How do I get from Denver to Central City? Same route as Black Hawk—35 miles via I-70 and Highway 119, about 50 minutes. Central City is one mile uphill from Black Hawk; the two towns are connected by a free shuttle. Casino shuttles from Denver typically go to Black Hawk, then you take the free connector to Central City.
Route Overview
Distance: 35 miles
Drive time: 45-55 minutes
Route: I-70 West to Highway 119 through Clear Creek Canyon
Elevation: 5,280 feet (Denver) to 8,500 feet (Central City)
Central City sits just above Black Hawk in the mountains west of Denver. The two historic mining towns are now casino destinations, with Central City offering a more historic atmosphere and fewer crowds than its larger neighbor.
Transportation Options
Driving
Cost: ~$10 gas
Time: 45-55 minutes
Take I-70 West to Exit 244, then Highway 6 to Highway 119 through Clear Creek Canyon. Continue through Black Hawk and up the hill to Central City. Free parking at all casinos. Highway 119 is winding with many curves.
Casino Shuttles
Cost: Free to $30 round trip
Time: 60-75 minutes
Most casino shuttles from Denver go to Black Hawk. From Black Hawk, take the free Central City/Black Hawk shuttle (runs every 15 minutes) up the hill to Central City. Check individual casino shuttle schedules—some Central City casinos may offer direct service.
Rideshare
Cost: $60-90 one-way
Time: 45-55 minutes
Uber/Lyft available from Denver but expensive. Return trips from Central City late at night have very limited driver availability.
Central City vs Black Hawk
The towns are one mile apart and connected by free shuttle. Central City has better preserved Victorian architecture and the historic Central City Opera House. Casinos are smaller and less crowded than Black Hawk. Black Hawk has larger, newer casino buildings with more gaming options.
Many visitors combine both—gambling in Black Hawk's bigger casinos and walking Central City's historic Main Street.
Tips
The drive through Clear Creek Canyon is scenic but has many curves—take it slow, especially at night or in winter. If using casino shuttles, most serve Black Hawk; use the free inter-town shuttle to reach Central City. Don't drink and drive—the mountain road is challenging sober.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Central City the same as Black Hawk?
No, they're separate towns one mile apart. Central City is smaller and more historic; Black Hawk has larger casinos. A free shuttle connects them every 15 minutes.
Which has better casinos—Central City or Black Hawk?
Black Hawk has larger, newer casinos with more gaming options. Central City casinos are smaller with a more historic feel. Many visitors hit both in one trip.
Is there a free shuttle between Black Hawk and Central City?
Yes. The free shuttle runs every 15 minutes between the towns, making it easy to visit both in one trip.