Denver International Airport is approximately 25 miles from downtown Denver — far enough that your choice of transportation to DEN significantly impacts your travel experience and budget. Here's a complete comparison of every way to get from downtown Denver to DIA.
Option 1: Drive and park at DEN
Driving yourself to Denver Airport and parking off-site is often the most cost-effective option for trips of 3 days or longer, especially if you live or are staying outside downtown. Off-airport lots near DEN start from $9/day — a 7-day trip costs $63–$77 off-airport, compared to $91 at DIA's own Economy lot. The drive from downtown Denver to DIA via I-70 East takes approximately 35–45 minutes in normal traffic.
Key consideration: if you're driving from downtown at rush hour (7–9am or 4–7pm), budget an extra 15–20 minutes for I-70 congestion near the airport exits. Compare all parking options at Windy Parking's cheap DIA parking guide.
Option 2: A Line commuter rail
The University of Colorado A Line connects Denver Union Station (downtown) directly to Denver International Airport in approximately 37 minutes. Trains run every 15 minutes during peak hours and every 30 minutes off-peak. The fare is $10.50 one-way or $28 for an unlimited monthly pass.
The A Line is the best option for downtown Denver residents or visitors staying near Union Station who are traveling light (no oversized bags or car seats). For travelers with heavy luggage, families, or anyone starting their journey from outside downtown, the train's fixed-route nature becomes a limitation.
Option 3: Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)
An Uber or Lyft from downtown Denver to DIA costs approximately $35–$55 each way depending on time of day, surge pricing, and vehicle type. Round-trip rideshare for a 7-day trip costs $70–$110 — comparable to a week of off-airport parking, but with no return wait for shuttle pickup when you land.
Rideshare is most cost-effective for short trips of 1–3 days where parking costs might equal or exceed rideshare. For longer trips, parking typically wins on price. Rideshare is also the right choice if you've been drinking before departure or simply don't want to deal with parking logistics.
Option 4: Shared airport shuttle
Several shuttle services operate between downtown Denver hotels and DEN. These typically cost $25–$35 per person each way and pick up from multiple downtown locations. For solo travelers staying downtown, shuttles offer a middle ground between the A Line's fixed route and Uber's convenience. For two or more travelers, rideshare usually wins on price.
Option 5: Taxi
Traditional taxis from downtown Denver to DIA cost $55–$75 and require being hailed or pre-booked. With Uber and Lyft operating throughout Denver, taxis offer no meaningful advantage over rideshare for most travelers.
Which option is best?
For most Denver-area residents driving a personal vehicle, driving and parking off-airport is the best combination of cost and convenience for trips of 3+ days. For downtown residents traveling light on shorter trips, the A Line is unbeatable on simplicity and fixed cost. For anyone with a complex itinerary, heavy bags, or a late-night flight, rideshare provides door-to-door convenience worth the premium.
If you're driving, compare every parking lot near DEN in one search with Windy Parking. Join the waitlist and get 25% off your first booking.