Denver to Central City

Quick Facts: Denver to Central City

Just one mile past Black Hawk

Distance: 41 miles via I-70 and Highway 119

Drive Time: 50-65 minutes

Route: Same as Black Hawk, then continue 1 mile up Main Street

Price Comparison

Option	Price	Notes
Casino Shuttle to Black Hawk + walk/drive	Free-$15	Most shuttles stop at Black Hawk
Uber/Lyft	$55-85	Direct to Central City
Limo Service	$200-400	Groups, special occasions
Drive Yourself	Gas only	Free parking everywhere

Note: Central City is just 1 mile past Black Hawk. Most casino shuttles stop in Black Hawk—you can walk, take a free local shuttle, or drive the last mile.

Why Visit Central City?

More than just casinos

Central City was the original—founded in 1859 during the Pike's Peak Gold Rush. While Black Hawk has the bigger, flashier casinos, Central City offers something different.

Central City Highlights

Historic Architecture: Victorian buildings line Main Street
Central City Opera: Fourth-oldest opera house in the US (summer season)
Intimate Casinos: Smaller, friendlier gaming atmosphere
Lower Minimums: Often lower table minimums than Black Hawk
Historic Cemetery: Final resting place of Colorado pioneers
Gilpin History Museum: Mining heritage exhibits

Central City Casinos

Century Casino Central City – Largest in town, hotel attached
Easy Street Casino – Local favorite, good slot payouts
Famous Bonanza Casino – Historic building, classic feel
Reserve Casino – Table games focus

Getting There

Transportation options to Central City

Via Black Hawk (Most Common)

Most visitors get to Black Hawk first, then continue to Central City. The two towns are connected by Main Street—a 1-mile drive or 20-minute walk uphill.

Take any Black Hawk shuttle or transport
Walk, drive, or catch the free Gilpin County trolley (seasonal)
Some Black Hawk casinos offer Central City shuttles for players

Driving Directly

Same route as Black Hawk, just continue through town:

I-70 West to Exit 244
Highway 6 through Clear Creek Canyon
Highway 119 north through Black Hawk
Continue on Main Street to Central City

Uber/Lyft

$55-85 from downtown Denver
Can specify Central City as destination
Return rides may be scarce late night

Limo/Car Service

$200-400 for round-trip service
Driver waits while you play
Can visit both Black Hawk and Central City
Good for opera performances or special events

Central City Opera

A unique Colorado cultural experience

The Central City Opera House, built in 1878, hosts a summer opera festival that draws visitors from around the world. If you're visiting during summer, combine gaming with culture.

Opera Season

Typically July through early August
Multiple opera productions
Pre-show dining in historic downtown
Dress code: smart casual to formal

Getting to the Opera

Special shuttle packages often available
Limo service popular for evening performances
Parking available but limited on performance nights
Book transportation and tickets in advance

Frequently Asked Questions

Denver to Central City transportation

How far is Central City from Black Hawk?

Just 1 mile. You can walk uphill in about 20 minutes, drive in 3 minutes, or catch the seasonal Gilpin County trolley. Many visitors play at both towns in one trip.

Is there a shuttle directly to Central City?

Most casino shuttles stop in Black Hawk. From there, you can walk, drive, or take a local shuttle to Central City. Contact individual Central City casinos for any direct shuttle options.

Is Central City better than Black Hawk?

Different, not better. Central City has historic charm, smaller casinos, and lower minimums. Black Hawk has resort-style properties and more gaming options. Many visitors enjoy both.

When is Central City Opera season?

Typically July through early August. The Central City Opera House is one of the oldest opera houses in the US. Check their website for current season schedule and tickets.

Is parking free in Central City?

Yes, street parking and casino parking are free. Opera nights can get crowded, so arrive early or use transportation service for performances.