LivingTravelHow to use the new DIA airport train

How to use the new DIA airport train

Getting to and from Denver International Airport is much easier.

Although DIA has to be one of the most architecturally interesting (and beautifully artistic) airports in the world, it is also located east of the city center, right next to nowhere and a stop beyond nowhere.

It is far from convenient.

Granted, this isolation is a boon to residents, who don’t have planes flying directly over their homes, like the airport’s former location in the now Stapleton neighborhood.

But for commuters, it’s a hassle, full of busy streets or expensive toll roads. I-70 can be a traffic nightmare and exponentially extend your trip. Add to that the hurdle of parking or renting a car, and you’d have to leave two hours earlier than the two hours you need to get there early for an international flight.

The long-awaited A Line train from the University of Colorado Colorado aims to facilitate all of that.

This 23-mile rail system transports passengers from DIA directly to Union Station in the heart of downtown in a quick 37 minutes.

It just opened a few days ago.

“Today, we are completing a long-term vision for rail service to Denver International Airport that will make us one of the best-connected airports in the world,” said the airport’s CEO, Kim Day, in a written statement. “Denver is now one of less than 20 cities in the United States that can claim a direct rail connection from downtown to the airport, and there is no easier link from a rail station to an airport terminal in the United States.”

With DIA as the fifth busiest airport in the country, with 53 million passengers a year, this affects many people.

In a written statement, Denver Mayor Michael Hancock called it a “game-changing rail line” that provides “impressive convenience for commuters.”

For residents wondering how to best maneuver this new railroad, for travelers looking for the easiest vacation transportation possible, here’s our insider guide on how to use the new A-Line.

Where are you going

Denver Union Station is the end point (and a great place to stay, drink, dine and shop, by the way), but it’s not the only stop. Line A has a total of eight different stations along the route, making it an option for commuters as well, as well as commuters along the busy I-70 corridor.

Other stops include 38th and Blake, 40th and Colorado, Central Park, Peoria, Airport and 40th Boulevard, Gateway Park, 61st and Pena Boulevard, and of course the airport.

You can also connect to the rest of the RTD network via buses at Union Station.

Where it takes you

DIA is proud to state that no other airport in the nation offers such a short distance from plane to train. Line A drops travelers just below the new Westin Hotel, steps away from the stairs (or preferably an escalator, as it is said to be the longest in the state) that takes you to security.

You can leave your bags at the new transit center, which connects to many airlines (and more along the way). Even print your boarding pass for some airlines at one of the kiosks.

Note: Travelers no longer take the bus on level five, but instead go to the transit center on the south side of the main terminal.

When run

The train will run every 15 minutes for most of the day (from about 4 am Monday through Friday until 1:30 am) and every half hour during slower times, such as overnight.

What does it cost

A single $ 9 ticket will get you to the airport from any of Line A’s seven stations, including Union Station. This fare also allows unlimited rides along the line during that day.

Visit the RTD website to see various rate structures along the line.

Get tickets from the vending machines on the train platform.

What are other features?

The train cars are designed for travelers with luggage. You can also find power outlets for your technology.

Where to park

The various A-line stations combined have 4,300 parking spaces if you have a car that needs to park.

What is the difference between a light rail and a commuter train?

Until now, the Colorado rail system was light rail.

A light rail can travel through narrow, crowded streets and can travel 55 miles per hour, with quick starts and stops. A commuter train generally has fewer stations, it can go up to 79 miles per hour.

The commuter train can also hold more passengers (170, compared to 155).

What is history?

Line A has been in development for decades. Plans began in 1997. It is funded by the Eagle P3 Project.

It opened on April 22, when it offered free rides for the day, so people could see it. The trains were full.

Discover hidden castles near Denver

Colorado may not have a history of kings and queens, but what many visitors don't realize is that we have a long list of incredible castles,

The 6 weirdest foods only in Colorado

Each region has its peculiarities, and Colorado has many. Some of them might land on your plate in the form of a menu item.

Denver Voter Information

In the state of Colorado, you need a Colorado driver's license, a Colorado Department of Revenue identification number, or all four

Make the Breckenridge Beer Fest a part of your spring break

Colorado has no shortage of breweries or beer celebrations. Beer is part of the Rocky Mountain lifestyle. And there is no lack of

T. Rex Encounter Exhibit

T. Rex Encounter:

More