In Colorado, Tourism and Sports Go Hand in Hand
Some of the best known tourism attractions in Colorado are the state's rugged beauty and winter sports. But it has been estimated that Colorado's professional sports teams draw more visitors to the state than any other tourist activity. Indeed, Colorado tourism offers a wealth of entertainment opportunities for sports fans who visit the state.
Denver Broncos Football
Colorado tourism owes much to the popularity of the Denver Broncos. The Broncos have played NFL football in Denver since 1960. Home games are almost always sold out, but persistent Broncos fans who don't mind paying premium prices can usually locate tickets in the secondary market. Sports enthusiasts can tour Invesco Field and the Broncos locker room near downtown Denver during the off season and while the team is away.
Denver Nuggets Basketball
The Denver Nuggets have played professional basketball in Denver since 1967, when they were known as the Denver Rockets. The Nuggets have played in Pepsi Center since 1999. In Colorado, sports tourism is a way of life, and residents are accustomed to seeing visitors from out of state at Denver Nuggets basketball games and other sporting events.
Colorado Rockies Baseball
Every since 1993, when the Rockies were established as a Major League Baseball expansion team, Colorado Rockies tourism has surged in popularity. The team was named after the Rocky Mountains, and it plays its games in Coors Field in Denver. The stadium and team locker room are available for public tours during the off season and during away games.
Colorado Rapids Soccer
Colorado soccer tourism was born in 1995, when the Colorado Rapids were named as one of Major League Soccer's original ten franchises in the United States. Although the team originally played at Mile-High Stadium, the former home of the Denver Broncos, the Rapids now play at Dicks Sporting Goods Park in Commerce City.
Colorado Mammoth Lacrosse
The Colorado Mammoth Lacrosse team moved to Colorado for its 2003 season, having previously played as the Baltimore Thunder, the Pittsburgh CrosseFire, and the Washington Power. Mammoth fans exemplify the intensity of Colorado tourism, setting league attendance records in 2004 and 2006.
Colorado Avalanche Hockey
The Colorado Avalanche Hockey team, formerly the Nordiques, have played in Denver since 1995. The team has played at the Pepsi Center in Denver since 1999, and their mascot is the Howler.
Colorado's professional sporting events promote Colorado tourism and give Colorado a distinct tourism advantage over other venues.