Ways to Get Around in Detroit

The attractions and things to do in Detroit are fairly spread out. This can require you to make transportation plans to ensure you see everything. Thankfully, there are plenty of options for those visiting the Motor City. Whether you prefer a luxury private town car or are looking to rub elbows on the bus with the locals, there is a transportation option for everyone.

Car

The best way to get around Detroit is by car. The city and its different neighborhoods are fairly spread out. A vehicle makes exploring the different neighborhoods at your own pace easier. You could drive to Detroit or rent a car. You will find several rental car companies throughout the city that will make renting and returning a car easy. There are plenty of parking locations and options throughout the city. If you don’t want to do the driving, you can also hire a limo town car service. This service comes with a driver and is a more luxurious way to travel.

Bike

Several bike-sharing services are located throughout the city. These services are useful for exploring a specific neighborhood or area. They aren’t ideal for commuting across the city. You will need to download the app and connect your payment in advance. There are multiple services, so confirm that you have the correct app in advance.

Scooters

If you want to get around a bit faster or travel a bit further than what a bicycle can take you, consider renting a Scooter. Lime, Bird, and Spin are all companies operating in the downtown area. However, keep in mind that scooters are prohibited in the parks.

Light Rail

The Detroit People Mover is an elevated train in the business district. There are 13 stops along the route. Most notably, it stops at the Cadillac Center, Broadway, Greektown, and Riverfront. Fares start at .75 cents, but monthly and annual passes are also available. Operating hours are:

Monday-Thursday: 7 am - 10:30 pm
Friday: 7 am - 12 am
Saturday: 10 am - 12 pm
Sunday: 10 am - 8 pm

Streetcar

Detroit also has the Q-Line, a free-to-ride public transportation service. These streetcars travel on a 3.3 mile route. Twelve stops connect you to some of Detroit’s greatest attractions. The track starts in downtown and goes to Grand Blvd. When riding, the stations and streetcars have complimentary Wi-Fi.

Monday - Saturday: 8 am - 12 am
Sunday: 8 am - 9 pm

Taxi or Ride-share

You can use a taxi or ride-sharing service if you don’t want to rent a vehicle. You should arrange both of these services in advance. Use the associated app for a ride-share or ask your hotel to arrange a taxi service. Rates for both can vary greatly depending on distance and current demand.

Bus

The Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT) system consists of ten core and two additional routes. All of them run 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Fares range in price from $2 to $70. If you plan to use public transportation, the SMART Fast Bus system is a great option for commuting from the city center to the suburbs. The buses make limited stops and operate on some of the most traversed corridors. Fares start at $2, but day, week, and monthly passes are also available.

Book now and explore the city of Detroit at your own pace with all of these transportation options.