Getting Around: Detroit

Public Transportation Overview

People Mover: An elevated, automated rail system. It circles the central business district (downtown). A quick and inexpensive way to travel between downtown attractions. The Detroit People Mover System Map is online.

QLine: A streetcar system. It runs along Woodward Avenue, connecting downtown, Midtown, New Center, and the North End. This line links many of Detroit's museums, cultural institutions, and universities. Consult the QLine Route Map.

Bus Services & Accessibility

DDOT (Detroit Department of Transportation): The city's bus service covers broader Detroit neighborhoods.
SMART (Southeastern Michigan Area Regional Transit): Regional bus service connecting Detroit with suburbs, including DTW airport.
Accessibility: People Mover, QLine, DDOT, and SMART buses are generally accessible for mobility needs.
Transfers are available between DDOT, SMART, and QLine with Dart passes.

Fares

People Mover: $0.75. QLine: $2.00 (3-hour pass), $5.00 (daily pass). Buses: $2.00-$2.25.

Hours

People Mover: 6:30 AM-midnight (weekdays). QLine: 6 AM-midnight (weekdays). Buses: Varies by route.

Important Hub

Rosa Parks Transit Center downtown serves as a major hub for many bus routes.

Tips for Efficient Navigation

Central Districts

For travel within downtown and Midtown, the People Mover and QLine are efficient and easy to use.
Use Google Maps or the Transit app for real-time public transit directions and schedules.
Carry exact change for cash payments on People Mover, or use a QLine mobile app.

Broader City Travel

For areas outside the core districts, buses are necessary.
Dart passes simplify transfers across different public transport systems.
Plan your routes in advance, especially for less frequent bus lines.

Public Transit Facts

People Mover Freq.

Every 3-5 minutes

QLine Freq.

Every 10-20 minutes

DDOT/SMART Fares

$2.00-$2.25

Payment Options

Cash, credit/debit, mobile app, Dart pass

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis and ride-sharing services present flexible, on-demand transportation options in Detroit.

Licensed Taxis

Identification: Licensed taxis are typically yellow or display clear company logos.
Hailing: Hail them on the street in busy areas (downtown, Midtown) or find them at hotel taxi stands.
Booking: Calling a taxi dispatch service is often simpler, especially outside core areas.
Fares: Metered, with a base fare plus charges per mile and waiting time.

Ride-Sharing Services

Recommended Apps: Uber and Lyft are widely available and popular in Detroit.
Usage: Request a ride through the app, view the fare upfront, and pay electronically.
Safety: Always confirm the driver's name, vehicle make/model, and license plate match the app's details. Share your trip status.
Airport/Station Arrangements: Designated pick-up zones are clearly marked at DTW and major stations.

Safety Considerations for Ride Options

For taxis, confirm it is a licensed vehicle with a visible company name and meter.
For ride-sharing, verify driver and vehicle details match your app before entering.
Utilize in-app safety features, like sharing your journey with a trusted contact.

Avoid leaving valuables visible in the vehicle when not present.
Confirm payment method with taxi drivers prior to starting your trip if using credit card.
Know your destination or have it ready on a map to share with your driver.

Airport & Station Handoffs

DTW Pick-ups

Follow airport signage to designated taxi stands and ride-share pick-up zones.

Major Stations

Train and bus stations also have clear areas for taxi and ride-share services.

Pre-Booking

Consider pre-booking a taxi or scheduling a ride-share for early morning or late night travel.

Rental Options

Rental options in Detroit present varied choices, from cars for wider exploration to bikes for urban adventures.

Car Rental Procedures

Requirements: Minimum age 21 (under 25 may incur surcharge). Valid driver's license (IDP recommended for non-English). Major credit card for deposit.
Major Companies: Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz, National, and Thrifty have counters at DTW.
Booking: Book in advance, especially during peak season or major events, for better rates and availability.
Insurance: Rental companies offer various options. Check if your personal insurance or credit card provides coverage.

Bicycle Sharing & Rentals

MoGo Detroit: A popular bike-sharing system. Stations are mainly located downtown, Midtown, Corktown, and New Center.
Passes: MoGo offers daily, monthly, and annual passes.
Independent Shops: A few independent bike rental shops exist for longer-term rentals or specialty bikes.
Safety: Always wear a Bike helmet for safety.

Driving Laws & Road Conditions

Driving Laws

Standard U.S. Driving laws apply. Drive on the right side of the road. Seatbelts are mandatory. Right turn on red after full stop is permitted unless signed otherwise.

Speed limits are strictly enforced.

Road Conditions

Major highways are generally in good condition. Inner-city roads can have potholes, especially after winter. Drive with care.

Be alert for changing road surfaces.

Parking Information

Ample parking in downtown/Midtown, mostly in multi-story garages or surface lots. Metered street parking is available. Use ParkDetroit app.

Expect to pay $10-$30 for daily garage parking.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

Downtown: Highly walkable with wide sidewalks, connected to the Riverwalk. Explore Campus Martius Park.
Midtown: Very walkable, especially around Wayne State University and the cultural center (DIA, Detroit Historical Museum).
Corktown: A charming historic district with many walkable streets, good for exploring its Irish heritage and new businesses.

Cycling Infrastructure & Safety

Bike Lanes: Dedicated bike lanes are increasing throughout the city, notably in downtown and Midtown.
MoGo Bike Share: Offers easy access to bikes for urban rides.
Safety: Always wear a helmet. Observe traffic laws and be aware of vehicle traffic.

Areas of Caution for Pedestrians & Cyclists

Less-developed residential areas, away from core tourist zones, may lack sidewalks or proper lighting.
These areas might not be as safe for walking or cycling, especially after dark.
Exercise good judgment and stick to well-trafficked, well-lit areas for safety.
If uncertain about an area, consult local guidance or choose alternative transportation.

Some peripheral roads may not have dedicated bike lanes, requiring caution when cycling.
Pay attention to local traffic patterns and pedestrian crossings.
Weather conditions, especially in winter, can make walking and cycling hazardous.
Prioritize personal safety over convenience in unfamiliar surroundings.

Specialized Transportation

Beyond daily commuting, Detroit presents unique transport options for tours and specific needs.

Tour Buses & Water Transportation

Tour Buses: Several companies offer guided bus tours focusing on Detroit's history, architecture, Motown, or automotive heritage.
Hop-on-Hop-off Services: Less common than in other major cities, but some private operators might offer them seasonally.
Water Transportation: Detroit River tours, like the Detroit Princess Riverboat or Diamond Jack's River Tours, offer scenic cruises. These are for recreation and sightseeing, not public transportation.
Riverwalk Access: The Detroit Riverwalk presents access to the riverfront area.

Accessibility Services

DDOT and SMART buses are fully accessible, equipped with ramps or lifts.
People Mover and QLine stations are generally accessible for travelers with mobility needs.
Many major attractions also feature accessibility features. Check individual attraction websites for details prior to your visit.
Contact specific venues or operators for any particular accessibility requirements or questions.

Guided Bus Tours

Focus on history, architecture, Motown, or automotive heritage.

River Cruises

Scenic tours on the Detroit River (recreational, not public transport).

Accessible Transport

Public buses, People Mover, and QLine are accessible for travelers.

Planning for Specific Needs

Booking Tours

Book specialized tours in advance, specifically during peak tourist seasons.
Check tour operator websites for specific schedules and departure points.
Consider private tours for a more personalized experience.

Mobility Access

For specific mobility needs at attractions, contact them directly prior to your visit.
Plan your route using accessible public transport options provided.
Emergency services are reachable by dialing 911 for immediate assistance.

Transportation Insight

For traveling within downtown and Midtown, the People Mover and QLine are efficient and easy-to-use options, especially for visitors new to the city.

For more extensive exploration of Detroit's diverse neighborhoods, a combination of DDOT buses and ride-sharing services works well.

Getting Around Detroit