Things To Do on a Layover at Denver International Airport

Although Denver International Airport (DEN) is a travel hub, it is so much more—a window to the lively space with activities and amenities to keep any traveler engaged. Be it a short or long layover, there are so many things to do in Denver Airport. 

It features art exhibitions, spa services, and a host of dining options to ensure your time is well spent at the airport. Learn what sets DEN apart, with an unmatched blend of entertainment options, relaxing amenities, and convenient services.

List of Things to Do on a Layover at DEN Airport

There are plenty of things to do in Denver airport during a layover, whether you’re looking for some relaxation, exploration, or to finish some work. Below you find an overview of the top facilities and services one can find during a layover at DEN.

Dining 

Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite or something a bit fancier, there are plenty of options. On the list of the best places to eat include Elway’s, a steakhouse owned and run by NFL legend John Elway, and Root Down with its farm-to-table cuisine and green elements. 

Steve’s Snapping Dogs has everything you need to sample an excellent hot dog. Originally from Colorado, Steve’s is known for its gourmet hot dogs that are made with a smoky blend of beef and pork and have won numerous awards. 

Other food options include-

• Elways
• Mesa Verde
• Udi’s Bakery
• Little Man Ice Cream Shop

Shopping

Wander into the wide collection of stores stocking everything from souvenirs to high-fashion wear. The choices are endless at the airport, ranging from small local boutiques to internationally renowned global brands. 

If it’s those last-minute gift items or simply retail therapy for one’s good, then DEN has it all. Colorado Limited is a locally made goods shop located at A-B-East, while Duty-Free Americas sits at A-B-East and caters to international travelers.

Skywalk Viewing Area

Enjoy panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains and the airfield from Level 5’s Skywalk, between Concourses A and B, for a great view of planes taking off and landing with a beautiful backdrop of the Rockies. It’s a peaceful spot to see some of Colorado’s beauty without leaving the airport.

Art Exhibits

With all the installations and traveling exhibits within the terminal, you will have more than enough to view. Denver International Airport is proud of its magnificent collection of art in the form of paintings, sculptures, interactive displays, and more. 

The art exhibits have been placed in easy locations to make it easy to stretch your legs as you move from one gate to another. 

Some of the highlights include “Mustang,” a 32-foot blue horse sculpture, and “Notre Denver,” a pair of gargoyle-like sculptures watching over travelers’ luggage.

Relax

Traveling can be hard on the body. Spend a few minutes getting a manicure or pedicure to help you loosen up. A Massage is held in Concourses A and B, while Xpress Spa is located in Concourse C.

The Islamic Prayer Hall and Interfaith Chapel at Jeppesen Terminal are open 24 hours a day for prayer and quiet time.

Why not take a look for yourself if you’re wondering which way the city is or enjoying the view of the mountains while waiting in the airport? If you have at least six hours to kill during a layover, consider visiting downtown Denver to take in the scenery and learn more about one of the nation’s fastest-growing cities.

Lounge

If you are a member of a lounge membership program, you can access the Denver Airport lounges. Alternatively, you can buy a day pass to relax in one of the lounges operated by American or United Airlines. 

Become a Conspiracy Theorist

For many years, the Denver Airport has given rise to the wildest conspiracy theories, including those about satanic codes, hidden Illuminati tunnels, and ghosts from a Native American burial site. The murals and statues that served as inspiration are still enjoyable even though it has been largely refuted. 

Denver Airport has happily accepted the theories as of late. Thus, the three-foot animatronic gargoyle known as Gregoriden, or Greg for short, drolly says, “Greetings from Illuminati headquarters! 

Denver International Airport, that is! Whether you think they’re real or not, you should still take some time to investigate the area to make sure no lizard people or Illuminati are out and about.

Sleep

Whether you plan to spend the night camping or just take a nap during the day, you shouldn’t have any trouble making up lost sleep here. There are benches, seats, as well as sleep pods at Denver Airport. If not, make use of the wide carpeted floor area. 

Travelers say that the USO Lounge walkway in Concourse A, the mezzanine in Concourse B and the office level one floor above the train stop in Concourse C are particularly good places to sleep. There is a rumor that airport personnel provide blankets and cots during significant delays and flight cancellations. 

Are you not the type to sleep in an airport? A recently constructed hotel, the Westin Hotel is connected to the main Jeppesen Terminal. If not, several hotels are a short drive from the airport and run complimentary airport shuttles.

Rail Rides

Take the kids for a free ride on the underground train, which arrives about every few minutes and includes audio and music with local athletes such as Peyton Manning and the Denver mayor. 

On the mezzanine level of Concourse B, there’s a small children’s play area and Kazoo & Company toy store, which is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Pet Volunteers

Do you have a little bit of stress? Through the Canine Airport Therapy Squad (CATS) program at Denver International Airport, visitors can engage with some of the most lovable four-legged volunteers at the airport.

The Canine Airport Therapy Squad program at Denver Airport has seen tremendous success. Adorable pets are walked around the airport by volunteer pet parents. These tiny, happy-go-lucky people wear “pet me” vests and give stressed-out travelers a chance to relax, stroke a dog, and feel better. 

Short Layover at Denver Airport

Even if you have a very short layover, there is so much more to do at Denver Airport to make the most out of your time. Here are some quick activities and places to see:

1. Art Exhibits and Installations: Stroll through terminals and enjoy the different art exhibits on display. Rotating displays and permanent installations offer a cultural experience within the airport. 

2. Dining and Quick Bites: Grab a quick bite from one of the various dining options, including gourmet coffee, sandwiches, and many more. Some of the places that fit under Quick Service include Dunkin’ Donuts, Caribou Coffee, and McDonald’s.

3. Relaxation Areas: Lounge around in one of the many airport lounges. If you’re flying out with an airline that offers lounge access, like the United Club or Delta Sky Club, you can get free snacks, drinks, and a comfortable seat.

4. Skywalk Viewing Area: Spend some minutes at the Skywalk viewing area and take in the great panoramic views.

Long Layover at Denver Airport

A longer layover opens even more possibilities for exploring the surrounding area. You can either visit Denver’s nearby attractions or just be at the airport as there are many things to explore.

Here’s how you can make the most of your extended stay at DEN:

1. Wellness and Spa: You could go to one of the wellness centers inside this airport for a spa. Massage or any other spa treatment will help you to feel relaxed and refreshed for your next flight.

2. Shopping: Get ready for extended shopping. You will have enough time to walk from one shop to another. Be it souvenirs, fashion, or duty-free, there is enough to do

3. Dining Experience: Enjoy a leisurely meal at one of the sit-down restaurants. With more time on your layover, you can now enjoy dinner properly in at least some of the higher-class eateries within the airport.

4. Play Area for Families: If you have children, then the interactive play area is a must for them. Let the kids run around and have fun while you sit back and watch over them

5. Observation Deck: Head out to the observation deck. This open-air plaza, just outside the Westin Hotel, offers a nice view and a chance to catch a little fresh air. It’s a great place to watch the planes and Colorado’s beautiful scenery.

Key Takeaways

Here is a concise overview of the information about major airlines operating to and from Denver Airport Terminals. Passengers flying with any of these airlines can get more information through the given links:

• Copa Airlines Denver Terminal
• Frontier Airlines Denver Terminal
• Icelandair Denver Terminal
• Spirit Airlines Denver Terminal
• Alaska Airlines Denver Terminal

Final Words

Denver International Airport offers an array of activities and amenities so that your layover does not turn out to be completely boring. Whether it is art, dining, relaxation, or shopping, there is something for everyone to spend time on. 

When it comes to things to do in Denver International Airport, you won’t be disappointed. Make your layover, long or short, interesting at DEN. With so much on offer, you can turn your layover into the best part of your journey.

Frequently Asked Questions