can i get around denver without a car

[VanNaomi]

Yes, you can absolutely get around Denver without a car. The city has invested heavily in its public transportation system and offers numerous alternatives that make a car-free visit or lifestyle not only possible but often more convenient and cost-effective. The key is planning your stay around neighborhoods with high walkability and good transit access, like Downtown, LoDo, RiNo, and Capitol Hill.

Denver’s Regional Transportation District (RTD) is the backbone of public transit. It operates an extensive network of buses and a light rail system that connects downtown to key areas, including the airport via the A Line train. This train is a game-changer, offering a 37-minute, non-stop ride from Denver International Airport (DEN) to downtown's Union Station for around $10.50. From Union Station, you can transfer to virtually any bus or light rail line.

For shorter trips and exploring specific districts, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are ubiquitous. Biking is also a fantastic option, with Denver's B-cycle bike-share program providing over 70 stations. The city is remarkably flat and features numerous dedicated bike lanes and trails, like the Cherry Creek Trail, which is perfect for recreation and commuting.

While the transit system is robust, its frequency can decrease in the evenings and on weekends, especially in suburban areas. For trips into the mountains or to more remote attractions, renting a car for a day might be the most efficient choice. However, for navigating the urban core and its popular neighborhoods, a combination of walking, light rail, and the occasional ride-share is a winning strategy.

Transportation Option	Key Service/Area	Approximate Cost (Example)	Best For
RTD Light Rail	Airport to Downtown (A Line), Broadway, Southeast Denver	$3.00 - $10.50 (Airport Line)	Commuting, Airport Access
RTD Bus System	City-wide coverage, major corridors	$3.00 (Local 3-hour pass)	Local trips, budget travel
Ride-Sharing (Uber/Lyft)	On-demand, city-wide	$15-25 for a cross-town trip	Convenience, small groups
Bike Share (Denver B-cycle)	Downtown, LoDo, Capitol Hill, Cherry Creek	$1 for a single ride + $0.25/min	Short trips, exploring parks
Walking	Downtown, LoDo, RiNo, Capitol Hill	Free	Exploring dense, pedestrian-friendly areas

[DeEleanor]

As someone who lives downtown, I barely use my car. Everything I need is within walking distance—grocery stores, restaurants, bars. For longer trips, the free MallRide bus runs up and down the 16th Street Mall, and the light rail is a block away. If I'm running late or it's late at night, I'll just grab an Uber. It's honestly easier than dealing with parking.

[SanNora]

Visiting Denver without a car is totally doable if you plan your lodging wisely. Stay near Union Station; it's the central hub for the airport train, light rail, and buses. You can easily take the train from the airport, drop your bags, and start exploring. For getting to the Museum of Nature & Science or the Zoo, the bus lines are straightforward. The only time I'd suggest a rental car is if your main goal is a dedicated mountain trip.