Flying through Denver International Airport for the first time? Don’t let its size intimidate you.
While DEN is one of the largest airports in the world (locals still call it “DIA” despite the official DEN airport code), this guide breaks down everything you need to know to navigate like a pro.
Whether you’re connecting through Denver, flying from Denver, or it’s your final destination, I have you covered with the essentials plus links to detailed guides for deeper dives.
Quick Airport Overview
Denver International Airport is huge.
It’s the sixth-busiest airport in the world, and it covers more land than Manhattan.
DEN serves as a major hub for United Airlines, Frontier Airlines and Southwest Airlines.
The airport’s iconic white tent-like roof is designed to resemble the Rocky Mountains and has become a recognizable symbol of Colorado.
Learn more about DEN’s fascinating history and impressive stats.
Getting To and From DEN
While Denver Airport is located 25 miles northeast of downtown Denver, it’s surprisingly easy to get between the airport and the city.
You have several transportation options to reach and leave Denver Airport, each with different costs and convenience levels:
- RTD A-Line Train – Budget-friendly option at $10.50, running from downtown in about 40 minutes. Read my Guide to the Denver Airport Train here.
- Rideshare and Taxis – Most convenient door-to-door service, typically $35-50 from downtown. Read How and Where to Pick up an Uber or Lyft here.
- Rental Cars – All companies located at consolidated facility with free shuttle access
- Airport Parking – Multiple options from economy ($5/day) to valet ($35/day)
- Hotel Shuttles – Many Denver hotels offer complimentary airport transportation
To save time, plan exactly where you’ll get dropped off. Read my Guide to Getting Dropped Off at Denver Airport here.
Check-in and Bag Drop
I highly recommend downloading your airline’s app and checking in there/getting a mobile boarding pass.
For those who prefer to check-in with a person and for those who need to drop off checked bags, airline check-in counters are located on Level 6 on both the east and west sides of the airport.
This is where you’ll go to drop off your bags and check-in with an agent (if necessary).
Going Through Security
There are two TSA security checkpoints at Denver Airport: North Security and West Security.
The good news is that when compared to other major airports, going through security at Denver International Airport is surprisingly easy – you just need to know where to go.
For tips on which security checkpoint to use, read my Complete Guide to Denver Airport Security here.
Airport Layout
Denver Airport consists of one main terminal connected to three concourses (A,B,C) via an underground automated train system that’s free and runs every 2-3 minutes.
It’s very easy to travel between terminals and concourses. Read my complete guide to Terminal Hopping at Denver Airport here.
Main Terminal and Concourses
The airport’s layout at a glance looks like this:
- Main Terminal – Check-in, security, and baggage claim locations
- Concourse A – Frontier Airlines gates and international carriers + some United flights
- Concourse B – United Airlines hub with most domestic flights
- Concourse C – Southwest Airlines hub and other domestic carriers
Gates
All departure gates at Denver Airport are located in the three concourses, accessible only after passing through security via the underground train system.
When you exit the train at each concourse and go up the escalator, you’ll be in the center of the concourse. From there, you either go left or right to get to your gate – signs clearly indicate which gates are in each direction.
Dining and Shopping
Each concourse offers dozens of dining and shopping options, from fast food to sit-down restaurants and local Colorado favorites.
Many restaurants and coffee shops have multiple locations in multiple terminals, and some only have one location.
Read my Denver Airport dining guide here.
Airport Hotels
Whether you need a place to stay before an early flight or after a late night arrival, Denver offers accommodation options at the airport and throughout the metro area.
Airport hotels include options onsite at the airport and close hotels accessible via quick shuttles. Other hotels in the Denver area are also accessible.
Read the Denver Airport Hotel Guide here.
Family Travel
Traveling with children through Denver Airport requires extra planning, and DEN offers numerous family-friendly amenities and services to make the journey smoother.
Read my guide to traveling with kids at Denver Airport here.
Amenities and Services
Denver Airport provides free WiFi, charging stations at most gates, rotating art installations, and various traveler services throughout all terminals.
Helpful articles:
Ready for Your Denver Airport Journey?
With this overview, you’re equipped with the essential knowledge to navigate Denver International Airport confidently. Remember to bookmark our site for detailed guides on any topic you need to explore further. Safe travels, and welcome to the Mile High City!
Last updated: [July 2025] – Airport information and procedures can change. Always verify current details with your airline and the official DEN website.
