Lois Larson
Spending the night in an airport is never ideal, but sometimes it's necessary. Detroit Airport (DTW) is no stranger to this phenomenon, with travellers occasionally spending the night in the airport due to long layovers, early morning arrivals, or unforeseen circumstances such as weather delays or glitches. While it is possible to spend the night at Detroit Airport, the level of comfort and amenities available may vary depending on the terminal and personal preferences.
Some travellers have reported that the McNamara Terminal is cozier and quieter, except when the Express Tram passes through. This terminal offers a sleep pod, cushioned chairs, and private nooks suitable for resting. The Evans Terminal, on the other hand, has fewer dining options and limited shopping choices.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Spending the night at Detroit Airport | Possible, but not very comfortable. |
| Sleeping areas | No dedicated sleeping areas, quiet areas, or rest zones. |
| Sleeping facilities | No cots provided as standard practice for overnight strandings. Blankets and pillows may be offered upon request at airline desks, but availability is inconsistent. |
| Food and drink | Eateries close by 11 pm, so plan ahead. Vending machines are the only option in the middle of the night. |
| Lounges | Lufthansa lounge in the Evans Terminal offers passes regardless of airline or class of service. Delta lounge in the Delta terminal offers all-you-can-eat and all-you-can-drink, but you may need to be flying with Delta or their partners to get in. |
| Hotels | There are hotels close to the airport for under $100 a night, but it is recommended to get one with a 24-hour shuttle service. The Westin, located in the McNamara Terminal, is pricey. |
| Other facilities | ATMs, free WiFi, Reflection Room, shops, and a spa. |
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What You'll Learn
Sleeping arrangements in Detroit Airport
Spending the night in an airport is never ideal, but sometimes it's necessary. If you find yourself needing to stay overnight in Detroit Airport, there are a few options to consider for getting some rest.
Firstly, it's worth noting that Detroit Airport does not provide dedicated sleeping areas, quiet areas, or rest zones. The airport's website states that at least one TSA checkpoint is open 24/7 in each terminal, so you can stay inside the secure area if you prefer. However, you'll be limited to the standard rows of chairs with armrests, which may not be very comfortable for sleeping.
If you're looking for a more comfortable option, you could consider purchasing a pass for one of the airport lounges. The Lufthansa lounge in the Evans Terminal is an option, and you can pre-book a pass online or use a lounge membership program. The Delta lounge in the Delta terminal is also an option, offering all-you-can-eat and drink, nice bathrooms, and comfy chairs. However, single-day passes may no longer be available, and you may need to be flying with Delta or their partners to gain access.
For an even more comfortable experience, there are hotels located near the airport, such as the on-site Westin, which can be pricey, or other nearby hotels with 24-hour shuttle services for added convenience.
If you choose to stay in the airport, be prepared for noise and limited dining options after 11 pm. Vending machines may be your only option for food and drinks during the late-night hours. Additionally, security may wake you up early in the morning as travellers arrive for their flights.
Overall, while spending the night in Detroit Airport may not be the most comfortable option, it is certainly doable, and with a bit of planning, you can make the best of your situation.
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Nearby hotels
If you're looking for a more comfortable place to spend the night near Detroit Airport, there are several hotels nearby.
One option is the on-site hotel, the Westin, located in the McNamara Terminal. However, travellers warn that this hotel is quite expensive. For a more affordable option, you may want to consider off-site hotels near the airport. These hotels typically offer 24-hour shuttle services, making it convenient for travellers.
One such hotel is the "Quality" Suites, which offers rooms for around $68 per night, including taxes. This hotel chain is known for providing comfortable accommodations at a reasonable price.
Another option is to look for airport-adjacent hotels, which are generally more affordable than the on-site hotel. These hotels may still offer convenient transportation options to and from the airport, ensuring a hassle-free stay.
When choosing a hotel, it is essential to consider your budget, the proximity to the airport, and the availability of shuttle services. Additionally, if you have a long layover, purchasing lounge access can be a worthwhile investment, offering amenities like comfortable seating, food, and drinks.
Detroit Airport also has a 24-hour Denny's nearby, which can be a convenient option for a quick bite or a place to rest for a few hours if you're not looking to stay the night.
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Food and drink options
Detroit Airport offers a range of food and drink options for travellers spending the night. In the McNamara Terminal, travellers recommend Andiamo, a local chain, Cat Cora's Taproom, and Harvest & Grounds. The Lufthansa lounge in the Evans Terminal offers food, WiFi, and other amenities for a fee. National Coney Island in the Evans Terminal offers a local take on hot dogs. Eateries close by 11 pm, so travellers spending the night may need to rely on vending machines for food and drinks.
One traveller mentions that there used to be a 24-hour Denny's just off the airport, but it is unclear if it is still open. Additionally, there are hotels near the airport that offer 24-hour shuttle services, such as the Westin located in the McNamara Terminal, which can be a more comfortable option for food and drinks.
For those looking to stay awake, drinking coffee or other caffeinated beverages can help. However, be aware that if you sleep in the public zone, you may be woken up early by security making their rounds as travellers arrive for morning flights.
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Entertainment and attractions
Spending the night in an airport is never ideal, but sometimes it's necessary. If you find yourself in Detroit Metropolitan Airport for an extended period, there are a few entertainment options and attractions to keep you occupied.
The airport has a good selection of eateries, including sit-down restaurants, bars, a winery, cafes, and to-go food options. McNamara Terminal has a wider variety of options, including Andiamo, Cat Cora's Taproom, and Harvest & Grounds. National Coney Island in Evans Terminal offers a local take on hot dogs. Eateries close by 11 pm, so plan ahead if you're spending the night, as vending machines will be your only option for food and drinks.
The airport also offers various shopping opportunities. McNamara Terminal boasts plenty of airport staples, specialty shops, and international fashion brands. You'll also find unique options like Michigan Sports and the PGA Tour Shop. Evans Terminal has more limited options, including duty-free shops, newsstands, and convenience stores.
If you're looking for a quiet space to relax, the Reflection Room in both the McNamara and Evans Terminals can provide a moment of tranquility. Additionally, the Be Relax Spa in Concourse A offers between-flight pampering.
For those seeking a more comfortable sleeping arrangement, there are hotels near the airport, such as the Westin located in the McNamara Terminal, though it tends to be pricey. Other options include the "Quality" Suites, which offers rooms for around $68, and various other airport-adjacent hotels.
If you decide to venture outside the airport, a short ride from downtown is Belle Isle Conservancy, an island in the Detroit River. Here, you can enjoy picturesque views of Detroit and Windsor, Canada, as well as hiking and a museum dedicated to regional maritime history.
While spending the night in an airport may not be ideal, Detroit Metropolitan Airport offers a range of entertainment and attractions to make your layover more bearable. With eateries, shopping, relaxation spaces, and nearby hotels, you can make the most of your time until your next flight.
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Transport to and from the airport
Transport to and from Detroit Airport
Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW) is located in Romulus, Michigan, about 20 miles (32 km) west of downtown Detroit. The airport is served by several highways, including Interstate 94 (I-94) and Interstate 275 (I-275). There are several transport options for getting to and from the airport:
By Car
If you're driving to or from the airport, there are several parking options available, including short-term, long-term, and economy lots. The airport also offers a cell phone waiting lot for those picking up passengers.
By Bus
The Detroit Air Xpress (DAX) offers a nonstop express bus service between downtown Detroit and the airport. It provides 16 round trips daily, 365 days a year. The Michigan Flyer is another bus service that connects the airport to other cities in Michigan, including Lansing and Ann Arbor. It is known for its comfort and affordability.
By Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services, such as Uber and Lyft, are also available at the airport. These can be convenient options for travellers who prefer a direct trip to their destination.
Hotel Shuttles
Several hotels near the airport offer 24-hour shuttle services for their guests. This can be a convenient and cost-effective option if you plan to stay near the airport.
When planning your trip to or from Detroit Airport, it is recommended to check the latest schedules and transportation options on the official airport website or through reliable transportation providers.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is possible to spend the night at Detroit Airport. There is no dedicated sleeping area, but travellers have reported finding private nooks, especially in the McNamara Terminal, which is generally quieter.
There is a sleep pod in McNamara Terminal, and the attached Westin hotel may offer deals for travellers. Alternatively, you can purchase a pass for the Lufthansa lounge in Evans Terminal, which offers food, WiFi, and other amenities.
Yes, there are hotels close to the airport, some of which offer 24-hour shuttle services.
