Introduction
Denver International Airport (DEN), known for its iconic white tented roof and mysterious underground theories, is the largest airport in the U.S. by land area—and one of the most efficient. Serving as a hub for United, Southwest, and Frontier, it connects Colorado to the world.
Whether you’re heading to the Rockies or just passing through, this ultimate Denver Airport guide will help you find great food, relax in style, and move through the terminals like a seasoned traveler.
Quick Facts About Denver International
- Location: 25 miles northeast of downtown Denver
- Code: DEN (also known as DIA)
- Terminals: 1 main terminal (Jeppesen Terminal) with 3 concourses (A, B, C)
- Hub for: United Airlines, Southwest, Frontier
- Annual Passengers: Over 77 million
Terminal & Concourse Overview
DEN has a single terminal—Jeppesen Terminal—split into east and west sides for check-in. After security, passengers are funneled into one of three concourses via train or pedestrian bridge (Concourse A only).
Concourse A
- Domestic and international flights
- Airlines: Delta, Frontier, JetBlue, Air Canada, international carriers
Concourse B
- Primarily United Airlines (and United Express)
- Longest concourse at DEN
Concourse C
- Southwest Airlines and Alaska Airlines
Pro Tip: You can walk to Concourse A via a pedestrian bridge—perfect for avoiding train waits.
Best Places to Eat at DEN
Concourse A
- Root Down DIA: Farm-to-table meals and local ingredients
- Snarf’s Sandwiches: Denver’s beloved sandwich chain
Concourse B
- Elway’s: Upscale Colorado steakhouse by NFL legend John Elway
- Smashburger: Classic American comfort food with a Denver twist
Concourse C
- Modern Market Eatery: Healthy, fast-casual meals
- Breckenridge Brewery: Local brews and pub fare
Airport Lounges at DEN
United Lounges (Concourse B)
- United Club (B Gates East & West): Cozy, clean, snacks and drinks
- United Polaris Lounge: Premium lounge for international business travelers
American Airlines Admirals Club (Concourse A)
- Quiet space for AAdvantage elite and paid members
Delta Sky Club (Concourse A)
- Stylish lounge with bar, snacks, and views of the tarmac
The Centurion Lounge (Concourse C)
- Amex Platinum & Centurion access, chef-inspired dishes, spa room
READ ALSO: Ultimate Guide to JFK Airport: Master New York’s Busiest Hub
Transportation To & From DEN
A Line Train (Denver Airport Station)
- 37-minute ride to Union Station in downtown Denver
- $10.50 one-way; trains every 15–30 minutes
Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)
- Pickup zones are on Level 5, Island 5 (East and West)
Taxis
- Available outside Level 5, with flat-rate fare to downtown (~$56)
Shuttles & Car Rentals
- Free shuttles to rental car centers; hotel shuttles operate from Level 5
Wi-Fi & Charging
- Wi-Fi: Free and reliable (Network: “DEN Airport Free WiFi”)
- Charging: Available at most gates, seating areas, and lounges
Things to Do During a Layover
1. Explore the Public Art
- Don’t miss the giant Blue Mustang (a.k.a. “Blucifer”) at the airport entrance
- Look for rotating art exhibits and murals across terminals
2. Get Fresh Air at the Outdoor Plaza
- Located outside Jeppesen Terminal (between east and west sides)
- Features music, food trucks, events, and seasonal ice skating
3. Lounge Hop
- Sample different lounges if you have access (Amex or Priority Pass)
4. Hit the Spa
- XpresSpa (Concourse C): Massages, manicures, and travel wellness
Insider Tips for Flying Through DEN
- Security lines move fast—use CLEAR or TSA PreCheck for faster entry
- Trains run every 2-3 minutes but can get crowded during peak times
- Pack for altitude—Denver is a mile high, so stay hydrated
- Plan for weather delays in winter months
Where to Stay Near DEN
Westin Denver International Airport
- Directly connected to Jeppesen Terminal
- Modern rooms, indoor pool, and unbeatable convenience
Gaylord Rockies Resort
- Just 15 minutes away; perfect for longer layovers or conferences
- Water park, spa, dining, and mountain views
Hyatt House Denver Airport
- Comfortable, with free shuttle and extended-stay amenities
Conclusion
Whether you’re passing through for a ski trip or heading home from a Colorado adventure, Denver International Airport has the space, design, and services to make your journey easy. With great food, top-tier lounges, and smooth transit, DEN earns its place among the top U.S. airports.
Save this guide for your next trip to Denver and travel through DEN like a local in the know.
In another related article, Ultimate Guide to O’Hare Airport: Conquer Chicago’s Air Hub
