The Denver International Airport (DEN)
Denver International Airport (DEN) is the third busiest airport in the United States (sixth in the world), serving as a major hub for domestic and international flights. Located approximately 23 miles northeast of downtown Denver, DEN offers various amenities, transportation options, and a touch of mystery with its infamous conspiracy theories.
Visiting Denver International Airport (DEN) for the first time can be a smooth experience with some preparation. We made our inaugural flight to the Mile High City in July of 2024 and are delighted to share what we learned. Here are some tips and advice to help you navigate the airport.
General Tips
Allow Extra Time: Denver Airport is one of the largest in the U.S., so it’s a good idea to arrive at least two hours before a domestic flight and three hours before an international flight.
- Prepare for Security: Have your ID and boarding pass ready, and be aware of TSA regulations regarding liquids, electronics, and prohibited items.
- TSA PreCheck: If you have TSA PreCheck, use it to speed up the security process. If you are a Colorado resident and have TSA, consider using a digital id to help speed your way through security. We were shocked when we zipped through TSA security in less than 10 minutes on a Monday morning. I don’t think we have ever been so lucky!
Sunday, June 30, 2024, was the fourth busiest ever for TSA at DEN when 86,941 were screened through the security checkpoints. The single-day record at DEN was July 16, 2023, when 88,684 people were screened. The second busiest day was Monday, September 4, 2023, when 87,624 people were screened and the third busiest day was July 7, 2019, when 87,187 people were screened.
TSA.gov, July 1, 2024
Special Considerations
- Altitude: Denver is known as the Mile-High City, and the altitude can affect visitors. (Denver’s altitude is 5280 feet, which is one mile long.) Stay hydrated and take it easy if you’re not accustomed to high elevations. Drinking plenty of water cannot be stated enough. I recommend that you bring some lip balm to keep your lips moist. Don’t be surprised if you develop a bloody nose like I did.
- Weather: Denver weather can be unpredictable. Be prepared for sudden changes, especially when traveling during the winter months. Check the forecast and plan accordingly. (The week before we arrived, the low temperatures dropped into the 40’s in the mountains. In July. Brrrr!)
- Emergency Contacts: Keep a list of emergency contacts and important information handy, including your airline’s customer service number.
- Stay Informed: Monitor your flight status through the airline’s app or the airport’s website for any changes or delays. Just when you think you know which gate your flight will depart from, a last-minute change can occur, and you might need to quickly relocate to a different part of the terminal. Always double-check gate assignments on the day of your flight and stay alert for announcements and notifications to avoid missing your departure.
Inside the Airport
Navigating the Terminal
- Main Terminal: The Jeppesen Terminal is the main terminal and is divided into east and west sides.
- Concourses: There are three concourses (A, B, and C) connected by an automated train. Make sure to check your boarding pass for your departure gate.
Amenities and Services
- Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport. For safety, never open apps that link to your bank or credit card accounts. For increased security, either use your cell phone data plan or connect via a VPN (Virtual Private Network). [SurfShark is a well-rated VPN used around the world.]
- Charging Stations: Located throughout the airport for your electronic devices.
- Dining and Shopping: DEN boasts a diverse selection of dining options to satisfy travelers’ cravings. From fast food to sit-down restaurants, there is something for everyone. Popular choices include the Denver Central Market, which offers a variety of artisanal foods, Root Down DIA for farm-to-table cuisine, and Elway’s for a taste of local Colorado flavors. For quick bites, chains like Chick-fil-A, McDonald’s, and Dunkin’ are conveniently located throughout the airport. A quick preliminary search indicates that Root Down is the best place to eat at the airport.
- Lounges: Denver International Airport offers a variety of lounges to enhance your travel experience. These lounges provide a relaxing and comfortable environment away from the bustling terminal. These lounges cater to different airlines and credit card holders, offering amenities such as complimentary food and beverages, Wi-Fi, and quiet spaces to unwind or work before your flight. If you have a Capital One Venture X credit card, you definitely need to check out the Capital One Lounge.
| Lounge | Location | Entry Qualifications |
|---|---|---|
| American Express Centurion Lounge | Concourse C, Mezzanine, near Gate C46 | Centurion Card holders, American Express Platinum and Business Platinum Card Members, Delta SkyMiles Reserve Card Members. |
| Delta Sky Club | Pedestrian Bridge Y Juncture, Level 4, South end of Center Core | Delta Sky Club membership, same-day Delta or partner airline boarding pass, certain credit card holders. |
| United Club & United Club Fly | Concourse A, near Gate A25; Concourse B, near Gate B44, and Near Gate B-60 | United Club membership, same-day United or Star Alliance flight, certain credit card holders. |
| USO Denver | North end of A Gates Bridge from Jeppesen Terminal | Military Travelers |
| Capital One Lounge | Concourse A, near Gate A34, Mezzanine Level | Capital One Venture X cardholders, certain premium ticket holders; day passes available for purchase starting at $65 per person. You will have to present your credit card and boarding pass to enter. |
For more detailed information on entry requirements and amenities, you can visit the official Denver International Airport lounge page.
Conspiracy Theories
​Denver International Airport is perhaps as famous for its conspiracy theories as it is for its flights. The airport’s unusual design elements and extensive underground facilities have sparked numerous rumors.
One of the most talked-about features is “Blucifer,” the giant blue mustang sculpture with glowing red eyes that stands at the airport’s entrance. Officially named “Blue Mustang,” this statue has been the subject of much speculation due to its menacing appearance and the tragic death of its creator, Luis Jiménez, during its construction.
Other art installations will undoubtedly catch your attention and prompt you to question the surrounding theories. For instance, the “Notre Denver” gargoyles in the baggage claim area are said to be “protecting” luggage. Leo Tanguma’s mural “In Peace and Harmony with Nature,” which depicts environmental destruction, is currently in storage, as is his “Children of the World Dream of Peace” mural.
Other theories suggest that DEN is a headquarters for the Illuminati or a post-apocalyptic bunker. While these stories are intriguing, the airport maintains that these elements are simply unique art installations and practical facilities.
Airlines Flying into DEN
Denver International Airport is a central hub for several major airlines. United Airlines and Southwest Airlines have significant operations here, providing numerous flights across the country and around the world. Other major airlines that fly into DEN include American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Frontier Airlines, and Alaska Airlines, along with a host of international carriers. Check out the Denver Airport website to see where your plane will arrive. We flew on Southwest and arrived in Concourse C.
Transportation Options
- Train: The A Line provides a direct rail connection between DEN and downtown Denver’s Union Station. The trip takes about 37 minutes and lines run every 15 minutes during peak hours. Tickets are approximately $10. Pay attention to what ticket you buy – it could be valid until 3:00 am the following day.
- Shuttles and Buses: Various shuttle services and buses are available. The RTD bus service connects to different parts of the city.
- Car Rentals: Over 10 car rental services, from Alamo to Thrifty, are available on-site, but be sure to book in advance during peak travel seasons.
- Summit Express: For those heading to the mountains, Summit Express offers shuttle services to popular destinations like Breckenridge, Keystone, and Copper Mountain. This is a great choice for travelers looking to hit the slopes without the hassle of driving. (We booked roundtrip transportation to Frisco, Colorado. I loved that I was able to tip in advance and not have to worry about it. I also appreciate that they offer passengers free bottles of water on each trip. Remember, stay hydrated!)
Denver International Airport (DEN) Parking Rates
​Parking options at DEN are plentiful and cater to various needs and budgets.
The airport offers several parking lots, including the close-in Garage Parking, which provides covered spaces directly adjacent to the terminal. Economy Parking lots offer more affordable rates with shuttle service to the terminal.
For longer stays, the Pikes Peak and Mt. Elbert shuttle lots provide cost-effective solutions. Frequent shuttle service to the terminal is provided. Additionally, valet parking services are available for added convenience.
| Parking Lot | Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Garage Parking | $7 per hour, $30 per day | Located adjacent to Jeppesen Terminal |
| Economy Parking | $6 per hour, $18 per day | East and West Economy Lots, shuttle service to terminals |
| Short-Term Parking | $7 per hour | Located in garages, designed for short visits |
| 61st and Peña | $7 per day/$5 per hour | Access via RTD A Line, includes overnight parking |
| Pikes Peak and Shuttle Lot | $8 per day | |
| Cell Phone Lot | Free |
Off-Airport Parking Options
| Location | Rate | Notes |
| The Parking Spot | $13.75 per day | Covered and uncovered options, shuttle service |
| Park, Sleep, Fly | Varies by the hotel, typically includes one-night stay + parking | Ideal for travelers needing a hotel stay and parking |
For more details on DEN parking options, visit the Denver International Airport parking page. For additional off-airport parking options, you can explore The Parking Spot and ParkSleepFly.
​The Westin Hotel at the Airport
Staying close to the airport can be a lifesaver for travelers with early flights or layovers. The Westin Denver International Airport Hotel is directly connected to the Jeppesen Terminal. This modern hotel offers dining options and amenities like a fitness center and heated indoor pool, ideal for recovering from and before a long journey.
Other nearby hotels include the Gaylord Rockies Resort and Convention Center, Hyatt House Denver Airport, and Embassy Suites by Hilton. The latter two hotels offer complimentary airport shuttle service.
We chose to stay at The Crawford, which is conveniently located inside Union Station in the heart of LoDo (lower downtown). We bought train tickets and arrived at the hotel 45 minutes later.
Denver International Airport is not just a gateway to the Rocky Mountains but a destination in itself, filled with amenities, transportation options, and a touch of intrigue. Whether you’re passing through or starting your adventure, DEN has everything you need for a smooth and memorable travel experience.
Do you have any tips that you can recommend for those who will be flying into or out of DEN? What is your favorite place to eat inside the airport? Did you see any of the mysterious art?
