Jazmin Li
Denver International Airport (DEN) is one of the largest and busiest airports in the world, serving over 82 million passengers annually. The airport is located 16 to 23 miles from downtown Denver, and travellers can easily leave the airport and return by train, bus, car, or taxi. However, there are several factors to consider before leaving the airport during a layover, such as TSA wait times, luggage storage, local transportation, and the possibility of needing a visa to exit the airport. Denver International Airport offers various amenities and attractions for travellers during layovers, including art installations, restaurants, airport lounges, and easy access to downtown Denver for those wishing to explore the city during longer layovers.
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What You'll Learn
Transport options to and from the airport
Denver International Airport (DEN) is approximately 23 miles from the city centre. There are various transport options available to and from the airport, including:
Train
The Regional Transportation District (RTD) A Line railway service connects DEN to downtown Denver in about 37 minutes. Once inside the airport, a free underground train connects Terminals A, B, and C.
Bus
The Bustang bus service operates almost 24 hours. The 16th Street Mall, located in downtown Denver, also offers a free MallRide shuttle service.
Car
Rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft are permitted at the airport for pickups and drop-offs. Alternatively, you can rent a car or opt for a luxury limousine service to and from the airport.
Shuttle
SuperShuttle offers advanced reservations for stress-free travel to and from the airport. Groome Transportation also provides daily round trips between Denver International Airport, Colorado Springs, Fort Collins, and Wyoming.
When leaving the airport during a layover, it is important to consider the time required for TSA screening upon your return, especially during busy periods. Additionally, you may need to collect and recheck your bags between flights, and some attractions may have their own security requirements regarding luggage.
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Layover length and airport size considerations
When considering leaving the airport during a layover, it's important to take into account the length of your layover and the size of the airport you're connecting through.
If your layover is less than a few hours, it may not be worth the risk of leaving the airport, as you'll need to account for travel time to and from your destination, as well as potential traffic delays. Additionally, if you have multiple bags, you may need to store them somewhere, which could be an additional cost.
However, if you have a longer layover of five hours or more, you may have enough time to explore the city. Just be sure to give yourself plenty of time to get back to the airport, clear security, and make your connecting flight. Check TSA wait times online or ask the gate agent of your arriving flight for approximate wait times. Keep in mind that larger airports will likely have more passengers and flights departing, which could increase the time it takes to get through security.
The size of the airport and the availability of certain amenities can also play a role in your decision. Larger airports may have more dining, shopping, and entertainment options, making it easier to pass the time without leaving. Some airports offer art installations, museum exhibits, observation decks, and outdoor areas to explore. If you're looking for a quiet place to rest and recharge, some airports provide lounges or quiet areas with comfortable seating. On the other hand, smaller airports may be less overwhelming and easier to navigate, allowing you to make the most of your layover time.
When deciding whether to leave the airport during a layover, consider the length of your layover, the size and amenities of the airport, and the potential risks and benefits of exploring the surrounding area.
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Customs, security, and luggage concerns
If you're considering leaving the airport during a layover, customs, security, and luggage concerns are important factors to take into account. Here's what you need to know:
Customs:
When travelling internationally, you will need to go through customs and immigration upon arrival at Denver International Airport. This involves presenting your passport and other required government documentation to CBP (U.S. Customs and Border Protection) officers. If you are a member of Global Entry, a U.S. CBP program, you can expedite this process with biometric identification at kiosks.
For international layovers, whether you need to go through customs again depends on the specifics of your layover. In most cases, passengers on layover flights in the United States must clear customs and immigration at the first point of entry. However, if your connecting flight returns you to the USA, you won't need to go through customs again.
Security:
When returning to Denver International Airport, you will need to go through security screening. This can take varying amounts of time, depending on the time of day and the number of passengers. It is recommended to be back at the airport at least two to three hours before your connecting flight to allow enough time for security and finding your departure gate.
Luggage:
The handling of your baggage will determine the ease of leaving the airport during your layover. If your baggage is transferred directly to your connecting flight, you can explore with just your carry-on luggage. However, if you need to collect your baggage before going through customs, it can be cumbersome to explore with full suitcases. Additionally, many museums and attractions have security requirements that restrict large bags. Denver offers a solution with Lugden, a short-term luggage storage service outside Union Station.
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Art installations and exhibitions at the airport
Yes, you can leave Denver International Airport during a layover. The airport is approximately 16 to 23 miles from the city centre, and travellers can easily travel to and from the airport by train, bus, car, or taxi. However, there are a few things to consider before leaving the airport during a layover. You will have to go through TSA screening again when you return, so check the wait times online or ask the gate agent for an estimate. If you have multiple bags, this could pose a problem as some attractions have their own security requirements and may not allow large bags inside. You may also need to collect and recheck your bags between flights, which can be time-consuming. International travellers will also need to consider visa requirements for entering the country.
Now, for the art! Denver International Airport (DEN) boasts a range of art installations and exhibitions that are sure to intrigue and delight travellers. From surreal to whimsical, the art at DEN has even been dubbed the "weirdest airport art collection" by the Washington Post. Here are some of the notable pieces and exhibitions:
- "Bluecifer" or "Blucifer": This bucking blue horse sculpture with demonic red eyes is hard to miss, even for those just driving by the airport. It is one of the many permanent art installations at DEN and has sparked substantial conspiracies, including theories about a one-world government and satanic codes.
- "It's Not What You Take, It's What You Bring Back": Created by Denver artist Thomas "Detour" Evans, this installation consists of nearly 200 suitcases, duffel bags, backpacks, and other personal items painted in pastel hues and suspended above Concourse B. The bags are arranged in an infinite loop, symbolising the universal nature of travel and the unique stories that each traveller carries. A QR code near the sculpture will bring visitors to a page explaining the backstory of each piece of luggage.
- "The Constellations": Created by New York-based artist Danielle Roney, this sculpture is a fluid structure made from stainless steel, LED lights, and glass. It consists of two suspended structures conjoining at the top and is based on the celestial positioning of the stars that make up the Pegasus and Herdsman constellations as seen above Denver during the solstices.
- "Experimental Aviation" by Patty Ortiz: This installation consists of 140 metal paper airplanes suspended in bunches throughout the airport, adding a whimsical touch to the space.
- "Kinetic Air Light Curtain" by Antonette Rosato and William Maxwell: This captivating installation features 5,280 propellers in the tunnels between terminals. The propellers are backlit by blue fluorescent light and are activated by the movement of the train, creating a dynamic and immersive experience for travellers.
- Rotating Exhibitions: In addition to the permanent installations, DEN also hosts rotating exhibitions throughout the terminal and concourses, offering fresh artistic experiences with each visit.
So, the next time you have a layover at Denver International Airport, keep an eye out for these fascinating art installations and exhibitions. They just might be the highlight of your travel story!
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Eateries and entertainment within the airport
Denver International Airport (DEN) offers a wide range of dining options for all tastes and budgets. From cafes for early birds to bars with full meals and gourmet offerings, there is something for everyone.
If you're an early bird, you might want to start your day with a coffee from Kabod Coffee, Novo Coffee, Caribou Coffee, or Dazbog Coffee. For breakfast, you have several options, including the popular Snooze A.M. Eatery, which offers French toast, pineapple upside-down pancakes, and a smashed avocado benny. You can also try the Mezzanine-based Voodoo Doughnut, or Steve's Snappin' Dogs near Gate B24, which offers a full American breakfast and a bar. If you're looking for something healthier, Freshëns in Concourse A offers yogurts, fruits, and wraps, while the New Jersey-style Salt & Grinder in the Mezzanine offers breakfast options. For something more substantial, you could try the Timberline Steaks & Grille in Concourse C, which offers a full menu and gourmet options, or the Denver Chophouse in Concourse A, which serves classic steaks and salads.
For lunch or dinner, you could grab a quick bite at McDonald's, Smashburger, or Shake Shack. If you're craving something more exotic, ChoLon Modern Asian in Concourse C and Garbanzo in Concourse B offer international cuisine. For a sit-down meal with a bar, try the Grill & Vine in the Westin Hotel, which has a wine list but can be slow and expensive during peak hours. Another option is the Boulder Beer Tap House in the Jeppesen Terminal, which offers legendary hops. If you're looking for a cozy spot to relax, the new Capital One Lounge offers runway views, cocktails, tapas-style bites, and grab-and-go sandwiches and snacks.
In addition to dining, DEN also offers a variety of entertainment options. Art enthusiasts can explore the many permanent art installations throughout the airport, including the famous bucking blue horse sculpture outside the airport. You can also take advantage of the free WiFi to stay connected and explore the various airport conspiracies that have inspired substantial debate. If you're looking for some outdoor time, Barr Lake State Park, just 16 miles from the airport, offers a mix of prairie, wetland, and woodland habitats for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can leave the airport during a layover. However, you will need to go through security screening again when you return, so make sure to consider the time of day and how busy the airport might be.
The 16th Street Mall in downtown Denver offers a range of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Barr Lake State Park is another option for nature lovers, featuring a mix of prairie, wetland, and woodland habitats.
Denver International Airport offers a variety of art installations, restaurants, and lounges. You can also find a children's play area, nursing rooms, and free Wi-Fi throughout the airport.
The A Line commuter rail connects the airport to downtown Denver in about 37 minutes. Rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft are also permitted at the airport, and car rental options are available.
