Denver International Airport

A major hub for Unites Airlines, Denver International Airport (DIA) opened in 1995 roughly 24 miles northeast of downtown. Sprawling, efficient, enviably clean and accessorized with enough paintings, sculptures, murals and exhibits to outfit a major museum, the building is often a conversation piece for its iconic, peaked, white roof that mimics the Rocky Mountains. The three concourses are serviced by a speedy train system, which also funnels passengers from the concourses to baggage claim (level 5). If you need directions, hospitality ambassadors—identifiable by their white cowboy hats—can assist you in locating gates, services and amenities.

Internet AT&T Wi-Fi provides wireless Internet access service throughout Concourses A, B, C and the Jeppesen Terminal, and all public payphones have laptop-accessible data ports for standard dial-up Web access.

Security Denver International Airport is the nation’s fifth busiest airport, which means that waiting times to get through security can be lengthy. The DIA Web site (www.flydenver.com) posts up-to-the-minute security wait times.

Waiting around If you want to alleviate stress, there are professional massage therapists in the main terminal and on Concourse B. Neck and backrubs and full-body massages are available from $45–75.

Transportation Most of the major rental car companies—Advantage, Enterprise, Hertz and Avis—are a short shuttle scoot away, and taxis are readily available. A cab ride to downtown takes about 30 minutes and costs around $50. Numerous shuttle providers lie in wait to shuffle passengers between DIA and various points in and around the city, including several hotels. Prices are generally around $20 per person.