How to Get from Denver Airport to Cherry Creek
Looking to get to Cherry Creek from Denver Airport? When it comes to traveling between these two points, there are several transportation options. You can drive, take rideshare services, use a taxi, book a shuttle, or take public transit. This guide will discuss your options in detail, plus the pros and cons for each.
Whether you’re visiting Cherry Creek for shopping, staying at one of the area’s luxury hotels, or heading home after a long trip, there are plenty of reasons to visit this upscale Denver neighborhood.
Cherry Creek is one of Denver’s most vibrant and sophisticated neighborhoods, known for its upscale shopping, fine dining, art galleries, and tree-lined streets. Located near the center of Denver, the area is anchored by the Cherry Creek Shopping Center and the open-air Cherry Creek North district, featuring luxury brands, local boutiques, and some of Denver’s best restaurants.
So, how do you get to Cherry Creek from Denver Airport? It’s quite straightforward, and there are several ways to make the journey.
Know Before You Go
Distance from Denver Airport to Cherry Creek
Cherry Creek is approximately 24 miles from Denver International Airport, and it’ll take you about 30-40 minutes to drive there under normal traffic conditions.
This is a straightforward city drive that takes you through Denver’s metro area. Unlike mountain destinations, there are no elevation challenges or winding roads to worry about – just typical urban traffic patterns.
The drive follows major highways and is well-maintained year-round, though traffic can be heavy during rush hour periods (7-9 AM and 4-6 PM).
Traffic Considerations
Before choosing your transportation method, consider that Cherry Creek is located in Denver’s metro area, which means:
- Rush hour delays: Morning and evening commutes can extend travel time
- Event traffic: Broncos games and downtown events can impact routes
- Construction: Ongoing highway projects may cause occasional delays
- Best travel times: Early morning (before 7 AM) or late evening (after 8 PM) for fastest trips
Transportation Option 1: Rent a Car and Drive
Suitable for: Those wanting maximum flexibility to explore Denver and Colorado
How to Book: Rentalcars.com, with Denver Airport set as the pickup location
Renting a car at DEN and driving to Cherry Creek gives you complete freedom during your stay. You take a short shuttle to the rental car lot, pick up your rental, and you’re off.
The drive will take you about 30-40 minutes from Denver Airport without stops or heavy traffic. Add about 45 minutes to account for the time between landing and picking up your car.
The Route
Primary Route (Recommended):
- Take Peña Boulevard west from the airport
- Merge onto I-70 West toward Denver
- Take the Colorado Boulevard exit (Exit 276B)
- Head south on Colorado Boulevard toward Cherry Creek
This route is the most direct and takes you straight to the Cherry Creek area.
Important Considerations
Parking: Most Cherry Creek hotels charge $20-50+ per night for parking.
Rental Car Pickup: All rental car companies are located off-site. Unlike some airports where you can walk directly to rental counters, all car rental agencies at DEN are located at a consolidated facility that’s about 5-7 minutes away from the main terminal. You’ll need to take a free shuttle to get there. If you need more information, see my guide to renting a car at Denver Airport here.
Costs and Vehicle Recommendations
A standard car is adequate unless snow is expected during your stay in Denver. You’ll still want an AWD or 4WD drive car to get around more easily.
Expect to pay around $40-80+ per day depending on the season and vehicle type.
Having a rental car is ideal if you plan to explore Denver and the surrounding areas, or if you want the flexibility to leave on your own schedule.
Pros
- Complete freedom to explore Denver and Colorado
- Cost-effective for longer stays
- No waiting for other transportation
- Can handle multiple stops easily
- Easy city driving with no mountain roads
Cons
- Parking fees add up quickly
- Navigation in unfamiliar city
- Not ideal if you’re staying in Cherry Creek exclusively
- Airport rental pickup adds time to your journey
Transportation Option 2: Rideshare Apps
Suitable for: Most travelers wanting convenience and reasonable cost
How to Book: Uber app or Lyft app
You can take an Uber or Lyft from Denver International Airport to Cherry Creek easily. This is one of the most popular options for travelers.
Estimated costs typically range from $50-65 for the 24-mile journey, with an average cost of $54. The trip takes about 39 minutes under normal conditions.
How It Works
Open the Uber or Lyft app once you’ve collected your luggage. You can schedule trips in advance on the Uber app from Denver Airport anywhere from 2 hours to 90 days in advance, which is perfect if you want to guarantee a ride during busy travel periods.
Pickup Location
Both Uber and Lyft pick up from Level 5 (the same level as baggage claim) on the east and west sides of the terminal. Look for the designated rideshare pickup areas – they’re clearly marked and easy to find. If you prefer a step by step guide (with photos), see my guide on picking up an Uber or Lyft at Denver Airport here.
Pros
- No need to wait for other passengers
- Door-to-door service to your exact destination
- Upfront pricing so you know exactly what you’ll pay
- Easy to book through familiar apps
- No parking fees or navigation hassles
Cons
- Prices can surge during peak times or bad weather
- Potential wait times during busy periods
- Limited vehicle options for large groups
Transportation Option 3: Taxi
Suitable for: Those preferring traditional transportation without apps
How to Book: Available at designated taxi stands
Taxis are readily available at Denver Airport, though they’re generally more expensive than rideshare options.
Cost: $65 – $85
Travel Time: 30-40 minutes plus pickup time
Pickup Location
Taxis are available at designated taxi stands on Level 5 of the terminal (same level as baggage claim). Look for the ground transportation signs.
Pros
- No app required
- Professional drivers familiar with the area
- Fixed meter rates
- Available 24/7
Cons
- More expensive than rideshare
- Potential wait times
- Prices can vary with traffic (meter-based)
Transportation Option 4: Public Transit
Suitable for: Budget travelers with time to spare
How to Book: RTD mobile app or ticket machines
If you’re budget-conscious and not in a hurry, RTD public transit can get you to Cherry Creek for just $10.50.
Cost: $10.50 for a day pass
Travel Time: 75-90 minutes with connections
Note: Shared shuttle services like SuperShuttle used to provide door-to-door service to residences in the Cherry Creek area, but these services are no longer available.
The Route
Unfortunately, there’s no direct public transit from Denver Airport to Cherry Creek. The most practical route involves:
- Take the A-Line train from Denver Airport to Union Station (37 minutes, runs every 15-30 minutes)
- Transfer to bus routes that serve the Cherry Creek area
- Cherry Creek is a Transfer Station with no RTD parking and serves 5 bus routes
Ticket Options
Mobile ticketing is the easiest way to buy tickets. The convenient app allows you to connect to other RTD resources for trip planning. Tickets can also be purchased on rail line platforms at ticket vending machines, inside DEN or Union Station.
Pros
- By far the cheapest option
- Great way to see the city
- Environmentally friendly
- No parking hassles
Cons
- Longest travel time
- Requires transfers and navigation
- Not ideal with heavy luggage
- Limited service frequency outside peak hours
Insider Tips for Your Journey
Best Times to Travel
Fastest: Early morning (before 7 AM) or late evening (after 8 PM)
Busiest: Friday afternoons and Sunday evenings
Rush Hour: Avoid 7-9 AM and 4-6 PM for quickest trips
If Your Flight is Delayed
Most transportation options are available on-demand, so delays typically aren’t a problem. Rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft can be requested once you land, regardless of timing. Taxis are always available at the airport. Most rental car lots at Denver operate 24/7, but check with your individual operator if you’re significantly delayed. Public transit runs on a set schedule, so you can catch the next available train or bus.
Weather Considerations
Denver weather can change quickly, but Cherry Creek is in the city with well-maintained roads year-round. Winter storms may affect all transportation options, but the A-Line train typically runs in most conditions.
Money-Saving Tips
- Book rental cars in advance for better rates
- Buy Denver Airport train tickets on the RTD app to save $0.50
- Consider rideshare if you’re traveling solo or as a couple
Final Thoughts
Traveling from Denver Airport to Cherry Creek is straightforward compared to mountain destinations, with multiple reliable transportation options.
For those wanting maximum flexibility to explore Denver and Colorado, renting a car provides the best value – especially for longer stays. The drive is easy city driving with no mountain roads to worry about.
For most travelers, rideshare strikes the perfect balance of convenience, cost, and reliability. It’s door-to-door service without the hassles of parking or navigation.
Budget travelers can make the journey work with public transit, though it requires patience and time. Taxis offer traditional convenience without apps.
Whatever option you choose, you’ll arrive in one of Denver’s most sophisticated neighborhoods. Cherry Creek offers excellent shopping, dining, and serves as a perfect base for exploring the Mile High City.
Enjoy your time in Cherry Creek!
Travel times and prices are estimates and may vary based on traffic, weather, and other factors. Always check current schedules and rates before traveling.
