Even though we’re tempted to greet this week’s visit of the Bronx Bombers with a Bronx cheer, we do hope their arrival will be a shot in the cash register for bars, restaurants and retailers in Lower Downtown and beyond.
In 2002, the last time the fabled New York Yankees were in town to play the Colorado Rockies, they drew some of the largest crowds in franchise history to Coors Field, just short of 49,000 per game. The Rockies’ average announced attendance this season has been closer to 25,000. LoDo establishments have experienced a drop in business relative to the Rockies’ drop in attendance and could use a boost right about now.
Given the large number of visitors flocking to the game from outside the metro area and beyond Colorado, and judging from the number of Yankees caps seen on the 16th Street Mall on Tuesday, we’re guessing the series could have a ripple effect lasting well into the weekend.
Colorado tourism set a record last year, and Denver is experiencing a healthy growth in visitors as well. In particular, the 23 blocks of historic Denver known as Lower Downtown has become a big draw for tourists, with all the hip restaurants, bars and stores.
For the moment, Denver is bursting with excitement over one of baseball’s most storied and exciting teams coming to town.
Enjoy. We can hardly think of a better way to officially kick off summer.
