To get around in Detroit, you can use a combination of transportation options including buses, trains, taxis, ride-hailing apps, and driving, with the city's grid-like street pattern making navigation relatively easy.
Quick Facts
Getting There
Detroit is easily accessible by air, with Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) being the main international airport serving the city. DTW is a major hub for Delta Air Lines and offers direct flights to numerous domestic and international destinations, including major cities in Europe, Asia, and Latin America. The airport is located about 20 miles southwest of downtown Detroit and is connected to the city center by taxi, bus, and ride-hailing services. If you're coming from neighboring cities or states, you can also enter Detroit by car or bus via several major highways, including I-75 and I-94.
For those traveling from other parts of the United States or Canada, Detroit is also accessible by bus or train, with several companies offering daily services to the city. The city's central bus station is located in downtown Detroit, and is served by companies such as Greyhound and Megabus. Alternatively, you can take the train, with Amtrak's Wolverine service connecting Detroit to Chicago and other major cities in the Midwest.
Domestic Flights
Detroit is well-connected to other major cities in the United States, with several domestic airlines operating flights to and from DTW. Delta Air Lines is the largest carrier at DTW, offering numerous daily flights to destinations across the country, including major hubs like Atlanta, New York, and Los Angeles. Other airlines, such as American Airlines, United Airlines, and Spirit Airlines, also operate flights to and from Detroit. When booking domestic flights, it's a good idea to compare prices across multiple airlines and book in advance to get the best deals. Approximate costs for domestic flights from Detroit vary depending on the destination and time of year, but you can expect to pay around $200-$500 for a round-trip ticket to a major city.
Trains & Rail
Detroit has a moderate rail network, with Amtrak's Wolverine service connecting the city to Chicago and other major cities in the Midwest. The Wolverine service runs several times a day, with journey times to Chicago taking around 5-6 hours. While there are no high-speed rail options in Detroit, the city is planning to introduce a new commuter rail system in the coming years, which will connect the city center to surrounding suburbs. To book train tickets, you can visit the Amtrak website or use the Amtrak mobile app. Prices vary depending on the route and class of service, but you can expect to pay around $50-$100 for a one-way ticket to Chicago.
Buses & Coaches
Several intercity bus companies operate in Detroit, offering affordable and convenient travel options to other cities in the United States and Canada. Greyhound is one of the largest bus companies in the city, with daily services to destinations such as Chicago, New York, and Toronto. Megabus is another popular option, offering low-cost fares to cities such as Chicago, Cleveland, and Pittsburgh. Bus travel times can be longer than train or air travel, but prices are often significantly cheaper, with fares starting from around $20-$50 for a one-way ticket.
City Transport
| Mode | Available In | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| City Bus | Detroit | $2 | DDOT (Detroit Department of Transportation) buses operate throughout the city |
| Taxi | Everywhere | $2.50 + $2.00/mile | Metered taxis are available at airports, bus stations, and on the street |
| Ride-Hailing | Detroit | $5-$10 | Uber and Lyft operate in Detroit, with prices varying depending on time of day and demand |
| People Mover | Detroit | $0.75 | The People Mover is a 2.9-mile elevated rail system that connects several major attractions in downtown Detroit |
Driving
- To drive in Detroit, you'll need a valid driver's license from your home country or state.
- Road conditions in Detroit are generally good, with well-maintained highways and streets.
- Fuel costs in Detroit are relatively low, with gas prices averaging around $2.50 per gallon.
- If you plan to rent a car, be sure to book in advance to get the best rates, and consider renting from a major company such as Enterprise or Hertz.
- Be aware of traffic congestion in downtown Detroit, particularly during rush hour, and consider using alternative modes of transportation such as buses or ride-hailing apps.
- When driving in Detroit, be sure to follow all traffic laws and regulations, including wearing a seatbelt and not using your phone while driving.
Transport Tips
- Be aware of scams targeting tourists, such as fake taxi drivers or overpriced tour operators.
- Use credit cards or mobile payments to pay for transportation, as they offer better security and convenience than cash.
- Download transportation apps such as Moovit or Transit to help navigate Detroit's public transportation system.
- Consider purchasing a Detroit Smart Card, which offers discounts and convenience when using public transportation.
- Be mindful of your surroundings when walking or using public transportation, particularly at night, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
- Use legitimate taxi companies or ride-hailing apps to avoid scams and ensure a safe journey.
- Take advantage of free transportation options, such as the People Mover, to get around downtown Detroit.