Our first Bucks game

Last week, Chad and I crossed another big ticket item off our Milwaukee bucket list: we went to a Bucks game!

The Milwaukee Bucks are the city’s professional basketball team and they play at the Fiserv Forum stadium in Milwaukee’s Deer District. Conveniently for us, we live less than a mile away—Chad often walks by the Fiser Forum on his way to and from work.

We had a fantastic time at the game, especially special since they were playing the Denver Nuggets.

The game

To summarize our experience at the Bucks game (or, as Chad called it, the Nuggets game, lol), it was a lot of fun!

Without realizing beforehand, the game was also Pride Night for the Bucks. This was such a fun surprise: all of the entertainment was LGBTQ+, from DJs to half-time vogue-performing drag queens, we got free pride-themed hats, and there were interviews throughout the game with employees and community members who create and facilitate safe spaces. It was really neat to see a sports team lean all-in to pride outside of June.

Concession-wise, Chad and I enjoyed the special drink of the night (pineapple margaritas) and ordered a couple hot dogs. We also found some Auntie Anne’s for dessert. We noted for next time to maybe stick with snacks and drinks, and save food for the nearby Deer District for more variety and affordable options.

When it came to the game itself, it was a bit of a mess, though still fun to watch. Four of the five Nuggets starters were out (including MVP contender Nikola Jokić, aka “Joker,” who we were really looking forward to watching), which was a bummer. It was still a close game, but it felt as though the Bucks played down to that level—countless fast breaks, wild passes, and a couple back-court violations. It was exciting and fast-paced, but not what you’d expect from two great teams.

However, it was a treat to see the Bucks and especially fun to watch Giannis Antetokounmpo. He’s truly a Milwaukee hero, and after watching his movie Rise on Disney+, I couldn’t help but fangirl just a little bit; he and his story are so unbelievably impressive.

We had a great time! I’d love to look into what season tickets look like; normally we’d be half-way into our season ski passes, so it feels like this could be an equivalent winter investment. How cool would it be to be regular Bucks fans?! I’ll keep you posted.

What to know

If you’re heading to a Bucks game, here are a few things to know before you go.

Parking

There are paid parking lots close to the stadium. Unless you’re able to Uber from your home or accommodations easily, this is the route to go, though it is expensive. It’s wise to go with a covered, secure lot.

Check out directions and parking information here.

Deer District

One of the coolest parts of going to a Bucks game is the Deer District itself: the stadium is surrounded by businesses that cater to a fun night out, and spills into MLK—a street with lots to do, see, drink, and eat.

There are thematic bars like Uncle Bucks or Who’s On Third, several delicious restaurants, and a plaza area with sports bars that are perfect for pre and post-game drinks. The Mecca is one of my favorites, thanks to its giant screen and location right across from the stadium.

More information about the Deer District is available on their site.

Stadium

Like with any major event, there’s security requirements for entering into the Fiserv Forum stadium. They have a “no bag” policy in place (though wallets smaller than 4” x 6” x 1” are allowed, and exceptions to the policy are diaper bags and medical bags). There’s also the usual rules, like no weapons of any kind. More specific FAQs are available here.

After entering the doors, you’ll go through a security check where you empty your pockets and walk through a scanner.

The stadium is a fun and bustling place with several drink and food options, from local restaurants to national chains. There’s a lot of mobile and online ordering/pick up options, which is really convenient. Be on the lookout for drink specials of the night—Chad and I got the featured pineapple margaritas and they were delicious!

If you’re interested in going to a Bucks game or other Fiserv Forum event, their calendar is updated regularly. It’s 10000% worth a visit if you can swing it.

Go Bucks!