If you are visiting the Denver Gem and Mineral Showcase for the first time or cannot drive, we recommend accessing the main venue areas by train and bus.
The primary showcase hubs are concentrated in two main areas: Downtown Denver / Convention Center area and the National Western Complex.
The following guide explains how to reach these major venue areas from Denver International Airport (DEN).
To the Colorado Convention Center Area from Denver International Airport
The Colorado Convention Center area serves as a central transit hub, with several surrounding hotel venues and independent show locations in Downtown Denver.
Read more: Denver Gem & Mineral Showcase 2026 Dates & Schedule
Option #1: A Line Train + Local Bus (Most Direct to Venue Doorstep)
- Take the “A Line” Commuter Rail from the airport train station.
- Get off at “Denver Union Station” (the final stop).
- Transfer to a local bus (Route 0, 10, or 19).
- Get off at “17th St & California St” or “17th St & Stout St”.
- Walk 2–3 minutes to the Colorado Convention Center.
| Costs | $10.00 (RTD Airport Day Pass includes all train and bus transfers for the entire day) |
| Travel Time |
|
| Rail Map | A Line Map |
| Frequency | Trains run every 15 min |
| Note | Before taking the bus, check the live schedule, line, and bus stop on the RTD Trip Planner. You can also take a taxi or rideshare (Uber/Lyft) from Union Station to the Convention Center (approx. $6–$10). |
Option #2: A Line Train + Walk (Easiest Transfer-Free Route)
- Take the “A Line” Commuter Rail from the airport.
- Get off at “Denver Union Station” (the final stop).
- Walk directly to the Colorado Convention Center (approx. 0.9 miles / 18–20 min walk down 16th or 17th St).
| Costs | $10.00 (Airport Day Pass) |
| Travel Time |
|
| Rail Map | A Line Map |
| Frequency | Trains run every 15 min |
| Note | This way is simple and straightforward, but can be challenging if you are carrying heavy luggage. You can also utilize the free 16th Street MallRide shuttle when available along 16th Street. |
To the National Western Complex from Denver International Airport
The following major shows take place at or immediately surrounding the National Western Complex:
- Denver Mineral, Fossil, Gem & Jewelry Show
- Denver Expo Show
- Miner’s Co-op Show
- Colorado Minerals Fossils & Gems Show
Read more: Denver Gem & Mineral Showcase 2026 Dates & Schedule
By Train: A Line + N Line Transfer
- Take the “A Line” Commuter Rail from the airport.
- Transfer to the “N Line” Commuter Rail at Denver Union Station.
- Get off at “48th & Brighton / National Western Center” Station (1st stop from Union Station).
- Walk 3–5 minutes to the National Western Complex entrance.
| Costs | $10.00 (Your RTD Airport Day Pass covers BOTH the A Line and N Line) |
| Travel Time |
|
| Rail Map | A Line, N Line |
| Frequency | A Line: Every 15 min N Line: Every 30 min |
| Note | This route is very convenient. Note that N Line trains run every 30 minutes, so you may have a short wait during transfer at Union Station. |
RTD Trip Planner
RTD provides the official RTD Trip Planner. You can simulate your trip in real time to find the best routes based on your current location and schedule.
Read more: Denver Gem and Mineral Showcase Map
Guide to RTD Services
Here is the basic official information regarding RTD public transit:
| Official Website | Regional Transportation District (RTD) |
| Phone | 303-299-6000 |
| Rail Services | RTD Rail Services |
| Bus Services | RTD Bus Services |
| Fares & Passes | RTD Fares & Passes ($10 Airport Day Pass) |
| How to Ride | How to Ride Guide |
| Accessibility | Accessibility Information |
| Rail Map | RTD System Rail Map |