Sleeping in Airports

Denver Airport Guide

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.

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. Some gates are accessible only by shuttle, requiring waiting in another long line once you are airside. There are plenty of dining, shopping and service options airside, and some in Jeppesen. There are only a few 24-hour food options. 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. See Airport Lounges in the guide below for locations and rates.

Denver Airport Guide
Terminal A, 3rd level (mezzanine) or across from the entrance to the Lounges. Nice set of resting chairs and a variety of full flat twin bed style mini beds! Kudos to Denver airport officials for installing these! (Photo courtesy of Silviavasla / January 2020)

Sleeping in Denver Airport

Airport staff and security are generally tolerant of sleepers. There is plenty of space throughout the terminal and all three concourses to spread out. Those with travel mats can easily find relatively private floor space. Among the spots reviewers noted as conducive to sleep were upper levels of Concourses A, B and C; comfortable benches in Concourse B; and other sporadic arm-free seating in the terminal. Explore our guide to sleeping in Denver Airport or read traveller airport reviews for more tips. 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.

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.  For more information on Europe’s Schengen Area, click here.

airport hoursAirport Hours

The airport is open 24 hours.

Keep in mind 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 will not be able to get through to the secure area (airside) until the morning. The TSA security screening checkpoint hours vary according to terminal:

  • North Security: 4:00AM – 8:00PM
  • South Security: open 24 hours
  • A-Bridge Checkpoint: 4:30AM – 6:00PM

airport hotelsDenver 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 will have to 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

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 loungeAirport 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 to also find out how you can gain lounge 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.
  • Centurion Lounge – Location: Concourse C, Airside, Mezzanine Level, Gate C46.  Lounge Access: American Express® Card Members • Lounge membership programs.
  • Plaza Premium Lounge – Location: Concourse A, Mezzanine Level, near Gate A34. 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 – 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 (3rd floor).

Related pages: Denver Airport Lounges

cotsCots

At one point, this airport had a limited supply of cots for stranded travellers. We were unable to confirm this at the time of our November 2023 Update. If you know whether they are still there, click here to update this guide.

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.

water bottle refillsDrinking Water

Thirsty? Water bottle filling stations are available free of charge. Locations: Airside, on each Concourse.

foodFood & 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, McDonalds (A Gates, Center Core) is closed from 3:00 AM – 4:30 AM.

Luggage StorageLuggage Storage & Lockers

Unavailable. If this is not accurate, click here to update this airport guide.

mobile chargingMobile 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.

rest zonesRest & 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.

Denver Airport
(photo courtesy of adamslucas / October 2021)

showersShowers

Unfortunately, there are no showers available to freshen up. If this is not accurate, click here to update this airport guide.

wifiWiFi / 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.

layover sightseeingLayover Sightseeing

Do you want to make the most of your stopover or long layover by getting out of the airport to do some sightseeing?  Check out our Denver Airport Layover Sightseeing guide or explore Things to do in Denver on Tripadvisor.

airport infoMore Airport Information

More Services, Facilities & Things To Do On A Layover

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

Camp DEN – The airport has some activities to keep you busy while you wait for your flight. From paper airline templates and DEN Tents to BINGO cards and crossword puzzles, visit the airport website for items that you can pre-print.

Cots – see “Cots” above.

Drinking Water – see “Drinking Water” above.

Duty-Free & Shopping – Denver Duty-Free offers duty-free shopping airside in A Gates (Center Core) and B Gates (Center Core and 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 • Center of Gates B • Center of Gates C. For access, use the intercom located beside each room.

Food & Drinks – see “Food & Drinks” above.

Hotels – see “Airport Hotels” above.

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.

Lounges – see “Airport Lounges” above.

Luggage

  • Baggage Carts – Need a hand with your luggage? Baggage carts are available. Rates: 7$.
  • Baggage Drop – A free baggage drop and check-in service is available at the Transit Center. Bags can be dropped off a minimum of 90 minutes before your flight. At the time of this update, the baggage drop was available to passengers with domestic flights on Alaska, American, Delta, Frontier, Southwest, Spirit, and United Airlines. Flights to international destinations are not eligible. Airline baggage fees apply and can be paid at all bag drop locations.
  • Luggage Storage & Lockers – see “Luggage Storages & Lockers” above.

Massages – Feel your stress melt away with a table or chair massage at A Massage. Locations: A Gates, Center Core (Hours: 7:30 AM – 9:30 PM (M, W, F) • 7:30AM – 8:30 PM (Tues, Sat) • 8:30 AM – 8:30 PM (Sun) • B Gates, Mezzanine (Hours: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM). See also “Spa/Salon Services” below.

Mobile Charging – see “Mobile Charging” above.

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: all three concourses and the Jeppesen Terminal.
  • Banking Services – Canvas Credit Union offers full-service banking. Location: Jeppesen Terminal, Landside, Level 6. Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 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 more than 80 dogs and one cat, 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.

Rest Zones – see “Rest & Relaxation  Zones” above.

Shoe Shine – Executive Shine – Locations: Concourse A, B, and C.

Showers – see “Showers” above.

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.

WiFi – see “WiFi / Internet” above.

Related Pages: Things to do on a layover at Denver Airport

Airlines
Denver airport is served by the following airlines: Aeroméxico • Air Canada • Alaska Airlines • Allegiant Airlines • American Airlines • British Airways • Cayman Airways • Copa Airlines • Delta Air Lines • Denver Air Connection • Edelweiss • Frontier Airlines • Icelandair • JetBlue Airways • Lufthansa • Southern Airways Express • Southwest Airlines • Spirit Airlines • Sun Country Airlines • United Airlines • Volaris • Westjet.
Airport Transportation: Getting To/From The Airport

Bus

RTD bus routes AB, AT, 104L, 145X and 169L are accessible from the Denver Airport Station. The buses run from 3:30 AM – 01:28 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.

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 of 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 SuitesWingate 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. 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. Fare: $10.50. For more information visit the RTD web site.

Ride App

Ride App services such as Uber and Lyft pick-up from Level 5, Island 5. Exit the terminal through doors 506-510 (west side) and 507-511 (east side).

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 ($71.03), Denver Tech Center ($79.03), Boulder ($114.03), and Tower Road ($36.03). Metered rates are available for all other destinations within the Denver metro area.

Airport Photo Gallery

Related Pages: Denver Airport Photos

Last updated: 2024-02-20

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.