If your New Year’s resolution includes finally checking off some of those trips on your travel bucket list, you’ll likely be heading to Denver International Airport in 2025. And, when you do, you’ll likely notice some big changes.
The airport is in the midst of several major construction projects and infrastructure improvements, including work in the Great Hall and concourse expansions. The airport has also opened several new eateries, activities and amenities to ensure it remains a “vibrant, welcoming hub that offers something special for every traveler,” says Phil Washington, chief executive officer of Denver International Airport.
“As DEN works to accommodate and prepare for 100 million annual passengers within the next several years, we must also be continually planning for the expansion of our dine-shop-retail options,” he adds. “As the third busiest airport in the U.S. with 215 nonstop destinations, we are committed to providing diverse and high-quality dining options that reflect the vibrant culture of Denver.”
The next time you book a flight, head to the airport a little early—and take advantage of these new offerings.
Santa’s Layover Lounge
The Front Range has no shortage of holiday-themed pop-up bars—and, this year, Denver International Airport decided to get in on the action with the opening of Santa’s Layover Lounge. If you’re traveling through the airport between now and January 5, you can still sip hot chocolate and munch on festive pizzas—like the Prancer, made with brie spread, fig jam, prosciutto and arugula. It’s located on Concourse B on the Mezzanine Level.
ChoLon Modern Asian
Helmed by chef-owner Lon Symensma, ChoLon Modern Asian has become a beloved Denver staple since first opening downtown in 2010. These days, the brand also has another location in Sloan’s Lake. And, as of mid-December, you’ll also find one at Denver International Airport.
If you’re craving Southeast Asian cuisine, head to the new Concourse C-East expansion area between gates C62 and C64. Here, you’ll find savory dim sum offerings, wok-fried creations and many other flavorful dishes.
Marczyk Fine Foods
If you’re on the hunt for specialty products and tasty ingredients from around the world, Marczyk Fine Foods is likely your go-to. Founded by Pete Marczyk in 2002, the brand now has two locations in Denver—one on 17th Avenue and another on Colfax. Now, it’s bringing its gourmet deli items and artisan goods to passengers at Denver International Airport. Pick up hand-made sandwiches, snacks, salads and other grab-and-go items at the newest location, in the Concourse C-East expansion area next to gate C62. It also has a full wine and beer bar.
Teatulia Tea & Coffee Bar
Need a quick pick-me-up on your way to your gate? Visit Teatulia Tea & Coffee Bar, which recently opened in the Concourse C-East expansion area near gate C62. Originally founded in Denver’s RiNo district, the company specializes in ethically sourced, organic teas grown in Bangladesh. This certified B Corporation offers tea and coffee lattes, iced teas, wellness blends and healthy beverage options.
Sunset Loop Bar & Grill
Sunset Loop Bar & Grill is now open in the new Concourse B-East expansion area, near gates B62 and B63. This “farm-to-gate” eatery is named after the Sunset Loop hiking trails in White Ranch Park in Jefferson County. The menu was developed by Chef Daniel “Chef D” Young, who serves as the personal chef of the Denver Nuggets. In addition to sit-down meals, travelers can also enjoy cocktails and grab-and-go snacks. (A new Starbucks also recently opened right next door.)
“Denver has been my home for over four decades, and it’s where I’ve had the honor to build restaurants, provide nutritional care for some of the world’s greatest athletes and witness firsthand the growth of Denver’s incredible sustainable vendors,” says Young. “Now, I can bring my love for fresh, locally inspired food to the airport, and make a difference for my community and for thousands of travelers who use the concourse every day.”
Kids’ Play Area
Traveling with little ones? Denver International Airport recently opened its first play area, where kids can get out their wiggles, run around and climb on structures before your family boards its flight. Located on Concourse C near gate C48, the new play area has an outer space and alien theme—a nod to all the airport conspiracy theories people have come up with over the years.
Mister Oso
Since opening in RiNo in the fall of 2019, Mister Oso has become a popular spot for Latin-inspired eats like empanadas, tacos and chips and salsa. Mister Oso added a second location in Wash Park in 2022. It’s been recognized as a Bib Gourmand restaurant by the Michelin Guide, among other accolades. Now, it’s also winning over travelers passing through Denver International Airport. It opened recently on Concourse C, next to gate C54.
Bar Dough
Bar Dough has been serving up tasty Italian cuisine in Denver’s LoHi neighborhood since 2017. Led by Carrie Baird, who appeared on “Top Chef,” Bar Dough is now dishing out gourmet pizzas and other Italian favorites on Concourse C, near gate C54.
Aviano Coffee
Support a local java house on your next vacation by visiting Aviano Coffee, now open near gate C54. This artisanal coffee shop now has two locations at Denver International Airport—the first is near gate B12.
Meow Wolf Denver Kiosk
Forgot to grab a souvenir for your friends and loved ones? Meow Wolf Denver now has an otherworldly presence at Denver International Airport. The new kiosk, located on Concourse C, invites travelers to explore artifacts and remnants from The Converged Worlds, as well as merchandise from other Meow Wolf locations. Shop for Meow Wolf t-shirts, hoodies, reversible bomber jackets, soft plushies, water bottles, embossed mugs, collectible magnets and pins, blankets and more.
Golf DEN
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a total beginner, hitting golf balls is a great way to blow off some steam while you wait for your flight. Concourse A is now home to Golf DEN, a virtual golf simulator where you can perfect your technique or pretend you’re playing on some of the world’s most iconic courses. You can pay as you go, book a package that includes beverages or, if you fly a lot, join a league.
