt Lagerhaus

Traditional German-style lager specialist brings Bavarian beer hall vibes to RiNo. The slow-pour pilsners arrive in proper glassware while the kitchen serves authentic pretzels and sausages. Limited seating means arriving early, but the quality justifies the effort.

Upscale Dining Near Ball Arena

Guard and Grace ($$)

Modern steakhouse elevates the genre with innovative preparations and stunning design. Dry-aged beef from local ranches arrives perfectly prepared while seafood towers impress groups. The extensive wine list and craft cocktails complement the upscale atmosphere. Book 5:30 PM reservations for comfortable timing to games.

Mercantile Dining & Provision ($)

Union Station's flagship restaurant from James Beard Award winner Alex Seidel showcases Colorado ingredients. The market-style setup includes casual counter service and formal dining room. Farm-fresh vegetables shine alongside heritage pork and local lamb. The artisanal market provides gourmet souvenirs.

Tavernetta ($)

Sophisticated Italian in Union Station emphasizes handmade pasta and wood-fired preparations. The stylish space attracts Denver's dining elite while maintaining welcoming service. The crudo and antipasti perfect for sharing before games.

Casual Dining & Quick Bites

Sam's No. 3

Denver institution serves massive portions of diner classics and Mexican-American favorites. The green chile smothers everything while breakfast is served all day. Multiple locations include one downtown for pre-game fuel. Cash-only policy maintains old-school charm.

Illegal Pete's

Colorado-born burrito chain delivers Mission-style Mexican with punk rock attitude. The massive burritos provide serious value while the full bar serves strong margaritas. Multiple locations near Ball Arena ensure quick service before games.

Biker Jim's Gourmet Dogs

Food Network favorite serves exotic sausages like rattlesnake, buffalo, and elk from carts throughout downtown. The cream cheese and caramelized onion toppings achieve legendary status. Find carts on 16th Street Mall or inside Ball Arena.

Late-Night Options

Pete's Kitchen

Twenty-four hour Greek diner attracts everyone from concert-goers to shift workers. The massive breakfast burritos cure any hunger while strong coffee sobers up celebrating fans. Cash only but ATM on-site.

Jerusalem Restaurant

Middle Eastern spot stays open late serving shawarma, falafel, and kebabs. The generous portions and reasonable prices attract post-game crowds. Multiple locations ensure you're never far from late-night fuel.

Arena Food & Concession Guide

Signature Arena Foods

• Rocky Mountain Mac & Cheese: Loaded with bison, green chile
• Boulder Sausage Bratwurst: Local sausages with craft mustards
• Green Chile Cheese Fries: Colorado's signature flavor
• Biker Jim's Exotic Dogs: Elk, buffalo, rattlesnake options
• Denver Biscuit Company: Massive biscuit sandwiches

Premium Dining Options

Coors Light Ice House: All-inclusive club experience featuring Colorado craft beers, premium spirits, and chef-attended food stations. The ticket price includes unlimited food and non-alcoholic beverages with panoramic ice views. Perfect for client entertainment or special celebrations.

Club Lexus Level: Multiple premium lounges throughout the club level offer upgraded menus featuring items from Denver's top restaurants. The Blue Moon Brewing Company installation provides exclusive beers not available elsewhere in arena.

Loge Box Experience: Semi-private boxes for 4-6 guests include premium catering options and dedicated service. The exclusive entrance and lounge access elevate the game experience.

Craft Beer at Ball Arena

Colorado's craft beer reputation extends throughout Ball Arena with dedicated tap rooms and carts featuring local favorites:

• Colorado Craft Cart (Section 148): Rotating local brewery selections
• New Belgium Hub (Section 330): Fat Tire favorites plus seasonals
• Great Divide Taproom (Club Level): Exclusive arena-only brews
• Oskar Blues Corner (Section 362): Dale's Pale Ale and more

Avalanche Merchandise & Team Store Guide

Team Store Locations

• Main Team Store (Grand Atrium): Largest selection, jersey customization station
• The Arsenal (Section 144): Game-worn equipment and collectibles
• Upper Level Store (Section 362): Basic merchandise, shortest lines
• Nordiques Nostalgia Shop: Vintage Quebec merchandise

Money-Saving Tips

• Season ticket holder discount: 25% off all merchandise
• Student/Military discount: 15% with valid ID
• End of season clearance: 50-70% off in April
• Player departure sales: Jerseys discounted when traded
• Online exclusive deals: Web-only promotions monthly

Things to Do in Denver Before/After Games

Downtown Attractions

16th Street Mall (0.5 miles)

Denver's pedestrian paradise stretches over a mile with shops, restaurants, and street performers. The free MallRide shuttle connects Union Station to Civic Center, passing countless dining and entertainment options. Perfect for pre-game shopping or post-game nightlife exploration.

Union Station (0.7 miles)

Beautifully restored 1914 train station serves as Denver's living room. The Great Hall hosts travelers and locals among boutique shops, restaurants, and bars. The Crawford Hotel occupies upper floors while the basement houses craft cocktail speakeasies. Direct light rail to Ball Arena.

Denver Art Museum (1 mile)

Architectural masterpiece houses world-class collections emphasizing Western and Indigenous art. The Hamilton Building's angular design creates dramatic spaces for contemporary works. Special exhibitions rotate quarterly with evening hours on Fridays.

Brewery Tours & Tastings

RiNo Art District Brewery Crawl

Denver's hippest neighborhood packs 20+ breweries into walkable area. Start at Ratio Beerworks' punk-rock taproom, continue to Epic Brewing's extensive lineup, finish at Our Mutual Friend's community-focused space. Food trucks and galleries provide breaks between tastings. Rideshare to Ball Arena takes 10 minutes.

Coors Brewery Tour (Golden, 20 miles)

World's largest single-site brewery offers free tours showcasing the brewing process from grain to glass. The mountain setting provides stunning views while the tasting room pours fresh samples. Reserve online as tours fill quickly, especially weekends.

Denver Beer Trail

Self-guided tour connects 20+ breweries throughout metro Denver. Download the passport app to track visits and earn rewards. Many locations offer game-day specials and shuttle services to Ball Arena.

Outdoor Activities

Red Rocks Amphitheatre (15 miles)

Even without concerts, this natural amphitheatre offers hiking trails and stunning geological formations. The Trading Post provides Colorado souvenirs while the visitor center explains the venue's musical history. Morning yoga sessions and fitness classes utilize the famous stairs.

Washington Park

Denver's beloved park features two lakes, gardens, and recreation center. The 2.6-mile perimeter path attracts runners and cyclists while volleyball courts and tennis facilities stay busy year-round. Perfect for burning energy before evening games.

Cherry Creek Trail

Twenty-mile paved path follows the creek from downtown through multiple neighborhoods. Bike rentals available at numerous locations for exploring Denver's outdoors. The trail passes near Ball Arena for adventurous commutes to games.

Cultural Experiences

Denver Botanic Gardens

Urban oasis showcases plants from Colorado and beyond across themed gardens. The tropical conservatory provides warmth during hockey season while seasonal exhibitions like Blossoms of Light create magical experiences. Evening hours and on-site dining available.

History Colorado Center

Interactive museum brings Colorado's past to life through hands-on exhibits. The time machine experience transports visitors through Denver's evolution while the living history programs feature costumed interpreters. Great for families with varying ages.

National Ballpark Museum

Baseball history museum near Coors Field celebrates America's pastime with exhibits covering Negro Leagues, women's baseball, and ballpark evolution. The collection includes artifacts from every major league stadium. Quick visit possible before hockey games.

What to Wear to Avalanche Games

Team Colors & Jersey Guide

Official Colors: Burgundy, blue, silver, and black represent the Avalanche identity. The color scheme honors Colorado's mountain landscape with burgundy representing sunsets and blue reflecting clear skies. Vintage Quebec Nordiques blue and white remains popular among longtime fans.

Jersey Traditions:

• Current stars: Nathan MacKinnon #29, Cale Makar #8, Mikko Rantanen #96
• Legends: Joe Sakic #19, Patrick Roy #33, Peter Forsberg #21
• Championship heroes: Ray Bourque #77 remains beloved
• Special editions: Stadium Series, Reverse Retro designs

Arena Temperature Guide

Ball Arena maintains temperatures around 60-65°F (15-18°C) during games, slightly cooler than many NHL venues. The altitude makes the air feel drier, affecting comfort levels. Lower bowl seats near ice feel coolest while upper level can be 5-10 degrees warmer.

Typical Fan Attire:

• Most common: Jersey over long-sleeve shirt or hoodie
• Alternatives: Avalanche hoodies, quarter-zips, fleeces
• Layering essential: Temperature varies by location
• Footwear: Closed-toe shoes recommended
• Accessories: Avalanche beanies, scarves popular

Fashion Tips & Fan Traditions

• Burgundy & Blue nights: Wear team colors for unity
• Playoff traditions: White-out games for home playoffs
• Throwback appreciation: Nordiques gear welcomed
• Mountain casual: Fleeces, flannels fit Denver style
• Altitude awareness: Sunglasses common even for night games

Complete Game Day Timeline

4-5 Hours Before Game Time

• Morning mountain activities for visitors
• Brewery tour in RiNo or Golden
• Late lunch at Denver food hall
• Check into downtown hotel

3 Hours Before Game Time

• Start brewery crawl in RiNo Art District
• OR explore 16th Street Mall shops
• Grab early dinner at Union Station
• Begin hydrating for altitude adjustment

2 Hours Before Game Time

• Head to DNVR Bar or Sobo 151 for atmosphere
• Check starting lineups and injury reports
• Meet up with friends at designated spot
• Last chance for reasonable food/drink prices

90 Minutes Before Game Time

• Take light rail to Ball Arena station
• OR arrive for easier parking options
• Photo opportunities outside arena
• Visit The Arsenal for unique merchandise

60 Minutes Before Game Time

• Doors open—beat concession lines
• Explore arena and craft beer selections
• Visit team store while fully stocked
• Find seats and settle in

30 Minutes Before Game Time

• Watch warm-ups from lower bowl
• Kids can stand by glass for player tosses
• Grab food and drinks before rush
• Soak in pre-game atmosphere

Game Time!

• Stand for national anthem(s)
• ALL THE SMALL THINGS celebration
• Go Avs Go! chants throughout
• Bernie's drum solos between periods

Post-Game

• Wait 15 minutes to avoid transit crush
• Continue celebration at LoDo bars
• Late night food at Pete's Kitchen
• Plan next trip with Arena Series Guides

Arena Policies & Rules

Security & Entry Procedures

• Metal detectors: All fans pass through screening
• Bag policy: Clear bags only, 14" x 14" x 6" maximum
• Prohibited items: Outside food/drinks, cameras with detachable lenses
• Express entry: No bag lines move fastest
• Multiple entrances: Use Grand Atrium to avoid crowds

Arena Policies

• Mobile tickets only: Screenshots not accepted
• Cashless payments: Credit, debit, or mobile pay only
• Smoking/vaping: Prohibited throughout venue
• Re-entry: Not permitted after initial scan
• Age restrictions: Under 16 need adult supervision

Accessibility & Special Needs

Accessible Seating & Services

• Wheelchair accessible seating: All levels, elevator access
• Companion seats: Adjacent to accessible locations
• Assistive listening devices: Available at Guest Relations
• Service animals: Welcome with proper documentation
• Sensory bags: Noise-canceling headphones available

Transportation & Parking

• Accessible parking: Camry and Lexus lots closest
• RTD accessibility: All light rail stations equipped
• Drop-off zones: Designated areas at each entrance
• Elevators: Multiple locations throughout arena

Comprehensive Game Day FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How early should I arrive for parking?
A: Arrive 45-60 minutes early for premium lots, 30 minutes for outer lots. Light rail riders can arrive 20-30 minutes before puck drop.

Q: Can I bring a regular purse or bag?
A: No, only clear bags meeting 14"x14"x6" size limits. Small clutches (4.5"x6.5") also permitted.

Q: Where can I smoke/vape during the game?
A: Ball Arena is completely smoke-free with no designated areas. Plan accordingly.

Q: Will altitude affect me at the game?
A: Possible mild effects include dehydration and fatigue. Drink extra water and limit alcohol consumption.

Q: What's the best section for first-time visitors?
A: Club level corners (242-246, 266-270) offer great views, comfortable seats, and moderate pricing.

Q: Can I upgrade my seats during the game?
A: Yes, use the Ball Arena app for available upgrades after first period.

Ultimate Colorado Avalanche Fan Guide 2025 - Complete Ball Arena Experience | 5V5 Hockey