Denver International Airport.
When traveling, no one really cares about the airport. It’s just a busy, on the go hub to start or end an adventure. Usually, it’s the part you look least forward to at the beginning and end of your trip….. But what if I told you there was an airport full of mystery, conspiracies, hidden tunnels, gargoyles, space aliens, murder, and even a few happy therapy pets?! And that’s not even half of it.
Yes, it does exist, and it’s my favorite airport….the Denver International Airport (DIA), located in, you guessed it, Denver, Colorado.
The Denver International Airport (DIA) was open for flight February 28, 1995. It was and is one of the busiest airports in the world, providing nonstop services to numerous destinations across the Americas, Europe, and Asia. It boasts having the longest runway in the United States at approximately 3 miles long.
Secret Societies and Hidden Tunnels.
So who built this massive travel hub?
Legends and myths point to three secret societies, the Freemasons, the Illuminati, and the New World Order. If you don’t know what is so special about each of these groups, that’s another rabbit hole to get lost in…. Anyways, some think one group is responsible while others think all three played a part, as there are secrets from each group hidden all around the airport.
Another myth says that there are hundreds of miles of tunnels and multiple stories and bunkers hidden underneath the airport, for the groups mentioned above, for their elite and rumored well-known members to survive during an upcoming apocalypse. But this myth also takes a turn and some suggest that lizard people and/or aliens are housed down in the hidden levels, ready to come out and take over the world, thus starting a New World Order. It’s not surprising that airport officials say this isn’t true and that instead of seeing lizard people, you’re more likely to run into ordinary employees working in baggage claim or offices. Nonetheless, I would keep an eye open for lizard people when walking through the terminals or at least on billboards, the airport has put up poking fun at the myths.
DIA Murals: Art, Controversy, & Conspiracy.
While some of the myths are unseen, and hidden deep below the airport, others are out in plain sight. In fact there are murals painted on the walls for everyone to enjoy-ish. Two two murals specifically, “In Peace and Harmony with Nature” and “Children of the World Dream of Peace,” each 28 foot wide and painted by artist Leo Tanguma, appear to depict anti-themes of war, death, pollution, and environmental destruction, even claiming that the artworks contain clues and messages about the apocalypse and the inevitable rise of a totalitarian world government.
The murals are definitely sites to be seen, showing children mourning the death of three women and the extinction of numerous animals as the environment burns in the background. Men dressed like Nazis’s with gas masks on are seen standing over the dead with a sword symbolizing a “New World Order.” However, the artist states the murals represent a hopeful desire for the people of the world to live in peace with one another and in harmony with nature…..Check them out and see how you interpret the work. ** The two most famous murals described above, are currently in temporary storage due to construction in the Jeppesen Terminal’s Great Hall, but they will be brought back out for public display again, once the construction is completed.
Guardians of the Gates: Denver’s Gargoyles.
As you continue your walk through the airport, looking for lizard people or odd murals, also be on the lookout for gargoyles. Specifically in the East and West baggage claim areas. Sitting high above each area, perched on a column are grinning stone monsters. Historically, gargoyles are meant to protect, so why not have them in the baggage claim area watching over your arriving luggage?! However, some see them as evil instead of a protector. Either way, when grabbing your bags look up and see what you think of these odd additions to the airport.
Behind the Bookstore: A Hidden Gem.
If out searching for these hidden tunnels, murals, and lizard people, just go ahead and add a hidden speakeasy to your “to find” list. Hidden behind an old bookshelf is a secret 1920s vintage style bar called William & Graham. If you didn’t know to look for it, you would never know it was there. The hidden speakeasy is said to have a 60+ drink and cocktail menu so if you like mystery and expertly crafted cocktails, then this is the place for you!
Pawsitive Vibes at the DIA
Before leaving the airport, keep an eye out for the, not so secret, therapy dogs (or cat). These furry, fun loving friends aren’t really a conspiracy… or are they?! Maybe they are really there to make you forget about all the other mysteries hidden around.
These furry pets have purple “Pet Me” vests on and walk around the airport with their owners, spreading joy and handing out their own unique therapy cards, which you can collect as you meet each one. So if traveling or myth busting has you stressed, make sure to seek out these trained and certified pets who provide stress relief, and entertainment.
The Killer Horse.
If you finally had enough of diving into myths, conspiracies, and loving on therapy pets, and are ready for your next adventure, make sure to catch a glimpse of Blucifer before you leave. As you are leaving the airport property, just before the road divides into the East and West Terminals, along Peña Boulevard is the “Blue Mustang,” also known as Blucifer, the Denver Airport mascot of sorts. This horse is a huge bright blue Mustang sculpture with beady glowing red eyes, rearing up on its hand legs. If that isn’t interesting enough, Blucifer is also known for killing his creator, Luis Jimenez, during its creation. Jimenez was crushed by a falling section of the sculpture in 2006, and the piece was later finished by his studio team and his sons. Blucifer‘s murderous history just adds to the vibe at the Denver international airport, making him a must see.
Come Stay Awhile.
It’s no surprise why the DIA is so intriguing and popular. Paired together with its stunning Rocky Mountain views, efficient layout, unique amenities, and endless conspiracies, travelers are just drawn to it. On your next flight into Denver, plan on spending a little more time in the airport before rushing out. With some courage and luck you may even spot a lizard person yourself.
Jaclyn D. 🖤🥾
Dillard Adventures
Need a reason to fly into DIA to investigate the conspiracies for yourself? Check out this epic Colorado/Utah Itinerary!