Your guide to public transportation in Denver

Whether you’re looking for world-class museums and theaters, beautiful public parks or access to some of the best natural attractions in the country, Denver is a great place to visit or call home. And luckily, the city offers a wide range of transportation options to get you where you want to go, so you may not need a car in Denver. Let’s take a look at the ways you can move about within Denver and regionally. 

Does Denver have good public transportation?

Yes! And you can start taking advantage of Denver’s public transportation system as soon as you land at the airport. Even though Denver International Airport (DEN) is 23 miles from the city center, you won’t have to take an expensive taxi or rideshare to get downtown. Here are a few options you can use.

RTD A Line

Price: $10.50

The Regional Transportation District’s (RTD) A Line train connects DEN with the Downtown Denver, RiNo, Park Hill, Central Park, Aurora and Green Valley Ranch neighborhoods. The A Line train cars are thoughtfully designed with extra storage spaces for travelers’ luggage, with designated luggage racks and additional space available above each seat. At the airport, you can access the A Line from the East or West terminal on Level 5. Trains run every 15 minutes for most of the day, and every 30 minutes at off-peak hours in the early morning and at night. 

RTD SkyRide bus

Price: $10.50

The SkyRide bus runs two routes to and from the airport: Route AT/ATA connects DEN with a few stops in Arapahoe County, and Route AB1 runs all the way to neighboring Boulder, CO. Similar to the A Line, the SkyRide buses offer designated spaces for luggage, with storage available above and below each seat, as well as under-coach bins for large, heavy or bulky items. At the airport, you can access the SkyRide buses from the East or West terminal on Level 5. Buses depart every 30-60 minutes, depending on stop, direction and time of day, so be sure to check the schedule and plan accordingly. 

Hotel shuttles

Price: Free

Many local hotels offer complimentary shuttles to take guests to and from the airport. The DEN airport shares a list of hotels that provide shuttle services, but if you don’t see your hotel included, you can try calling to confirm what transportation, if any, they offer. Hotel shuttle pick-up is located in Jeppesen Terminal 5, Island 3, by door 506 on the west side and door 511 on the east side. If you’re planning to use Avail car sharing in Denver, you can take the shuttle to your hotel and then choose a convenient car pick-up location near your hotel. 

Getting around Denver

Whether you’re only going a few blocks or are heading out into the mountains, you’ll find a variety of Denver public transportation options to reach your destination. 

Regional Transportation District (RTD)

Price: $3 for local fares, $5.25 for regional fares, free for riders age 19 and younger

The RTD doesn’t just run to and from the airport. It also operates a vast network of bus and rail services throughout Denver’s many neighborhoods and connects the city to surrounding towns, including Boulder, Aurora, Westminster and more, giving riders easy access to many of the metro area’s top destinations. Visit the RTD website to easily find routes, look up schedules and plan your trip.

Bustang

Price: Varies based on route

The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) offers bus service around the state through its Bustang program. Take the West Line from Denver Union Station or Federal Center to access mountain towns, including Frisco, Vail, Avon and Eagle. In the winter, the Snowstang routes service additional ski destinations, like Steamboat Springs and Breckenridge. All of the buses offer convenient luggage and equipment storage, as well as Wi-Fi and power outlets for a pleasant ride. 

Winter Park Express Ski Train

Price: $34

Hitting the slopes at the popular Winter Park Resort this winter? During ski season, the Winter Park Express ski train offers direct rail service from Denver Union Station to the resort. Operated in partnership with Amtrak, this unique ride takes about two hours and offers stunning views as it climbs into the mountains. To book a ticket, head to Amtrak’s website, enter DEN-WPR as your route and follow the prompts. There is no additional charge to bring your own ski or snowboarding equipment.

Scooters and ebikes

Price:
Lyft – $1 to unlock + $.37/min for scooters and $.39/min for ebikes
Lime – $1 to unlock + $.15/min for scooters and $.30/min for ebikes

Want to enjoy Denver’s 300 days of sunshine while getting around? Scooters and ebikes are great options. Launched in May 2021, Denver’s shared micromobility program offers scooter and ebike rentals throughout the city in partnership with Lyft and Lime. Simply download their mobile apps, find and unlock a bike or scooter and get on your way. At the end of the trip, park it following the company’s protocols and end the ride in the app. Be sure to read up on the safety requirements – including following traffic laws and wearing a helmet – before you hit the pavement. 

Pedicabs

Price: Varies based on distance 

If you want to enjoy the fresh air and let someone else do the work, pedicabs are a fun way to get around downtown Denver. These bike taxis are especially popular for getting to and from Broncos, Rockies, Nuggets and Avalanche games, as well as other large events. If you see a pedicab, ask a driver if they are available to take you where you want to go. At the end of the ride, tips are appreciated in addition to the fare.

Car sharing in Denver

Denver offers plentiful public transportation options, but if you prefer the comfort, convenience and freedom of having your own car, Avail car sharing is the way to go. We’re a peer-to-peer car sharing company, meaning our vehicles are owned and shared by Denver locals, and are available for pick-up at convenient neighborhood locations across the city. Allstate insurance is available for every trip, along with 24/7 roadside assistance. Get in the driver’s seat and learn more about borrowing a car from Avail in Denver.

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