Denver is an easy-to-navigate midsize city, situated at the base of the Rocky Mountains. Though Colorado’s capital is mainly car-centric, it features a robust light rail and bus network that simplifies navigation without a vehicle.
Moreover, walking and biking are excellent alternatives, particularly in Denver’s vibrant downtown neighborhoods. However, visitors should be aware that Denver is known as the Mile High City because it’s elevated at 5,280 feet above sea level. Until accustomed to the altitude, one might experience shortness of breath when opting for human-powered transportation. Additionally, scooters and ride-share vehicles are widely available.
Reduce Your Environmental Impact by Taking the Bus or Train
Denver’s public transit system is clean, efficient, and user-friendly, making it easy to reach the city’s major attractions. The Regional Transportation Department (RTD) oversees the metro area’s light and commuter rail routes, along with buses and the complimentary MallRide shuttle on the pedestrian-only 16th Street Mall.
Public transit can take travelers throughout Denver, as well as to neighboring suburbs and cities like Arvada, Boulder, and Golden. For instance, the light rail provides direct access from Denver International Airport to downtown, making it a convenient choice to forgo renting a vehicle.
To navigate bus or light rail routes, you can utilize RTD’s free trip-planning platform. Fares start at $3 for local travels, $5.25 for regional journeys, and $10.50 for airport rides, with multiride tickets and day passes available for those planning extensive travel.
Immerse Yourself in Neighborhoods While Walking
With shaded, tree-lined sidewalks and well-maintained bike paths, numerous neighborhoods in Denver are walkable. Walking is an economical and environmentally-friendly option, allowing travelers to experience the city’s historic buildings and homes, many dating back to the Gold Rush era of the mid-19th century. Another advantage: heading west on foot may provide stunning views of the snowcapped Rocky Mountains in the distance.
Famous for its dining, shopping, and entertainment, the car-free 16th Street Mall is an iconic walking destination in Denver. This mile-long pedestrian promenade, designed by renowned architect IM Pei, also offers horse-drawn carriage rides.
See the Sights via Bike or Scooter
Biking remains a favored and safe mode of transport among Denver locals and visitors. The city boasts over 850 miles of paved trails, in addition to 137 miles of dedicated on-street bike and scooter lanes.
While in Denver, you can easily enjoy short trips on electric bikes and scooters through the city’s shared micromobility program, facilitated by Lyft and Lime. For longer excursions, consider renting a bike from various local bike shops.
Explore the Suburbs and Mountains by Car
As a largely car-centric city, Denver’s landscape includes sprawling suburbs surrounding the downtown area. Renting a car facilitates exploration of neighboring locales such as Lakewood, Aurora, Littleton, Centennial, and Highlands Ranch.
Additionally, driving to the Rocky Mountains west of Denver is highly recommended. Although public transit options exist, such as the regional Bustang routes operated by the Colorado Department of Transportation, they may not suffice for deeper mountain adventures. A vehicle offers greater flexibility to access remote trailheads and campsites.
Denver International Airport hosts nearly a dozen rental car companies, ensuring that travelers find their preferred brand. The airport features major companies such as Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Fox, Hertz, National, Payless, Sixt, and Thrifty.
Throughout Denver, public and private parking lots and garages are available, as well as on-street parking. However, those staying in hotels should note that valet parking can be quite expensive, ranging from $30 to $60 per night.
If avoiding parking and rental costs is a priority, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, which are prevalent in Denver, offer convenient alternatives. Additional taxi, limo, and charter bus options are also available.
Accessible Transportation in Denver Requires More Planning
For travelers with disabilities, navigating Denver can be manageable, yet it often entails additional planning. From Denver International Airport, several accessible transportation providers offer rides into the city, including Mobility Plus, Metro Cab, Dashabout, and Mobility Transport Service. However, these services typically require advance notice of 24 to 48 hours, necessitating thorough planning for those with mobility challenges.
Within Denver, individuals with disabilities have access to various public transit options. All RTD buses and rail vehicles are designed to accommodate those using mobility devices, such as walkers, crutches, wheelchairs, electric scooters, and Segways. Furthermore, RTD trains its drivers to assist passengers with disabilities.
Moreover, RTD’s Access-a-Ride service aids visitors who are unable to use the fixed-route public transit services. However, utilizing this option requires significant preparations including a written application, a medical verification form, an in-person interview, and a transportation assessment.
Venues at the Denver Center for Performing Arts are dedicated to ensuring visitors with disabilities have a seamless experience. They provide seating accommodations, accessible restrooms, wheelchairs, and assistive-listening devices, although requests for these services are generally made during ticket booking. Denver is also home to a variety of organizations offering accessible sports and outdoor programs ranging from curling to rock climbing.
Despite Denver’s primarily flat landscape, the condition of its sidewalks varies, potentially posing challenges for individuals using wheelchairs or other mobility aids. In the winter months, sidewalks may also become icy and uneven due to snow—particularly on north-facing pathways or those shaded by buildings.
This article was first published on July 6, 2021, and updated on July 25, 2023.
