Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport

Welcome

Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) surprises travelers with its comfort and efficient layout. Its McNamara Terminal, featuring a mile-long concourse with the famed ExpressTram, is often praised for being more livable than other busy U.S. hubs. Despite Delta's dominant presence, connections feel less stressful here compared to larger counterparts like Atlanta (ATL) and Chicago's O'Hare (ORD). Travelers frequently commend DTW for its intuitive design and shorter walking times.

At a glance

Handling over 35.6 million passengers annually, DTW is located 29 km southwest of Detroit's city center. It has two terminals: McNamara and Evans. As a major hub for Delta Air Lines, McNamara houses Delta, Air France, and KLM, whereas Evans hosts airlines like American, Frontier, and JetBlue. The airport consists of six runways, providing extensive capacity for both international and domestic flights.

Terminals & layout

The airport features two main terminals. McNamara Terminal is the heart of Delta’s operation, a true fortress hub with a sleek ExpressTram system running the length of Concourse A. The terminal offers various dining and shopping options, including National Coney Island and P.F. Chang's. Evans Terminal caters to multiple carriers like American Airlines, offering choices such as Chick-fil-A and TGI Fridays. Frequent flyers note that while McNamara exudes modern efficiency, Evans is cozier and sometimes less crowded.

Getting to and from the city

DTW is accessible via several transportation methods. Public buses, including SMART Bus Routes 125 and 261, provide direct routes to the city. For those preferring privacy, metered taxis, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft, and private limo services are available. Additionally, the AirRide coach offers connections between Ann Arbor and the airport, while the Michigan Flyer provides intercity services.

Traveller essentials

Parking options at DTW are varied, with Short Term Parking priced at $24 per day and Long Term Parking at $15 per day. Savvy travelers often choose the more economical Green Lot 1 for $10 per day. Inside the terminals, amenities are well-distributed, with plentiful seating and power outlets enhancing the traveler experience. Clear signage ensures minimal confusion, particularly helpful in McNamara's expansive layout.

Dining & shopping highlights

DTW offers a mix of dining experiences. McNamara Terminal features sit-down options like Andiamo and Fuddruckers, while Evans Terminal hosts quick bites such as Wendy’s and Popeyes. On the shopping front, McNamara boasts Duty Free Americas, Tech on the Go, and the distinctive Detroit! store. For a more local flavor, look for Leo’s Coney Island in Evans.

Lounges

Lounging at DTW ranges from the exclusive Delta Sky Clubs in McNamara to the more general The Club at DTW. The central Sky Club near gate A38 is busiest but offers excellent runway views, while the smaller clubs at A18 and A68 provide quieter atmospheres for relaxation or work. The USO Lounge caters specifically to military personnel and their families.

Insider tips

• Insider: Make use of the ExpressTram in McNamara to save up to 15 minutes between far-flung gates A1–A29 and A60s–A70s.
• Quiet: Avoid the sensory overload of the light tunnel by taking the quiet corridor bypass between Concourses A and B/C.
• Time: For quick service in McNamara, visit during non-peak hours; avoid 7–9 a.m. and 4–6 p.m. to dodge long lines at Starbucks and restaurants.
• Insider: Consider the smaller Delta Sky Club near gate A68 for an oasis-like atmosphere compared to the busy central club.
• Local: If you prefer a quieter experience, Evans Terminal's compact layout offers speedier food stops and easier navigation.
• Avoid: Keep away from tight 30-minute connections that require movement between Concourse A's distant ends and the B/C concourses.
• Local: For plane spotting, head to the far ends of Concourse A in McNamara for unobstructed views of Delta's operations.