Denver’s Public Transportation: Living in Denver without a car? The Mile-High City offers a variety of public transportation options and resources to help you get around. Whether you’re commuting to work, running errands, or exploring the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, here’s everything you need to know about navigating Denver without a vehicle.

1. RTD (Regional Transportation District): Your Go-To for Public Transit

The RTD is Denver’s primary public transportation system, offering a comprehensive network of buses, light rail, and commuter rail services. With over 100 bus routes and 10 rail lines, RTD covers most of the Denver metropolitan area, making it easy to reach your destination.

• Buses: RTD buses are a reliable way to get around the city. They run frequently and cover most neighborhoods, including suburban areas. Check the RTD bus schedules and use their trip planner to find the best route.
• Light Rail: The RTD light rail is a convenient option for traveling to downtown Denver, the Denver Tech Center, and other key locations. It’s fast and avoids the hassle of traffic. Explore the light rail map to see the available routes.
• Commuter Rail: For longer distances, the RTD commuter rail connects downtown Denver with Denver International Airport (DIA) and other outlying areas. The A Line, for example, is a popular choice for airport travelers. Find more information on commuter rail options.

2. Bike and Scooter Sharing Programs

Denver is a bike-friendly city, and bike-sharing programs like B-Cycle and scooter-sharing services like Lime and Birdmake it easy to get around without a car. These services are great for short trips and provide an eco-friendly alternative to public transit.

• B-Cycle: Denver B-Cycle offers convenient bike rentals throughout the city, with stations in key locations. It’s a great way to explore Denver’s extensive network of bike paths.
• Lime and Bird Scooters: Electric scooters are widely available and can be rented through mobile apps. They’re ideal for quick trips and are a fun way to navigate the city’s streets. Learn more about Lime and Bird.

3. Ride-Sharing Services

For those times when public transit or biking isn’t convenient, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available throughout Denver. These services offer a flexible and relatively affordable way to get around, especially when you need to travel to areas not well-served by public transportation.

• Uber: With extensive coverage across Denver, Uber can get you where you need to go with ease. Download the Uber app and start your journey.
• Lyft: Similar to Uber, Lyft provides a reliable ride-sharing service throughout the city. Find more about Lyft and how it works in Denver.

4. Specialized Transportation Services

If you have specific transportation needs, Denver offers specialized services that cater to seniors, people with disabilities, and others who may require additional assistance.

• Access-a-Ride: RTD’s Access-a-Ride service provides door-to-door transportation for people with disabilities. It’s a convenient option if you need extra help getting around. Learn more about Access-a-Ride.
• Denver’s Senior Transportation Programs: Various organizations in Denver offer transportation services for seniors, helping them stay mobile and independent. Programs like DRMAC (Denver Regional Mobility & Access Council) provide valuable resources and assistance. Explore Denver’s senior transportation options.

5. Walking in Denver

Denver is a pedestrian-friendly city, with many areas designed for walking. Downtown Denver, in particular, is highly walkable, with attractions, shops, and restaurants within easy reach. The city’s many parks and green spaces also offer scenic walking routes.

• 16th Street Mall: This pedestrian mall in the heart of downtown is lined with shops, cafes, and public art. It’s also served by a free shuttle that runs the length of the mall, making it easy to explore. Learn more about the 16th Street Mall.

6. Helpful Resources for Navigating Denver

To make your travel even easier, here are some additional resources:

• RTD Mobile App: Download the RTD app for real-time schedules, route information, and mobile ticketing. Get the RTD app.
• Google Maps: Use Google Maps to plan your trip using public transportation, walking, biking, or ride-sharing options. Plan your trip with Google Maps.
• NextRide: RTD’s NextRide feature provides real-time arrival information for buses and trains. Check NextRide.