Detroit Transport

Detroit was built on and for cars, and visitors are expected to play the game. Several major highways pass in and out of the city, all named after Ford, Chrysler or some other auto company CEO. Compared to other cities of similar size, Detroit’s public transport system is not really up to par. On the plus side, driving in the city is fairly easy and parking is abundant.

By train

The Amtrak station at 11 West Baltimore Avenue provides connections to Detroit suburbs, but is not suitable for travel within the city. For more information on schedules and services, visit the rail provider’s website at: www.amtrak.com/servlet/ContentServer?pagename=Amtrak/HomePage; or call them on: +1 800 872 7245.

Light Rail

The Detroit People Mover (DPM) is a light rail system that loops through central Detroit. It does not go to the suburbs and it is an above ground system, not a subway. It operates frequently on a three-mile elevated single track loop in Detroit’s central business district. The system operates seven days a week and is completely accessible to elderly and disabled persons. Phone: +1 313 224 2160.

By bus

A dependable public bus service (D-DOT) operates within the city centre. The service runs 24 hours, seven days a week. Buses run as frequently as every 6 minutes during rush hour on some routes and about every 20 minutes at other times of the day. SMART buses service the suburbs. Major routes begin service at about 05:00 and stop after midnight. D-DOT: +1 313 933 1300; SMART: +1 313 962 5515.

Taxis

Taxis are freely available in Detroit. They can be hailed on the street in the city centre. For more distant locations, taxi services can be booked by telephone from companies such as Checker (tel: +1 313 963 7000), Taxi Dearborn Lorraine (tel: +1 313 582 6900) and Ace-Tell-Joy LaSalle Taxi Service (tel: +1 313 531 6262). For standard pick-up and drop-off services, tipping is not very common in Detroit. However, it is common to tip a driver for assistance with directions and luggage.
 

From the airport

A public city bus departs at hourly intervals to downtown Detroit, leaving from the outer roadway (lower level) near the Ground Transportation offices at the Smith Terminal. Some hotels offer a door-to-door courtesy shuttle bus services for their guests. Taxis are easily available and provide a convenient and trouble-free way to travel into nearby Detroit city and other destinations. The trip from Detroit Airport into central Detroit will take about 40 minutes, depending on traffic. Official Detroit DTW airport taxis should always be used to ensure safety and to avoid being overcharged.