6+ Hours at Detroit Metropolitan Airport - Header image

6+ Hours at Detroit Metropolitan Airport

Maeve Power
Have you got 6+ hours to spare at Detroit Metropolitan Airport? Check out these options to make the most of your airport downtime.
Have you got 6+ hours to spare at Detroit Metropolitan Airport? Check out these options to make the most of your airport downtime.

Head downtown

If you have a longer layover at DTW, why not take the opportunity to explore the city? The airport is located 20.3 miles from downtown Detroit so make sure you have plenty of time to get there and back. See transport options below for more details on how to get downtown. If you want to explore the city hop on and off the Detroit People Mover (75c per ride) and it will take you to all the famous stops in Detroit. When leaving the airport on a layover always make sure you leave plenty of time to get back to the airport and through security before your next flight. Check out our luggage storage options at or near the airport.

Staying out of the city

If you don't want to head into the city, why not take advantage of the beautiful surrounding areas. Willow Metropark and Oakwoods Metropark are great options close to the airport. The Huron River Water Trail, a 104-mile inland paddling trail, flows through both parks.  Spend our day hiking the trails in the park or rent a kayak and explore the river trail.

Transport Options

Bus: SMART provides travelers at DTW transport from the airport to the city. SMART currently serves the North Terminal with Route 125 (Fort Street-Eureka Road) and Route 280 (Middle Belt South), and the McNamara Terminal with Route 125. During peak rush hour SMART runs an express bus with minimal stops between the airport and downtown.

Overnight Layover?

Westin Detroit Metropolitan AirportIf you have an overnight layover at DTW and want a good night’s sleep book a room at the Westin Detroit Metropolitan Airport Hotel. This is the only hotel located on airport grounds and offers overnight travelers all the luxuries and comfort of a high-end hotel experience. Guests can fit in a workout in the 24-hour fitness centre or take a refreshing dip in the pool before heading to the airport to catch their flight.Located on airport grounds, the Westin Detroit is connected to the McNamara Terminal.Top Tip: DTW has up to date security wait times on the airport website. If you decide to leave the transit area during your layover, check the website to see how much time you will need to get back through security before your next flight.

Luggage Storage

As with most airport in the US, there are no luggage storage facilities available at Detroit Metropolitan Airport. If you have a layover at DTW and want to store your luggage try these options:
  • Ask at the airport information desk for recommendations on nearby luggage storage facilities. 
  • If you are heading downtown, check for luggage storage lockers at bus and train terminals
  • Use Google to find a luggage storage service. There are lots of apps and websites that offer luggage storage options in large cities across the US.

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