Denver is a mile-high city with a walkable downtown and mountain views on clear days. Most visitors use it as a starting point for Rocky Mountain National Park, Red Rocks and ski trips, so a hostel near public transport is the most useful.
Our top pick: From Denver: Red Rocks, Evergreen, and Echo Lake Tour
Where hostels are
- Downtown and LoDo: the area around Union Station is the easiest base, with the A Line, the free 16th Street Mall shuttle and many restaurants.
- Capitol Hill: residential and lively, a short walk east of downtown near the State Capitol.
- RiNo (River North): an art district known for its murals and galleries, a short ride from downtown.
Getting in from the airport
Denver International Airport is far east of the city. The A Line train takes roughly 35 to 40 minutes to Union Station and is cheaper and more predictable than a taxi.
Safety and budget tips
Downtown is busy in the daytime and around events, but some blocks near transit stops are quiet late, so check the reviews for the street and use rideshares at night. Altitude and dry air catch many visitors out, so carry water and sunscreen. To save, book early for summer and ski weekends, use a Regional Transportation District day pass, and take a day tour to the mountains rather than renting a car if you only want Red Rocks or the foothills.
Winter driving needs care. Mountain roads can close in snow, so a guided day trip is often the safer way to see the Rockies.
Top-rated Denver tours
From Denver: Red Rocks, Evergreen, and Echo Lake Tour
Mountain scenery in a half day. 4.9/5 from over 800 reviews.
Denver: Bus Tour of City Highlights, Views & Secret Spots
See the main sights on one route. 4.8/5 from over 500 reviews.
From Denver: Red Rocks and Foothills Half-Day Guided Tour
A shorter foothills option. 4.8/5 from 100 reviews.
Why book online
- Free cancellation on most tickets, usually up to 24 hours before
- Reserved time slot: no queue at the ticket desk
- Mobile ticket on your phone
- Reviews from verified travelers
Frequently asked questions
How do I get from Denver airport to a hostel downtown?
The RTD A Line commuter train runs from the airport to Union Station in downtown Denver in roughly 35 to 40 minutes. From there, many hostels are a short walk or bus ride away.
Will I feel the altitude in Denver?
Denver sits about one mile above sea level, so some visitors feel tired or get a headache on the first day. Drink plenty of water and go easy on exertion at first.
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