Explore Denver Airport: Fun Things To Do Inside

what to do inside denver airport

Denver International Airport (DEN) is a hub of activity, offering a range of attractions and amenities for travellers. With its unique blend of art, culture, and local delights, DEN provides a memorable experience for those passing through. From exploring the renowned public art collection, including the famous 'Mustang' and the Aztec Temple on Concourse C, to indulging in local craft beer and cuisine, DEN has something for everyone. Travellers can also enjoy shopping for Colorado-themed items, relaxing in airport lounges, and even partaking in self-care services. For those with longer layovers, the nearby Clyfford Still Museum and the Denver Museum of Nature & Science offer enriching cultural experiences. With its vibrant atmosphere and diverse offerings, DEN ensures that travellers have a productive, enjoyable, and relaxing time during their stay.

Characteristics Values
Art The airport is known for its unique and inspiring public art collection, including sculptures, murals, and installations. Notable pieces include the "Mustang", "Notre Denver", and "Blucifer". There are also art installations in the seating areas and bathrooms.
Shopping Denver Airport has dozens of shops offering a variety of high-quality clothing, Colorado souvenirs, handmade jewelry, and quirky keepsakes. Shops include Colorado Limited, Kiehl's, and Kazoo & Company Toys.
Dining The airport offers a variety of dining options, including local specialties like bison burgers and green chili. Root Down at Concourse C serves farm-to-table dishes with locally sourced ingredients. La Casita in Concourse C is a hidden gem for Mexican cuisine.
Lounges and Services DEN has lounges and self-care services, including XpresSpa and A Massage for quick massages, facials, manicures, and pedicures.
Sleeping Areas Denver Airport offers comfortable sleeping pods, private rooms with daybeds, and quiet areas for rest.
Beer and Brewery The airport offers a taste of world-class beer, including Boulder Beer Tap House and New Belgium Brewing.
Nearby Attractions The nearby Clyfford Still Museum is dedicated to Abstract Expressionist painter Clyfford Still. The open-air plaza between Jeppesen Terminal and the Westin Hotel offers live music and seasonal events.
Transportation The A Line train connects the airport to downtown Denver, with easy access to Union Station, restaurants, bars, microbreweries, shops, and attractions.

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Explore the airport's art installations, including the famous blue horse sculpture

Denver International Airport (DEN) is known for its extensive public art collection, including the famous blue horse sculpture, 'Mustang', which has become an iconic feature of the airport. Colloquially known as 'Blucifer', the sculpture is located outside the airport, towering over Peña Boulevard, with its glowing red eyes visible to passers-by. Standing at 32 feet tall and weighing approximately 9,000 pounds, it is an impressive and striking artwork.

'Mustang' was created by artist Luis Jiménez and is considered a symbol of the West and a protector of travellers. The blue colour of the sculpture is said to be inspired by Jiménez's own blue roan Appaloosa stallion, Blackjack, and the bright colours he encountered growing up in his father's sign shop in El Paso, Texas. The horse's glowing red eyes are a tribute to Jiménez's father, who worked with neon signs, and are illuminated by LED floodlights.

The sculpture has a haunting past, as Jiménez was killed during its creation when a section of it fell on him in his studio. It was completed posthumously with the help of the artist's staff, family, and professional lowrider/racecar painters Camillo Nuñez and Richard LaVato. The sculpture was unveiled at Denver International Airport on 11 February 2008, more than 15 years after it was commissioned.

In addition to 'Mustang', Denver International Airport features various other art installations, sculptures, and murals as part of its public art collection. The Aztec Temple on Concourse C, the exhibit on the bridge to Concourse A, and the murals in the entrance tunnels are all worth exploring. The airport also partners with local artists to showcase rotating creative and cultural exhibitions, ensuring a dynamic and ever-changing display of art for travellers to discover and enjoy.

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Visit the nearby Clyfford Still Museum, dedicated to an Abstract Expressionist painter

If you're looking for something to do near the Denver Airport, the Clyfford Still Museum is a great option. Located close to the airport, the museum is dedicated to the Abstract Expressionist painter Clyfford Still and offers a wealth of artistic and architectural delights.

The Clyfford Still Museum is a minimalist space that showcases an extensive collection of Still's work. With approximately 3,125 pieces, the museum houses 93% of his lifetime creations, making it a comprehensive showcase of his artistic journey. Still rarely sold his art, so the museum's collection is incredibly unique and provides a fascinating insight into his creative process.

The museum is renowned for its award-winning architecture, creating a beautiful setting to display Still's art. The building's design enhances the experience of exploring his vast collection, which includes huge wall-sized paintings characterised by bold colours and abstract shapes.

In addition to the art, the museum invites visitors to learn more about Clyfford Still's story and engage with his work through cross-disciplinary programs. It aims to stimulate curiosity, evoke emotions, and encourage visitors to explore their creativity. The museum also supports new artistic endeavours, creating a vibrant and inspiring cultural hub in Denver.

A visit to the Clyfford Still Museum can easily be combined with exploring the vibrant local brewery and dining scene in the nearby River North (RiNo) and Lower Highlands (LoHi) neighbourhoods. Denver also hosts the annual Great American Beer Festival, showcasing the region's renowned craft beer culture. So, whether you're an art enthusiast or simply looking for a unique cultural experience, the Clyfford Still Museum is a wonderful destination to discover during your time in Denver.

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Shop for Colorado-themed souvenirs, clothing, and local crafts

Denver International Airport is a great place to shop for Colorado-themed souvenirs, clothing, and local crafts. The airport is known for its diverse selection of shops, offering a variety of high-quality clothing and unique Colorado-themed items.

One popular option for travellers is Colorado Limited, which offers a range of Colorado flag apparel and gear, perfect for gifts or personal souvenirs. For those interested in literature and history, The Tattered Cover, Denver's well-known independent bookstore, offers mini versions of its store in each concourse. Here, travellers can find an assortment of books, including novels, travel guides, and Colorado history books, providing a unique memento of their time in the state.

The airport also showcases the work of local artists and artisans. Visitors can explore rotating creative and cultural exhibitions that celebrate the Colorado spirit. These exhibitions provide a wonderful opportunity to purchase local crafts and support the talented artists of the region.

Additionally, Denver International Airport is renowned for its extensive public art collection. Travellers can discover unique sculptures, murals, and installations throughout the airport, adding to the cultural experience of their visit.

Whether you're seeking clothing, books, or locally crafted items, Denver International Airport offers a diverse range of options to shop for Colorado-themed souvenirs. With its focus on showcasing local culture and talent, the airport provides travellers with a memorable shopping experience that reflects the spirit of the state.

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Relax in an airport lounge or treat yourself to a spa treatment

Denver International Airport (DEN) offers several lounges where travellers can relax and unwind. These include the American Airlines Admirals Club, located in Concourse C near gate 32, and another in Concourse A near gate 34; the Delta Sky Club in Concourse A, level 4; the United Club; and the USO Lounge, which is available to active-duty military, guard, reserve military, their dependents, and retired military personnel. The Centurion Lounge can also be found in Concourse C, near gate C46. If you are flying on an Oneworld or Star Alliance flight, you can purchase a day pass to access the American Airlines Admirals Club, Capital One Lounge, and United Club.

If you're looking for a spa treatment, Amassageinc offers chair and table massages at Denver International Airport. Their licensed and certified therapists provide tailored services to alleviate any tension, stress, or strain.

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Sample Denver's craft beer and hearty cuisine, such as bison burgers

Denver is known for its craft beer and hearty cuisine, with bison burgers being a popular choice for visitors and locals alike. With over 148 breweries in the city, craft beer is a major part of the local dining scene. Many of the dishes, such as bison burgers, pair perfectly with a cold, local brew.

Denver's brewery culture is strong, with spots like Rock Bottom Brewery and Woods Boss Brewery offering both great drinks and cozy atmospheres. The Denver Beer Trail can help you plan your stops, so you can easily find your new favourite brew. The city's craft beer culture is a big reason why food and drink pairings are so special in Denver. A meal here is about the experience of pairing the right beer with your meal.

Bison meat is a must-try when you're in Denver. Known for its lean and flavorful profile, bison is used in a variety of dishes, including burgers, steaks, ribs, and even Reubens. Many restaurants across the city offer bison burgers, often served with a unique twist on traditional toppings. For instance, The Cherry Cricket offers a third-pound Colorado Bison Burger, which can be topped with anything from peanut butter to green chiles and fried onions. You can even get gluten-free buns. Don't forget to pair your burger with a delicious side, like their Angry Mac & Cheese or Spanish rice.

If you're looking for a rustic, country setting with live music, Appaloosa Grill is the place to go. They offer a half-pound bison burger, served with house ketchup on a buttered and toasted brioche bun. You can add your choice of cheese or customize your burger with extras like jalapenos, bacon, or avocado. For a classic brewpub atmosphere, Hop Doddy is a great choice. They make their own bread, grind their own meat, and aim to source ingredients locally. Their bison burger is served with truffle fries and truffle aioli for dipping.

Denver also offers a wide variety of other dishes, including options for both adventurous eaters and those who prefer comfort food. The city's signature dishes, like green chile and Rocky Mountain oysters, offer bold and distinctive flavours that you won't find elsewhere.

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