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DEN Airport Insights & Guide

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Anthony Bruno
Reviewed by: Hylke Robben
Updated:

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Key DEN Airport Topics:

Getting to Know DEN Airport

Welcome to your complete online guide for Denver Airport . Known as the largest airport in the United States by total land area, this expansive hub is known for its four terminals and unique architecture. With a variety of services and amenities, including a free train service connecting all terminals, DEN ensures a smooth and comfortable journey for all its passengers. Whether you're visiting the Mile-High City or embarking on an international adventure, our guide to navigating airports offers valuable insights to enhance your travel experience.

WATCH VIDEO: Take a journey through Denver International Airport, the 3rd largest airport in the USA, featuring 99 gates, a new viewing deck, and various restaurants and shops:

Airport News

Denver Airport is experiencing significant growth and improvements. United Airlines is leading the charge with a major expansion that includes 35 new flights, six new routes, and 12 additional gates set to open by mid-2024. This expansion will introduce new non-stop destinations such as San Juan, Puerto Rico, and Montego Bay, Jamaica. Additionally, United is doubling early morning departures and late arrivals, enhancing flexibility for travelers. The airline is also investing in three new United Club locations, including its largest club globally. These upgrades are part of United's nearly $1 billion investment to improve passenger experience and accommodate future growth at Denver Airport (source: United Airlines).

In addition to United's expansion, Denver Airport is enhancing its infrastructure with the Great Hall Project, aimed at improving security, operational efficiency, and capacity. This project includes new security checkpoints and renovated ticketing areas to handle over 100 million passengers annually. The airport is also adding new train cars to improve transportation within the terminal and expects to complete the West Security Checkpoint by early 2024 (sources: Denver International Airport, Colorado Sun).

United Expands Services at Denver DEN International Airport

New Gates and New Flights as United Expands in Denver (Source: Denver International Airport)

Denver DEN Airport, also known as DEN, has four terminals: Concourse A, Concourse B, Concourse C, and the Main Terminal. Concourse A has 38 gates and is primarily used by United Airlines. Concourse B has 70 gates and is used by multiple airlines, including Delta, Southwest, and Spirit. Concourse C has 27 gates and is mainly used by American Airlines. The Main Terminal has two levels and serves as the hub for security checkpoints, baggage claim, and ground transportation.

To navigate the terminals, passengers can use the airport's free train service, which connects all terminals and the Main Terminal. There are also moving walkways and escalators available to help passengers move around the airport. Each terminal has a variety of food and retail options, including restaurants, cafes, and shops. Services such as ATMs, currency exchange, and charging stations are also available throughout the airport.

Passengers should check their airline and gate information before heading to the airport, as some airlines may operate out of different terminals. Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.

Connecting Between Terminals

DEN has four terminals: Concourse A, Concourse B, Concourse C, and the Main Terminal. To get between these terminals, there are several options available.

Walking is the most convenient option for passengers who have enough time and don't have a lot of luggage. The walking time between the Concourses and the Main Terminal is approximately 10-15 minutes.

If you have a lot of luggage or are in a hurry, you can take the airport's free shuttle bus service called "The Train." The Train runs 24/7 and connects all the terminals. It takes approximately 5-10 minutes to travel between the Concourses and the Main Terminal.

Another option is to take the airport's underground train called "The Airport Rail." The Airport Rail connects the Main Terminal to the Denver downtown area and other nearby cities. It runs every 15 minutes and takes approximately 37 minutes to travel between the airport and downtown Denver.

Overall, DEN Airport provides several convenient options for passengers to get between its terminals. Whether you choose to walk, take The Train, or The Airport Rail, you can easily navigate the airport and reach your destination on time.

Tips from DEN Frequent Flyers

To help make your experience at Denver International Airport as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from DEN-based frequent travelers, flight attendants, pilots, and airport staff. Their first-hand insights are sure to provide you with valuable guidance. Here’s what they have to say:

Navigating the Terminals

"The free train service at DEN is a lifesaver when switching between terminals. It’s quick and operates 24/7, so even if your flight lands late, you won’t be stranded." — Carlos M., Aurora, CO, December 2023

"If you have a bit of time, walking between terminals can be a good way to stretch your legs after a long flight. The walkways are well-marked, and you get to see some of the cool art installations along the way." — Emily T., Lakewood, CO, February 2024

Getting to/from the City

"The Airport Rail is the best way to get to downtown Denver. It’s affordable and gives you a great view of the city as you approach. Plus, it’s pretty reliable even during rush hours." — Ahmed K., Thornton, CO, March 2024

"If you’re in a hurry, rideshares like Uber or Lyft are your best bet. They pick you up right outside the Jeppesen Terminal on Level 5, and you can avoid the hassle of parking." — Lisa S., Westminster, CO, April 2024

Parking

"For long-term parking, the Pikes Peak Shuttle Lot is a great option. It’s cheaper than the garages and the shuttle to the terminal is frequent and efficient." — John P., Boulder, CO, May 2024

"If you’re just picking someone up, use the cell phone waiting area. It’s free and saves you from circling around the airport." — Priya R., Littleton, CO, June 2024

Inside the Airport

"Root Down in Concourse C is a must-visit if you have time. The food is fantastic and it’s a nice spot to relax before your flight." — Hannah L., Centennial, CO, July 2024

"If you’re looking for a quick bite, Smashburger in Concourse B is a solid choice. Fast service and good burgers." — Mike D., Arvada, CO, August 2024

Avoiding Delays and Stress

"Always check TSA wait times online before heading to the airport. It can help you plan your arrival and avoid unnecessary stress, especially during peak travel seasons." — Julia W., Parker, CO, September 2024

"Try to arrive early if you’re flying out during the holidays. DEN can get really busy, and it’s better to have extra time for security and boarding." — Samir H., Golden, CO, October 2024

iFly Tip: Our Flying Info and Tips page offers quick links to essential air travel information.

Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers

Denver Airport provides several options for picking up and dropping off passengers. The airport has designated curbside areas for passenger drop-off and pick-up, but curbside parking is not allowed. If you need to park your vehicle, you can use the airport's parking facilities. There are several parking options available, including short-term and long-term parking.

If you are picking up passengers, you can use the airport's cell-phone waiting areas. These waiting areas are located near the airport terminals and are free to use. You can wait in your vehicle until your passengers have arrived and are ready to be picked up. Once your passengers are ready, you can drive to the curbside area to pick them up.

It's important to note that the airport has different terminals, including Concourse A, Concourse B, Concourse C, and the Main Terminal. Make sure to check which terminal your passengers are arriving or departing from to ensure a smooth pick-up or drop-off experience.

Parking Facilities & Options

Denver DEN Airport offers a variety of parking options to meet the needs of all travelers. The airport has several parking lots and garages located near each terminal, including Concourse A, Concourse B, Concourse C, and the Main Terminal.

For those who need to wait for arriving passengers, there are cell phone waiting areas available. These areas are free of charge and allow drivers to wait for their passengers without having to pay for parking.

Handicapped parking is available in all parking areas, with designated spaces located near elevators and shuttle stops for easy access to the terminals.

For those looking for a more economical parking option, off-airport parking is available near the airport. These lots offer shuttle service to and from the airport, and can be a more affordable option for longer trips.

Get details about DEN parking options and rates, along with more economical off-airport parking here.

Transportation Options

DEN Airport offers a variety of ground transportation options for travelers.

  • Car Rental: One of the most popular options is car rental, with major providers such as Avis, Budget, Enterprise, and Hertz all located at the airport. Visitors can easily rent a car and explore the city at their own pace.
  • Taxis: Taxi services are available at the airport, with designated pick-up areas located outside of each terminal. Fares vary depending on the destination, and visitors should expect to pay around $55 for a ride to downtown Denver.
  • Ride Share Services: For those looking for a more affordable option, shared ride services such as Uber and Lyft are also available. Pick-up areas are located on Level 5 of the Jeppesen Terminal, and fares are typically lower than traditional taxis.
  • Airport Shuttles: Airport shuttles are another convenient option for travelers, with several companies providing service to and from the airport. Shuttles can be pre-booked online or arranged upon arrival, and fares vary depending on the destination.
  • Public Transportation: Public transportation options are also available at DIA Airport. The Regional Transportation District (RTD) offers bus and light rail service to and from the airport, with fares starting at $10.50 for a one-way trip to downtown Denver.

iFly Tip: Travel with confidence by reading our guide for overweight travelers.

Airport Hotels

Looking for a comfortable place to rest near the airport? Our comprehensive guide provides you with a range of hotel options to suit every traveler's needs. From luxury resorts to cozy bed and breakfasts, these hotels offer a range of accommodations conveniently located within a short drive from the airport. Many also offer amenities such as complimentary WiFi, on-site dining options, and airport shuttle services. Whether you're a business traveler, a family on vacation, or simply passing through, you'll find a hotel that fits your needs. Explore the best options available and find the perfect place to rest and recharge during your travels. Ready to book now? View all DIA Hotels.

Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport

Denver DEN Airport is not just a place to catch a flight, it's also a destination for foodies and shoppers alike. With a wide variety of restaurants and stores, there's something for everyone. From local brewpubs to high-end steakhouses, the airport offers a range of dining options to satisfy your cravings. And when it comes to shopping, you can find everything from souvenirs to luxury cosmetics.

Some of the most popular restaurants and shops at the airport include McDonald's, Breckenridge Brewery, Denver Chophouse, New Belgium Brewing, Smashburger, Garbanzo Fresh Mediterranean, Timberline Steaks & Grill, City Wok, DazBog Coffee, Root Down, Peak News & Gifts, Sunglass Hut, Spirit of the Red Horse, Larimer Street Market, Tattered Cover Book Store, Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Urban Decay, Topo Designs, and Kiehl's. For a complete list of all the food, shops, and services at the airport, check out iFly's interactive map.

The locations of all food, shops, and services at DIA Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map. For a complete list of restaurants, bars, shops, and news stands, discover what's available here.

Passenger Services

DIA is one of the busiest airports in the United States, serving millions of passengers annually. The airport offers a wide range of passenger services to ensure a comfortable and stress-free travel experience for all passengers.

One of the most important services offered by Denver Airport is free Wi-Fi access throughout the airport. Passengers can easily connect to the airport's Wi-Fi network and stay connected with their loved ones or work while waiting for their flights.

If you lose something during your travel, Denver DEN Airport has a lost and found department located in the Jeppesen Terminal. Passengers can report lost items online or in person and retrieve them from the lost and found office.

For families traveling with children, DEN has several play areas located in each concourse. These areas are designed to keep children entertained and occupied while waiting for their flights.

DEN Airport also provides special-needs services for passengers with disabilities or special needs. These services include wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and dedicated parking spaces.

Passengers who need to access banking services can find ATMs and currency exchange services located throughout the airport. Medical help is also available at the airport through the airport's medical clinic located in the Jeppesen Terminal.

Flight Status Info

Traveling by air can be an exciting experience, but it can also be stressful if you don't know the status of your flight. Fortunately, there are several ways to get flight status updates at DIA Airport.

One of the easiest ways to get flight status updates is by using the in-airport flight displays (FIDS). These displays are located throughout the airport and provide real-time information on flight departures, delays, and gate information. Simply locate the display for your airline and flight number and check the status.

Another way to get flight status updates is by using your airline's mobile phone app. Most airlines have apps that allow you to check the status of your flight, receive alerts about departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes, and even check-in for your flight. You can also sign up for text, email, and push notifications to stay updated on any changes to your flight status.

Passengers can check the status of their flight departure at DIA by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

iFly Tip: Want to speed through security? Learn more in our TSA PreCheck Guide.

Airport Facts & Stats

  • Location: Denver International Airport (DEN) is located in Denver, Colorado, United States.
  • Terminals: The airport features a Main Terminal and three concourses: Concourse A, Concourse B, and Concourse C.
  • Airlines Served: The airport is served by major airlines including United Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and Frontier Airlines. For a complete list of airlines, visit the DEN Airlines Served page.
  • Passenger Traffic: Denver International handles over 64 million passengers annually.
  • Daily Flights: The airport sees around 1,500 daily flights.
  • Top Destinations: The most popular destinations served from DEN are Los Angeles, Phoenix, Las Vegas, Chicago, and Dallas.
  • Hub Status: Denver International serves as a hub for United Airlines, Frontier Airlines, and Southwest Airlines.
  • Unique Features: The airport is known for its unique architecture, art installations, and commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.
  • Amenities: Offers a variety of dining and shopping options, free Wi-Fi, and pet relief areas.

Airport History

The airport, also known as Denver International Airport (DEN), is the largest airport in the United States by total land area and the fifth busiest airport in the country.

Here are some significant events in the airport's history:

  • 1989: Construction of DIA Airport begins
  • 1995: DIA opens to the public, replacing Stapleton International Airport
  • 2003: The airport introduces the first airport rail connection in the United States, the A Line
  • 2008: Denver Airport becomes the first airport in the United States to generate its own on-site solar power
  • 2016: The airport completes a major renovation of its main terminal, including the addition of new restaurants and shops
  • 2020: Denver DEN Airport sees a significant decrease in passenger traffic due to the COVID-19 pandemic

Despite the challenges of the pandemic, DEN remains an important hub for air travel in the United States, with plans for continued expansion and improvement in the coming years.

Airport Contact Information

For more information about Denver International Airport, please refer to the following contact details:

  • IATA Code: DEN
  • Airport Website
  • Phone: +1 303-342-2000
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Mailing Address: Denver International Airport, 8500 Peña Blvd, Denver, CO 80249, United States

Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).

About this Page: Please note that while we strive to keep the content on this page current and accurate, we cannot guarantee it due to the ever-changing nature of airports and airlines; for more details about our data and practices, refer to our Trust & Transparency statement. To report any data issues, use our feedback form.

Denver Airport Q&A

The Airport Rail is the best option for reaching downtown Denver. It is reliable, cost-effective, and offers scenic views along the way.
Yes, there are lounges in Concourse B that offer comfortable seating and good Wi-Fi, ideal for relaxation or catching up on work.
The Pikes Peak Shuttle Lot is a great choice for long-term parking, offering affordability and efficient shuttle service to the terminal.
Passengers can use the free underground train that connects all terminals. It operates 24/7 and provides a quick and convenient way to navigate the airport.
Root Down in Concourse C is highly recommended for its selection of local dishes and cozy atmosphere. Garbanzo Fresh Mediterranean is also a great choice for a quick, healthy snack.
Yes, travelers can check TSA wait times online to help plan their arrival and avoid unnecessary stress during peak travel times.
The airport offers cell-phone waiting areas where you can wait in your vehicle until your passengers are ready for pick-up at the curbside area.
Yes, DEN has several play areas located in each concourse to keep children entertained while waiting for flights.
DEN offers a variety of options including car rentals, taxis, ride-share services, airport shuttles, and public transportation via the RTD bus and light rail service.
Passengers can use in-airport flight displays, airline mobile apps, or sign up for text, email, and push notifications to receive real-time updates on flight status.

Find more help here for your journey through the airport