Denver International Airport • Parking

Denver Airport Parking (DEN) – Rates, Options & Tips

Use this guide to compare Denver International Airport (DEN) parking options, including short-term, long-term, garage, economy, and cell phone waiting lots. Learn where to park, how much time to allow before your flight, and simple ways to save money on Denver airport parking.

Whether you are dropping someone at departures, leaving your car for a week-long trip, or picking up late at night, the sections below explain each parking lot, typical use cases, and travel tips for driving to DEN by car.

🅿️Short-term & long-term parking
💲Compare parking rates & options
🚗Cell phone lot & pickup tips
Parking options at Denver airport On-site parking overview

Denver International Airport offers several on-site parking options with different price points and walking distances to the terminal. Use this summary to quickly decide which lot is best for your budget and travel plans.

Parking type
Best for
Distance to terminal
Price level*
Garage / short-term
Drop-offs, short trips, meeting passengers
Closest, usually walking distance
$$$$ (highest)
Economy / long-term
Multi-day or weekly parking
Shuttle ride from lot to terminal
$$ (budget-friendly)
Valet parking
Fastest drop-off, business travelers
At or next to terminal entrance
$$$$$ (premium)
Cell phone waiting lot
Picking up arriving passengers
Few minutes from terminal by car
Free short-term waiting

*Price levels are relative and for guidance only. Always check current parking rates on the official Denver airport website or at the entrance to each lot.

Parking types explained Find the best lot for you

Garage and short-term parking at Denver airport

Garage parking is the most convenient option for quick trips, business travel, or picking up and dropping off passengers. These lots are closest to the terminal and typically offer covered spaces that protect your vehicle from snow and hail.

  • Best for stays of a few hours up to 1–2 days.
  • Shortest walk from your car to the terminal check-in area.
  • Covered parking helps during Denver’s winter weather.
  • Usually the highest daily rate of all on-site options.

Economy and long-term Denver airport parking

Economy or long-term parking lots are designed for multi-day trips. They cost less per day than garage parking but require a short shuttle ride between the lot and the terminal.

  • Best for weekend or week-long trips.
  • Shuttles typically run every few minutes (check signs at the lot).
  • Most budget-friendly on-site parking for extended stays.
  • Allow extra time for shuttle wait and ride to the terminal.

Valet parking at Denver International Airport

Valet parking offers the fastest way to transition from car to terminal. You drop your vehicle at a designated valet area and head straight inside while staff park your car for you.

  • Ideal for business travelers or tight schedules.
  • Highest price per day, but most convenient.
  • Check hours of operation and any reservation requirements.

Cell phone waiting lot for pickups

The cell phone waiting lot is a free area where drivers can wait in their cars until arriving passengers are ready for pickup. This helps avoid circling the terminal or stopping illegally at the curb.

  • Best option when picking someone up from an arriving flight.
  • Once your passenger has bags, drive to the arrivals curb for a quick pickup.
  • Watch for signs directing you to the cell phone waiting area as you approach the airport.
When to arrive if you’re parking Timing & planning

How early to arrive at Denver airport when driving and parking

If you plan to park at Denver International Airport, add extra time for traffic, finding a parking space, and walking or riding a shuttle to the terminal. A good rule of thumb:

  • Domestic flights: arrive at the airport parking area at least 2–2.5 hours before departure.
  • International flights: arrive at least 3 hours before departure.
  • Add extra time in winter or during holidays when lots are busier.

Remember to factor in your drive time from home, potential road construction, and time needed to find a space in your chosen lot.

Save on parking Budget-friendly tips

Money-saving tips for Denver airport parking

Parking can add a significant cost to your trip. Use these ideas to reduce what you pay for parking at DEN without adding too much hassle to your journey.

  • Choose economy or long-term lots instead of garage parking for extended trips.
  • Share a ride with family or friends and split the cost of parking or gas.
  • Use the cell phone lot when picking someone up instead of paying for short-term parking.
  • Compare on-site airport parking with nearby off-site lots that offer shuttle service.
  • Check if your airline, credit card, or loyalty program offers parking discounts.

If you travel from Denver frequently, consider tracking typical parking rates and seasonal trends so you can budget parking into each trip.

Denver airport parking FAQ Questions & answers

Below are answers to common questions about parking at Denver International Airport, including how much time to allow, where to park for pickups, and how to handle full lots and lost tickets. Click a question to expand the answer.

What is the best parking option for a week-long trip from Denver? +
For a week-long trip, most travelers choose economy or long-term parking. These lots are designed for multi-day stays and typically cost less per day than terminal garages, while still offering convenient shuttle service to and from the terminal.
Where should I park if I’m only dropping someone off at Denver airport? +
If you’re just dropping off a passenger, use the signed departure curbside lanes for quick unloads. If you want to walk them into the terminal, you can use short-term or garage parking, which is close to check-in counters and security.
Where should I wait to pick someone up from an arriving flight at DEN? +
Use the cell phone waiting lot to wait in your car until your passenger has collected their bags and is ready at the arrivals curb. This is usually the easiest way to avoid circling the terminal or paying for short-term parking when you only need a quick pickup.
How can I find current parking rates at Denver International Airport? +
Parking rates change over time, so always check for up-to-date pricing:
  • on the official Denver International Airport parking page
  • on signs at lot entrances and pay stations
  • by calling the airport’s parking information line
Use this page as a general guide for comparing types of parking, then confirm the exact daily and hourly rates before you park.
What if the garage or long-term parking lot is full when I arrive? +
During peak travel times, some lots may fill up. If a lot is full:
  • Follow airport signage directing you to alternative parking areas.
  • Listen for traffic radio or highway signs reporting parking availability.
  • Allow extra time so you can drive to another lot without rushing to your gate.
It’s always a good idea to have a backup plan in case your preferred lot is unavailable.
What should I do if I lose my parking ticket at Denver airport? +
If your parking ticket is lost, go to the parking office or exit booth for assistance. Staff can usually look up entry times using your license plate or other details, but be aware that some lots charge a flat “lost ticket” fee. Always keep your ticket or access card in a safe place until you leave the lot.
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