The Most Unique Things to Do and See at Denver International Airport, Including a Demonic Horse

Some airports are known for their breezy security, others their food options—and then there’s Denver International Airport, famous for its conspiracy theories, giant blue horse statue, and a few questionable murals (among other things). Arriving in or taking off from DIA is quite the experience, whether you have a lengthy layover and time to kill or are hustling to make your connection. The entire campus spans 34,000 acres, with airport staff and management ensuring there’s something new and exciting to see around every corner.

In that same vein, construction for a grand remodel of the airport—most notably Jeppesen Terminal—is still well underway, but recent travelers have begun to see results of that effort. The launching of the new West Security screening area, for example, has significantly cut back on security wait times, and lighted signs make navigating to open screening desks much easier. (And remember: you can always view live DIA security wait times from the convenience of your phone.) United Airlines also announced in early 2024 the addition of hundreds of new daily departures from DIA, which includes destinations across the US and Canada.

Whatever your reason for being at DIA, there’s much to be explored, from art exhibits to quality cuisine to some curious theories and surprises. Here’s your guide for the most interesting things to see and do next time you’re at the Denver International Airport.

Because of DIA’s location (aka, a bit removed from the Metro), there’s essentially a freeway dedicated to accessing it via car or ride share. There are also several shuttle options from nearby lots and hotels, which could save you on parking in the long run.

Probably the most hassle-free option is a trip on TheRide, an RTD light rail with routes across the city. For a small ticket fee, you and your luggage can sit back, relax, and arrive just a few steps from security.

Find it: Driving in or out of the airport.
If you don’t know, Blue Mustang (known lovingly by Coloradans far and wide as Blucifer) is a giant, bright-blue statue of a mustang rearing up on its hind legs, radiating some undeniably unique energy from glowing red eyes. It can be seen along Peña Boulevard, just before the road divides into the West or East terminal entrances if you’re driving in, or pretty soon after you drive away from the terminal on your way out. The lore behind the statue (besides the stories visitors like to make up about his glowing eyes and fierce look) is that it killed its maker—but that might depend on your interpretation and a little research.

One of many things that DIA does well is showcase art by local makers, with regularly rotating exhibits as well as permanent public art fixtures. Exhibit themes run the gamut when it comes to history, style, and initiative—with past exhibits including Colorado-specific spotlights, veteran-created art, origami, photography, painting, textile work, and even an exhibit on conspiracy theories. The exhibits can be found throughout the terminal and concourses at DIA, and the Public Art Program features more than 30 artworks located across the DIA campus.

A slight misnomer, the CATS program actually stands for the Canine Airport Therapy Squad. While there is only one official feline available to provide support for nervous flyers, there are roughly 100 dogs trained, certified, insured, and ready to help ease flight or travel anxiety. All animals are registered with the Alliance of Therapy Dogs or other organizations, and are handled by trained volunteers—many of whom are often the animals’ actual owners.

In addition to a robust lineup of restaurants, eateries, and food options, travelers can also get a pretty decent sampling of Colorado beer—often without having to leave their concourse. Longtime DIA favorite Tivoli Tap House can be found at the base of the Westin Hotel, serving up virtually the same beer—plus tasty bar bites—that it would at its Downtown Denver location. And each concourse has a notable Colorado brewery worth visiting, from Breckenridge Brewery (A Gates, near A71) to New Belgium Brewing (B Gates, near B30) to Great Divide Brewing
(C Gates, near C32).

Find it: A Gates at the Center Core
A chic airport eatery that triples as a marketplace and coffee shop? Is there anything Alex Seidel can’t do? From early-morning breakfast through after-dinner drinks, farm-to-table here looks like avocado toast, Turkish eggs, Wagyu pastrami sandwiches, and roasted half chicken; everything is so high quality that you forget for a moment you’re dining in an airport. Got a few hours? Have your pick of wine a la Mercantile’s Cruvinet Wine System—you won’t be disappointed.

Find it: C Gates, Center Core
When the Edible Beats group decided to open a sister restaurant to its hyper-popular Highland spot in 2013, it wasn’t immediately clear whether or not the airport venture would pay off. It did, of course, and years later, it’s still tough to top Root Down’s craft cocktails, tap list, and singular take on farm-to-table cuisine. Find a well-rounded selection of apps, entrees, and desserts available daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with most (if not all) offerings being especially health-forward or dietary-needs-friendly.

Find it: Taproom in A Gates, near A18 and B Gates at the Center Core
Dining with a flexible corporate account? Or perhaps your flight has been delayed for a weeklong snowstorm and you’ve lost the will to even care about any financial repercussions? This is your spot. At Elway’s, you’ll find killer steaks and stiff cocktails alongside various memorabilia honoring the restaurant’s namesake, owner, and Denver Broncos great, John Elway. And even if you’re not flying first class, a burger here won’t break the bank, but you’ll still be eating at one of the classiest spots at DIA

Find it: B Gates at the Center Core on the mezzanine level
A beloved Denver breakfast and brunch favorite, Snooze provides the warm, welcoming vibes and even warmer flapjacks and omelets that travelers need when far from home. The vibrant atmosphere is almost as good as seeing the sunrise over the Rockies, but even more captivating is the orange of a mimosa or three headed your way as you wash down crispy bacon and triple-check that you didn’t end up on the stand-by list.

Find it: A Gates at the Center Core, Level 4
Relax, have a drink, or get some work done at the Delta Sky Club, just a few floors up from the hubbub of the A Gates Mezzanine. Depending on your Delta Membership, you can gain easy access or pay a one-time entry fee with valid flight credentials. The Delta Sky Club lounge includes a buffet, two seating areas, a self-serve bar, and select complimentary beverages.

Find it: A and B Gates
DIA is a known United hub, so it makes sense that there are multiple spots for loyal United members to relax. The east B Gates location tous 35,000 square feet across three levels and more than 600 seats, making it the largest club in United’s network. Expect seasonal craft beer on tap, free high-speed Wi-Fi, and elevated, pre-flight bites (if not a full buffet).

Find it: C Gates, near C30, mezzanine Level
C Gates offer plenty of opportunity to relax as the other gates do, especially for loyal brand members. The American Airlines Admirals Club offers an oasis away from the airport hustle, complete with PCs with internet access, complimentary WiFi, food for purchase, and conference rooms.

Find it: C Gates, near C46, mezzanine level
Another way to lounge in style is at DIA’s first non-airline lounge. Sip American Express’ first Craft Beer Bar with rotating selections of locally brewed beer, a live-action cooking station featuring a locally sourced Italian menu, an immersive game experience, plenty of lounge seating, and free Wi-Fi.

Find it: Just outside Jeppesen Terminal
Convenience and luxury are wrapped in one hotel experience at the Westin, which is mere steps from DIA’s main terminal as well as the beginning of the RTD light rail line and all other transit options. It’s a 4-star hotel and won’t be your cheapest option, but some travel nightmares (or just folks who don’t mind indulging now and then) call for a credit card swipe and a freshly made, king-size bed.

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