Dick's Sporting Goods Park: A Comprehensive Guide to the Home of the Colorado Rapids

Introduction

Dick's Sporting Goods Park is a world-class soccer stadium located in Commerce City, Colorado. It is the home field for the Colorado Rapids of Major League Soccer (MLS) and has hosted numerous international matches, concerts, and other events. This comprehensive guide provides an in-depth overview of Dick's Sporting Goods Park, its history, design, amenities, and notable events.

History of Dick's Sporting Goods Park

The stadium was originally conceived in the late 1990s as part of a plan to bring an MLS team to Denver. Construction began in 2005, and the stadium opened in May 2007 as Invesco Field at Mile High. In 2010, it was renamed Dick's Sporting Goods Park after the sporting goods retailer acquired the naming rights.

Design and Amenities

Dick's Sporting Goods Park is designed as a soccer-specific stadium, with a capacity of 18,061 seats. It features a natural grass playing surface, a retractable roof that provides shade and protection from the elements, and a state-of-the-art video board.

The stadium also includes a variety of amenities for fans, including:

• Club Level Seating: Premium seating with access to exclusive lounges and amenities
• Pitchside Seats: Seats located on the sidelines, offering an immersive viewing experience
• Concessions and Dining: Multiple concession stands and restaurants offering a wide selection of food and beverages
• Merchandise: Official Rapids merchandise and memorabilia available for purchase
• Group Events and Hospitality: Private suites and group areas for special events

Notable Events

Dick's Sporting Goods Park has hosted a variety of major events, including:

• MLS Cup: The championship game of MLS in 2010 and 2015
• US Open Cup Finals: The championship game of the US Open Cup in 2009 and 2016
• International Friendly Matches: Matches featuring teams from around the world, including England, Mexico, and Brazil
• Concerts: Performances by artists such as Bruce Springsteen, Taylor Swift, and U2

Transportation and Access

Dick's Sporting Goods Park is located adjacent to Interstate 70 and is easily accessible by car. However, it is also accessible by public transportation via the RTD Light Rail system.

RTD Light Rail: Take the A Line or B Line to the Dick's Sporting Goods Park/Cabela's Station. The stadium is a short walk from the station.

Parking: Ample parking is available at the stadium. Paid parking is available in the main parking lots, while free parking is available in the overflow lots.

Parking Costs

Ticket Information

Tickets for Colorado Rapids matches and other events at Dick's Sporting Goods Park are available through the stadium's official website or through Ticketmaster. Ticket prices vary depending on the event and seat location.

Ticket Prices

Stories and Lessons Learned

Dick's Sporting Goods Park has played a significant role in the history of the Colorado Rapids and has hosted countless memorable moments. Here are a few stories and lessons learned from the stadium:

Story 1: The "Miracle at Mile High"

In 2010, the Rapids faced FC Dallas in the MLS Cup at Dick's Sporting Goods Park. With the match tied 1-1 in the dying minutes of extra time, defender Chris Klute scored a stunning goal to give the Rapids their first MLS Cup title. The goal became known as the "Miracle at Mile High" and cemented the stadium's place in Rapids history.

Lesson: Never give up, no matter how desperate the situation may seem.

Story 2: A Stormy Night in Commerce City

In 2013, the Rapids hosted the US Open Cup Final against the Portland Timbers. However, the match was delayed by a severe storm that caused lightning strikes and torrential rain. The game was eventually played in front of a nearly empty stadium, but the Rapids emerged victorious with a 3-1 win.

Lesson: Be prepared for the unexpected, even at a sporting event.

Story 3: A New Era for the Rapids

In 2022, the Colorado Rapids announced plans for a new stadium in Denver, which is scheduled to open in 2026. While Dick's Sporting Goods Park will remain the home of the Rapids for the time being, the new stadium represents a new chapter in the club's history.

Lesson: Change is inevitable, and it is important to embrace it with optimism and excitement.

Effective Strategies for Attending a Game at Dick's Sporting Goods Park

• Plan Ahead: Purchase tickets in advance, especially for high-profile matches.
• Arrive Early: Allow ample time for parking, security checks, and finding your seats.
• Dress Appropriately: The stadium is typically outdoors, so dress in layers to accommodate changing weather conditions.
• Stay Hydrated: Concessions are available throughout the stadium, but it is important to stay hydrated, especially in hot weather.
• Be Respectful: Cheer for your team, but be respectful of opposing fans and stadium staff.
• Have Fun: Most importantly, enjoy the atmosphere and experience at Dick's Sporting Goods Park.

Pros and Cons of Dick's Sporting Goods Park

Pros:

• World-class facilities: Dick's Sporting Goods Park is a modern and well-maintained stadium with excellent amenities.
• Comfortable seating: The seats are comfortable and provide a good view of the pitch.
• Retractable roof: The retractable roof provides shade and protection from the elements, making it a comfortable venue for fans.

Cons:

• Location: The stadium is located in a remote area of Commerce City, which may be inconvenient for some fans.
• Parking costs: Parking at the stadium can be expensive, especially for main parking lots.
• Limited food options: The concession stands offer a limited selection of food options, which may not appeal to all fans.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the capacity of Dick's Sporting Goods Park?
Answer: 18,061 seats

2. How do I get to Dick's Sporting Goods Park by public transportation?
Answer: Take the RTD Light Rail A Line or B Line to the Dick's Sporting Goods Park/Cabela's Station.

3. Are outside food and beverages allowed into the stadium?
Answer: No, outside food and beverages are not allowed.

4. Is there a dress code for attending a game at Dick's Sporting Goods Park?
Answer: No, there is no dress code.

5. Can I bring a camera into the stadium?
Answer: Yes, cameras are allowed, but professional photography equipment is not.

6. What is the best way to purchase tickets for a Colorado Rapids match?
Answer: Tickets can be purchased through the stadium's official website or through Ticketmaster.

Conclusion

Dick's Sporting Goods Park is a state-of-the-art soccer stadium that has played a significant role in the history of the Colorado Rapids. With its world-class facilities, comfortable seating, and retractable roof, it is a popular destination for fans and event attendees alike. Whether you are attending a Rapids match, an international friendly, or a concert, Dick's Sporting Goods Park is sure to provide a memorable experience.