Hey, I’m Sammy. I’ve been driving for a rideshare company for over 7 years now.
From my personal experience throughout the years, I can tell you when and where surge pricing might occur.
Here, I’m going to lay down the best time to order Uber or Lyft in Denver and the best time to dodge surge pricing. Let’s dive in!
Off-Peak Hours
Peak hours often mean peak prices, with fares doubling or even quadrupling between 7-10 AM and 3-6 PM.
Dodge the surge by planning your rides outside these periods – think leisurely morning brunch rides or late-night movie marathons.
Weekend Warriors: Plan Ahead
Friday nights and Saturdays mean bustling streets and higher fares, especially near events or hotspots like LoDo. Sundays, conversely, tend to be calmer.
So, plan your weekend getaways around off-peak hours or consider venturing out on a Friday afternoon instead of evening.
Weather Conditions: Don’t Get Caught in the Rain (or Snow)
Mother Nature loves playing havoc with fares. Expect surge pricing during blizzards, heavy rain, or any weather event that keeps people scrambling for cars.
Plan your travel around weather forecasts, or embrace the adventure and wait for fares to drop after the storm passes.
Events and Holidays: Steer Clear (Broncos Games, New Year’s, etc.)
Broncos games, Rockies matches, and major holidays like New Year’s Eve are guaranteed surge magnets.
So, avoid booking rides around these times unless you’re prepared for higher fares.
And remember, Planning your trip to coincide with the post-event lull or using alternative transportation during peak festivities can save you big bucks.
Download Both Apps: Play the Field (Uber vs. Lyft)
Be savvy, download both Uber and Lyft! Compare fares before booking, and don’t hesitate to schedule rides in advance for predictable events.
Sometimes, locking in a normal fare ahead of time can be your saving grace.
Sometimes, Wait It Out: Patience is a Virtue (Especially at the Airport)
Surge pricing might feel permanent, but it’s often temporary, especially at the airport. Wait a few minutes, and those sky-high fares could drop faster than you think.
Remember, it takes about 10-15 minutes for drivers to replenish at the airport and for the fares to go back to normal.
Consider Public Transportation: Think Beyond Apps (Light Rail, Buses)
Before committing to that premium airport fare, consider the light rail! For around $10, it whisks you downtown in comfort.
After a Broncos game, walking down a block can take you out of the surge zone and onto a bus heading home.
Also, Public transportation, can be your secret weapon against high fares. Catch a bus on federal or walk towards to Meow Wolf can help you exist the surge zone.
Daily Life Surprises: Be Aware (Road Closures, Concerts)
Even everyday events can trigger surges. A road closure might send fares soaring in one area, while a surprise concert downtown can have similar effects.
Stay informed about local happenings and consider adjusting your travel plans accordingly.
Remember, Surge Pricing is Unpredictable (But Navigable)
Even everyday events can trigger surges. A road closure might send fares soaring in one area, while a surprise concert downtown can have similar effects.
Stay informed about local happenings and consider adjusting your travel plans accordingly.
I hope this helps you outsmart surge pricing and navigate Denver’s streets like a pro! Bon voyage!