Taking the train from Denver Airport to downtown is the most reliable way to skip highway traffic and get straight to the heart of the city. The Regional Transportation District operates the University of Colorado A Line commuter rail, which connects Denver International Airport directly to Denver Union Station in roughly 37 minutes.
The ride costs $10 for an Airport Day Pass, making it significantly cheaper than a rideshare or taxi while bypassing Interstate 70 congestion entirely. Trains run every 15 minutes during peak hours and every 30 minutes during early morning and late night windows, giving you flexibility without needing to check a rigid timetable before landing.
Finding the Train Station at Denver International Airport
Exiting the plane and finding the rail terminal is straightforward if you follow the overhead signage.
After you collect your checked bags on Level 5 of the Jeppesen Terminal, look for signs pointing toward the Transit Center or Train to Denver. Take the central escalators or elevators up to the plaza level. The station sits directly outside the terminal doors, framed by the white tent roof and the Westin Denver International Airport Hotel. For another look on this story, refer to the recent coverage from Travel + Leisure.
You won't have to navigate shuttle buses or long underground walkways. The train platform is fully integrated into the main airport complex, featuring level boarding platforms so you can roll suitcases straight onto the train car without lifting them up steep steps.
Buying Tickets and Understanding Fares
You need an Airport Fare to ride the A Line between the airport and downtown. Standard tickets cost $10 each way, but buying a $10 Airport Day Pass covers unlimited rides across the entire Regional Transportation District rail and bus network for the rest of the calendar day.
Several payment methods work for purchasing your pass:
- Mobile Ticketing: Download the RTD MyRide app to buy and activate digital tickets on your phone.
- Tap-n-Ride: Tap a contactless credit card, smartphone wallet, or debit card directly at the station validators or turnstiles.
- Ticket Vending Machines: Touchscreen kiosks stand on every station platform, accepting cash, credit cards, and debit cards.
Keep your validated ticket or mobile screen ready. Transit security and conductors perform random fare inspections on board the train.
What to Expect On Board the A Line
The 23-mile journey to downtown features six intermediate stops, including residential and commercial hubs like Central Park and 38th & Blake. The train reaches speeds up to 79 miles per hour, offering sweeping views of the Rocky Mountains on clear days.
Car interiors are designed specifically for travelers. You'll find designated luggage towers and overhead racks near the doors for heavy bags, plus spacious seating layouts with power outlets. Because operators don't load bags for you, pick a seat near the luggage storage racks so you can keep an eye on your belongings throughout the trip.
Arriving at Denver Union Station
The final stop on the line is Denver Union Station, located right in the Lower Downtown (LoDo) district. The historic transit hub functions as a lively neighborhood living room featuring restaurants, cocktail bars, local coffee shops, and boutique retail spaces.
Stepping off the train puts you within walking distance of major hotels, Coors Field, and the 16th Street pedestrian corridor. If your final destination sits further away, you can connect seamlessly to local light rail lines, the free 16th Street MallRide bus, or regional bus services right from the underground bus concourse or the outdoor plaza.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Travelers occasionally run into simple pitfalls when taking the train for the first time. Keep these practical tips in mind to ensure a smooth trip:
- Buying the wrong ticket type: Purchasing a standard local $3-hour pass instead of an Airport Pass will result in a citation. Make sure your ticket explicitly covers the airport zone.
- Forgetting to validate mobile passes: If you buy tickets via an app, make sure you tap "activate" before boarding the train car.
- Rushing with bulky luggage: Give yourself a few extra minutes to maneuver bags across the platform gap, especially during peak commute hours when trains fill up quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the train ride take from the airport to downtown?
The trip takes approximately 37 minutes from end to end. Trains run consistently, meaning you rarely wait long on the platform regardless of when your flight lands.
Are trains available late at night?
Trains run every 15 minutes from 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM, and every 30 minutes during early morning and late night hours. If your flight lands past midnight, check the RTD Schedule ahead of time, as service frequency drops significantly overnight.
Can I park my car near an A Line station?
Yes. Several stations along the route, such as Peoria and Central Park, feature Park-n-Ride garages with multi-day parking options for local residents looking to avoid airport parking fees.
Is the train accessible for wheelchairs and strollers?
Every train car features level boarding platforms and designated wheelchair securement spaces with wide entry aisles, making it completely accessible for passengers with mobility devices or strollers.
