Mile High Stadium

Introduction

Empower Field at Mile High—commonly known as Mile High Stadium—is one of Denver’s most iconic landmarks. As the home of the Denver Broncos and a premier event venue, it stands as both a testament to Colorado’s sporting heritage and a vibrant hub for cultural, musical, and community gatherings. This comprehensive guide provides essential information on visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, parking, stadium features, and nearby attractions to help you plan the perfect visit to one of the NFL’s most celebrated stadiums.

For the most current details, always check the official Empower Field at Mile High website.

Historical Evolution of Mile High Stadium

Early Beginnings: Bears Stadium (1948–1960)

Mile High Stadium’s origins trace back to 1948, when it was built as Bears Stadium for the Denver Bears minor league baseball team. The stadium’s initial 17,000-seat capacity grew quickly due to Denver’s booming sports culture. The site’s unique elevation—over 5,280 feet above sea level—became a defining characteristic and would later inspire the stadium’s enduring nickname (Denver Developer).

Football and the Denver Broncos Era (1960–1970s)

With the arrival of the Denver Broncos in 1960, the stadium was rebranded as Mile High Stadium. Its expansion to over 76,000 seats reflected football’s surging popularity. The altitude advantage quickly became legendary, fostering the “12th Man” tradition and giving the Broncos a formidable home-field edge (Wikipedia, Fior Reports).

Modernization (1990s–2001) and the Birth of Empower Field

By the late 1990s, plans for a modern replacement were underway. Empower Field at Mile High opened in 2001, offering state-of-the-art amenities, sustainability features, and a design that honors the stadium’s storied past (Denver Developer).

Present Day

Today, Empower Field at Mile High continues to host NFL games, large-scale concerts, community events, and international sporting matches. Locals still affectionately call it “Mile High,” regardless of official naming rights (Wikipedia).

Architectural Highlights and Innovations

Empower Field at Mile High blends Denver’s industrial heritage with modern design. The stadium features:

• Steel and glass façade with sweeping curves inspired by the Rocky Mountains (Mile High Station).
• Three-tiered seating bowl for optimal sightlines and capacity exceeding 76,000 (Sporting News).
• Energy-efficient technology, including advanced lighting and renewable power sources (Fior Reports).
• Panoramic views of downtown Denver and the Rocky Mountains.
• Modern concessions and retail spaces, including the renovated Broncos Team Store (Denver Broncos).

Practical Visitor Information

Visiting Hours

• Game Days: Gates open 2–3 hours before kickoff.
• Guided Tours: Operated by the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame, tours are available Thursday–Saturday (September–May) and Tuesday–Saturday (June–August), running from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. (Colorado Sports Hall of Fame).
• Concerts/Special Events: Hours vary; check event-specific details.

Always verify current schedules on the official events calendar.

Tickets & Purchasing Options

• Official Tickets: Purchase via the Denver Broncos ticket portal or Empower Field events page.
• Tours: Book through the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame.
• Pricing: Varies by event and seat; early purchase is advised for popular games and concerts.

Getting There & Parking

• Location: 1701 Mile High Stadium Circle, Denver, CO 80204-1771 (The Tourist Checklist).
• Public Transit: RTD Light Rail stops at Empower Field at Mile High and Decatur-Federal Stations; multiple bus lines serve the area.
• Rideshare: Dedicated pick-up zones are south of the stadium across Colfax Avenue.
• Parking: On-site lots open 4.5 hours before events. Pre-purchase parking for the best spots (Stadium Help). Tailgating is allowed in designated areas; adhere to the clear bag policy (Empower Field Policies).

Accessibility

• Seating: Fully ADA-compliant with accessible seating and companion seats.
• Parking: Designated ADA spaces and complimentary golf cart shuttles.
• Restrooms: Family and accessible restrooms throughout.
• Assistive Listening Devices: Available at Guest Relations.
• Service Animals: Permitted.
• Tours: Wheelchair and stroller accessible; bring your own mobility device (Colorado Sports Hall of Fame).

Stadium Amenities & Policies

• Cashless Transactions: Only cards and mobile payments accepted (Empower Field).
• Food & Beverage: Wide selection of local and national cuisine; outside food allowed in clear bags, factory-sealed non-alcoholic beverages permitted.
• Premium Hospitality: Suites, club seating, and exclusive lounges.
• Retail: Expanded Broncos Team Store.
• Guest Services: Dedicated assistance desks and wayfinding.
• Smoking: Designated outdoor areas only; marijuana prohibited.
• Clear Bag Policy: One clear bag (max 12” x 6” x 12”) or one-gallon clear freezer bag per guest.

Guided Tours & Photo Spots

• Tours: Go behind the scenes to locker rooms, press boxes, and field access.
• Photo Opportunities: Capture the Bucky the Bronco statue, mountain and skyline vistas, and commemorative markers.

Local Attractions & Events

Major Sporting Events

Empower Field at Mile High hosts Denver Broncos games, international soccer, rugby, and more. The stadium’s capacity and modern features position it as a candidate for major events like Super Bowls and NCAA championships (News Station 2).

Concerts & Festivals

A top Denver venue for concerts, festivals, and annual events such as the Global Dance Festival. The 2025 season features high-profile acts like Metallica (Westword).

Nearby Historical & Cultural Sites

• Mile High Station: Historic event venue next door (Mile High Station).
• Union Station: Denver’s iconic transit hub.
• LoDo Historic District: Dining and nightlife.
• Museums: Molly Brown House, Colorado State Capitol.
• Family Fun: Denver Zoo, Botanic Gardens, and Downtown Aquarium (Station Denver).

Citywide Events

• PrideFest: Jun 28–29, 2025 (Station Denver).
• Chalk Art Festival: Jun 7–8, 2025.
• Cherry Creek Arts Festival: Jul 4–6, 2025.
• Colorado Black Arts Festival: Jul 11–13, 2025.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How do I purchase tickets?
A: Via the official Empower Field tickets page or authorized vendors.

Q: What are the visiting hours?
A: Vary by event. Tours generally run 10 a.m.–2 p.m. on scheduled days. Gates open 90 minutes–2 hours before events.

Q: Is there ADA parking and seating?
A: Yes, with designated spaces, shuttle service, and accessible seating throughout (Accessibility overview).

Q: Are tours accessible for wheelchairs?
A: Yes, including elevator access; bring your own mobility device.

Q: What is the clear bag policy?
A: One clear bag up to 12” x 6” x 12” or a one-gallon freezer bag per person.

Q: Is the stadium cashless?
A: Yes, only cards and mobile payments are accepted.

Summary and Stay Connected

Empower Field at Mile High is more than a stadium—it’s a living symbol of Denver’s resilience and community spirit. From its 1948 origins to its present as a state-of-the-art venue, the stadium welcomes all with accessibility, advanced amenities, and a packed calendar of sports and cultural events. For the best experience, buy tickets in advance, review stadium policies, and consider public transit.

Stay up to date with the official Empower Field website, and enhance your visit with the Audiala app, which includes real-time updates and interactive features. Make your Mile High adventure a memorable part of your Denver journey.