No Car Needed! A Local’s Guide to Getting Around Denver

Denver’s Connected Streets Make It Easy To Explore The City Without A Car

Visiting Denver without a car doesn’t have to be stressful. You can get around easily using public transportation (light rail and buses), walking, biking, rideshares, and rental scooters and e-bikes. Lace up your sneakers, grab a reusable water bottle, and enjoy a rental car-free adventure through the Mile High City. Skipping the rental car in Denver makes life a whole lot easier and cheaper... downtown hotels often charge $40-50+/night and parking garages can be $30+/24-hour period. Public transportation here is budget-friendly and eco-conscious, allowing you to move around the city without breaking the bank or contributing to pollution. Forget the headache of parking, save that time and energy for soaking in Denver’s vibrant neighborhoods, mountain views, and buzzing food and drink scene.

1. Public Transportation: Your New Best Friend

RTD Light Rail And Bus System Offers Affordable And Convenient Public Transportation Across The City

RTD Light Rail and Buses: Denver’s Regional Transportation District (RTD) makes getting around the city simple and stress-free, whether you’re riding the light rail downtown to visit the Denver Art Museum or the Botanic Gardens, or catching a bus out toward the suburbs.

The system is easy to navigate, and with the RTD app you can check schedules, routes, and even buy tickets right from your phone. Planning is always smart, double-checking for route changes saves you from waiting around, and once you’re on board, you can sit back and enjoy the ride while the city unfolds around you.

Bonus: You can take the A-Line lightrail directly from the airport to RiNo and Union Station in 35-40 minutes.

2. Biking Around Denver

Cycling Through Denver Parks Is A Scenic Way To Get Around The City.

Exploring Denver on two wheels is a fun way to see the city at your own pace, and bike-share options like Lime and Lyft make it easy with bikes available throughout the city. You can rent a bike for a few hours or the whole day, then cruise through beautiful spots like City Park or Washington Park to soak up the fresh air. Pedaling between community gardens adds a local touch to the ride, and you'll treat yourself to seeing some of Denver's unique neighborhoods and getting a little off the beaten track.

3. Walking: The Best Way to Experience the City

Walking Tours Are One Of The Best Ways To Experience Denver Up Close

There’s something special about exploring Denver on foot, the sights, the sounds, and yes, even the smells (hello, tacos!) are all part of the adventure. Each neighborhood has its own personality, from the historic charm and trendy shops of LoDo to the lively buzz around Union Station, where you can grab a coffee and watch the city roll by. Comfortable shoes are a must, because once you hit the 16th Street you’ll want to keep going. This mile-long, pedestrian-friendly stretch is packed with shops, restaurants, and street performers, and you never know when you’ll stumble across a festival or art installation that makes the walk even more memorable. For an even deeper dive into the city’s history and hidden gems, Discover Denver Tours offers guided walking tours that highlight landmarks, local stories, and the stories and characters that makes Denver unique.

4. Ride-Sharing & Taxis: When You Need Them

Ride-sharing Services Like Uber And Lyft Make It Easy To Get Around Denver

When walking or public transport doesn’t quite get you where you need to go or you need to get somewhere quick, ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft are easy to find all over Denver. They’re usually cheaper than traditional taxis and come in handy for late-night rides home. Having that quick option makes getting around the city a whole lot simpler and downtown it often only take 3-5 minutes for your ride to arrive.

5. Pro Tips for Getting Around Denver

Denver Is An Easy City For Families To Explore Without A Car

Tips:

• Check for Special Events: Big gatherings like sporting events (there's tons, year-round and most stadiums are in/near downtown Denver), the Denver County Fair or Great American Beer Festival can crowd public transport, plan extra time.

• Download the RTD App: Access live schedules and pay for tickets directly from your phone for smoother travel.

• Explore Local Neighborhoods: Venture beyond tourist spots into areas like Jefferson Park or Capitol Hill for cozy cafes, unique shops, and local gems.

• Stay Hydrated: Denver’s high altitude means you’ll need more water, carry a reusable bottle, and refill as you go.

Getting around Denver without a car is easy and fun. With buses, light rail, bikes, and walkable neighborhoods, you’ll see more of the city and meet locals along the way. The journey itself is part of the adventure, so put on your walking shoes and let Denver’s hidden gems surprise you.