Layover in Detroit (DTW)
Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW). Here's how much of a layover you can really use, and what fits in it.
About Detroit
Detroit is a major metropolis in the U.S. state of Michigan that has had a profound impact on the world. From the advent of the automotive assembly line to the Motown sound, modern techno and rock music, Detroit continues to shape both American and global culture. The city has seen many of its historic buildings renovated, and is bustling with new developments and attractions that complement its world-class museums and theatres. After a long economic slump and decrease in population, Detroit has developed a reputation for crime and urban decline, but revitalization means that it is an exciting destination filled with technological advance and historic charm.
From Wikivoyage, CC BY-SA.
How much time can you use?
After getting off the plane, immigration for international arrivals, the trip into town and back, and security.
| Layover | Domestic arrival | International arrival |
|---|---|---|
| 4 hours | Stay at the airport | Head straight to your gate |
| 6 hours | About 3h 3m in the city | Stay at the airport |
| 8 hours | About 5h 3m in the city | About 3h 28m in the city |
| 12 hours | About 9h 3m in the city | About 7h 28m in the city |
Getting into Detroit
About 41m each way by train, bus or taxi to the center, roughly 28 km (17 mi). This is an estimate based on distance; the planner checks real transit times for your exact flight.
Worth seeing near the center
- Monument to Joe Louis
- Brewster Homes
- First Congregational Living Museum
- The North Wall
- Heidelberg Project
- Detroit Artists Market
- Chestnut Street
- Clark Park
- Lafayette Plaisance Park
- Outdoor Adventure Center
Questions
Can I leave the airport on a layover in Detroit?
On a domestic connection, you need roughly 5 hours or more to get into Detroit and back with time to enjoy it. If you're arriving internationally and must clear immigration, plan on about 7 hours or more.
How do I get from DTW to central Detroit?
Allow about 41m each way by train, bus or taxi to the center; the center is about 28 km (17 mi) from the airport.
How early should I head back to DTW?
Be back through security about 1h 20m before a domestic departure and 2h 10m before an international one, plus the ride back.
Build a plan for your exact flight
Guide data from OurAirports, © OpenStreetMap contributors and Wikivoyage (CC BY-SA). Times are estimates for planning; check transit schedules and airline rules before you leave the airport.