The AT&T MLS All-Star Game is taking over Denver in the last week of July. For those who are planning on making the roadtrip to the Mile High City to see their favorite MLS All-Stars -- or even Tottenham Hotspur -- here's everything you need to know about the city.
SOCCER CULTURE
Fans around the country only need to look back to March 22, 2013 to get an idea of what soccer means to Coloradans. On that night, nearly 20,000 fans stood through a blizzard to cheer on the US men's national team as they defeated Costa Rica, 1-0, in a World Cup Qualifier at Dick's Sporting Goods Park. In other words, Denver has a growing and passionate base that loves the sport – led by a young, active population that's forced local drinking establishments to recognize their influence. At the very least, the number of casual fans of every age that consume the sport on a daily basis through TV, the internet, and of course video games, is on par with the national trend.
WHERE TO PLAY
Denver boasts some 200 parks within its limits and downtown's Skyline Park will be the hub of all the All-Star activity. But arguably the most popular – and a for-sure spot to find pick-up games – is Washington Park, the large urban green space on the southern part of the city. On any given weekday evening – or pretty much anytime on weekends – you'll find different-sized soccer games where bags are often used as goals. Other spots closer to downtown where games can also be found include: City Park, Cheesman Park and Sloan's Lake. And if you're in the city, bring a ball to Confluence Park, and chances are others may join you.
LOCAL CUISINE
- Breakfast / Brunch:Snooze AM Eatery is a hugely popular joint among locals and tourists, with waits on most mornings at either of the Lodo locations. Have a Bloody Mary or a complimentary coffee as you anticipate the fantastic specialty pancakes or any of the savory dishes.
- Lunch / Dinner:Buenos Aires Pizzeria offers empanadas, pizza, milanesas and other Argentinian specialties in a casual setting in the Ballpark Neighborhood. The owner is a big fan of soccer and the decor includes pennants from teams from his native country, of which Boca Juniors is king.
- Grub / Late: My Brothers Bar is a Denver institution. The oldest bar in the city doesn't even have a name above its entrance, so it's still kind of a hidden gem visited mostly by locals (it's on the corner of Platte and 15th). It offers a laid-back atmosphere, no TVs, good beer list and fantastic burgers and pub fare served until 1-2 am.
- Honorable mention: Osteria Marco (Lodo), D'Corazon, Sweet Action Ice Cream
SOCCER BARS
- The British Bulldog: This Broadway and Stout spot has established itself as the soccer bar in the city. It's a smaller place that always has a game on, serves beer and English-style breakfasts and welcomes fans of the beautiful game with open arms.
- The Three Lions, a World Football Pub: It's the larger and more modern version of the Bulldog. Located on Colfax east of downtown, the pub also fills up for big soccer events. Grab a pint and don't worry about having to request for a soccer game on TV – it'll be on.
- The Celtic Tavern: This spot on Blake Street doesn't show every soccer game, but they've been supporters of soccer for years and often host supporter or team events.
- Honorable mention: Fado's Irish Pub, The Armoury
WHERE TO VISIT
- Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater: Arguably the best music venue in the country, featuring the biggest acts in a natural amphitheater built in the foothills of the Front Range. You can also challenge yourself at 6,000 feet by running the steps or taking yoga class on the weekends. The park is open and free to enter when there isn't a show going on.
- The Rocky Mountains: Take in the beauty of Colorado and do as the locals – spend time outside. Pending the season, head to the mountains to go skiing/snowboarding/snowshoeing/snowmobiling or hiking/rafting/camping/jogging/biking and countless other activities. Or simply take a drive into the mountains for the breathtaking views and small towns.
- First Friday Art Walks: If you happen to be in town on the first Friday of a month, check out one of the number of neighborhood art districts for an evening of creativity, food, music, people watching, and of course, drinks. It's a fun way to start your weekend as most art walks run from around 6-9 pm, with dozens of galleries, studios, specialty shops and food trucks open for enjoyment/browsing/shopping. The biggest one is on Santa Fe, but warning, it gets crowded!
- Honorable mention: Any microbrewery, any farmers market, Boulder
RAPIDS MATCHDAY
While the AT&T MLS All-Star Game experience will surely be different, with Soccer Celebration at Dick's Sporting Goods Park kicking off at 3pm local time, Rapids supporters attending matches at Dick's Sporting Goods Park still enjoy the old-school way to prepare for a game – by bringing their own coolers, grills and grub and tailgating on the lots outside the stadium, where parking is free.
The team's supporters group is passionate about the Rapids, but in a very inclusive way. Created when three separate groups joined to become one, Centennial 38 includes the rowdies that like to stand and sing all game behind a goal and fans that prefer better sight lines and make noise from the west side of the stands. Additionally, the group always encourages and welcomes visiting fans to join in for pre- and post-game fun.
