Concourse A at Denver International Airport handles a massive share of domestic and international flights, serving major carriers like United, Delta, and American. If your journey starts or ends here, knowing how to navigate the space saves you from missing your connection or wandering aimlessly past crowded gates.
Getting to Concourse A is straightforward once you clear security in the Jeppesen Terminal. You can ride the underground automated underground train or take the scenic pedestrian footbridge, which offers views of the airfield. Whether you're hunting down local Colorado cuisine, looking for a quiet place to work, or figuring out which lounge accepts your credit card, here's everything you need to make your time in Concourse A smooth.
Concourse A Layout and Navigation
Concourse A spans a long linear design running east-west, featuring gates numbered from A1 up to A83. The central core serves as the main hub where you emerge from the train, packed with shops, restaurants, and customer service desks.
- The Center Core: This is your primary landing zone. It houses the main information desks, high-traffic concessions, and access points to the mezzanine level.
- The Mezzanine Level: Head upstairs via the elevators or escalators in the center core to reach most of the airport lounges, quiet rest zones, and sit-down dining spots.
- The Walkway Bridge: If you prefer walking over taking the underground train from the main terminal, the pedestrian bridge connects directly to the north end of Concourse A. It's fully enclosed, moving walkways speed up the trek, and it features an active military USO lounge.
Top Dining and Coffee Spots
Airport food doesn't have to mean stale pretzels. Concourse A features several standout eateries highlighting local Colorado flavors alongside reliable national brands.
- Elway's Taproom & Grill (Gate A18): Named after Broncos legend John Elway, this sit-down spot offers upscale American fare, steaks, and a solid selection of local craft beers on tap.
- Denver Central Market (Gate A48): A multi-vendor food hall setup featuring local artisanal bites, fresh salads, and pastries.
- Einstein Bros. Bagels (Center Core): Perfect for early morning departures, this location operates around the clock to fix caffeine and breakfast carb cravings.
- Breckenridge Brewery (Gate A71): Grab a classic Colorado brew and pub grub without leaving the concourse.
If you're in a rush, grab-and-go kiosks like Caribou Coffee and Dazbog Coffee are scattered throughout the hallways to keep you caffeinated.
Airport Lounges in Concourse A
If you have a lengthy layover, escaping the main gate seating areas is a priority. Concourse A houses several premium lounges providing complimentary snacks, drinks, and workspace:
- Capital One Lounge (Gate A34, Mezzanine Level): Known for high-end grab-and-go food options, premium cocktails, and a modern aesthetic. Access is available for Capital One Venture X cardholders and paying guests.
- Delta Sky Club (North end of Center Core, Level 4): Features a massive bar, hot buffet options, and comfortable seating for Delta flyers and eligible credit cardholders.
- United Club (Gate A25, Mezzanine Level): A spacious club catering heavily to United loyalists, offering work tables, buffet spreads, and sweeping views of the tarmac.
- USO Lounge (North end of the pedestrian bridge): Exclusively serves active-duty military members and their families, offering snacks, games, and relaxation space.
You can check current entry requirements and rules directly through the official Denver International Airport Lounges Directory before heading over.
Amenities, Rest Zones, and Hidden Perks
Concourse A packs several unique features that aren't widely advertised, helping you pass time comfortably.
- Rest & Recharge Zone: Located on the Concourse A Mezzanine level, this quiet public space features comfortable loungers and recliners designed for resting your eyes away from the noisy gate areas.
- Golf DEN: Also on the mezzanine level, this interactive spot lets you play virtual golf if you have hours to burn.
- Outdoor Deck: Located near Gate A15, this open-air patio lets you catch fresh air and watch planes take off.
- Pet Relief Areas: If you're traveling with a dog, indoor animal relief rooms are available airside to keep pets comfortable.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Travelers often run into preventable issues at DEN due to the sheer size of the facility. Keep these practical tips in mind:
- Misjudging walking times: Concourse A is long. If your flight boards at Gate A83, don't stop for a leisurely sit-down meal at the center core. Give yourself at least 15 to 20 minutes just to walk from one end of the concourse to the other.
- Relying on 24-hour dining: While a few spots like Einstein Bros. stay open around the clock, most sit-down bars and restaurants close down by 10 PM. Pack emergency snacks if you have a redeye flight.
- Forgetting water bottles: DEN features eco-friendly water bottle refill stations past security. Empty your bottle before security and top it up for free inside to avoid paying airport prices for bottled water.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get from the main terminal to Concourse A?
You can ride the underground automated train system, which takes less than two minutes, or walk across the pedestrian bridge from the north side of the Jeppesen Terminal.
Are there showers available in Concourse A lounges?
Most standard lounges in Concourse A don't feature shower facilities. If a shower is essential for your layover, check out the amenities at other concourses like the AMEX Centurion Lounge in Concourse C.
Is free Wi-Fi available throughout Concourse A?
Yes, the airport provides complimentary wireless internet access across all terminals and concourses. Select "DEN Airport Free WiFi" from your network settings.
Can I walk between Concourse A, B, and C?
Yes, once you clear security, a secure underground pedestrian tunnel network with moving walkways connects all three concourses, allowing you to walk freely between them without re-screening.
