A few of the companies we’ve worked with
How Much Does a Charter Bus Rental Cost in Westminster?
The cost of renting a charter bus in Westminster varies based on your specific needs. Local trips that stay within the Denver-Boulder metro area are billed by the hour, while long-distance trips—such as heading up to Vail, Breckenridge, or out of state—are billed by the day or by mileage. Smaller vehicles like minibuses and sprinter vans are more affordable than full-size 56-passenger motorcoaches, though the cost per person often decreases as you fill a larger bus.
When you receive a quote from Charter Bus Rental Company Westminster, we believe in transparency. Your quote includes the bus, the driver, fuel, and gratuity. However, it is important to note that you are responsible for additional expenses such as parking fees at venues (like Red Rocks or Ball Arena), road tolls (such as on E-470 or the Express Lanes on US-36), and hotel accommodations for your driver if your trip requires an overnight stay. By understanding these base rates and potential extra costs, you can plan your budget effectively and avoid any surprises.
What Factors Influence Bus Rental Pricing in Westminster?
Several key variables go into calculating the final price of your charter bus rental. Understanding these can help you adjust your itinerary to save money or ensure you are getting the exact service you require.
1. Trip Duration and Distance
How long you need the bus is the primary driver of cost. A simple transfer from the Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport (BJC) to a hotel in the Westminster Promenade will cost significantly less than a full-day tour of Rocky Mountain National Park. We typically require a 5-hour minimum for local rentals. If your trip involves long-distance travel, we calculate pricing based on daily rates or mileage to ensure you get the best value.
2. The Time of Year
Demand for charter buses in Colorado fluctuates with the seasons. The busiest times—and therefore the most expensive—are typically late spring (for graduations and end-of-year school trips), summer (for weddings and tourism), and the height of ski season. If you are planning a trip during these peak times, booking 3 to 6 months in advance is crucial to locking in a better rate. January and February (excluding ski weekends) can often offer more budget-friendly options.
3. Vehicle Type and Size
Our fleet ranges from 14-passenger sprinter vans to 56-passenger full-size coaches. Naturally, a larger bus with more amenities costs more to operate than a smaller shuttle. However, if you have a group of 50 people, booking one 56-passenger coach is almost always cheaper than renting three minibuses. Assess your headcount carefully to choose the most efficient vehicle.
4. Route and Pickup Location
We serve all of Westminster, including neighborhoods like Bradburn, Legacy Ridge, and the Westminster Promenade. However, if your trip requires a pickup in a remote location far from our garage, "deadhead" costs (the time it takes the bus to get to you) may apply. Keeping your pickup and drop-off points within the main metro area helps keep costs down.
Sample Trip: Wedding Shuttle at the Butterfly Pavilion
Scenario: A couple is getting married at the beautiful Butterfly Pavilion on 104th Avenue. They want to ensure their guests get home safely after the reception, so they decide to book a shuttle service. They need a vehicle to transport guests from the Marriott Westminster to the venue for the ceremony, and then back to the hotel at the end of the night.
The Solution: Since the distance is short but the timeline spans the entire evening, the couple books a 25-passenger minibus for 8 hours. This allows the bus to run loops before the ceremony and continuous shuttles toward the end of the reception. The minibus is perfect for navigating the parking lots and hotel driveways.
Estimated Cost: For an 8-hour minibus rental on a Saturday during wedding season, the price would likely range between $1,300 and $1,600. This price includes the driver's gratuity and fuel, ensuring the couple doesn't have to worry about tipping at the end of the night.
Sample Trip: Corporate Event at The Westin Westminster
Scenario: A technology company based in the Denver Tech Center is hosting a day-long retreat at The Westin Westminster. They need to transport 50 employees from their office to the hotel in the morning and return them in the evening. They want the team to be productive on the road, so WiFi and power outlets are a must.
The Solution: The company books a 56-passenger full-size charter bus. The bus picks the team up at 8:00 AM, drops them off at The Westin, parks off-site for the day, and returns for a 5:00 PM pickup. The spacious interior allows employees to network or check emails using the onboard WiFi while avoiding the traffic on I-25.
Estimated Cost: Since the bus is needed for the full day (even if it is parked for part of it), a daily rate applies. The estimated cost would be between $1,700 and $2,300. This ensures the bus is reserved exclusively for their group and ready whenever the meeting wraps up.
Sample Trip: School Field Trip to Standley Lake
Scenario: A local elementary school in the Adams 12 Five Star Schools district is planning a science field trip to Standley Lake Regional Park to study local ecosystems. They have 60 students and 10 chaperones, requiring reliable transportation that is safer and more comfortable than a standard yellow school bus.
The Solution: The school books two 40-passenger charter buses to accommodate everyone comfortably with room for backpacks and lunch coolers. The buses pick up at the school at 9:00 AM and return by 2:00 PM. The climate-controlled cabin keeps the kids cool, and the onboard DVD players provide entertainment during the drive.
Estimated Cost: For a 5-hour rental of two mid-sized buses on a weekday, the total cost would range from $1,800 to $2,400 ($900-$1,200 per bus). This provides a premium experience for the students and peace of mind for the parents and administrators.
Sample Trip: Westminster to Red Rocks Concert
Scenario: A group of 18 friends wants to see a concert at Red Rocks Amphitheatre. They plan to meet at a house in the Bradburn Village neighborhood for a pre-concert BBQ and want a safe ride to and from the venue so everyone can enjoy a few drinks without driving.
The Solution: The group books a 20-passenger party bus or luxury minibus. The driver picks them up at 5:00 PM, navigates the traffic on C-470, drops them at the designated bus lot at Red Rocks (saving them from hiking up the hill), and waits until the encore is over to bring them home.
Estimated Cost: For a 7-hour rental of a premium minibus or party bus, the price would be approximately $1,200 to $1,500. Split among 18 friends, this comes out to roughly $65-$85 per person—a great deal for door-to-door service and a designated driver.
How Bus Type and Amenities Affect Your Quote
The type of bus you choose plays a significant role in your final quote. At Charter Bus Rental Company Westminster, we offer a diverse fleet to match any budget or luxury level.
- School Buses: The most economical choice. Great for short distances, simple transfers, and tight budgets. They lack amenities like A/C (sometimes) and restrooms but get the job done efficiently.
- Minibuses (18- 35 passengers ): A step up in comfort and price. These feature bucket seats, air conditioning, and often WiFi. They are perfect for shuttle services, wedding parties, and corporate groups moving around Westminster and Denver.
- Full-Size Charter Buses (56 passengers): The gold standard for long-distance travel and large groups. These cost more per day but offer the lowest cost-per-passenger if filled to capacity. Standard amenities include reclining seats, onboard restrooms, undercarriage luggage storage, and entertainment systems.
- Party Buses: These are specialty vehicles designed for fun, featuring wraparound seating, LED lighting, and premium sound systems. Due to their specialized nature, they command a higher hourly rate than standard transport buses.
When requesting your quote, be sure to specify which amenities are non-negotiable for your group. While WiFi and power outlets are standard on most of our modern charter buses, letting us know in advance ensures we match you with the perfect vehicle.
Book Your Westminster Charter Bus Today!
Ready to secure reliable transportation for your next event in Westminster, Colorado? Charter Bus Rental Company Westminster is here to make the process simple, affordable, and stress-free. Whether you are heading up US-36 to Boulder, down into Downtown Denver, or staying local at the Westminster Promenade, we have the perfect bus for you. Our quotes are all-inclusive of the driver, fuel, and gratuity, so you can budget with confidence.
Don't wait until the last minute—bus availability can be limited during peak seasons! Call our 24/7 reservation team today at 970-515-3370 to get your free, no-obligation quote. Or, use our online quote tool to see pricing and pictures in under 30 seconds. Experience the difference of booking with Westminster's most trusted charter bus company!
Frequently Asked Questions About Westminster Pricing
Does the quote include the driver's tip?
Yes! At Charter Bus Rental Company Westminster, we believe in transparent pricing. Our quotes include the base rate, fuel, and a standard gratuity for the driver. This means you don't have to worry about carrying large amounts of cash or calculating a tip at the end of your trip. We handle it all upfront so you can focus on your event.
Do I have to pay for parking at venues like the 1st Bank Center or Red Rocks?
Yes, parking fees are the responsibility of the client. Our quotes do not include parking passes or fees charged by venues. If you are heading to a major venue like Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Ball Arena, or Empower Field, you will likely need to purchase a specific bus parking pass in advance. We recommend checking with the venue's website or box office to secure this permit ahead of time to ensure a smooth arrival.
How far in advance should I book my bus?
We recommend booking your charter bus as soon as your date and venue are confirmed. Ideally, you should book 3 to 6 months in advance. This is especially important if your trip falls during peak seasons like May/June (graduations and weddings) or the winter ski season. Booking early ensures you have the widest selection of vehicles to choose from and helps lock in the best possible rate.
Do you serve suburbs near Westminster like Broomfield, Thornton, and Arvada?
Absolutely! While we are proud to call Westminster home, we serve the entire North Metro area and beyond. Whether your group is in Broomfield, Thornton, Northglenn, Arvada, Federal Heights, or anywhere in Adams and Jefferson Counties, we can pick you up. We also provide long-distance service to anywhere in Colorado and neighboring states.
Can we drink alcohol on the bus?
In most cases, yes! Passengers of legal drinking age are generally permitted to consume alcohol on our charter buses and party buses. However, this must be disclosed at the time of booking, and a refundable cleaning deposit may be required. Please note that for the safety of everyone on board, the driver strictly cannot consume alcohol, and glass bottles are often discouraged to prevent breakage. Cans and plastic cups are your best bet for a fun, safe ride!