Skipping Denver traffic is easy when you take the Regional Transportation District (RTD) University of Colorado A Line directly from Denver International Airport to downtown. This commuter rail link connects the terminal directly to Denver Union Station in 37 minutes, bypassing I-70 congestion completely. Trains run every 15 minutes during peak hours and every 30 minutes early in the morning and late at night, making it the most reliable transit option in the city.
Navigating the transit system doesn't have to be confusing. Whether you're heading downtown for a business conference or catching a connecting light rail, this guide breaks down ticket purchasing, platform locations, luggage storage, and common transit mistakes.
Finding the Train Station at Denver International Airport
Exiting the airport terminal to find the train can feel overwhelming if you follow the wrong signs. When you clear baggage claim, do not follow the underground train signs—those are for the terminal shuttle system only.
Instead, look overhead for signs pointing toward the Transit Center and the Westin Denver International Airport Hotel.
- Head toward the south end of the main Jeppesen Terminal.
- Walk past the central plaza doors toward the large glass wall facing the open-air plaza and hotel.
- Step outside briefly onto the plaza, then ride the massive set of escalators down to the ground level.
The open-air transit platform sits right in front of you. You'll find ticket kiosks lining the walls immediately as you reach the bottom of the escalator.
Tickets, Fares, and Payment Options
A one-way fare on the A Line costs $10, which covers travel between the airport and Union Station. This ticket also doubles as a day pass, giving you unlimited rides across the entire RTD light rail and local bus network for the remainder of the service day.
You can buy tickets using several methods:
- Mobile App: Download the RTD MyRide app before you land to purchase and activate digital tickets instantly.
- Station Kiosks: Touchscreen ticket vending machines accept credit cards, debit cards, and cash on every platform.
- Validated Proof: Always keep your physical or digital ticket accessible. Transit security regularly checks fares on board the moving train and upon arrival at platforms.
If you plan to use public transit extensively during your stay, consider picking up a stored-value card or checking regional discounts for seniors, youth, and low-income riders through the RTD Denver official site.
What to Expect On Board the A Line
The 23-mile journey includes six intermediate stops between the airport and downtown:
- 61st & Peña
- 40th Ave & Airport Blvd – Gateway Park
- Peoria (connection to the R Line)
- Central Park
- 40th & Colorado
- 38th & Blake
- Denver Union Station
Because every single train departing the airport platform travels to Union Station, you don't have to stress about boarding the wrong direction. Just hop on the next available train.
Train cars feature dedicated luggage racks, overhead storage compartments, and ample floor space for suitcases. You're responsible for loading and unloading your own bags, so keep a firm grip on your belongings during brief station stops. Level boarding makes it simple to roll bags straight onto the train without lifting them over stairs.
Arriving at Denver Union Station
Stepping off the train drops you right into the heart of LoDo (Lower Downtown) at Denver Union Station. The historic 1914 Beaux-Arts terminal functions as a vibrant neighborhood hub filled with local restaurants, cocktail bars, coffee shops, and the boutique Crawford Hotel.
From Union Station, you can easily connect to:
- The Free Mall Ride bus up the 16th Street pedestrian promenade.
- Regional light rail lines heading toward sports stadiums, theatres, and convention centers.
- Rideshares and taxis designated outside the main transit hall.
For detailed local tourism recommendations and event schedules around the station district, explore Visit Denver.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
First-time visitors often hit minor snags that slow down their transit experience. Keep these pitfalls in mind:
- Confusing the airport shuttle with the rail: Remember that the underground terminal train moves people between concourses, not downtown. Follow signs for the outdoor Transit Center instead.
- Throwing away your ticket too early: Don't discard your pass after boarding. Inspectors frequently request validation mid-route, and you might need it to exit gated transfer platforms.
- Ignoring off-peak schedules: While daytime trains run every 15 minutes, late-night and early-morning schedules drop to a 30-minute frequency. Check the timetable if your flight lands past midnight.
- Underestimating travel duration: While the train ride itself takes precisely 37 minutes, budget an extra 15 minutes to walk from your gate, clear baggage claim, and descend to the platform.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the airport train run 24 hours a day?
The A Line doesn't run 24/7, but it covers almost all flight arrivals. Service begins around 3:00 AM and runs past midnight daily, with final departures stretching close to 1:00 AM on Friday and Saturday nights.
Are pets allowed on the A Line?
Yes, small pets are welcome as long as they travel inside a secure, approved pet carrier. Service animals accompanying passengers with disabilities are permitted on all trains without a carrier.
Is the station safe for late-night arrivals?
The platform and trains feature active security patrols and bright lighting. However, like any major metropolitan transit system, stay aware of your surroundings if you arrive late at night.
Can I use contactless credit card tap-to-pay at the turnstiles?
RTD relies primarily on mobile apps, ticketing kiosks on the platform, and physical passes rather than direct tap-and-go turnstiles at every gate, though mobile ticketing handles digital payments seamlessly. Make sure you purchase your fare before stepping onto the train platform.
