Colorado Convention Center
A vast, modern convention center in Denver, known for its iconic Blue Bear sculpture and hosting diverse events from fan expos to art festivals.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier navigation
Colorado Convention Center
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier navigation
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vast, modern convention center in Denver, known for its iconic Blue Bear sculpture and hosting diverse events from fan expos to art festivals.
"It's a solid place to host a large conference and create a sense of community."
🎯 Use Public Transit
The light rail is the easiest way to get here and avoids parking stress. :train:
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable footwear is essential! :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Blue Bear Sculpture
Southwest corner, facing 14th Street
An iconic, 40-foot-tall public art installation that's a must-see photo op. It's a playful landmark!
Bellco Theatre
Inside the Convention Center
A state-of-the-art performance venue hosting a variety of shows and events. Check its schedule for unique entertainment.
Public Art Installations
Throughout the venue
Beyond the Blue Bear, discover diverse and impressive art pieces scattered across the convention center.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Colorado Convention Center
Event-Specific Planning
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Use Public Transit
The light rail is the easiest way to get here and avoids parking stress. :train:
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable footwear is essential! +1 :athletic_shoe:
🗺️ Get a Floor Plan
The venue is huge and can be easy to get lost in. Grab a map or use an app if available.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring a water bottle or be prepared to buy drinks, especially during long events.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Use Public Transit
The light rail is the easiest way to get here and avoids parking stress. :train:
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable footwear is essential! +1 :athletic_shoe:
🗺️ Get a Floor Plan
The venue is huge and can be easy to get lost in. Grab a map or use an app if available.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring a water bottle or be prepared to buy drinks, especially during long events.
📱 Check Event Schedules
Know the specific hours and activities for the event you're attending.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally find the Colorado Convention Center to be a well-organized and impressive venue, capable of handling large crowds smoothly. While the architecture and public art, especially the Blue Bear, are highlights, some attendees note limitations in onsite food options and seating. Overall, it's considered a solid space for hosting diverse events.
"What can I say?
It’s a great conference center.
I came here for the Psychedelic Science 2025 conference, and the space handled a huge crowd without feeling too cramped or chaotic.
The layout is easy to navigate, with plenty of room for talks, exhibits, and all the side conversations that make these events special.
Parking isn’t perfect.. like most big venues - but it’s decent and gets the job done. Once you’re inside, everything is clean, organized, and set up to bring people together.
Overall, it’s a solid place to host a large conference and create a sense of community.
Five stars from me."
Dr. Dilanka
"Every experience is different depending on the event. I've been here a couple times for the Denver Fan Expo and had a great time each time. Crowded but tolerable. The staff were helpful with information on where to go and help find things. They kept the bathrooms decently clean. Overall chill experience!"
Amber Manalabe
"I attended a conference at the center. The building is impressive in size and design. However, it lacks simple amenities to make it a welcoming space. There was not enough seating in the common areas outside of the conference rooms. Food options within the area were also inadequate. The concessions available ran out of food on a daily basis. Initially, there were not enough staff to provide information. However, that improved in the latter days of the conference. For such an impressive venue, more efforts could be made to make the space more welcoming."
Clement Lambert
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most recommended way to reach the Colorado Convention Center is by using public transportation, specifically the light rail. The D Line stops at the Theater District, which is conveniently located right at the convention center. Alternatively, parking garages are nearby, and metered street parking is available.
Yes, parking garages are located near the Colorado Convention Center. Metered street parking is also an option. For those looking to avoid parking hassles, consider parking at a light rail station like I-25 / Broadway Station and taking the D line directly to the Theater District stop.
Yes, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are a convenient option for getting to and from the Colorado Convention Center. Designated drop-off and pick-up zones are typically available.
Absolutely! The Colorado Convention Center is well-served by public transportation. The light rail's D Line stops at the Theater District, making it very accessible.
The Colorado Convention Center is located at 700 14th St, Denver, CO 80202.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the Colorado Convention Center itself is generally free, but specific events hosted within the venue, such as conventions, expos, or performances at the Bellco Theatre, will require tickets. Always check the event organizer's website for ticketing information.
Tickets for events are sold directly by the event organizers. For example, the Denver Tattoo Arts Festival directs visitors to villainarts.com for ticket purchases.
Operating hours vary greatly depending on the event. For instance, the Denver Tattoo Arts Festival has specific weekend hours: Friday 2 PM – 11 PM, Saturday 11 AM – 11 PM, and Sunday 11 AM – 8 PM.
Discounts can vary by event. Some conventions might offer early bird pricing or group rates. It's advisable to check the event's official website or social media pages for any available promotions.
For many events, walk-up tickets are available, but it's not guaranteed, especially for popular conventions or performances. For example, the Denver Tattoo Arts Festival welcomes walk-ups.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Colorado Convention Center hosts a wide array of events, including large conferences like Psychedelic Science 2025, fan expos such as Fan Expo Denver, tattoo conventions like the Denver Tattoo Arts Festival, and unique gatherings like the Oddities & Curiosities Expo.
While the venue is large and impressive, some visitors find it easy to get lost due to its many hallways and the placement of escalators. Familiarizing yourself with a floor plan beforehand can be helpful.
Yes, the Colorado Convention Center generally has plenty of restrooms that are kept clean. However, some attendees have noted a lack of seating in common areas outside of conference rooms.
Wi-Fi availability can vary depending on the event and whether it's provided by the organizer or the convention center. It's best to check with the event details or inquire upon arrival.
The Colorado Convention Center is designed to be accessible. It typically offers elevators, ramps, and accessible restrooms. Specific needs should be communicated to the event organizer in advance.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Food options within the Colorado Convention Center can be limited and may run out of food during peak times, according to some reviews. Concessions are available, but it's wise to check ahead or consider dining options outside the venue if you have specific dietary needs or preferences.
Policies on bringing outside food and drinks can vary by event. It's best to check the specific rules for the event you are attending. Some events may allow sealed water bottles.
Yes, the Colorado Convention Center is located in downtown Denver, which offers a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars within walking distance. You'll find diverse culinary options to suit any taste.
At conventions, you can often find typical convention fare like snacks, sandwiches, coffee, and sometimes more substantial meals from concessions. However, as noted, these can sell out.
Prices for food and beverages at convention centers can be on the higher side due to venue markups. It's advisable to budget accordingly or explore nearby dining options for potentially more affordable choices.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic photo spot is with the Blue Bear sculpture outside the venue. The rooftop terrace also offers unique perspectives and photo opportunities.
Many attendees also capture photos of the impressive public art installations throughout the building.
Photography policies can vary by event. For most conventions and expos, personal photography is allowed, especially for capturing cosplay or event atmosphere. However, professional photography or recording may require special permission. Always check the event's specific guidelines.
While general photography is usually permitted, flash photography might be restricted during certain performances or presentations to avoid disturbing speakers or performers. Some artists or vendors may also request that their work not be photographed without permission.
The Blue Bear sculpture is accessible at any time. For the best natural light, consider visiting during daylight hours. Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) can also provide beautiful lighting for exterior shots.
The sheer scale and modern architecture of the Colorado Convention Center itself can be a photographic subject. Look for interesting angles in the large halls, atriums, and along the rooftop terrace for unique shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider utilizing the light rail for easier access, which can be an adventure in itself for kids.
💰 Budget Travelers
To save on food costs, pack snacks and a reusable water bottle.
🎨 Art & Culture Enthusiasts
Keep an eye on the convention center's schedule for art-focused events, such as the Oddities & Curiosities Expo, which celebrates unique and unconventional art and vendors.
Attending tattoo conventions also offers a chance to appreciate the artistry of tattoo professionals. +1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of the Colorado Convention Center
Beyond the Blue Bear, the convention center features a diverse collection of other artworks, including murals, sculptures, and interactive installations. These pieces are integrated throughout the building, adding visual interest and enhancing the visitor experience. Attendees often discover new artistic elements during their visit, making the exploration of the venue itself an engaging activity.
When attending an event, take a moment to appreciate the artistic environment. The art contributes to the convention center's unique atmosphere and provides excellent backdrops for memorable photos.
Navigating Conventions and Expos
Reddit users often share practical tips for navigating these large events. One common piece of advice is to utilize public transportation, like the light rail, to avoid parking challenges and traffic.
For those new to conventions, remember that the fun often lies in engaging with the community, discovering new artists and vendors, and immersing yourself in the fandom.
Dining and Amenities
Despite these limitations, the convention center is surrounded by numerous dining options in downtown Denver, offering a wide variety of cuisines and price points. Exploring the nearby streets can provide a more diverse and potentially more satisfying culinary experience.
In terms of other amenities, while restrooms are generally plentiful and clean, some visitors have noted a lack of seating in common areas outside of dedicated conference rooms.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit