Parking at the Denver International Airport

Choosing a parking option at Denver International Airport comes down to two criteria---cost and convenience. There are several levels of on-site parking service available, everything from drive-up and drop valet service to budget parking lots served by shuttle buses.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Examine Options

Step 1

Review the easy-to-read parking map on the Denver International Airport website and the list of parking lot charges. Estimate your parking expense, and keep in mind that parking charges are subject to change.

Step 2

Consider transit time. Valet parking is the closest, while shuttle parking from on-site lots can mean a 20- to 30- minute ride to the terminal.

Step 3

Look at the budget options. Pikes Peak Shuttle Parking and Mt. Elbert Shuttle Parking are served by buses running every 10 minutes. A shuttle and valet lot operated by WallyPark also is on-site. Prices for budget parking are about $6 a day.

Step 4

Choosing economy parking gets you closer to the terminals with access along covered walkways. There are two lots, Economy East and West, near the terminal garages. Prices are about $8 for 24 hours.

Step 5

Opt for speed and convenience by choosing terminal garage parking, which costs about $18 a day, or $27 for valet service where you simply drive up and drop your car and keys.

Step 6

Do not use short-term parking for stays beyond an hour or two---it can be expensive at $3 an hour. Plus, there is no overnight parking in the short-term lot.

Step 7

Picking up passengers? Park at the free waiting lot on the south side of Pena Boulevard, the main road into the airport. Drivers can park for 45 minutes while they call incoming passengers to coordinate a pickup.

Tips & Warnings

Real-time parking information is posted on electronic signs along Pena Boulevard. The airport is moving to an in-and-out credit card payment system that will eliminate those easy-to-lose parking tickets. Write down the location of your car, or take a cell phone photograph to remind you where you have parked.

Always be aware of your surroundings, especially late at night, in parking garages and lots. Have your keys ready as you approach your car, and lock the doors immediately after getting inside.

Resources

Road conditions in Denver area

Article Written By Robin Thornley

Robin Thornley has been a successful writer for more than 25 years, penning articles for national magazines, newspapers and websites. She specializes in a variety of topics, including business, politics, lifestyle trends, travel and cuisine. She also is the author of two guidebooks.

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