Denver International Airport is a well-designed, modern airport that is fairly easy to navigate with children. The main challenge for families is the 40 km distance to downtown and managing luggage — especially if you are arriving for a ski vacation.
Navigating DEN with children
The airport is large but well-signed. After landing, you take the automated train from your concourse to the main terminal (Jeppesen Terminal) — kids usually enjoy this. Baggage claim is on the lower level, with plenty of space for strollers and carts.
Family facilities include:
- Family restrooms with changing tables throughout the terminal
- Nursing rooms in each concourse
- Multiple food options in the main terminal and concourses
- Free Wi-Fi throughout the airport
The walk from baggage claim to ground transportation (either the A Line station on Level 1 or the taxi/rideshare pickup on Level 5) is about 5–10 minutes via escalators and elevators.
Child seats and vehicle options
| Transport | Child seat? | Luggage capacity | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| A Line train | Not needed | You carry your own | Manageable with light luggage |
| Taxi | No | Standard trunk | Tight with family luggage |
| Uber/Lyft | Limited | Standard trunk | Car seat option unreliable |
| Private transfer (sedan) | Yes, on request | Standard trunk | Good for 1–2 kids, moderate bags |
| Private transfer (SUV/van) | Yes, on request | Large capacity | Best for families with gear |
Fixed-price private transfer
DEN Denver
From€95for 2 passengers
Denver taxis do not provide child seats. Colorado law requires children under 8 to use an appropriate car seat or booster. If your child needs one, your options are:
- Pre-book a transfer with a child seat request
- Bring your own travel car seat or inflatable booster
- Rent one from your car rental company if renting a vehicle
The A Line with kids
The A Line train is feasible with older children (6+) and light luggage. The 37-minute ride is smooth and kids enjoy watching the scenery. However, with a stroller, multiple bags, and young children, the train becomes impractical — there is no luggage storage, and you will need to manage everything yourself on the platform and in the car.
For families heading downtown with manageable gear, the A Line saves serious money — and RTD's Zero Fare for Youth programme means anyone aged 19 and under rides free, so a family often pays only the $10.00 Airport Day Pass per adult. Youth may be asked to show a school or government ID.
Ski trip families
If you are arriving for a ski vacation, luggage is the critical factor. A family of four with ski bags, boot bags, and personal luggage needs a van or large SUV. A standard taxi or sedan will not fit everything.
Options for ski families:
- Private transfer in a van: priced per vehicle and quoted when you book — specify the ski bags so the vehicle actually fits them
- Ski shuttle services: Epic Mountain Express and similar sell per-person seats to the major resorts, with children often discounted
- Rental car with roof rack: Best for flexibility if you plan to drive during your stay
Recommended approach
For families heading to downtown Denver with moderate luggage: a taxi (one flat fare, split between you) or a private transfer if you need a child seat. For ski resort destinations: a pre-booked van transfer or shuttle service. For budget-conscious families with older kids and light bags: the A Line train at $10.00 per adult, with under-20s free.