Denver's Public Transportation: Your Mile-High Ride Without the Mile-High Price Tag (Unless You Park Illegally)
Let's face it, Denver traffic can be a real drag. You're stuck bumper-to-bumper with enough Subarus to fill a Phish concert parking lot, all while listening to someone belting out show tunes (not the good kind from a musical). But fear not, weary traveler! Denver has a public transportation system that's like a superhero - efficient, affordable, and will get you places without the need for a cape (though a cool hat is always encouraged).
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| How Is Denver Public Transportation |
It's a Double-Dutch (Rail) Treat!
Denver's light rail system, operated by the Regional Transportation District (RTD for short, not to be confused with Real Tiny Dinosaurs...yet), is a fantastic way to navigate the city. The sleek, brightly colored trains zip around town, whisking you past trendy coffee shops, craft breweries, and, of course, dispensaries (because it's Denver). Plus, with free rides for youth under 19 until the end of August 2024, it's like a choose-your-own-adventure for your wallet!
Insider Tip: Download the RTD app to track trains in real-time and avoid that awkward "train-spotting" pose on the platform (unless you're into cosplay, then by all means, strike a pose!).
Tip: Avoid distractions — stay in the post.
Buses: Not Your Boring Yellow School Bus (Unless You Like School Buses)
Don't let the lack of a cape fool you, the RTD bus system is another public transportation hero. With routes crisscrossing the city, you can practically get anywhere on a comfy (and hopefully air-conditioned) bus. Plus, some routes even take you out to the suburbs, perfect for those times you need a break from the city and want to see if the grass really is greener on the other side (spoiler alert: it's probably brown in Colorado).
Pro Tip: Be prepared with a few dad jokes for those inevitable awkward bus silences. Everyone appreciates a good "Why did the scarecrow win an award? Because he was outstanding in his field!"
QuickTip: Scan for summary-style sentences.
Here Comes the Fare-Play (But Really, It's Pretty Fair)
Okay, so it's not free (unless you're a tiny dinosaur, but again, that technology isn't quite there yet). But compared to the cost of gas, parking, and the therapy you'll need after dealing with Denver traffic, RTD fares are a steal. Plus, they have a handy fare zone system, so you only pay for the distance you travel. It's like a choose-your-own-adventure for your wallet...again!
Money-Saving Move: Consider a CollegePass or EcoPass for unlimited rides at a discounted rate.
QuickTip: Skim the intro, then dive deeper.
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So You Want to Ride the RTD? How To...
How to Plan Your Trip: The RTD website (
How to Pay Your Fare: Fares can be paid with cash, debit card, or a pre-loaded RTD card (which you can get at most stations). Just don't be that person holding up the line fumbling for exact change. Trust us, nobody enjoys that.
QuickTip: Slow scrolling helps comprehension.
How to Be a Polite Rider: Silence your phone ringer (unless your ringtone is the theme song to Schoolhouse Rock, then it gets a pass), use headphones if you're listening to music, and offer your seat to anyone who looks like they need it more than you (grandparents, people carrying a lot of groceries, tiny dinosaurs...you get the idea).
How to Avoid Drama: Be patient! Trains and buses can sometimes run behind schedule, especially during rush hour. And for the love of all that is good and holy, please don't eat smelly food on the train. Trust us, everyone will thank you.
How to Have Fun: People watching on public transportation is a national pastime. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy the show! You never know who you might see or what hilarious conversation you might overhear (just don't stare...it's creepy).
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