I was going to ask the same thing, about gathering before the games. There are a ton of restaurants/bars around the arena. Carabba's is a popular one. I am in the Springs, so if anyone needs anything, ride, place to stay, directions, etc. just hollor. You can email me at sdverville@aol.com.
I think we definitly need to set something up before one of the games though. We have a 5th wheel camper and thought about pulling it into the WA parking lot for a little tail-gating, but something tells me that wouldn't fly. Hmmm, Tinsletown is just across the parking lot, I wonder if they allow such things? I just found out a couple of weeks ago that there is no alcohol served at these things, so we'll have to make due before/after the game. Any other people who know the area have any suggestions?