Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW): A Detailed Manual

Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport is situated in Romulus, Michigan. It is a hub connecting travelers to over 125 destinations across three continents. Originally called Wayne County Airport, it earned its current name in 1958 and now handles more than 31 million passengers every year.

DTW has two terminals: McNamara and Evans, spread across four concourses. It is a bustling hub for Delta Air Lines and a base for Spirit Airlines. Inside, travelers can enjoy a wide range of amenities to improve their travel experience. Whether it is your first time or you are a seasoned flyer, this guide will help you find the best spots to eat, relax, and move through DTW without stress.

Overview of Detroit Metropolitan Airport

Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW) is one of the busiest airports in the Midwest. So, it is wise to get an overview before heading there to catch a flight. This table gives you essential details along with the links to its social media platforms.

DTW Airport Terminals

Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) primarily has two main terminals: 

The McNamara Terminal 

• Concourse A
• Concourse B
• Concourse C

The Evans Terminal (North Terminal)

• Concourse D

For a detailed overview, check the DTW Airport Terminals page.

Top Airlines Operating at DTW

Each day, DTW handles over 800 flights to various destinations. Many major airlines operate from DTW and give passengers plenty of connections across the U.S. and around the world.

Have a look at the list of Airlines at DTW Airport:

Services Available at Detroit Metropolitan Airport 

DTW Airport offers a wide range of facilities and essential services to its passengers so everyone can enjoy an easy and comfortable travel. The airport has everything that travelers might need to move smoothly through the airport. 

Baggage Claim

At DTW Airport, you will find dedicated baggage claim areas for various airlines. After your flight lands, you can follow the terminal signs to the baggage claim area and check the electronic Flight Information Displays to locate your carousel.

For oversized or special baggage:

• McNamara Terminal: Back of Carousel 3

• Evans Terminal: Next to the elevators in the baggage hall center

If your luggage is lost, delayed, or missing, you can connect with the airport staff. And, if you left an item onboard, contact your airline directly.

Check-in Counters and Self-Service Kiosks

Completing check-in at DTW Airport is a cakewalk. Why? Because passengers can conveniently check in at their airline counters or use self-service kiosks available in each terminal. These kiosks allow travelers to print boarding passes, check baggage, and make flight changes quickly. For added convenience, some airlines also offer curbside check-in and baggage drop-off that passengers can confirm with their carrier before arrival.

Retail Shops

Looking for a last-minute gift or some travel essentials to make your trip more enjoyable after arriving at Detroit Metropolitan Airport. The terminals offer a wide variety of shopping options for every traveler. From newsstands and bookstores to jewelry shops and clothing boutiques, you can easily find what you need.

Some popular stores at DTW include 7 Greens, Andiamo, Be Relax, Brighton Collectibles, and many more. For the full DTW shops list, check our detailed page.

Dining Options at DTW

Whether you are looking for a full, satisfying meal before your flight or just need a quick grab-and-go snack, DTW provides plenty of convenient dining choices to match your schedule and preferences. The exciting thing is that the DTW Airport is known for its impressive and award-winning concessions program that offers something for every traveler. Passengers can enjoy a wide mix of popular Metro Detroit restaurants, well-known national food brands, and comfortable sit-down dining options throughout the airport. 

Armed Services Lounge

Michigan Armed Forces Hospitality Centers at DTW offer a warm and welcoming space for active-duty military members, National Guard, reservists, service academy cadets, veterans, retirees, and their families. Each Freedom Center provides complimentary food and beverages, a TV lounge, computers, a comfortable seating area, and a children’s corner with books and toys. Open 365 days a year, these centers give military travelers and their families a friendly place to relax and recharge during their journeys.

McNamara Terminal Freedom Center

• Location:  Near Gate A43
• Phone: (734) 247-2762
• Email: info@mifreedomcenter.org 

Evans Terminal Freedom Center

• Location: Near Gate D17
• Phone: (734) 247-1084
• Email: info@mifreedomcenter.org 

Reflection Rooms 

The airport also offers quiet and calming spaces where travelers can take a moment for themselves. The location is mentioned below:

Reflection Room Locations

• McNamara Terminal: Central Link
• Evans Terminal: Near Gate D17

Wifi Facility & Charging Stations

Both the McNamara Terminal and the Evans Terminal at Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW) offer free Wi-Fi for travelers. To connect, you can simply choose Detroit Airport Wi-Fi, open a browser, and select Free Wi-Fi. Many gates also have charging stations and power outlets that make it easy for passengers to keep their devices charged when waiting for their flights.

Banks, ATMs, & Currency Exchange

You will have easy access to banks, ATMs, and currency exchange services at DTW Airport. Whether you need to withdraw cash, exchange your foreign currency, or handle other banking needs, these facilities make it convenient to take care of your financial needs before or after your flight. 

Family Restrooms & Nursing Stations

Family restrooms are available at both terminals, which are fully accessible to passengers with wheelchairs or other disabilities. These restrooms are equipped with toilets, benches, baby changing tables, diaper dispensers, and needle disposal holders to make traveling with little ones easier. 

Additionally, nursing mothers can also use one of the eight nursing rooms at DTW for comfort and privacy. They are located at:

McNamara Terminal

• Near Gate A15
• Near Gate A25
• Near Gate A53
• Near Gate A63
• Near Gate C2

Evans Terminal

• Across from Gate D8
• Across from Gate D15
• Across from Gate D24

Parking Space at DTW Airport

If you are at DTW, you can park your vehicles safely at one of their lots. Check out the available parking options below:

• McNamara Long Term Parking
• McNamara Short-Term Parking
• Big Blue Deck Long Term Parking
• Big Blue Deck Short-Term Parking
• Green Lot 1
• Valet Parking

Ground Transportation Options

Are you wondering how to get around the DTW Airport with ease? It is usually easier than you think! With the correct information and ground transport, you can move simply, quickly, and efficiently through the airport building. Check the available options here:

• Rental Cars
• Taxis & Luxury Sedans
• McNamara ExpressTram
• Rideshare
• Shuttle Services
• Public Transportation

Lost and Found Services

Lost your precious belonging? Worry not, the officials are here to offer you a helping hand. If you have left an item behind at the TSA checkpoints, you can reach out to the TSA Lost and Found department by dialing (734) 942-3126 or dropping an email to DTWtsalostandfound@tsa.dhs.gov. 

For items lost on the aircraft, please contact your airline team directly. If your item was misplaced elsewhere in the terminal, you can file a claim with WCAA Police for assistance and get it back quickly.

DTW Dogs Pet Therapy Program

Are you a pet lover? DTW Airport cares for that as well. There is a special program called DTW Dogs Pet Therapy to help make your trip a little less stressful. Certified therapy dogs and their owners are walking around the airport to greet you with a wagging tail.

These teams are part of a group called The Fur Angels Pet Therapy Group from Rochester, Michigan. You will find them in the Evans and McNamara Terminals near the gates.

DTW Airport Ambassadors Program

Airport Ambassadors at DTW are friendly volunteers who are there to help passengers and visitors. Their job is to make the airport experience easier and more enjoyable by answering questions, giving directions, and offering help with a kind as well as positive attitude.

These cooperative agents wear royal blue uniforms, so they are easy to spot. Anyone who wants to join this award-winning program can apply online. After the application is reviewed, applicants are invited to an orientation. During orientation, they receive a tour of the terminal and further assistance.

Map of DTW Airport

Here is the easy-to-read DTW Airport Map to help you reach the desired spot without any hassles:

Last Words!

Now that all the details are in one place, getting through Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport should not feel overwhelming to you. Whether someone is arriving, leaving, or catching a connecting flight, knowing what to expect can make the whole experience much easier. With this guide, travelers can feel prepared, relaxed, and confident as they move through the airport.

Frequently Asked Questions