About Denver International Airport (DEN)
Denver International Airport (DEN) is the primary gateway to Denver, Colorado and the Rocky Mountain region, connecting travelers to hundreds of destinations across North America and around the world.
Our Story & Mission
Opened in 1995 on a vast site northeast of downtown Denver, Denver International Airport was designed from the ground up to handle modern air travel and long-term growth. Today, the airport spans more than 50 square miles, making it the largest airport in the United States by land area and one of the largest in the world.
As a major hub for national and international flights, Denver International Airport plays a critical role in connecting Colorado’s residents, businesses and visitors to the rest of the globe. Our mission as a traveler-focused guide is to help you navigate DEN with confidence—from flight connections and terminal services to ground transportation and local tips.
Denver Airport at a Glance
With a single central terminal and multiple concourses connected by an underground train, Denver International Airport is designed for efficient transfers, clear wayfinding and room for future expansion as Colorado continues to grow.
Connecting Denver & the Rocky Mountain Region
Strategically located roughly 25 miles northeast of downtown Denver, DEN serves the entire Denver metro area and the broader Front Range corridor. Its location allows airlines to route flights efficiently across the United States, making Denver a natural connecting point for east–west and north–south journeys.
The airport is a key hub for major US carriers and an operating base for low-cost airlines, which together offer a wide choice of routes, schedules and fare options. Whether you are flying for business, outdoor adventure in the Rockies or international travel, Denver Airport is built to be your launch pad.
Terminals, Concourses & Traveler Facilities
Jeppesen Terminal & Concourses
Denver International Airport is centered around the iconic Jeppesen Terminal, known for its white, peaked roofline inspired by the nearby Rocky Mountains. From this terminal, passengers connect to multiple concourses that house departure gates, shopping, dining and airline lounges.
- Check-in areas for domestic and international flights
- Security screening zones serving all concourses
- Automated train system linking terminal and concourses
- Pedestrian bridge access to select gates and security
Passenger Experience
Travelers at DEN can take advantage of a full range of amenities designed to make airport time more comfortable and productive:
- Diverse restaurants, cafés and grab-and-go options
- Retail shops, travel essentials and Colorado-themed gifts
- Art installations and rotating exhibits throughout the airport
- Business services, currency exchange and ATMs
- Free Wi-Fi in most public areas
Sustainability & Community Impact
Denver International Airport is more than a transportation hub—it is a major economic engine for Colorado. The airport supports tens of thousands of jobs and contributes billions of dollars in annual economic impact through aviation, tourism, hospitality and logistics.
In recent years, DEN has invested in modernizing infrastructure, expanding gates and enhancing security while moving toward more energy-efficient operations. From upgraded facilities to long-term planning projects, the goal is to meet growing passenger demand in a safe, reliable and sustainable way.
Plan Your Journey Through Denver Airport
Use this Denver airport guide to plan a smoother trip—whether you are catching a connecting flight, meeting family, or starting a Colorado adventure.