Don't Get Metered Out in Mile High: A Hilarious Guide to Denver Parking Meter Rates (and How to Avoid a Parking Ticket Tantrum)
Ah, Denver. The Queen City of the Plains. Land of craft breweries, killer mountain views, and...well, let's be honest, sometimes frustrating parking. But fear not, fellow adventurer (or just someone who needs a grocery run without getting towed), for this guide will be your comedic compass through the wild world of Denver meter madness.
 |
| How Much Are Parking Meters In Denver |
The Great Denver Parking Meter Hike: How Much Will Your Wallet Weep?
Gone are the days of dirt-cheap street parking. In 2022, Denver doubled its meter rates, leaving many drivers with a feeling like they just huffed a tank of thin air. But fret not, the current rate is a fairly standard $2 per hour.
However! Hold onto your hats (or helmets, if you're riding a scooter), because that price can change depending on where you park. Think of it like real estate - prime locations come with a prime parking price tag. So, before you pull over and bust out your quarters, be sure to consult the meter itself. It'll tell you the exact rate and the maximum amount of time you can become a temporary Denver resident (don't worry, they won't make you register your car to park for 15 minutes).
Here's a little secret: Night owls rejoice! Meter rates drop to a cool $1 per hour between 10 pm and 2 am, then take a nosedive to a wallet-warming $0.50 per hour from 2 am to 6 am. Free parking finally returns from 6 am to 8 am, so you can grab a breakfast burrito guilt-free (well, as guilt-free as breakfast burritos can be).
QuickTip: Pay attention to first and last sentences.
Important Public Service Announcement: Don't be that guy who tries to stretch a one-hour meter into a two-hour shopping spree. Parking enforcement in Denver is no joke, and a ticket is a surefire way to turn your Mile High mood into a Mile Low one.
How to Pay the Meter: Beyond Digging for Quarters in Your Couch Cushions
The good news is that Denver has embraced the 21st century (hallelujah!). You can ditch the dusty change jar and pay for parking in a variety of ways:
- Classic Coins: Still a viable option, though good luck finding a teenager who knows what a quarter looks like these days.
- Credit/Debit Cards: Because who wants to carry around a fistful of change?
- Smart Meter Apps: There are a few apps that allow you to pay for parking remotely, so you can top up your meter time without having to run back every hour (perfect for that extra brewery stop...responsibly, of course).
- Park Denver Smart Cards: These reloadable cards are like a gift card for parking. You can buy them at various locations around the city and use them at any meter.
Pro Tip: If you plan on doing a lot of exploring in Denver, a Park Denver Smart Card might be your best bet. It saves you the hassle of fumbling for change or credit cards every time you park.
QuickTip: Return to sections that felt unclear.
FAQ: Don't Get Stumped by the Meter!
How to find out how long you can park in a specific spot?
Easy peasy! Just look at the meter itself. It'll display the maximum parking time allowed.
How to use the Park Denver Smart Card?
Reminder: Take a short break if the post feels long.
 |
Just follow the instructions on the card. You can usually tap it on the meter or use a designated slot to pay.
How to avoid a parking ticket?
Here's a shocker: Pay the meter and don't go over the time limit! Also, be sure to park within the designated lines.
QuickTip: Stop scrolling, read carefully here.
How to contest a parking ticket (if you must)?
You can find information on contesting a parking ticket on the City and County of Denver website
How to find cheap(er) parking in Denver?
Parking garages can be a good option, especially if you're planning on parking for a longer period. You can also try your luck with street parking in less central areas.
So there you have it! With this guide, you're now a certified Denver meter master (or mistress, of course). Now get out there and explore the city without the fear of a parking ticket meltdown!
 |
