The Best Things to Do Near Denver Airport During a Long Layover

The Airport may seem like it's in the middle of nowhere, but truth is, you're minutes from a mini vacation in Aurora! Just minutes from DEN and directly connected by the RTD A Line, it is one of the easiest places to explore during a long layover.

Less than 4 Hour Layover: Stay Close to the Airport

Art in the Park at Hogan Park | Directions

Located just minutes from Denver International Airport, Hogan Park at Highlands Creek is a quick nature escape that gets you out of the busy terminal. Home to more than 20 public art installations, the park's two-mile Art in the Park trail winds through open green space, offering a chance to stretch your legs while discovering sculptures and site-specific works by local and regional artists. There are several photo opportunities along the path as well. It's an easy, low-effort stop for travelers looking to enjoy fresh air, public art, and a quieter side of Aurora before heading back to the airport.

Getting there: Take a rideshare from the airport directly to the park.

Danico Brewing | Directions

If you're looking for something more local than an airport bar, Danico Brewing is only a few minutes from Peña Station. The brewery pours a rotating lineup of Colorado-made beers in a relaxed taproom that's ideal for unwinding before your next flight. Food trucks frequently park outside, making it an easy stop for both a drink and a bite to eat. If your layover stretches into the evening, grab a seat on the patio, where you'll have views of the Rocky Mountains and a front-row seat to one of Colorado's signature sunsets.

Getting there: Take the RTD A Line to Peña Station and then a 1-mile walk.

4+ Hour Layover: Explore Aurora by Train

Gaylord Rockies Resort: Relax and Reset | Directions

If your layover gives you several hours to spare, Gaylord Rockies Resort offers an easy resort-style escape just minutes from Denver International Airport. Spend the afternoon unwinding with a treatment at the Relâche Spa. The purchase of a spa treatment will also allow you access to the Arapahoe Springs Water Park's indoor and outdoor pools, lazy river, and hot tubs. If relaxation means good food rather than a massage, enjoy a leisurely meal or sip a Colorado craft beer at Embers Lodge Bar while taking in panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains. If your timing lines up, stay into golden hour, when the resort's outdoor patios offer one of the best sunset views near the airport.

Depending on the season, the resort hosts a variety of special events and experiences. During the holidays, ICE! transforms the Gaylord into a dazzling winter wonderland, featuring larger-than-life ice sculptures, themed exhibits, and festive attractions, making it a memorable stop for families and holiday travelers alike.

Getting there: Take the RTD A Line to Pena Station and take a rideshare the 3 miles to the resort.

Haykin Family Cider: Named a Best Cider in America | Directions

Colorado is known for craft beverages, and Haykin Family Cider offers something a little different. Recently named one of the 22 best ciders in America, their small-batch ciders are made using heirloom apples sourced from around the world, creating flavors you won't find at a typical brewery. The welcoming taproom makes it an easy place to spend an hour before continuing your adventure.

Getting there: RTD A Line to Peoria Station and then a half mile walk.

Sand Creek Park | Directions

Need to stretch your legs after a long flight? Sand Creek Park offers miles of paved trails, wide-open green space, and a peaceful escape from the bustle of the airport. It's an easy way to get outside without committing to a major hike. The Sand Creek Regional Greenway trail that goes through the park is a nearly 14-mile urban trail, and connects with several other parks along the way so you won't run out of trails to explore!

Getting there: RTD A Line to Peoria Station and then a little over a one-mile walk.

On Havana Street: Take a food tour

Stretching several miles through Aurora, this internationally known dining corridor is home to more than 100 locally owned restaurants representing cuisines from across the globe. Whether you're craving Korean barbecue, Vietnamese pho, Mexican tacos, Ethiopian cuisine, or handcrafted desserts, it's one of the best places near Denver International Airport to experience Colorado's diverse food scene.

A local favorite for a sweet treat is SNOWL, for taiyaki ice cream, served in a warm fish-shaped pastry filled with creamy soft serve. If you're looking for something uniquely local, head to Tofu Story, where you can watch fresh tofu being made in-house while you enjoy your meal. They're the only restaurant in Colorado that makes its own tofu from scratch.

If you've still got time before catching the train back to the airport, create your own LEGO person at Bricks & Minifigs, browse the treasures at Heirlooms Antique Mall, or get creative with a hands-on activity at Olive Me Studio for a memorable break that's about more than just food.

Getting there: Take the RTD A Line to Peoria Station, then take a local bus or rideshare to your exact destination.

The Common Good & Milieu Fermentation | Directions

Located inside The Benson Hotel, The Common Good is a stylish spot for breakfast, lunch, coffee, or a craft cocktail. Take a few minutes to explore the hotel's impressive art collection or relax in the peaceful courtyard before heading next door to Milieu Fermentation, a neighborhood brewery known for its creative farmhouse ales and mixed-fermentation beers. Both are located adjacent to Central Green, a popular gathering space that regularly hosts community events, live music, and seasonal programming. Check the event schedule to see if there are any local events happening during your layover!

Getting there: RTD A Line to Peoria Station and then take a rideshare for the 2 mile drive.

Stanley Marketplace | Directions

Housed inside a former aviation factory, this community marketplace is home to more than 50 locally owned restaurants, shops, and businesses. Challenge your travel companions to a round of indoor golf at The Local Drive, work on your own craft project at Friends of Friends, or enjoy a refined American meal at Annette, one of Colorado's most acclaimed restaurants. Whether you're shopping, dining, or simply wandering the lively indoor-outdoor space, Stanley Marketplace offers an easy way to experience local Colorado businesses without spending your entire layover commuting.

Getting there: Take the RTD A Line to Central Park Station, then take a bus or rideshare 2 miles to the marketplace.

Explore Colfax Street Art | Directions

For a quick dose of Aurora’s creative side, take a stroll along Colfax Avenue and discover the colorful murals and street art that line one of the region’s most iconic roads. The Colfax corridor is constantly evolving, with large-scale murals, locally made artwork, and unexpected creative installations tucked between restaurants, shops, and historic buildings. Grab a unique Native American drink at Ollin Cafetzin, take a short walk, and keep your eyes open. You never know what artwork you’ll discover around the next corner!