Denver International Airport is massive.
Like, really massive.
I’ve been through hundreds of airports, and this one still makes me feel like I’m walking through a small city.
You’re probably wondering the same things I did on my first visit: How long will it take to get through security? Where should I eat? How do I not get completely lost?
Let me break it down for you.
What Makes Denver International Airport Different
Denver International Airport covers 33,531 acres.
That’s bigger than Manhattan.
No joke.
When you land here, you’ll understand why locals call it DEN or just “Denver Airport.”
The iconic white tent peaks aren’t just for show. They’re actually designed to look like the Rocky Mountains. Pretty cool, right?
The Size Reality Check
Here’s what you need to know about navigating this place:
- Terminal layout: One main terminal with three concourses (A, B, C)
- Walking distances: Can take 15-20 minutes between gates
- Train system: Free underground train connects everything
- Gates: Over 140 gates total
The underground train is your best friend here. Don’t try to walk everything.
Getting Through Denver Airport Security
Security at Denver International Airport moves pretty well.
But with 69 million passengers a year, you’ll want to plan ahead.
Security Wait Times
Peak times to avoid:
- 6:00 AM – 8:00 AM
- 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Best times to fly through:
- Before 6:00 AM
- After 8:00 PM
- Mid-afternoon (2:00 PM – 4:00 PM)
I always check the TSA wait times on their app. Saves me from standing in line for an hour when I could be grabbing coffee instead.
TSA PreCheck and Clear
TSA PreCheck is worth every penny here. The regular security lines can get brutal during peak travel.
Clear is also available. If you travel a lot, the combo of both will save you serious time.
Food and Shopping at Denver Airport
The food scene here is actually legit.
None of that typical airport garbage.
Must-Try Restaurants
Local favorites I recommend:
- Root Down (Concourse A): Farm-to-table stuff that doesn’t suck
- Snooze (Concourse B): Best pancakes you’ll have at 30,000 feet
- Work & Class (Concourse C): Cocktails that taste like they’re from downtown Denver
- Denver Chophouse & Brewery (Concourse B): If you want a proper steak
Quick grab options:
- Starbucks (everywhere)
- Chipotle (Concourse A)
- Shake Shack (Concourse C)
Shopping That Actually Matters
Unique Denver stuff:
- Tattered Cover Bookstore: Colorado’s famous bookstore chain
- Elway’s Shop: John Elway’s merchandise (if you’re into that)
- Colorado gift shops: Rocky Mountain chocolates and local crafts
Most of the usual suspects are here too. But grab the local stuff if you want something actually cool.
Transportation From Denver International Airport
Getting to and from Denver International Airport is easier than you think.
Your Options Ranked
1. Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)
- Cost: $35-60 to downtown
- Time: 45-60 minutes
- Pick-up: Level 5, Island 4 (follow the signs)
2. A-Line Light Rail
- Cost: $10.50
- Time: 40 minutes to Union Station
- Frequency: Every 15 minutes
3. Rental Cars
- Location: Off-site (free shuttle from baggage claim)
- Major companies: All the big names are here
- Drive time: 25-45 minutes to downtown (traffic dependent)
4. Airport Shuttles
- Cost: $25-35
- Time: 1+ hours (multiple stops)
- Worth it: Only if you’re really trying to save money
The light rail is my go-to. Clean, reliable, and you can’t beat the price.
Hotels Near Denver International Airport
Sometimes you need to crash close to the airport.
On-Airport Hotel
Westin Denver International Airport
- Connected to the terminal via covered walkway
- Expensive but convenient
- Book early or you’ll pay through the nose
Close Airport Hotels (Free Shuttles)
Top picks:
- Hilton Garden Inn Denver Airport
- Courtyard by Marriott Denver Airport
- Hampton Inn & Suites Denver Airport
All run shuttles every 15-30 minutes. Most have decent restaurants and fitness centers.
Tips for Connecting Flights at Denver Airport
Denver International Airport is a major hub for United Airlines.
If you’re connecting here, these tips will save your sanity:
Connection Time Reality
Minimum connection times:
- Domestic to domestic: 45 minutes (cutting it close)
- International to domestic: 90 minutes
- Domestic to international: 2 hours
I always book at least 90 minutes for domestic connections. This place is too big to risk a 45-minute sprint.
Getting Between Concourses
Use the underground train.
Don’t walk. Seriously.
The train runs every 2-3 minutes. Takes about 6 minutes to get from one end to the other.
If Your Connection Is Tight
Priority actions:
- Check your gate before you get off the plane
- Head straight to the train
- Don’t stop for food/shopping
- Have your boarding pass ready
The gate displays update in real-time. Your connection gate might change while you’re walking.
Weather and Delays at Denver Airport
Colorado weather is unpredictable.
Denver International Airport sits on the plains where weather systems collide.
What to Expect by Season
Winter (December-February):
- Snowstorms can shut things down
- Always have backup plans
- Pack layers for temperature swings
Spring (March-May):
- Severe thunderstorms
- Hail is common
- Afternoon storms roll in fast
Summer (June-August):
- Afternoon thunderstorms almost daily
- Usually clear by evening
- Hot and dry most days
Fall (September-November):
- Best weather for flying
- Fewer delays
- Crisp and clear
Dealing with Weather Delays
Smart moves:
- Book morning flights when possible
- Download airline apps for real-time updates
- Know your rebooking options before you need them
I’ve been stuck here overnight twice. Both times were winter storms that came out of nowhere.
Frequently Asked Questions About Denver International Airport
How early should I arrive at Denver International Airport?
2 hours for domestic flights, 3 hours for international. During peak times (holidays, summer), add another 30 minutes.
Is Denver Airport hard to navigate?
It’s big, but well-organized. Use the underground train system and follow the signs. Download the DEN app for real-time gate info.
What’s the fastest way to downtown Denver from the airport?
The A-Line light rail takes 40 minutes and costs $10.50. Rideshare is faster (25-45 minutes) but costs $35-60.
Can I sleep overnight at Denver International Airport?
Yes, but it’s not comfortable. The airport stays open 24/7, but most shops and restaurants close. Consider an airport hotel instead.
Does Denver Airport have free WiFi?
Yes, free WiFi throughout the airport. No time limits or registration required.
Where can I store luggage at Denver Airport?
There’s a left luggage service on Level 5 of the main terminal. Costs about $10-15 per bag per day.
Final Thoughts on Denver International Airport
Denver International Airport doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
Yes, it’s massive. Yes, the walking distances are real. But once you know the system, it’s actually pretty smooth.
Use the train. Give yourself extra time. Download the airport app.
And if you’re connecting through Denver, grab some local coffee while you wait. The mountain views from the terminal aren’t bad either.
You’ve got this.
