What you'll find at Dick's Sporting Goods Park

Dick's Sporting Goods Park in Commerce City, Colorado is the home stadium of the Colorado Rapids, the Major League Soccer team that plays in the Western Conference. The stadium opened in 2007 and holds approximately 18,000 people. It sits about 20 miles northeast of downtown Denver, near the South Platte River in an industrial area of the metro region.

The facility was built specifically for soccer, which means the field layout and sightlines are designed around the sport rather than adapted from another use. The stadium has club seating areas, a standing-room section, and general admission bleachers. Weather can be a factor — Commerce City sits at 5,280 feet elevation, and afternoon games in spring and fall can be windy.

The park is named after Dick's Sporting Goods, the national sporting goods retailer that purchased the naming rights. Before that, it was known as Dicks Sporting Goods Park and, originally, as Invesco Field at Mile High's soccer-specific replacement when the Rapids moved from their previous home.

Key Takeaways

  • Dick's Sporting Goods Park holds about 18,000 people and was built specifically for soccer, so sightlines are good from most seats.
  • The stadium is 20 miles northeast of downtown Denver and accessible by car via Interstate 270 or by RTD light rail from the 40th and Colorado station.
  • Parking costs $10 to $20 per vehicle, and ticket prices range from around $25 for upper deck seats to $150 or more for lower bowl seats, depending on the opponent and day.
  • Outside food and beverages are not permitted, but you can bring a clear bag with personal items like sunscreen and a phone.
  • Gates open 90 minutes before kickoff, and the stadium has accessible parking, wheelchair seating, and accessible restrooms.

Getting to the stadium and parking

The stadium is accessible by car from Interstate 270, which connects to Interstate 25 near downtown Denver. If you're driving, parking is available in lots surrounding the facility. The cost varies by event but typically ranges from $10 to $20 per vehicle. Lot attendants direct traffic on game days, and the lots fill during popular matches.

Public transit is an option through the Regional Transportation District (RTD). The closest light rail station is the 40th and Colorado station on the A Line, which is about a mile from the stadium. From there, you can walk or catch a shuttle service that runs on game days. The RTD website shows current routes and schedules.

If you're flying in, Denver International Airport is about 40 miles away. Rental cars, rideshare services, and airport shuttles can get you to the stadium. The drive takes roughly 45 minutes to an hour depending on traffic and time of day.

Seating sections and what to expect

The stadium is divided into sections numbered around the field. Lower bowl seats are closer to the action and tend to be pricier. Upper deck seats offer a wider view of the entire field but are farther from the pitch. Club seats come with amenities like private restrooms and food service, and they cost more than general admission.

Standing room only sections exist in certain areas and are the least expensive option. These spots have no assigned seat — you stand throughout the match. The supporters' section, where the most vocal fans gather, is typically in one corner of the stadium and creates a high-energy atmosphere.

Sightlines are generally good throughout the stadium because it was built for soccer. Even upper deck seats have an unobstructed view of the field. Wind can affect how the ball moves during play, and afternoon sun can be intense, so consider bringing sunscreen and a hat for daytime matches.

Amenities and food options

The stadium has concession stands throughout the facility selling typical sports venue food: hot dogs, nachos, pizza, hamburgers, and sandwiches. Prices are higher than outside the stadium — expect to pay $12 to $18 for a meal item. Beverage options include beer, soft drinks, water, and coffee.

Restroom facilities are distributed around the stadium. Lines can be long during halftime, so plan accordingly. The stadium has family restrooms and accessible facilities for people with disabilities.

You can bring a clear bag into the stadium, which is useful for carrying sunscreen, a phone, and a wallet. Outside food and beverages are not permitted. The stadium does not allow glass containers, weapons, or illegal substances.

Ticket information and how to purchase

Tickets are sold through the Colorado Rapids official website and through Ticketmaster. Single-game tickets go on sale at different times depending on the match — regular season games typically become available weeks in advance, while playoff games may sell faster. Season ticket holders get first access, followed by the general public.

Prices vary widely based on the opponent, day of the week, and seat location. A match against a rival team on a weekend will cost more than a weekday game against a less popular opponent. Upper deck general admission seats might start around $25 to $40, while lower bowl seats can range from $50 to $150 or more.

The Rapids play their home schedule from March through October, with matches typically on weekends. The MLS regular season runs 34 games, and the Rapids may host additional playoff matches if they advance. Check the official schedule on the Rapids website to see upcoming home games.

Accessibility and accommodations

Dick's Sporting Goods Park has accessible parking, wheelchair seating areas, and accessible restrooms. The stadium has elevators and ramps to help people navigate different levels. Service animals are permitted.

If you need accommodations, contact the Colorado Rapids directly through their website or by phone to discuss your specific needs. They can help arrange accessible seating, companion seating, and parking. Some accommodations may need to be requested in advance.

What to know before you go

Arrive early on game day — parking lots and entry gates can get crowded, especially for popular matches. The stadium typically opens gates 90 minutes before kickoff. Security screening is required at entry, so allow extra time for that process.

Weather in Commerce City can change quickly. Even if the forecast looks clear, bring a light jacket for evening matches, as temperatures drop after sunset. Summer afternoon games can be very hot and sunny, so sunscreen and a hat are practical.

The elevation of 5,280 feet is higher than most U.S. cities. If you're coming from a lower elevation, you may notice the thinner air affects your energy level. Stay hydrated throughout the match.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring my own food and drinks into the stadium?

No, outside food and beverages are not permitted inside Dick's Sporting Goods Park. You can bring a clear bag with personal items like sunscreen and a phone, but food and drinks must be purchased at the stadium's concession stands.

What is the closest public transit option?

The 40th and Colorado light rail station on the RTD A Line is the nearest public transit stop, about a mile from the stadium. Game day shuttles run from the station to the park. Check the RTD website for current schedules and routes.

How early should I arrive for a match?

Gates typically open 90 minutes before kickoff. Arriving 60 to 90 minutes early gives you time to park, go through security screening, and find your seat without rushing. Popular matches may have longer entry lines.

Are there discounts for season ticket holders or groups?

The Colorado Rapids offer season ticket packages and group discounts. Contact the Rapids directly through their website or ticket office to learn about current pricing and package options for groups of 10 or more.

What happens if a match is rained out or postponed?

MLS matches are rarely postponed due to weather because soccer is played in most conditions. If a match is postponed, the Rapids will announce it through their official channels and provide information about rescheduling or ticket exchanges.