12 ways to experience Denver on a budget

13.08.2023 - 21:21 / lonelyplanet.com

Denver is a budget-friendly destination when compared to its Rocky Mountain neighbors like Aspen and Vail (and especially so when compared to much bigger metro areas like New York and Los Angeles).

But as this mid-sized city’s profile continues to rise, so do prices. If you wanted to, you could easily drop a hefty chunk of change on a luxurious Mile High City vacation.

Fortunately, you don’t have to. Denver still offers plenty in the way of affordable activities, eats and transportation. If you’re hoping to do Colorado’s capital city on the cheap, here are some tips for keeping more money in your pocket.

Average daily cost: $300–450

Between gas, parking and rental fees, the costs of renting a car in Denver can really add up. But the truth is, you don’t really need one. From Denver International Airport, hop aboard the A Line train, which will drop you right downtown at Union Station for just $10.50. From here, the entire world of Denver public transit opens up to you, including buses that can take you up into the mountains. In the city, you can also ride shared electric bikes and electric scooters via Lyft and Lime.

Winter in Denver is a bit of a paradox. Flight prices tend to be high as skiers and snowboarders descend upon Denver International Airport, then head up into the Rockies to hit the slopes. But because many travelers skip Denver and head straight for the mountains, lodging in the Mile High City tends to be more affordable in the winter. (And if you’re hoping to ditch the crowds, winter is also one of Denver’s least busy seasons.) From December through March, driving or taking a train — like Amtrak’s California Zephyr route — are likely your most budget-friendly transportation options.

Colorado’s craft beer scene is legendary, and Denver is right in the middle of the action. Though you’ll pay between $4 and $7 for a pint of craft beer, that’s still much cheaper than between $15 to $20 for a craft cocktail. And if you find a style you really like, many craft breweries will sell you cans, bottles, crowlers or growlers to take back to your hotel, which are even cheaper options than ordering what’s on draft at the bar.

Denver has many affordable hostels, such as Hostel Fish, 11th Avenue Hostel and Ember Hostel. But a growing number of traditional hotels are also starting to offer some budget-friendly room configurations that allow multiple friends or family members to stay together and split costs in a private space. Rooms with bunk beds, for instance, are available at the Ramble Hotel, the Maven Hotel, the Eddy Taproom and Hotel and the Rally Hotel, to name a few. (These are also great for families, whether traveling on a budget or not.)

The Denver food and beverage scene is on the rise, with numerous