Layover in Denver: An Expert Guide to Scheduling Your Stopover

Welcome to Denver International Airport (DEN). It’s a huge airport, the biggest in the Western Hemisphere by land size, and a main stop for flights across North America. DEN has many things to offer, aiming to make your travel smooth. Whether you’re starting a big trip or just passing through, knowing how to use your time during a Denver airport layover can turn a boring wait into a fun part of your journey.

This guide will help you make the most of your layover in Denver. We’ll cover important things like needing a transit visa. We’ll also look at fun things to do at the airport and even how to visit Denver if you have a longer layover. From great food and shopping to quiet places to relax and needed services, we’ve got it all. Also, if you need to keep your bags safe while you explore, consider Qeepl. They offer convenient luggage storage near airports, keeping your belongings secure and easy to access.

Denver Transit Visa Requirements

When planning an international layover, a key question is if you need a transit visa. Whether you need a transit visa to enter the United States for a layover depends on your country and the agreements between your country and the U.S. For example, people from Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries can usually visit the U.S. for up to 90 days without a visa for tourism or business. This often includes transit if they meet certain rules. But, if your country isn’t in the VWP, or if you have specific travel history or plans, you might need a B-1 (business) or B-2 (pleasure) visa, or even a C visa (transit visa). This depends on why and how long you’re staying. It’s very important to check the specific rules for your situation well before you travel. You can find detailed and current information about U.S. visa rules, including transit visas, on the official U.S. Department of State website. This site will help you understand who is eligible, how to apply, and what documents you need. For instance, if you plan to leave the airport to see Denver during your layover, even for a short time, you must have the right documents allowing you to do so. This might be different from just staying in the airport’s international transit area. Always check official government sources for the most accurate and up-to-date visa information.

What to Do at the Airport During Your Denver Layover?

For shorter layovers, usually less than four hours, it’s best to stay inside the airport’s secure area. This helps you avoid missing your next flight due to security lines or travel delays. But even with little time, DEN has many options to make your airport experience better. This part will cover the best things to do and the services available, so your time at DEN is useful and enjoyable.

Restaurants Worth a Stop

Denver International Airport has many food choices for all tastes and budgets. For local Colorado tastes, try Elway’s, known for its steaks and nice atmosphere, or Root Down, which serves creative dishes from around the world using local and organic ingredients. If you want something fast and casual, Sbarro offers classic Italian food, while Vail Resorts serves hearty meals like you’d find in the mountains. For coffee lovers, Pablo’s Coffee is a local favorite for a caffeine boost.

Best Stores to Browse Between Flights

DEN has various shops for those who enjoy shopping. Brooks Brothers is great for classic men’s clothing, while Saks Fifth Avenue offers designer fashion and accessories. For unique souvenirs and gifts, look at Tabor Center Gifts or Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory. Book fans can find many books at The Bookies, and for travel items and last-minute needs, Hudson News is easy to find.

Lounges and Nap Zones

If you want a quieter experience, DEN has several lounges where you can rest and refresh. The United Club and American Airlines Admirals Club are for eligible travelers and offer comfy seats, Wi-Fi, and drinks. For a fee, many other lounges are open to any traveler, giving you a calm break from the busy airport. The airport also has quiet seating areas and comfortable chairs in different parts of the terminals, perfect for a short nap or some peaceful thinking.

Facilities, Services, and Wi-Fi Access

Denver International Airport has many facilities to make your stay comfortable. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, so you can stay connected. You’ll find plenty of restrooms, charging spots for your devices, and even a play area for kids. For help, information desks have friendly staff. The airport also offers currency exchange, ATMs, and baggage carts. Art pieces and displays are located throughout the terminals, adding a cultural touch to your visit.

How to Spend Long Layover in Denver?

When your layover is longer than a few hours, and you know you can leave the airport, Denver offers many exciting possibilities. A longer layover can be a great chance to experience the unique charm and sights of the Mile-High City.

DEN is close to downtown Denver and other attractions, so you can make the most of your extra time. Here’s how to plan your visit based on how long your layover is:

8-Hour Layover in Denver

With an 8-hour layover, you have enough time to see a few main attractions. The quickest way to get to downtown Denver is by the RTD A Line train, which takes about 37 minutes to reach Union Station. From Union Station, you can easily use the 16th Street Mall shuttle for free rides around downtown. Consider visiting the Colorado State Capitol Building, the Denver Art Museum, or just walking around Confluence Park. Remember to allow enough time to travel back to the airport and go through security checks.

12-Hour Layover in Denver

A 12-hour layover gives you more freedom to explore. After arriving at Union Station, you could spend a few hours seeing the LoDo (Lower Downtown) area, with its old buildings, lively nightlife, and many breweries. You could also visit the Denver Museum of Nature & Science or the Denver Botanic Gardens. For a special experience, think about a short trip to Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, but this will take more travel time and might need a taxi or rideshare.

24-Hour Layover in Denver

A 24-hour layover is like a short break. This lets you fully enjoy Denver’s culture and the beautiful nature nearby. You could spend the first day exploring downtown as mentioned for a 12-hour layover, maybe having dinner at one of Denver’s famous restaurants. For the second day, consider a trip to the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, perhaps to the pretty town of Golden or for a scenic drive. You could also explore other Denver neighborhoods like RiNo (River North Art District), known for its street art and galleries, or Cherry Creek, a place for fancy shopping and dining.

How to Handle Overnight Layover in Denver?

An overnight layover in Denver is a perfect chance to get some good rest and maybe see the city at night. Luckily, DEN has many convenient places to stay, both at the airport and nearby. Here are your best options for an overnight stay:

• The Airport Westin Denver International Airport: This hotel is directly connected to the airport’s Jeppesen Terminal by a walkway above ground, making it very easy to get to. It has modern rooms, places to eat, and other useful services. The price for a standard room is usually $200 - $350 per night. This is the easiest option if you want to save travel time and get as much rest as possible.
• Hyatt Place Denver/Denver Airport: Located about 2-3 miles from the airport, this hotel offers a free shuttle service. It has large rooms, a gym, and a business center. The price is typically $150 - $250 per night. It’s a good choice if you want a slightly cheaper option but still want to be very close to DEN.
• Embassy Suites by Hilton Denver International Airport: Found about 3-4 miles from the airport, this hotel also has a free shuttle. Embassy Suites is known for its large two-room suites, free breakfast, and evening gatherings, offering great value. Expect to pay around $180 - $300 per night.
• SpringHill Suites by Marriott Denver Airport: This hotel is about 3-5 miles from the airport and provides shuttle service. It offers comfortable suites with separate living and sleeping areas, free breakfast, and an indoor pool. Prices are usually between $140 - $240 per night.
• Comfort Inn Denver International Airport: Located about 4-6 miles from the airport, this hotel also offers shuttle service. It’s a more budget-friendly choice, providing standard services like free breakfast and Wi-Fi. The price range is roughly $100 - $180 per night.

When picking a place to stay, think about the balance between being close to the airport and the cost, as well as the services that are most important for a comfortable overnight stay. Always book ahead, especially during busy travel times, to get the best prices and make sure there’s a room available.