Is It Better to Fly into Denver or Colorado Springs?
When planning a trip to Colorado Springs, one of the first decisions travelers face is choosing which airport to fly into: Denver International Airport (DEN) or Colorado Springs Airport (COS). Each option has pros and cons, depending on your priorities like cost, convenience, and available flights. Let’s break it down to help you decide the best arrival airport for your Colorado adventure.
🛫 Flight Availability and Pricing
Denver International Airport (DEN)
Denver International is the largest airport in the region and offers a wide variety of domestic and international flights. Its sheer size and airline competition typically lead to:
More flight availability
Lower airfare
Better frequent flyer reward options
However, cheaper flights often come with a trade-off—namely, the extra travel time and cost to reach Colorado Springs, which is about 84 miles away.
Colorado Springs Airport (COS)
Colorado Springs Airport is much smaller but offers the benefit of landing closer to your final destination if you're staying in or near the Springs. While it has:
Fewer flights
Slightly higher airfare
Limited airline choices
…it saves you the hassle and expense of additional ground transportation from Denver.
🚗 Ground Transportation: How Far is Colorado Springs from Denver Airport?
Traveling from Denver to Colorado Springs typically takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes by car under normal traffic conditions. Depending on your method of travel, costs and convenience vary:
Car rentals are readily available at DEN, with scenic drives along I-25.
Shuttle services run frequently between Denver and Colorado Springs and offer a more relaxed travel option.
Ride-shares like Uber or Lyft are available but can cost between $100–$120 for a one-way trip.
Buses are another budget-friendly option, though they may involve longer travel times.
On the other hand, flying into COS means you’re only about 15 to 20 minutes from most Colorado Springs destinations. Local taxis, ride-shares, and rental cars are all available at the airport.
🧳 Airport Experience and Amenities
Denver International Airport
As one of the busiest airports in the United States, DEN has:
A wide variety of restaurants and shops
Advanced facilities and lounges
Longer security lines and terminal transfers
Its size and popularity make it a great hub for connecting flights, but it can be overwhelming for some travelers.
Colorado Springs Airport
Travelers looking for a simpler, more laid-back experience often prefer COS. This airport offers:
Shorter lines and quick baggage claim
Easy navigation through terminals
Limited but sufficient food and beverage options
If convenience and a stress-free arrival matter most, COS is a strong contender.
🏔️ Final Verdict: Denver vs. Colorado Springs Airport
So, should you fly into Denver or Colorado Springs?
Choose Denver International Airport (DEN) if you want:
Lower airfare
More flight choices
Access to a major airport hub with amenities
Choose Colorado Springs Airport (COS) if you want:
A quicker, easier arrival
Less travel time after landing
A low-stress airport experience
✨ Bonus Tip for Travelers
If you're planning to explore beyond Colorado Springs—like Denver, Boulder, or Rocky Mountain National Park—flying into Denver might make more sense logistically. But if your trip centers around the Pikes Peak region, Garden of the Gods, or the U.S. Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs Airport offers unmatched convenience.
Bottom line: Whether you value time or savings, knowing your travel priorities will make your decision much easier. Either way, Colorado’s scenic beauty will be waiting for you when you land.