Denver International Airport Wins Big: Best Food, Art & Shopping in the Skies!

Denver International Airport Shines in USA TODAY 10BEST Awards

Despite ongoing construction challenges, Denver International Airport (DEN) has earned impressive recognition in the recent USA TODAY 10BEST Readers’ Choice Awards. The airport secured top positions across six different categories, highlighting its excellence in dining, art, shopping, and overall traveler experience.

Award Highlights

Top Rankings:

Modern Market: Ranked #1 for grab-and-go dining nationwide, offering healthy alternatives to typical airport fast food with fresh sandwiches, wraps, salads, and pizzas
Overall Dining: Ranked #2 among all U.S. airports, featuring local favorites like Elway’s, Root Down, and Etai’s alongside airport-exclusive venues like Tapas Sky Bar
Shopping Experience: Ranked #2 nationally, with special emphasis on Colorado-themed and locally-made products like Björn’s Colorado Honey
Williams & Graham: Ranked #3 for airport bars, a unique speakeasy concept hidden behind a bookcase that mirrors its popular Denver Highlands location
Large Airport Quality: Ranked #3 overall among large airports, praised for visual appeal and feeling less congested despite heavy traffic
Airport Art: Ranked #4 for its extensive collection of permanent installations and rotating Colorado-themed exhibitions

Selection Process

The USA TODAY 10BEST Readers’ Choice Awards uses a two-step selection process:

Industry experts nominate airports in each category
USA TODAY editors review and finalize nominees
Public voting occurs over a four-week period, with one vote allowed per category per day

This recognition reinforces Denver International Airport’s position as a premier travel hub that prioritizes passenger experience through quality dining, shopping, art, and overall design—even while managing its position as America’s largest airport by land area.

1. Modern Market: Denver Airport’s Premier Grab-and-Go Destination

Modern Market has established itself as the gold standard for airport dining on the go, earning the #1 spot in USA TODAY’s 10BEST Readers’ Choice Awards. This achievement comes as no surprise to Colorado locals who have long appreciated the brand’s commitment to fresh, nutritious options.

What Sets Modern Market Apart

The restaurant specializes in made-to-order items that don’t sacrifice quality for convenience. Their menu features an impressive variety of freshly prepared:

Artisanal sandwiches with premium ingredients
Nutrient-packed salads with seasonal produce
Hand-crafted wraps with globally-inspired flavors
Thin-crust pizzas made with wholesome ingredients

Health-Conscious Appeal

Modern Market has positioned itself as the antidote to typical airport fast food. Travelers increasingly seek nutritious options that provide sustained energy for long flights rather than the heavy, processed alternatives commonly found in terminals. The restaurant’s transparent ingredient sourcing and nutrition information appeal to health-conscious passengers.

Environmental Commitment

Beyond its food quality, Modern Market has gained recognition for its environmentally friendly practices. The restaurant emphasizes sustainable packaging, locally sourced ingredients when possible, and waste reduction strategies—allowing travelers to make responsible choices even while rushing to their gates.

For harried passengers racing between connections or arriving hungry at Denver International, Modern Market represents the ideal combination of speed, quality, and conscientiousness that modern travelers demand.

2. Denver International Airport: A Culinary Destination at 5,430 Feet

Denver International Airport’s impressive #2 ranking for airport dining in the USA TODAY 10BEST Readers’ Choice Awards solidifies its status as a culinary hotspot for travelers. What sets DEN apart from other major hubs is its commitment to showcasing authentic Colorado flavors through a thoughtfully curated mix of beloved local establishments and unique airport concepts.

Local Legends Come to the Terminal

DEN has strategically transformed its concourses into a representation of Denver’s vibrant food scene:

Elway’s: Named after Denver Broncos legend John Elway, this upscale steakhouse offers premium cuts and Colorado-inspired dishes that elevate the typical airport dining experience.

Root Down: A celebrated Denver farm-to-table restaurant that brings its sustainably-sourced menu and distinctive atmosphere to Concourse C, providing travelers with seasonal, globally-influenced cuisine.

Etai’s: This Colorado bakery and cafe delivers artisanal sandwiches and baked goods made with locally-sourced ingredients, giving travelers a true taste of Denver’s neighborhood dining scene.

Airport Exclusives

Beyond local transplants, DEN features concepts created specifically for the airport environment:

Tapas Sky Bar: This aviation-themed small plates restaurant offers Spanish-inspired dishes and craft cocktails in a sophisticated setting with runway views.

Timberline Steaks & Grille: A premium dining experience available to all travelers (not just lounge members), featuring Colorado-raised beef and regional specialties.

The airport’s strategic mix of established Denver favorites and unique airport-only concepts has created a dining ecosystem that reflects Colorado’s culinary identity while meeting diverse traveler needs—from quick bites to leisurely pre-flight meals. This thoughtful approach to airport dining has rightfully earned DEN recognition as one of America’s top airport food destinations.

3. Denver International Airport: A Shopping Paradise at 5,430 Feet

Denver International Airport’s impressive #2 ranking for airport shopping in the USA TODAY 10BEST Readers’ Choice Awards celebrates its commitment to offering travelers a retail experience that goes far beyond the typical airport newsstands and duty-free shops. What distinguishes DEN’s shopping scene is its emphasis on authentic Colorado products and local craftsmanship.

Local Treasures in Terminal Form

The airport has cultivated a shopping environment that serves as a showcase for Colorado’s distinctive products and artisans:

Björn’s Colorado Honey: Highlighted by 10BEST experts, this specialty shop exemplifies DEN’s commitment to local entrepreneurs. Visitors can purchase pure Colorado honey, honey-infused skincare products, and beeswax items—all produced locally and representing the state’s natural bounty.

Beyond Standard Airport Retail

DEN’s shopping options extend well beyond the expected airport fare:

Colorado-Themed Souvenirs: Rather than generic tourist items, shops feature authentic Colorado mementos like handcrafted jewelry incorporating local stones, artisanal foods, craft beverages, and outdoor gear that reflects the state’s active lifestyle.

Local Artisan Marketplaces: Several retail spaces function as mini-marketplaces for Colorado craftspeople and small businesses, giving travelers access to unique items they won’t find elsewhere.

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Focus: Many of the featured products align with Colorado’s environmentally conscious ethos, offering travelers the opportunity to purchase responsibly-made goods.

For travelers seeking meaningful gifts or personal souvenirs that truly represent Colorado’s culture and craftsmanship, Denver International Airport offers a carefully curated shopping experience that rightfully earns its position among America’s best airport retail destinations. The emphasis on local products transforms what could be routine pre-flight shopping into an extension of Colorado’s distinctive cultural experience.

4. Williams & Graham: Denver’s Hidden Airport Gem

Williams & Graham has successfully brought its award-winning speakeasy concept to Denver International Airport, earning the impressive #3 ranking among airport bars in the USA TODAY 10BEST Readers’ Choice Awards. This recognition highlights how the establishment has successfully translated its unique downtown experience to the terminal setting.

The Speakeasy Concept

The airport location faithfully recreates the signature experience of the original Williams & Graham in Denver’s Highlands neighborhood:

Hidden Entrance: Just like the original, the airport location disguises itself as a bookstore, with the actual bar concealed behind a pivoting bookshelf task_2
Prohibition-Era Atmosphere: Once inside, travelers encounter an ambiance that evokes the charm and mystique of 1930s speakeasies
Unexpected Airport Experience: The concept offers a surprising departure from typical airport dining and drinking venues

Location & Hours

For travelers looking to experience this hidden gem:

Terminal: A Concourse
Gate Proximity: Near Gate A38
Hours: Open daily from 7am to 11pm task_2

The Cocktail Program

The bar features an impressive selection of libations:

Craft Cocktails: Expert mixologists prepare both classic and creative specialty drinks
Signature Creations: The menu includes adaptations from their downtown location, such as the Blackberry Sage Smash
Non-Alcoholic Options: Unlike many airport bars, Williams & Graham offers modified versions of their cocktails for non-drinking travelers task_4

Food Offerings

To complement the drinks:

Small Plates: A streamlined version of their downtown menu
Airport Favorites: Their popular French fries with malt gastrique syrup have made it to the airport location
Quick Service: Designed for travelers who may be in a hurry between flights task_4

Original vs. Airport Experience

While the airport location strives to maintain the quality of the original, travelers should note some differences:

Brighter Lighting: The airport location is less dim than the original speakeasy
Smaller Bar Area: The space is more compact, reflecting airport constraints
Streamlined Menu: Both food and drink offerings are simplified versions of the downtown selection
No Reservations Required: Unlike the original location which can have multi-hour waits, the airport version operates on a first-come, first-served basis task_4

Why It Stands Out

Williams & Graham’s airport location has gained recognition because it:

Successfully translates a beloved local concept to the airport environment
Offers a unique, immersive experience that breaks from conventional airport bars
Maintains high-quality standards despite the constraints of operating in an airport
Provides travelers with a taste of Denver’s innovative cocktail culture without leaving the terminal

For travelers with time before their flights, this hidden speakeasy offers a distinctive Denver experience right at the gate.

5. Denver International Airport: A Spacious Haven Among Giants

Denver International Airport’s impressive #3 ranking among large airports in the USA TODAY 10BEST Readers’ Choice Awards highlights how thoughtful design can transform even the busiest travel hubs into pleasant experiences. Despite being America’s largest airport by land area and handling nearly 70 million passengers annually, DEN has managed to create an environment that feels surprisingly uncrowded and accessible.

The Spaciousness Advantage

What sets Denver International Airport apart from other major hubs is its intelligent use of space:

Expansive Layout: As America’s largest airport by land area, DEN has room to breathe where other airports feel cramped
Intuitive Design: Despite its size, travelers report that navigating between concourses feels straightforward and logical
Reduced Congestion: Even during peak travel times, the airport’s design helps distribute crowds effectively
Accessible Amenities: Restaurants, shops, and services are strategically placed throughout all concourses

Visual Appeal That Stands Out

The airport earns particular praise for its aesthetic qualities:

Iconic Tent Roof: The distinctive white peaked roof resembling the Rocky Mountains creates an immediately recognizable silhouette
Natural Light: Abundant windows and skylights flood the terminals with Colorado’s famous sunshine
Mountain Views: Strategic placement of windows offers travelers glimpses of the Rocky Mountain panorama
Contemporary Design: Modern architectural elements create a sense of openness and flow

Art as Experience

The airport’s commitment to public art (ranked #4 in a separate category) contributes significantly to its overall appeal:

Permanent Installations: From the famous blue mustang sculpture “Blucifer” to corridor murals
Rotating Exhibitions: Frequently updated displays showcase Colorado artists and themes
Integrated Design: Art isn’t merely decorative but integrated into the airport’s identity

Culinary Excellence

The airport’s strong showing in dining categories (ranked #2 overall) enhances the traveler experience:

Local Flavor: Outposts of Denver favorites provide authentic Colorado dining experiences
Diverse Options: Choices range from quick grab-and-go to full-service restaurants
Distributed Locations: Quality dining options available in all concourses, not just concentrated in one area

Looking Forward

Denver International Airport continues to evolve with its ambitious “Vision 100” plan, preparing to accommodate 100 million annual passengers by the end of the decade. Recent expansions have added significant capacity while maintaining the design principles that have made DEN a traveler favorite.

For passengers connecting through or beginning their journeys in Denver, the airport offers a refreshing alternative to the often stressful experience of navigating major hubs—proving that with thoughtful design, even the busiest airports can provide a pleasant travel experience.

Denver International Airport: Ranked #4 Best Airport for Art

Denver International Airport (DEN) earned the prestigious #4 spot among the nation’s best airports for art in the USA TODAY 10BEST Readers’ Choice Awards. This ranking celebrates DEN’s dynamic and distinctive art environment, which combines an impressive collection of permanent installations with engaging rotating exhibitions focused on Colorado’s unique culture.

Permanent Art Installations

DEN offers travelers a broad and diverse public art collection throughout its terminals and concourses. Key highlights include:

Blue Mustang (“Blucifer”) by Luis Jiménez: A striking 32-foot bright blue fiberglass sculpture of a rearing mustang with glowing red eyes, positioned prominently near Peña Boulevard. This iconic piece is both celebrated and controversial, deeply intertwined with Denver’s identity and known for the dramatic story of the artist’s tragic accident during its creation. The sculpture symbolizes the spirit and freedom of the Southwest region.task_3
“It’s Not What You Take, It’s What You Bring Back” by Thomas “Detour” Evans: A recent large-scale sculpture in Concourse B composed of 183 pieces of upcycled luggage donated by Coloradans, shaped into an infinity symbol that evokes the continuous journey of travel and personal stories carried with travelers. This piece reflects community involvement and sustainable artistic practice while connecting travelers through shared experiences.task_1
Dual Meridian by David Griggs: A monumental mixed-media sculpture celebrating transportation’s evolution, integrating materials like titanium, granite, and steel. It represents both past and future in travel and sits in the A concourse.task_1
“Relax” by Electroland: An immersive LED light installation in a quieter annex of the A concourse designed to evoke calm and reflection, with playful elements for children.task_1
Other Sculptures, Murals, and Murals: Throughout the airport, travelers can find numerous murals, sound installations, photographs, and smaller sculptures that explore themes from urban life to Colorado’s natural beauty and indigenous heritage.

Rotating Colorado-Themed Exhibitions

Beyond the permanent displays, DEN collaborates extensively with local museums, cultural institutions, and artists to produce rotating exhibitions centered on Colorado themes. These exhibitions:

Celebrate the state’s history, environment, and artistic communities
Offer fresh visual experiences to frequent travelers, keeping the airport environment vibrant and ever-changing
Include educational and interactive components that enhance cultural appreciation
Examples include the 25th Anniversary exhibit showcasing Denver Airport’s history through memorabilia, fossils, videos, and timelines located in the Jeppesen Terminal’s Ansbacher Hall.task_2

Why This Matters for Travelers

Enhanced Travel Experience: The art transforms the airport from a simple transit point into a cultural venue where passengers can enjoy meaningful, thought-provoking works.
Local Identity & Connection: The focus on Colorado-themed art helps travelers connect with the region’s identity, culture, and landscape even before leaving or after arriving.
Ongoing Inspiration: Rotating exhibits ensure repeat visitors encounter new works, sustaining interest and engagement with the airport environment.
Community Involvement: Inclusion of local artists and community-donated materials strengthens a sense of belonging and shared storytelling.

Summary Table: Notable Art at Denver International Airport

Artwork Name	Artist/Group	Location	Description
Blue Mustang (“Blucifer”)	Luis Jiménez	Near Peña Boulevard	Iconic 32-ft bright blue horse with glowing red eyes
It’s Not What You Take, It’s What You Bring Back	Thomas “Detour” Evans	Concourse B	Sculpture of upcycled luggage forming an infinity symbol
Dual Meridian	David Griggs	A Concourse	Large-scale mixed-media sculpture celebrating transportation
Relax	Electroland	A Concourse Annex	LED light installation offering calm and playful elements
25th Anniversary Exhibit	Various	Jeppesen Terminal	Rotating display featuring airport history and memorabilia

Denver International Airport’s melding of permanent and rotating artwork creates a rich tapestry that elevates the airport experience, celebrates Colorado’s vibrant culture, and offers travelers a way to engage thoughtfully with their surroundings. The #4 ranking reflects the airport’s success in integrating art meaningfully within its vast spaces to the benefit of both casual travelers and art enthusiasts alike.