Iconic peaked roof, vast size, local food, art, therapy dogs





































8500 Peña Blvd, Denver, CO 80249 Get directions

"More than a layover, this place feels like a destination: set a full 24 miles from downtown on 53 square miles of prairie, it’s the largest airport by area in the Western Hemisphere, with six runways and room for 12, and it leans into its singular personality—embracing decades of conspiracy lore with tongue‑in‑cheek signage while showcasing an unusually daring public art program born of a 1%‑for‑art mandate. I spent a day sampling its local‑first food scene (40% of concessions are Denver brands), sipping to‑go drinks on fire‑pit patios as the sun set over the Rockies, and bouncing between curiosities like the Golf DEN simulator, the CATS therapy dogs in neon “Pet Me!” vests, and hyper‑helpful Ambassadors in plaid vests and cowboy hats. Between the whimsical installations, the iconic tented terminal, and an easy RTD train right outside the doors, the vibe is pure “surprise and delight” at a hub where 46% of passengers are connecting yet you might actually wish your layover were longer." - Charlie Sosnick

"I noted that United said it would not cancel flights that connect its hub at Denver International, meaning routes between Denver and the other listed hub airports should remain unaffected amid the FAA-directed reductions." - Jessica Puckett
"Ranked second for walk length, with a 1.14-mile distance from the main entrance to the farthest gate. As a major hub with long terminals and extensive concourses, navigating between entrance and distant gates can require a substantial walk, so allow extra time for connections." - Stacey Leasca Stacey Leasca Stacey Leasca is an award-winning journalist and co-founder of Be a Travel Writer, an online course for the next generation of travel journalists. Her photos, videos, and words have appeared in print or online for Travel + Leisure, Time, Los Angeles Times, Glamour, and many more. You'll usually find her in an airport. If you do see her there, please say hello. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"Ranked as the sixth busiest airport in the world for 2024." - Alison Fox Alison Fox Alison Fox is a Travel + Leisure contributor. She has also written for Parents.com, The Wall Street Journal, and amNewYork. When she’s not in New York City, she can be found at the beach or on the slope

"Another new entry to the list, indicating growth in airline capacity and traffic."