Uber at Denver Airport is one of the best ways to get around the city

Uber in Denver Airport: Your Complete Guide (2023)

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Uber in Denver Airport is a popular way to get to your hotel or anywhere else in the city. It offers a great way to explore the city if you don’t have a car rental. You can use Uber to get to most places in Denver and surrounding areas like Boulder, Evergreen, Castle Rock, and even as far as Fort Collins.

If you are traveling to Denver, and want to find out how to order Uber from Denver Airport, this article is for you. 

Denver International Airport (code: DEN) also known as DIA is the main airport serving the Denver, Colorado, metropolitan area. It’s about 25 miles northeast of downtown Denver. 

How much is Uber from Denver Airport to downtown?

Expect to pay between $25-30 for an Uber from Denver Airport to downtown Denver, although the exact price usually ranges depending on the time and date of your trip. During the surge times, you can expect to pay more than that.

Additionally, airport surcharges and tolls may also be applied.

To get the most accurate fare estimate for your Uber ride from Denver Airport, check the Uber app or website. Enter your pick-up location as Denver Airport and your destination as downtown Denver.

Read: Best Denver tours for any type of traveler

Uber is available in many destinations in Colorado, including Aspen, Denver and Breckenridge.

What Uber Options are available at Denver Airport?

There are several types of Uber in Denver, including UberX (standard rides), UberXL (larger vehicles), UberSELECT (premium rides), and UberBLACK (high-end luxury vehicles). The availability of different types of Uber depends on the demand and the time of the day.

Distances from Denver Airport to destinations in the Denve area and their Uber rates:

  • DIA to Downtown Denver 
  • DIA to Parker – 32 miles 
  • DIA to Westminster – 23 miles 
  • DIA to Castle Rock – 47 miles 
  • DIA to Littleton – 33 miles 
  • DIA to Evergreen – 53 miles

Here’s some information about Uber Denver Airport:

If you want to take Uber from Denver Airport to downtown, you need to download the app and request the ride.

Uber Pick-up Zones at Denver Airport

Denver International Airport has designated areas for ride-sharing services like Uber. The pick-up zones are located on Level 5 of the Jeppesen Terminal. Follow the signs for “Rideshares” or “Ride App Pickup” to reach the designated area.

Requesting an Uber at Denver Airport

To request an Uber from the airport, you need the Uber app on your smartphone. After you landed at the Denver airport open the app and follow the prompts to request a ride. The app will provide instructions on where to meet your driver in the designated pick-up zone.

Meeting Your Uber Driver

After you requested a ride, the app will provide information about your driver, including their name, photo, and vehicle details. Verify this information before entering the vehicle. 

Estimating Your Uber Fare

Uber fares from Denver Airport depend on several factors including distance, time, and demand. The app will provide an estimated fare range before you confirm your ride. Check the fare estimate and any applicable surcharges or fees before booking.

Where is Uber pick-up at Denver Airport?

The Uber pick-up at the Denver airport is located in the Jeppesen Terminal on the 5th level, on Island 5 right after the crew shuttle pick-up location.

Denver Airport regulations and designated pick-up areas may change over time. It’s a good idea to check the official Denver International Airport for specific details on Uber pick-up locations.

Uber Drop-offs at the Denver Airport

When requesting an Uber ride to Denver Airport, specify your terminal correctly. Your driver will drop you off at the appropriate terminal and door for your airline. Follow the signage within the airport to reach your check-in counter.

➡️ Read: How to avoid altitude sickness in Denver

Renting a car in Denver will help you to take some of the best day trips from the Mile High City like Garden of the Gods, Rocky Mountain National Park and Idaho Springs.

Is it hard to get an Uber from Denver Airport?

The availability of Uber at Denver Airport can vary depending on various factors such as time of day, flight schedules, and demand for rides. Usually, getting an Uber in Denver Airport isn’t too difficult, as Uber operates at Denver Airport 24/7.

However, during peak travel times or busy periods, there may be a higher demand for Uber rides, which could mean longer wait times or limited availability of drivers. To avoid any potential issues, always have alternative transportation options, especially if you’re short on time.

Check my complete guide to Uber in Aspen

Check the Uber app upon arrival to see if there are available drivers in the area, or book your ride in advance, if possible. This way, you can better gauge the current availability and estimate wait times.

Uber in Denver provides a reliable and fast way to get around the city

How to get from Denver Airport to Downtown?

While Uber is the fastest and most convenient way of getting from Denver Airport to downtown Denver, you have other options available, including public transportation and car rentals.

➡️ Read: Uber in Madrid

Airport Shuttles

Several companies offer private shuttle services between DEN and various locations in and around Denver. These shuttles are generally cost-effective and convenient.

CLICK HERE TO BOOK A SHUTTLE FROM DENVER AIRPORT TO YOUR HOTEL

Public Transportation

Denver’s Regional Transportation District (RTD) is the most budget-friendly way of getting around the city. Take The University of Colorado A Line commuter train from the Airport to downtown Denver. Additionally, several bus routes connect airport to different parts of the city.

Taxis

Just like Uber and Lyft, taxi services are readily available at DEN. You can find designated pick-up areas outside the airport terminals. Prices vary depending on your destination and the level of service you choose.

Car Rentals

Multiple car rental companies operate at Denver International Airport. If you like the flexibility of having your vehicle, and want to enjoy some of the best places to visit near Denver, a car rental is a perfect option. You can find rental car offices on the fifth floor of the Denver Airport, and in the city.

Where to rent a car in Denver?

You can rent a car at Denver Airport, in downtown Denver or in several place around the city. To check available car rentals in Denver, check DiscoverCars, an online platform where you can find most types of vehicles at affordable rates.

➡️ Read: How to find car rentals in Denver

All you need to do is specify your travel dates, select the type of vehicle and start searching. Unlike other platforms, DiscoverCars has no hidden fees or surcharges, so you pay what you see online. You can also buy your car insurance through them, so everything is taken care of before your trip.

✅ CLICK HERE TO CHECK PRICES ON CAR RENTALS

Limousines and Private Car Services

For a more luxurious and personalized experience, you can book a limousine or private car service in advance. 

Hotel shuttles

Many hotels near the Denver airport provide complimentary shuttle services to and from the airport . You should ask your hotel about their shuttle service availability and schedule ahead of your schedule.

Book Hyatt House Denver Airport, which is less than 5 miles from the airport and has free shuttle

Alternatively, you can book your stay at The Westin Denver International Airport, which is located right at the Denver International Airport and has an on-site restaurant and pool.

What’s the fastest way to get from Denver Airport to Downtown?

While the University of Colorado A Line train is the fastest way to reach downtown Denver from the airport, Uber is the most convenient option, if you need to get around quickly and don’t mind paying extra. 

A paid shuttle is a perfect way to get from Denver Airport to downtown if you don't feel like dealing with public transportation and ride shares.

A paid shuttle from Denver Airport 

If you want a more convenient trip, book a private shuttle that will get you straight to your hotel in Denver, or anywhere else in the area.

Your driver will meet you in the arrivals and provide door-to-door services, so you don’t have to worry about catching an Uber or waiting for a train and then hauling your bags to your hotel around the city. 

➡️ CLICK HERE TO BOOK A PRIVATE SHUTTLE FROM DENVER AIRPORT

Denver Airport taxi

Although Denver Airport taxi fare is an alternative to Uber, taxis are almost always more expensive than Uber in Denver. Expect to pay at least double of Uber ride for your trip in a taxi cab. 

How much does a taxi cost from the airport to downtown Denver?

For example, a trip to downtown Denver from the airport will cost between $50-55 while a trip to Tower Road which is just outside of the airport will set you back around $25-30. Taxis in Denver Airport charge more money for long-distance trips, so if you are going to places like Castle Rock, or Broomfield, expect to pay premium rates.

Read: How to Uber from Denver to Breckenridge

Should I take taxi or Uber in Denver Airport?

Unlike Uber in Denver, most taxis have meters which means you will pay for the timing of your trip, and not for the distance. If you are traveling during the rush hour, your the price of your taxi from the Denver Airport to your destination could be even higher, because of the extra time spent on the road. 

Where are the taxi pick-up areas at Denver Airport?

Taxi pick-up and drop-off taxi areas at Denver Airport are at Island 1, outside Doors 505, 507, and 511 (Terminal East), and Doors 506, 510, and 512 (Terminal West).

How to get from Union Station to Denver Airport 

To travel from Union Station in downtown Denver to Denver Airport, you have a few transportation options including a public train, a taxi, shuttle services and ride shares.

Airport Train (University of Colorado A Line)

The University of Colorado A Line commuter train connects Union Station to Denver International Airport. You can catch the train at the Union Station Transit Center on the lower level of Union Station. The train departs frequently, and the journey to the airport takes approximately 35 minutes.

Rideshare Services (Uber, Lyft)

You can also use rideshare services like Uber or Lyft to travel from Union Station to the airport. Request a ride through the app, and a driver will pick you up at Union Station and take you directly to Denver Airport. The ride duration and cost will depend on traffic conditions and the timing of your trip.

Taxis

Taxis are available near Union Station, and you can find them at designated taxi stands. You can inform the driver that you want to go to Denver Airport, and they will take you there. Taxis charge a metered fare based on the distance and time traveled, so the cost could fluctuate.

Shuttle Services

Some shuttle companies provide transportation from downtown Denver to the airport. These shared shuttles can be a cost-effective option, especially if you’re traveling with a group or have a

Why is Uber so expensive from Denver Airport?

There could be several reasons why Uber rides from Denver International Airport (DEN) may sometimes be more expensive compared to other locations. 

Airport Fees

Airports often charge rideshare services like Uber a fee for operating on their premises. These fees can vary depending on the airport, and some portion of these fees may be passed on to passengers, leading to higher fares.

Surge Pricing

Uber uses surge pricing, to balance supply and demand. During periods of high demand or limited availability of drivers, fares may increase significantly to incentivize more drivers to pick up passengers. This surge pricing can make Uber in Denver Airport more expensive.

Longer Distances

Denver Airport is located about 25 miles northeast of downtown Denver. If your destination is farther away from the airport, the overall distance of the ride will be longer, resulting in a higher fare.

Toll Roads

Depending on your destination, the route from the Denver airport could involve toll roads. If a driver takes a toll road, the cost of the toll is usually passed on to the passenger, which can contribute to a higher fare.

Additional Services

Uber offers various service levels, such as UberX, UberXL, and Uber Black, each with different pricing structures. If you opt for a higher-tier service, it will generally be more expensive than the standard UberX.

Boulder is one of the most popular destinations for mountain biking in the United States.

Uber from Denver Airport to Boulder

If you don’t have a car rental and don’t feel like dealing with public transportation, Uber is an excellent option for your trip from Denver Airport to Boulder. An Uber ride from Denver Airport to Boulder will usually cost between $55-70 for a standard UberX ride.

Uber in Boulder

Uber services are available in Boulder, Colorado. Uber in Boulder operates similarly to other cities, and has different types of rides, such as UberX UberXL, and Uber Black, depending on their needs and preferences.

To use Uber in Boulder, you need to have the Uber app installed on your smartphone. Through the app, you can enter your pickup location and desired destination to request a ride.

The app will display the estimated fare, driver details, and approximate wait time. Once a driver accepts your request, you can track their arrival and communicate with them through the app.

The availability and wait times may vary depending on factors such as demand, time of day, and special events. During busy periods, allow some extra time for your ride to arrive. Ensure that your pickup and drop-off locations are easily accessible and safe for both you and the driver.

Uber in Denver Airport is a perfect option if you want to get to your hotel quickly without having to wait for public transportation or renting a car.

How hard is it to get an Uber in Denver?

Getting an Uber in Denver is generally easy. Denver is a major city, and Uber operates extensively in downtown Denver as well as the suburbs and surrounding areas. While getting an Uber in Denver is generally straightforward, keep in mind that specific circumstances, such as extreme weather and road conditions can impact availability.

Keeping the Uber app handy and considering alternative transportation options in case of any unexpected issues can help ensure a smooth travel experience.

The following aspects could affect Uber availability at Denver airport:

Availability

Denver has a large number of Uber drivers, which typically translates to good availability. You should be able to find an Uber within a reasonable time, especially in popular areas or during regular hours.

Peak times

During peak travel times, such as rush hours or late evenings on weekends, there might be increased demand for Uber rides, which can mean slightly longer wait times. It’s a good idea to allow some extra time or consider alternative transportation options if you’re on a tight schedule.

Events and Holidays

Special events, festivals, or holidays can cause an increase in demand for Uber services. During these times, availability may be limited, and surge pricing might be in effect. It’s advisable to plan accordingly or consider alternative transportation methods if needed.

Multiple Ride Options

Uber offers various ride options in Denver, including UberX, UberXL, and Uber Black. Having multiple options allows for flexibility in choosing the type of vehicle and price point that suits your needs.

Pre-booking

Uber offers the option to schedule rides in advance, which can be particularly useful if you have a specific time requirement or want to ensure availability during busy periods.

Denver is a walkable city with many landmarks like the 16th Street Mall that you can visit on foot.

Where to stay in Denver

Denver has plenty of great hotels, but if you want to explore downtown Denver, look for a place close to LoDo or Lower Downtown District, a neighborhood in the heart of Denver.

  • Budget – Hostel Fish is one of the best hostels in Denver that offers shared and private rooms, a bar and a restaurant on site.
  • Mid-budget – Staybridge Suites Denver Downtown is another great mid-range hotel in the city’s downtown that has a heated indoor pool, a hot tub and offers a daily buffet breakfast.
  • Luxury – Four Seasons Denver is one of the most popular high-end hotels in Denver that boasts a beautiful rooftop pool, a spa, a gym and a restaurant.

Uber in Denver Airport: FAQ’s

Where is Denver Airport Lyft pick-up?

Just like Uber, Lyft picks up passengers at Denver International Airport (DEN) on Level 5, Island 5 of the Jeppesen Terminal.

Check the official Denver International Airport website or contact their customer service for specific details on Lyft pickups at DEN for most up-to-date information.

How much is Uber from Denver Airport to Westminster?

Westminster is a northern suburb of Denver which is 29 miles away from Denver International Airport. You can expect to pay between $20-25 USD for your trip from Denver Airport to Westminster, depending on the timing of your trip. 

How much is Uber from Denver Airport to Parker Colorado?

Parker is a major suburb of Denver, about 36 miles south from the airport via Colorado E470. A trip from Denver Airport to Parker usually costs between $40-45, depending on the timing of your trip.

The fare for an Uber from Denver International Airport (DIA) to Parker, Colorado will depend on several factors, including the time of day, and the specific Uber service you choose (e.g., UberX, UberXL, Uber Black). Additionally, fees such as airport surcharges and tolls may also apply.

Uber in Denver Airport: Final word 

Of all transportation options, Uber in Denver Airport provides the best services because it offers you a quick and relatively inexpensive way to get from the airport straight to your hotel without having to navigate public transportation or pay for public buses.