Whether you have a layover, overnight sleepover or are just quickly passing through, our Denver Airport Guide is a great place to start planning your visit. Here, you’ll find information on services and facilities available inside the airport – including details about airport lounges, WiFi, mobile charging points, lockers, 24-hour food options, nearby hotels, and everything in between.
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Announcements notified the stranded travelers of pads and blankets available at the baggage claim area. – SThagard
DEN Airport Overview
To help you plan your layover or overnight sleepover, here is a quick run-down about what to expect during your time at Denver International Airport.
What to Expect
Denver International Airport (code: DEN) is a large, modern airport that houses a main landside Terminal (Jeppesen) for ticketing and security, which is connected to three concourses ( A, B and C). Concourse A is connected directly to Jeppesen and can be accessed by a pedestrian bridge or underground train, while access from Jeppesen to Concourses B and C requires the underground train. There are plenty of dining, shopping and service options airside, and some in Jeppesen. There are no 24-hour food options, but there is a convenience store open 24-hour. The airport’s free WiFi helps pass the time. For more comfort, there are several lounges that economy-class passengers can access for a fee.
Sleeping in Denver Airport
Airport staff and security are generally tolerant of sleepers. The spacious airport has a lot of seating areas, both landside and airside, though most seats and benches are equipped with armrests. If you do find an armrest-free bench, go for it! You should have no problem finding an empty gate or corner for privacy at night, particularly if you’re willing to sleep on the floor. Much of the floor is carpeted, but an extra layer can provide added cushion. In each of the three concourses, the upper levels have little foot traffic and may even have a few armrest-free benches.
Here are a few sleep spots that travellers have reported:
- In Concourse A, you will also find eight recliner-like massage chairs near the end of the concourse in the center. On the 3rd floor (North side, mezzanine), across from the entrance to the lounges, there are some resting chairs and a variety of full flat twin bed style mini beds!
- In Concourse C, near Gates C55 and up, there are some curved couches you can spread out on, but one reader tells us they are as hard as rock.
- Terminal A, Kudos to Denver airport officials for installing a rest area!
- In the landside Jeppesen Terminal, there are several armrest-free benches in the middle of it all, but the lights stay bright here.
For uninterrupted sleep, there is a hotel next to Jeppesen and other nearby hotels within a quick shuttle ride away. See Airport Hotels in the guide below.
Read the latest traveller airport reviews for more tips.
Good to Know
The airport is known for its art, both permanent collection and temporary exhibitions, which can be found throughout the facility. Downtown Denver is linked to the airport by regularly scheduled light rail service.
To help us keep this guide up-to-date, you can add or update information or write a review to submit airport tips and photos. You can also visit the airport’s website for current information. For more airport information, continue scrolling down to explore more in our Denver Airport Guide.
In this guide we may refer to locations as “landside” and “airside”. Landside is the public area of the terminal located in the non-secure zone, before security. Airside is the secure area of the terminal that you must reach by going through security.
Airport Hours
The airport is open 24 hours.
Remember that airline check-in and baggage drop hours vary according to the flight schedule. Check these hours with your airline. If you are in the public area (landside), you cannot get through to the secure area (airside) until the morning. The TSA security screening checkpoint hours vary according to terminal:
- West Security: 4:00AM – 7:30PM
- South Security: 3:00AM – 1:00AM
Rest & Relaxation Zones
A public rest lounge is located airside on the mezzanine level of Concourse A on the airside. The space has comfortable flatbed and recliner-style chairs and charging outlets.
Cots
Cots seem to be available for all types of passangers in Concourse B, Mezzanine Level. In October 2024, one of our readers left us a review stating:
After a 3am wake up, we had a long layover in Denver and desperately needed sleep. Found a “guest lounge” via a dingy staircase, and initially thought it was a staff lounge, but noticed customer-facing posters and communication. We napped on two cots, and though a bit austere, they were flat, not out in heavy foot traffic, had pillows and blankets, and were the most welcome thing I’ve ever found in an airport. I think they are intended for weather stranded pax, but we were able to use them and it was wonderful.
Pro-Tip: Pre-Covid, Jeff sent us this email: In the business center in the middle of the “B” Terminal (not sure of other terminals), there’s a cot located in the far cubical, which is the widest cubical. I saw it earlier, and now someone is using it to sleep. I don’t have time to check the other similar cubicles or terminals, but I would assume they’ve placed them in those locations as well.
Denver Airport Hotels
Quick Facts
- Nearest Hotel: At the Airport
- Sleep Cabins & Pods: No
- Day Rooms: No
- Nearby Hotels with Free Shuttles: Yes
When the prospect of sleeping on the floor or in a chair is giving you nightmares, there is good news for those of you who are looking to sleep at Denver Airport in comfort. If you are on a layover, you must pass through immigration/security as there is no transit hotel. The on-site Westin is the most convenient hotel, but there are less expensive nearby hotels that provide free airport shuttles.
Hotel at Denver Airport
Westin Hotel at Denver International Airport – Connected to the terminal. The hotel has a fitness studio and heated indoor pool if you want to stay active during your stay. » Check Rates
Hotels near the airport with free airport shuttles
- AmericInn by Wyndham » Check Rates
- avid hotel » Check Rates
- Baymont by Wyndham » Check Rates
- Courtyard by Marriott » Check Rates
- Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham » Check Rates
- DoubleTree by Hilton » Check Rates
- Holiday Inn Express » Check Rates
- Hyatt House » Check Rates
- Quality Inn & Suites » Check Rates
- Spark by Hilton » Check Rates
- Staybridge Suites » Check Rates
For more options, visit Tripadvisor to see a list of hotels near Denver Airport that can be sorted by price, distance, traveller rating and popularity.
Airport Lounges
Pay-per-use, Single Visit Passes & Lounge Memberships
Regardless of what class of service you are flying, there are lounges that you can enter by paying at the door, purchasing a lounge pass or through a lounge membership program. Visit the individual lounge page for more details about the lounge itself and learn how to gain access with just an economy class ticket!
- American Airlines Admirals Club – Location: Concourse C, Airside, near Gate C30. Lounge Access: Pay at the Door with proof of AA ticket • Lounge membership program. Hours: 4:30AM – 11:00 PM.
- Centurion Lounge – Location: Concourse C, Airside, Mezzanine Level, Gate C46. Showers are available. Lounge Access: American Express® Card Members • Lounge membership programs. Hours: 5:00AM – 10:00 PM.
- Plaza Premium Lounge –Location: Concourse A, Mezzanine Level, near Gate A34. Showers are available. Lounge Access: Lounge membership programs. Hours: 5:00AM – 9:00 PM.
- United Club – Multiple Locations – (1) near Gate A26 • (1) near Gate B30 • (1) near Gate B32 (Temporarily closed) • (1) near Gate B44 • (1) near Gate B60. Lounge Access: Pay at the door with proof of United Airlines ticket • United Club Membership.
Airline Lounges (members only)
- British Airways Executive Lounge – (Temporarily closed) Location: Concourse A, Airside, Bridge from Jeppesen Terminal. Lounge Access: Lounge membership programs. Hours: 4:30AM – 8:00 PM
- Delta Sky Club – Location: Concourse A, Airside, Central Core, Level 4. Lounge Access: Elite Status • Lounge membership programs.
Military Lounge
- USO Lounge – The USO offers a lounge that is free of charge to active members of the US military and their families. Location: Terminal A (East Terminal), Concourse A, North End of A Gates Bridge, Level 4.
Related pages: Denver Airport Lounges
Drinking Water
Thirsty? Water bottle filling stations are available free of charge. Locations: Airside, on each Concourse.
Food & Drinks
Have the midnight munchies? Need a coffee to stay awake? Unfortunately, COVID has closed the 24-hour options, but you may find concessions that are open *almost* 24 hours; for example, two McDonalds (Concourse A and C) are closed from 3:00 AM – 4:30 AM. Vending machines are also available. A Sunset Loop Market in Concourse B is also open 24 hours.
Luggage Storage & Lockers
Unavailable. If this is not accurate, click here to update this airport guide.
Mobile Charging
Power outlets are readily available and easily accessible throughout Jeppesen Terminal and all three concourses. You can also charge your laptop and other electronic devices at seated power stations throughout the terminal.
Showers
Showers are available in the Centurion Lounge and the Plaza Premium Lounge. See Airport Lounges above.
WiFi / Internet
Free unlimited WiFi is available at Denver Airport. Connect to the “DEN Airport Free WiFi” or the “DEN Airport Free WiFi 2.4” networks.
Security & Safety
Overall, airport staff and security guards tolerate the many overnight sleepers. At the time of this update, we have no reports from travellers commenting on safety issues at Denver Airport. However, sleeping in any airport can include a certain level of risk, especially when travelling alone. It’s important to take certain precautions to ensure your safety and the security of your valuables. Here are a few tips:
- Safety First. It’s a good idea to know where the security office is located and look for video cameras where you plan to sleep. You can also ask the security personnel for advice on the safest places to spend the night.
- Don’t Seclude Yourself. If you’re travelling alone, we recommend you stay near other travellers or close to security. This will help you feel more secure and deter potential thieves.
- Hide Your Valuables. It’s also important to hide your valuables. Don’t leave them out in plain view, as this could make you a target for theft. Additionally, if you are a deep sleeper, you may want to padlock your bag to something or sleep with your bag up against a wall to make it harder for someone to access zippers and pockets. We have received reports of sleepers who woke up without their phones and laptop bags. The travellers were left with just their headphones and laptop bag strap.
- Stay Alert. It’s best to stay alert and awake if you feel unsafe or uncomfortable. Drink coffee or other caffeinated beverages to help you stay awake, and remember that you can always catch up on sleep during your flight. These simple precautions can help you enjoy a safe night at the airport.
Pro-tip: If you sleep in the public zone, don’t be surprised if you receive an early morning wake-up call. Security is known to make the rounds, waking people up as travellers arrive for morning flights.
More Airport Information
Art in the Airport – Sculptures, murals, paintings, and outdoor landscapes are some of the beautiful works you will find among the rotating and permanent exhibits throughout the airport.
Business Center – Unavailable
Duty-Free & Shopping – Denver Duty-Free offers duty-free shopping airside in A Gates (Center Core) and B Gates (Mezzanine). In addition, a wide variety of retail shops and newsstands is available throughout the terminal.
Family Services
- Baby Care Facilities – If you are travelling with an infant, nursing rooms offer comfy seating, outlets, a sink and privacy. The rooms are also equipped with diaper-changing tables. Airside Locations: Center of Jeppesen Terminal, Level 5, southside inside the women’s restroom • Center of Gates A • Gate A19 • Gate A27 • Center of Gates B, between Gate B38 and Topo Designs • Gate B11 • Gate B65 • Center of Gates C, between Gate C39 and Sky Market • Gate C55 • Gate C61. For access, use the intercom located beside each room.
Information Desk – Airport Information Booths are available landside in the Jeppesen Terminal and airside in the Center Cores of the A, B, and C Gates. You can also seek information and assistance from one of the knowledgeable Ambassador Volunteers roaming the terminal, easily spotted by their violet plaid vests.
Luggage
- Baggage Carts – Need a hand with your luggage? Baggage carts are available for free.
- Baggage Drop – At one point, a free baggage drop and check-in service used to be available at the Transit Center. Passangers with domestic flights on Alaska, American, Delta, Southwest, Spirit, and United Airlines could drop off their luggage for a minimum of 90 minutes before their flight. Unfortunately, we were unable to confirm this at the time of our September 2024 update. Click here to update the guide.
- Luggage Storage & Lockers – see “Luggage Storages & Lockers” above.
Massages – Feel your stress melt away with a table or chair massage at A Massage. Location: B Gates, Mezzanine. Hours: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Mon – Fri) • Hours: 7:45 AM – 9:45 PM (Sat – Sun). See also “Spa/Salon Services” below.
Money
- ATMs / Cash Machines – Need cash? ATMs, operated by the Canvas Credit Union, are available. Fees may apply, so check your bank’s fee schedule and daily withdrawal limit if you are travelling internationally. You may also want to notify your bank of your travel plans. Locations: Jeppesen Terminal, Landside, Level 5, near Baggage Claim • Jeppesen Terminal, Landside, Level 6, near Check-in.
- Banking Services – Canvas Credit Union offers full-service banking. Location: Jeppesen Terminal, Landside, Level 6. Hours:8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Mon-Fri).
- Currency Exchange – Worldwide Money Exchange offers currency exchange, Western Union, notary, and more. Locations: Jeppesen Terminal, Landside, Level 5 • Centre Cores of A and B Gates, Airside.
Pets
- Pet Hotel – Furbabies rejoice! Your cat or dog can enjoy a vacation at Wag Hotel. Boarding, grooming, and daycare are some of the services offered. Location: 24735 E. 75th Ave., at the WorldPort facility, just east of the Pikes Peak shuttle lot along 75th Avenue. Hours: Open 24 hours.
- Pet Relief Area – Indoor pet relief rooms are available airside in the centre cores of the A, B, and C Gates. Each room is decorated with a canine theme and has artificial turf flooring, a drainage system, a wall-mounted sink, hand soap, and more. A fenced-in outdoor pet relief area is available at the Jeppesen Terminal, just outside Door 200 on the west side.
- Therapy Animals – The Canine Therapy Squad consists of over 90 animals, which volunteers walk throughout the terminal. So if you are feeling stressed before takeoff, look out for these cuddly creatures wearing a blue vest that says “Pet Me”.
Post Office – Send your last-minute postcards to friends and family from the airport’s post boxes. Locations: Center of Gates A • Center of Gates B • Gates C, Mezzanine Level.
Prayer Rooms – An Interfaith Chapel is located in the Jeppesen Terminal, East Side, Level 6. Hours: 5:00AM – 10:00PM. Catholic mass services are available on Sundays at 1:00 PM.
Shoe Shine – Executive Shine – Locations: Concourse A, B, and C.
SIM Cards – A reader has asked us to include where to buy SIM Cards. If you know, click here to update this airport guide.
Spa & Salon Services – A Massage offers massage services. Location: Airside, Mezzanine Level, Concourse B.
Smoking – Smoking is not permitted anywhere inside the terminal. You may smoke in designated smoking areas outside the terminal. If you are Airside, you need to allow yourself time to clear security again if you choose to smoke.
Related Pages: Things to do on a layover at Denver Airport
Do you want to make the most of your stopover or long layover by leaving the airport to do some sightseeing? Check out our Denver Airport Layover Sightseeing guide or explore Things to do in Denver on Tripadvisor.
Bus
RTD bus routes AB, AT, 104L, 145X and 169L are accessible from the Denver Airport Station. The buses run from 3:30 AM to 1:28 AM and depart approximately every 15 minutes. Fare: $10.50 for a one-day pass. For more information, visit the RTD website.
Car Rentals
Passengers arriving at Denver International Airport can choose between twelve on-site major car rental companies: Alamo • Avis • Budget • Dollar • Enterprise • Fox • Hertz • National • Payless • Sixt • Thrifty • York Car Rental.
Each on-site agency operates a courtesy shuttle to and from Jeppesen Terminal. The pick-up/drop-off point is at Level 5, Island 4, outside doors 505-513 (east side) or 504-512 (west side).
Hotel Shuttles
Several hotels near provide airport shuttle service: AmericInn by Wyndham • Baymont by Wyndham • Best Western Plus Inn & Suites • Comfort Suites • Courtyard by Marriott • Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham • DoubleTree by Hilton • Embassy Suites by Hilton • Fairfield Inn & Suites • Hampton Inn • Hampton Inn & Suites Denver Airport-Gateway Park • Holiday Inn Express • Home2 Suites by Hilton • Homewood Suites by Hilton • Hyatt House • La Quinta Inn & Suites • Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham • Quality Inn & Suites • Ramada by Wyndham • Residence Inn Denver Airport / Convention Center • SpringHill Suites • Staybridge Suites • Wingate by Wyndham.
The airport’s hotel shuttle bus stop is located at the Jeppesen Terminal Level 5, island 3, outside doors 505-507 (east side) and 510-512 (west side).
See also Airport Hotels above.
Mountain Carriers
Travellers going to or returning from a ski vacation can use the services of a mountain carrier. Mountain carriers are private services that provide pre-arranged, charter, or on-demand shuttle transportation between the airport and many of Colorado’s ski and resort areas. Contact your mountain carrier of choice in advance to book your transfer. The carrier stops are located at the Jeppesen Terminal, Level 5 island 1, outside doors 511-513 (east side) and 504-506 (west side). Visit the Denver Airport website to see a list of carriers.
Train
The RTD Line A Line train connects DEN with downtown Denver. The ride takes 37 minutes to Union Station. Trains run every 15 or 30 minutes, depending on the time of day. For more information, visit the RTD website.
Ride App
Ride App services such as Uber and Lyft pick-up from Level 5, Island 5. Exit the terminal through doors 504-506-510-512 (west side) and 505-507-511-513 (east side). A ride to the city centre will cost you from $40 to $50.
Shared Ride Services
Shared ride service, also known as commuter shuttles, provides pre-arranged, on-demand, or charter transportation between the airport and locations throughout the Denver metro area. Some companies provide service throughout the state and even outside of Colorado.
Taxi
Taxicabs are readily available. Flat rates, a one-way charge including the airport-access fee, are available for the most requested destinations with these approximate costs as of this update: Downtown Denver ($72.04), Denver Tech Center ($80.04), Boulder ($115.04), and Tower Road ($37.04). Metered rates are available for all other destinations within the Denver metro area.
Last updated: 2024-11-21
This guide is for informational purposes only to assist with your planning. All information, including rates and hours, is subject to change at any time without notice. The information in this airport guide is based on information collected and/or received from the airports, lounges, hotels, transportation providers, and their websites. We are not representatives of any of the above-mentioned service providers. To report errors or to add/update any items mentioned in the guide: update the airport guide or write a review.