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Located in the heart of Denver, Ball Arena serves as a pulsating hub for entertainment, concerts, and sports. But what happens after the final whistle or encore? The area surrounding Ball Arena is brimming with iconic landmarks, cultural gems, and breathtaking natural escapes. Whether you’re in town for a game, a concert, or just exploring Colorado’s capital, these must-see attractions near Ball Arena promise to amplify your visit with unique and unforgettable experiences.
1. Union Station
Distance from Ball Arena: Approximately 0.85 miles
Price: Free to visit
Step back in time at Union Station, Denver’s historic transit hub turned cultural hotspot. With its beautifully restored architecture, this landmark offers a mix of trendy shops, gourmet restaurants, and lively bars. Plus, its opulent Crawford Hotel is perfect for a luxurious overnight stay. Don’t miss the upper-level seating area, which provides stunning views of the city’s vibrant Pulse District.
2. Denver Art Museum
Distance from Ball Arena: Approximately 1.2 miles
Price: Adults $15, Youth (18-22) $13, Children 0-17 Free
Known for its striking design, the Denver Art Museum shelters a collection of over 70,000 art pieces, from contemporary masterpieces to Indigenous creations. Recent exhibitions, such as *Wild Things: The Art of Maurice Sendak,* highlight its relevance as a cultural beacon. Turn your visit into a day-long affair and bring the young ones—the museum is extremely family-friendly with interactive installations!
3. LoDo (Lower Downtown)
Distance from Ball Arena: Approximately 1 mile
Price: Free to visit
Denver’s trendiest neighborhood, LoDo (Lower Downtown), is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the local culture. Historic brick buildings house everything from chic boutiques to buzzing breweries. During summer nights, rooftop bars like 54Thirty offer guests towering views of the Denver skyline paired with innovative cocktails.
4. Larimer Square
Distance from Ball Arena: Approximately 1 mile
Price: Free to visit
As Denver’s oldest commercial block, Larimer Square is a treasure trove of high-end fashion shops, locally-owned businesses, and award-winning restaurants. Visit during the evening for a romantic stroll under its charming canopy of string lights, or time your visit with one of their seasonal events to enjoy live entertainment.
5. Coors Field
Distance from Ball Arena: Approximately 1 mile
Price: Ticket prices vary by event
Baseball fans will not want to miss Coors Field, the home of the Colorado Rockies. Even if you’re not watching a game, go for a guided tour, where you’ll learn about its rich history and enjoy a panoramic view of the Rocky Mountains. Pro tip: Grab tickets to sections on the third base side for the best sunset views!
6. Elitch Gardens Theme Park
Distance from Ball Arena: Approximately 0.7 miles
Price: Prices vary
For adrenaline seekers, Elitch Gardens Theme Park is a must-visit. Featuring thrill-inducing roller coasters, water attractions, and fun live shows, this park is a haven for families and adventure lovers alike. During summer, their water park is the perfect place to beat the heat. Be sure to check their event calendar for seasonal festivities like Fright Fest in the fall.
7. Meow Wolf Denver
Distance from Ball Arena: Approximately 1.6 miles
Price: Adults $32, Children (3-12) $24
Dive into a surreal universe at Meow Wolf Denver. This immersive art installation challenges the boundaries of imagination with its interactive exhibits. Spanning 90,000 square feet, the journey through surreal environments is a treat for all ages—and offers the perfect Instagram photo opportunities!
8. Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre
Distance from Ball Arena: Approximately 22 miles (about a 30-minute drive)
Price: Free to visit park; concert ticket prices vary
Venture beyond the city and absorb the unmatched beauty of Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre. Known worldwide for its outdoor music venue, this natural amphitheater has hosted legends like U2 and The Beatles. Don’t forget to explore the park’s trails for views of the awe-inspiring rock formations and Denver skyline.
9. Rocky Mountain National Park
Distance from Ball Arena: Approximately 67 miles (about a 1-hour 15-minute drive)
Price: $35 per vehicle (7-day pass)
Perfect for nature lovers, Rocky Mountain National Park promises serene alpine views and endless outdoor adventures. From hikes along its many trails to wildlife sightings of elk and bighorn sheep, every moment here feels like stepping into a postcard.
10. Garden of the Gods
Distance from Ball Arena: Approximately 68 miles (about a 1-hour 15-minute drive)
Price: Free to visit
Located in Colorado Springs, Garden of the Gods is a public park offering a mesmerizing display of red sandstone formations. Whether you’re hiking, biking, or simply driving through, this geological masterpiece is a must-see for any Colorado itinerary.
Final Thoughts
Denver is more than just a pit stop; it’s a gateway to culture, adventure, and history. From world-class museums like the Denver Art Museum to breathtaking escapes like Red Rocks, the attractions near Ball Arena offer something for everyone. Whether you’re on a tight schedule or have an open itinerary, this list is your key to highlighting the best of the area.
Ready to start your adventure? Head over to these nearby destinations, and make every moment in Denver unforgettable! Don’t forget to tag us in your photos and share your experiences.
Notes:
Meta description: Discover top attractions near Ball Arena in Denver, including museums, parks, and historical landmarks. Plan your perfect visit.
Tags: Ball Arena attractions, Denver travel tips, Union Station Denver, Denver historical sites, Meow Wolf Denver, Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Fun near Ball Arena, Denver landmarks, Denver sports area guide, Colorado travel
Longtail tags: Things to do near Ball Arena Denver, Best museums near Ball Arena, Fun day trips from Denver, Attractions within 1 mile of Ball Arena, Unique experiences near Ball Arena
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