Denver International Airport: More Than Just a Place to Catch Your Flight
Denver International Airport (DIA) is more than just a hub for flights; it’s a land of secrets, conspiracies, and some surprising quirks. You might think you’ve got DIA all figured out, but hold on to your luggage – there’s more to this airport than meets the eye. Let’s dive into 10 things you probably didn’t know about Denver International Airport.
1. Underground City: Deep Below Your Feet
Beneath the hustle and bustle of the airport, there’s a network of mysterious tunnels. Rumor has it there’s an underground city where aliens, lizard people, and Elvis Presley are hanging out. Well, okay, maybe not the last part, but these tunnels do exist. They’re used for luggage transport and maintenance, not intergalactic dance parties.
2. Giant Blue Mustang: The Demon Horse
You can’t miss it – a massive, 32-foot blue mustang statue greets you at the airport’s entrance. Locals affectionately call it “Blucifer.” Its glowing red eyes have sparked some eerie legends. Some say it’s cursed. Others just think it’s a funky piece of art. Either way, it’s a memorable welcome to the Mile-High City.
3. The Tent Roof: Where’s the Circus?
DIA’s roof looks like a giant circus tent. Why, you ask? It’s meant to resemble the snow-capped Rocky Mountains, but it also adds an extra layer of “whimsy” to your travel experience. Just remember, no clowns or trapeze artists are allowed in the security line.
4. The Scary Murals: Art with a Twist
The airport features murals that could rival a Stephen King novel for spookiness. They depict a series of surreal scenes, including children in gas masks and apocalyptic landscapes. The artist claims they symbolize peace and hope, but some travelers aren’t buying it. Maybe it’s just the mile-high altitude messing with everyone’s heads.
5. Horse vs. Car: Who’s Faster?
The airport is so massive that it even has its own car rental facility on-site. But here’s the catch: a racehorse named “Denver” can outrun most of those rental cars. Denver is an Arabian gelding that races cars during special events. The odds are on the horse, naturally.
6. The Gargoyles: Watchful Guardians
Gargoyles aren’t just for gothic cathedrals anymore. DIA has its own collection of gargoyles that talk to passengers. Okay, they’re not actual gargoyles, but they do interact with travelers on video screens. They might give you directions or engage in some friendly banter. Just don’t ask them for restaurant recommendations.
7. Tornado-Proof? You Bet.
Denver International Airport can handle some crazy weather. It’s designed to withstand tornadoes, which are not an uncommon sight in Colorado. The airport’s unique architecture and reinforced structures ensure your flight won’t be literally up in the air during a storm.
8. Time Capsule from the Illuminati?
There’s a time capsule buried at DIA, and it’s not just your average run-of-the-mill capsule. Some conspiracy theorists believe it’s connected to the Illuminati or the New World Order. In reality, it’s probably just filled with Denver memorabilia. But who doesn’t love a good conspiracy theory?
9. A Not-So-Secret Bunker
DIA houses an emergency shelter in case of a catastrophic event, like a zombie apocalypse or a giant rubber ducky invasion. In reality, it’s there to keep airport employees safe in extreme situations, but it’s fun to imagine a world where rubber duckies pose a real threat.
10. The Enormous Blue Bear
It’s not just a bear; it’s a 40-foot-tall blue bear peering into the airport’s windows. Local folks call it “Blue Bear.” It’s actually called “I See What You Mean” and is a symbol of Denver’s thriving art scene. So, if you ever feel like you’re being watched at DIA, don’t worry; it’s just a friendly giant bear.
So, there you have it, folks – the quirkiest, craziest, and maybe even the creepiest things you didn’t know about Denver International Airport. Whether you’re flying in, flying out, or just passing through, there’s always something unexpected to discover at this unique airport in the heart of the Rockies. Happy travels and keep an eye out for those friendly gargoyles.