Denver International Airport (DEN) is not just an entry point to the Mile-High City, but also a hub of convenience and efficiency when it comes to transportation.
At the heart of it all is the DEN Transit Center, situated conveniently below The Westin Denver International Airport hotel and conference center.
From catching the rapid A Line commuter train to downtown Denver, to hopping on an RTD bus, the Transit Center covers all bases. Here’s what you need to know.
DEN Transit Center
Located on Level 1 beneath The Westin, the DEN Transit Center is the end-of-the-line station that connects the airport to Denver’s urban core in a mere 37 minutes through the A Line commuter train.
The center is a hub of amenities designed to make your travel seamless. Upon arrival, you’re just an escalator or elevator ride away from Level 5, which houses the south entrance of the Jeppesen Terminal and its security checkpoints.
Key Features of the Transit Center
- Bag Check & Boarding Passes: Passengers flying domestically with United, Southwest, Delta, or American Airlines can efficiently check their luggage and secure their boarding passes without fuss.
- Self-Service Kiosks: Need to print a boarding pass? Utilize one of the six kiosks available for airlines including United, Southwest, British Airways, Lufthansa, and Icelandair.
- Food & Beverage: A quick stop at the Roasting Plant can set you up with coffee or a bite to eat before you proceed to your next destination.
- Ticket Vending Machines: Cash or card, you can buy tickets for the A Line or RTD buses right at the platform or from the RTD Information Booth within the center.
- Bus Connectivity: In addition to the A Line, RTD buses are accessible here as well, including the AA, AB, AT, 145X, and 169L routes. Visit the RTD website for schedules and additional information.
Additional Ground Transportation Support
For a wider perspective on ground transportation, the Ground Transportation Information Counter is the place to go. Located on Level 5 of Jeppesen Terminal, the counter operates from 6:00 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. daily.
Services Offered
- Wheelchair Assistance: Information for wheelchair transportation is readily available.
- Destination Directory: Whether you need a lift to the hotel or a ski resort, you’ll find an array of options and companies to get you there.
- Maps & Directions: Find your way around pick-up and drop-off areas easily with the assistance of maps and directions available at the counter.
- Hotel Shuttles: Information regarding hotel shuttles can be found here, taking the guesswork out of your accommodation transportation.
- Group Arrangements: Coordinating with a large group? The counter can facilitate those details for you.
The A Line Commuter Train
When it comes to efficient and rapid transit between Denver International Airport (DEN) and the heart of the city, the A Line commuter train reigns supreme.
Operated by the Regional Transportation District (RTD), this service encapsulates the perfect blend of speed and convenience for travelers.
A Line At A Glance
- Distance: The A Line covers 23 miles of track, stretching from DEN to Denver Union Station in the city center.
- Travel Time: In a quick 37 minutes, you can transition from the buzz of the airport to the pulse of downtown Denver.
- Frequency: At peak times, you’ll find a train departing every 15 minutes. Off-peak hours feature trains every 30 minutes from 3 a.m. to 5 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. to 1 a.m. For precise timings, consult the schedule on the RTD website.
- Tickets: Cash or card, you can purchase A Line tickets at vending machines located both at the train stations and the DEN Transit Center. An alternate purchase point is the RTD Information Booth at the Transit Center.
- Capacity: Each two-car pair on the A Line accommodates 182 seated and 158 standing passengers, ensuring ample space.
- Fare: For a mere $10.50 per day, you not only get unlimited rides on the A Line but also a Regional pass, should you wish to explore more transit options during the business day.
Stations Along the A Line
The A Line includes a total of eight stops:
- Denver International Airport
- 61st and Peña Boulevard
- 40th Avenue and Airport Boulevard
- Peoria
- Central Park
- 40th and Colorado Boulevard
- 38th and Blake Street
- Denver Union Station
If you’re driving to the airport, DEN operates an 800-space parking lot located at the 61st and Peña Boulevard station, which falls on airport property. Rates for this facility can be found on the 61st & Peña web page.
For the most current schedules and additional details on the A Line commuter train, as well as other RTD buses to and from DEN, visit the RTD website.
Turo Car Sharing Services at Denver Airport
In a move to expand its range of transportation options, Denver International Airport (DEN) has teamed up with Turo, a popular car-sharing platform.
Turo connects vehicle owners with travelers looking to rent a car during their stay, providing a flexible, peer-to-peer alternative to traditional car rental services. Here’s everything you need to know about using Turo at DEN.
Agreement Guidelines and Restrictions
DEN has established several designated areas where Turo transactions can take place:
- Pickup and Return Areas: East Garage, West Garage, East Economy Surface Lot, and West Economy Surface Lot.
- Pickup Only: A designated area outside the Westin Hotel.
Please Note:
- Curbside pickup or return of vehicles is strictly prohibited.
- Washing vehicles on airport property is not allowed.
- Turo is required to collect a fee for vehicle deliveries at the airport but retains none of it.
- Parking fees at DEN are not covered by Turo. Your host should notify you about any parking fees upon exit.
Pickup and Return Instructions
For Garages and Surface Lots
- Contact your host to find out where the vehicle is parked.
- Exit the parking area using the ticket your host left for you in the vehicle.
- Upon return, park the vehicle in a permitted lot or garage and pull a parking ticket.
- Leave the parking ticket in the vehicle and park in an open spot.
- Message your host with details of where you’ve parked, specifying the lot or garage name and the section or parking stall number.
Key Handling: Do not leave the vehicle unlocked or keys inside. Place keys in a secure lockbox or notify the host to activate remote locking.
For Designated Area Outside Westin Hotel (Drop-Off Only)
- Meet your host outside the Westin Hotel.
- To get there, exit the terminal through the glass doors at the south end of Level 5. Take the outdoor escalators down to the RTD Plaza and follow signs to the Westin Hotel.
- Look for the designated exchange area marked with a “1” sign.
- Complete the vehicle hand-off within five minutes.
For a seamless transaction, use the “Location Sharing” feature in the Turo app to coordinate delivery with your host.
Charter Buses at Denver Airport
Charter buses provide a tailored option for groups traveling to various destinations within Colorado and neighboring states.
Once you’ve arranged this service with a charter bus company, the process of pickup is streamlined and convenient. Here’s what you need to know about charter buses at Denver International Airport (DEN).
How to Summon Your Charter Bus
If you’ve pre-arranged for a charter bus, simply proceed to the Ground Transportation Information Counter at Jeppesen Terminal, Level 5. An agent will assist in summoning your bus from its holding area. For groups, the designated leader should call (303) 342-4076 when everyone is ready for pickup.
Where to Find Your Charter Bus
All charter buses pick up from the Jeppesen Terminal at Level 5. Your group leader or the Ground Transportation Information Counter can provide you with additional guidance for locating your bus.
Choose Your Charter Bus Company
For your convenience, here’s a table listing several charter bus companies that operate out of DEN, along with their contact information:
| Company Name | Contact Number | Website | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ace Express Coaches | (303) 421-2780 | website | |
| Arrow Stage Lines | (303) 373-9119 | – | |
| D & D Transportation Services LLC | (720) 252-3973 | – | |
| Dakota Bus Service, Inc. | 303-287-7605 | – | – |
| Gray Line Of Denver | (303) 289-2841 | – | |
| Hermes Worldwide, Inc. | (303) 577-7600 | website | |
| Kay-Lee Transportation Services LLC | (833) 848-1255 | – | |
| Premier Charters, Inc. | (303) 289-2222 | – | |
| Ramblin’ Express Inc | (719) 590-8687 | – | |
| The Landline Company | 1-888-428-1149 | website |
denver airport hotel with shuttle
For travelers looking for an easy transition between the airport and their lodging, Denver International Airport offers numerous hotel options with shuttle services.
From the Westin Denver International Airport Hotel, a staple for convenience with its direct connection to the terminal, to other nearby options within a 10-mile radius, there’s a hotel to suit every need.
Westin Denver International Airport Hotel
The Westin is located just steps from the main terminal and is directly accessible from the Transit Center via an escalator. With 519 rooms and a conference center, it serves as both a hotel and a hub for various transit options, including the A Line commuter train to downtown Denver.
Where to Catch Your Hotel Shuttle
Hotel shuttles pick up from Jeppesen Terminal, Level 5, island 3. For east-side pickups, head to doors 505-507; for the west side, doors 510-512.
Hotels with Shuttle Service
The following table lists various hotels with their shuttle services and contact information:
| Hotel Name | Address | Contact Number |
|---|---|---|
| Aloft Denver International Airport | 16470 E. 40th Circle, Aurora, CO 80011 | (303) 371-9500 |
| AmericInn and Suites | 7010 Tower Road, Denver, CO 80249 | (303) 373-5900 |
| avid hotel Denver Airport | 6785 N Argonne Street, Denver, CO 80249 | (303) 375-0101 |
| Baymont Inn & Suites | 6805 N. Argonne St., Denver, CO 80249 | (303) 373-5400 |
| Best Western Plus – DIA | 7020 Tower Road, Denver, CO 80249 | (303) 373-1600 |
| Cambria Hotel & Suites Denver International Airport | 16001 E. 40th Circle, Aurora, CO 80011 | (303) 576-9600 |
| Clarion Hotel Denver Central | 200 West 48th Ave., Denver, CO, 80216 | (720) 306-0236 |
| Comfort Suites Denver International Airport | 6210 Tower Road, Denver, CO 80249 | (303) 371-9300 |
| Comfort Suites Denver Near Anschutz Medical Campus | 14571 E Colfax Ave, Aurora, CO, 80011 | (303) 754-1000 |
| Courtyard Denver Airport | 6901 Tower Road, Denver, CO 80249 | (303) 371-0300 |
| Courtyard DIA at Gateway Park | 4343 Airport Way, Denver, CO 80239 | (303) 574-1212 |
| Crowne Plaza Denver Airport Convention Center | 15500 E. 40th Ave., Denver, CO 80239 | (303) 371-9494 |
| Days Inn & Suites Aurora DIA | 16921 E. 32nd Ave., Aurora, CO 80011 | (303) 367-5000 |
| Days Inn & Suites Denver International Airport | 7030 Tower Road, Denver, CO 80249 | (303) 373-1500 |
| Denver Airport Marriott at Gateway Park | 16455 E. 40th Ave., Aurora, CO 80011 | (303) 371-4333 |
| Denver East Drury Inn | 4380 Peoria St., Denver, CO 80239 | (303) 373-1983 |
| DoubleTree by Hilton Denver International Airport | 6900 Tower Road, Denver, CO 80249 | (303) 574-1300 |
| Econo Lodge Denver International Airport | 15900 E. 40th Ave, Aurora, CO, 80011 | (303) 373-1616 |
| Embassy Suites Denver Airport | 7001 Yampa St., Denver, CO 80249 | (303) 574-3000 |
| Fairfield Inn Denver Airport | 6851 Tower Road, Denver, CO 80249 | (303) 576-9640 |
| Gaylord Rockies Resort and Convention Center | 6700 North Gaylord Rockies Boulevard, Aurora, CO 80019 | (720) 452-6900 |
| Hampton Inn & Suites Denver Airport/Gateway Park | 4310 Airport Way, Denver, CO 80239 | (303) 375-8118 |
| Hampton Inn Denver International Airport | 6290 Tower Road, Denver, CO 80249 | (303) 371-0200 |
| Hilton Garden Inn Denver Airport | 16475 E. 40th Circle, Aurora, CO 80011 | (303) 371-9393 |
| Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Denver Airport | 6910 Tower Road, Denver, CO 80249 | (303) 373-4100 |
| Home2 Suites by Hilton, Denver International Airport | 6792 Tower Road Denver, CO 80249 | (303) 307-4444 |
| Homewood Suites by Hilton Denver Airport Tower Road | 6951 N. Yampa Street, Denver, CO 80249 | (303) 307-8000 |
| Homewood Suites by Hilton Denver | 4210 Airport Way, Denver, CO 80239 | (303) 371-4555 |
| Hyatt House Denver Airport | 18741 East 71st Ave., Denver, CO 80249 | (303) 628-7777 |
| Hyatt Place Denver Airport | 16250 East 40th Ave., Aurora, CO 80011 | (303) 371-0700 |
| Hyatt Place Peña Station / Denver Airport | 6110 Panasonic Way, Denver, CO 80249 | (720) 405-4321 |
| La Quinta Inn Suites Denver Airport DIA | 6801 Tower Road, Denver, CO 80249 | (303) 371-0888 |
| MainStay Suites Denver International Airport | 6951 N. Yampa St., Denver, CO 80249 | (303) 307-7900 |
| Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Denver | 18600 E. 63rd Ave., Denver, CO 80249 | (303) 371-8300 |
| Quality Inn & Suites Denver International Airport | 6890 Tower Road, Denver, CO 80249 | (303) 371-5300 |
| Ramada by Wyndham Denver International Airport | 6211 Tower Road, Denver, CO 80249 | (303) 373-4164 |
| Renaissance Denver Airport at Gateway Park | 3801 Quebec St., Denver, CO 80207 | (303) 399-7500 |
| Residence Inn by Marriott Denver Airport/Convention Center | 6762 N. Tower Road, Denver, CO 80249 | (303) 307-9100 |
| Sleep Inn & Suites Denver International Airport | 15900 E 40th Ave., Aurora, CO 80011 | (303) 373-1616 |
| SpringHill Suites Denver Airport | 18350 East 68th Avenue, Denver, CO 80249 | (303) 371-9400 |
| Staybridge Suites Denver International Airport | 6951 Tower Road, Denver, CO 80249 | (303) 574-0888 |
| TownePlace Suites by Marriott Denver Airport at Gateway Park | 4100 N. Kittredge Street, Denver, CO 80239 | (303) 373-4243 |
| Travelodge by Wyndham Denver International Airport | 18200 E. Colfax Ave., Aurora, CO 80011 | (303) 340-3800 |
| Westin Denver International Airport Hotel | Denver International Airport, 8300 Peña Blvd, Denver, CO 80249 | (303) 317-1800 |
| Wingate by Wyndham Denver Airport | 6670 Pena Boulevard, Denver, CO 80249 | (303) 371-5959 |
| Woolley’s Classic Suites | 16450 E. 40th Circle, Aurora, CO 80011 | (720) 599-3750 |
Limousine Services At Denver Airport
For those seeking a more luxurious mode of transportation, Denver’s got you covered with a broad range of limousine services.
These limousines offer pre-arranged trips throughout Denver and beyond, into the wider Colorado area. To secure your high-end ride, you’ll need to contact the limousine service in advance.
| Company Name | Contact Number |
|---|---|
| Colorado Luxury Limousine Inc | (303) 994-0042 |
| VIP Express Ride and Vail Rides | (720) 450-0350 |
| A Eagle Vail Express | (970) 367-6284 |
| Denver Crescent Limo, LLC | (720) 366-1818 |
| Kiromina Transportation LLC | (720) 621-3900 |
| ORANGE TRANSPORTATION, LLC | 720-453-4720 |
| ABA Car Service | 303-261-2120 |
| Choice Sedans | (303) 452-2122 |
| D & K’s Family Limousine LLC | (720) 436-9884 |
| Celebrity Limousine | (720) 338-9378 |
| Mountain Magic Transportation LLC | (720) 830-5154 |
| Boulder 1st Limo LLC | (720) 999-1939 |
| Delta Express LLC | (303) 931-0163 |
| DIA Car Services LLC | (720) 365-6500 |
| Nile Limo | (720) 276-0363 |
| Denver Amir Transportation LLC | (303) 520-1961 |
| A AFFORDABLE DENVER LIMO & TRANSPORTATION | 720-257-3748 |
| AB Limo LLC | (970) 426-6263 |
| R and M Vehicle Transport | (720) 771-2221 |
| 1st Avenue Transportation Solutions, LLC | (720) 296-6607 |
Mountain Carriers for Colorado Ski and Resort Areas
When it comes to reaching Colorado’s renowned ski and resort destinations, Mountain Carriers offer specialized services for those journeys.
These carriers provide pre-arranged, charter, and some on-demand options, making reservations highly recommended.
Pick-ups and drop-offs are conveniently located at Jeppesen Terminal Level 5, island 1, outside doors 511-513 (east side) and 504-506 (west side).
| Carrier Name | Contact Number |
|---|---|
| A Ski Lift Limousine | (970) 333-0918 |
| Aspen Snowmass Express | (303) 342-3424 |
| Blue Sky Limo, LLC | (970) 376-7849 |
| Epic Mountain Express | (970) 754-7433 |
| Estes Park Shuttle | (970) 586-5151 |
| Event and Airport Transportation, LLC | (720) 670-6810 |
| Fresh Tracks Transportation | (970) 453-4052 |
| Go Alpine and Steamboat Express LLC | (800) 343-7433 |
| Golden West Airport Shuttle | (303) 756-9399 |
| Home James Transportation Services | (800) 359-7503 |
| Ilimo-Mountain | 720-551-5959 |
| Jake’s Mountain Shuttle | (970) 401-0988 |
| Mountain Ready Rides | (970) 445-1552 |
| MTN Shuttle | (970) 453-3010 |
| Peak One Express | (855) 467-3251 |
| Roaring Fork Express, LLC | (970) 486-3002 |
| Silver Mountain Express | (720) 440-4202 |
| Storm Mountain Shuttle, Inc | (970) 879-1963 |
| Summit Express | (970) 668-6000 |
Public Bus Services to and from Denver Airport
Navigating transportation to and from DEN doesn’t have to be a challenge, thanks to the offerings of the Regional Transportation District (RTD) and the Colorado Department of Transportation’s Bustang service.
RTD Service
The hub of public bus activity at DEN is the Denver Airport Station, serving routes AB, AT, 104L, 145X, and 169L. Conveniently situated at the DEN Transit Center on Level 1, adjacent to the Westin Denver International Airport, this station is easily accessible.
Key Points:
- Operating Hours: 3:30 a.m. to midnight
- Last Bus: Departs the airport at 1:28 a.m.
- Frequency: About every 15 minutes during peak hours
- Fare: One-day passes at $10.50. Have exact change or use a credit card at ticket vending machines.
- Amenities: Buses are wheelchair accessible, and drivers assist with luggage.
- Additional Info: RTD information booth at DEN Transit Center is open Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
For schedules and more specifics, RTD’s contact number is (303) 299-6000.
Connecting Colorado via Bustang
For those coming from beyond Denver, the Bustang offers a seamless connection to the A Line commuter train from Denver’s Union Station. From there, the Bustang routes extend to various destinations such as Colorado Springs, Fort Collins, Vail, and Glenwood Springs.
Amenities:
- Restrooms
- Bike racks
- Free Wi-Fi
- Reclining seats
- Power outlets and USB ports
It’s a stress-free and convenient service, equipped to meet various needs. For more information, Bustang can be reached at (800) 900-3011.
Ride App Services at Denver Airport
Ride App services, such as Lyft and Uber, have become integral to the transportation landscape at Denver International Airport (DEN).
Below are the key details passengers need to know for a smooth experience using these services.
Drop-Off – Level 5, Curbside
Getting to the airport is straightforward. Passengers using Lyft and Uber will be dropped off at Level 5. This is the exclusive drop-off point, located at either the east or west sides, depending on the airline you’re flying with.
Note: This is the only authorized drop-off area for ride app services on Level 5.
Pickup – Level 5, Island 5
After you’ve landed and collected your luggage, signs will guide you toward the ground transportation exits. Use doors 506-510 if you’re on the west side or doors 507-511 if you’re on the east side. Both exits are located on Level 5 near baggage claim. Once outside, proceed to Island 5 to meet your driver.
Important: This is the sole designated pickup area for ride app services on Level 5.
Tips for a Seamless Experience
- Wait to request your ride until you’ve claimed your luggage or have made it to Level 5.
- Always use designated crosswalks when proceeding to Island 5.
- Payments and ride requests are handled exclusively through the mobile apps.
- Ensure the car’s license plate, make and model, and driver name match what’s listed in your app before boarding.
In terms of ride app services available at DEN, Lyft and Uber are the major players. For further information or to schedule a ride, their websites can be accessed via their respective apps.
Taxicabs at Denver Airport
Taxicabs are an ever-reliable option for getting around Denver and its surrounding areas. From the Denver International Airport (DEN), you can easily find a taxicab to take you to your destination, whether that’s within the Denver metro area or further afield in the state of Colorado.
Flat Rate and Metered Charges
When you opt for a taxi, you’ll find two pricing models—flat-rate charges for popular zones and metered fares for other destinations.
Flat-Rate Destinations and Fares (one-way, airport fee included)
- Downtown Denver (Zone A) – $71.03
- Denver Tech. Center (Zone B) – $79.03
- Boulder (Zone C) – $114.03
- Tower Road (Zone D) – $36.03
For all other metro area destinations, fares are metered. Expect a one-way ride from the airport to Cherry Creek Shopping Center to set you back between $75 and $95, plus a $5.03 airport access fee.
Pickup and Drop-Off Points
Taxis operate from Jeppesen Terminal, Level 5, Island 1. The specific doors to look for are:
- Terminal East: Doors 505, 507, and 511
- Terminal West: Doors 506, 510, and 512
Additional Fare Details
- Multiple Drop-Offs, Same Zone: Add $5 for each additional drop-off within a flat-rate zone.
- Multiple Drop-Offs, Different Zones: For a mix of in-zone and out-of-zone drop-offs, fares are calculated as per specific guidelines outlined by the taxi companies.
Taxi Companies Available at DEN
| Company | Contact Number |
|---|---|
| 5280 Taxi | (720) 435-1235 |
| All Cities Taxi | (720) 440-7000 |
| Alpine Taxi Inc. | (720) 484-4474 |
| Darfur Taxi Company, LLC | (720) 628-3419 |
| Denver Taxi Inc. | (720) 300-3085 |
| Green Taxi Cooperative | (303) 806-8888 |
| Metro Taxi / Taxi Fiesta | (303) 333-3333 |
| Trans Voyage Taxi | 303-353-4482 |
| Union Taxi Cooperative | (303) 922-2222 |
References:
- Denver Airport Official Website. (2023). “DEN Transit Center/Denver Airport Station” Retrieved from https://www.flydenver.com/den_transit_centerdenver_airport_station
