Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW) Terminals: Complete Guide


DTW is Michigan’s largest and busiest airport, and it can feel like a lot to navigate, especially if it’s your first time through. This guide walks you through everything you need to know about both terminals, straight from the airport’s own official information, so you can travel smarter and stress a little less.

DTW operates two main passenger terminals: the McNamara Terminal and the Evans Terminal (formerly known as the North Terminal). Both are full-service facilities open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Here’s what you’ll find at each one.

A Closer Look at DTW’s Terminals and Layout 

Once​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ you understand the different functions of the McNamara and Evans terminals, it is very easy to get around Detroit Metropolitan Airport. This guide explains the terminal layouts so you will have no trouble locating your gate, food, and lounges.

McNamara Terminal

The McNamara Terminal is the larger of DTW’s two terminals. It’s primarily used by Delta Air Lines and its partners and is made up of three concourses: A, B, and C. If you’re flying Delta or a Delta partner airline, such as WestJet or Aeromexico, this is your terminal.

Getting Around Inside McNamara

McNamara Terminal features the ExpressTram, which runs the full length of Concourse A — one of the longest airport concourses in the world. There are three stations you should know about:

  • Terminal Station — located in the center, with direct access to gates A29 to A55, the check-in areas, baggage Claim areas, ground Transportation, as well as the tunnel which connects to Concourses B and C. 
  • South Station — for travelers heading to gates A1–A28
  • North Station — for travelers going to gates A56–A78

LED signs and speaker announcements above each tram door let you know which station is coming up next. If you need extra help getting around, you can avail yourself of the wheelchair assistance services.

The terminal also has moving walkways throughout to help you reach your gate without a full hike. It’s a long terminal, plan a few extra minutes if you’re connecting.

Check-In

You​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ can select the options that suit you best for the check-in process. The options are airline counters, self-service kiosks, or online, even before you head to the airport. Remember, the check-in counters may stop accepting passengers as boarding time approaches, so plan.

Also, to avoid last-minute stress, it is a good idea to arrive at least two to three hours before domestic and international flights. 

Security

  • At least one TSA checkpoint is open around the clock in each terminal. The TSA lane starts opens at 4:30 in the morning. If you’re a PreCheck member, you’ll be able to skip the steps of removing shoes, laptops, and liquids from your bag.
  • Only​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ those who have cleared the authorized security checkpoint areas can reach any airline gates at the airport. At the McNamara Terminal, these security points are set up in the Level 3 Ticketing Lobby, on the Level 2 bridge linking the parking garage and the terminal, and through the Westin Detroit Metropolitan Airport ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌.

Baggage

Baggage claim is located in the lower level of the McNamara Terminal. If your bag isn’t on the carousel to which your flight has been assigned, or if you left your belonging on the aircraft, your airline is the right first point of contact.

SkyCap assistance is available through some airlines to help passengers with their luggage. Baggage carts are also available for rent at $7 each in various pre-security areas, including the Ground Transportation Centers. Keep in mind that carts are not allowed past security.

Dining & Shopping

McNamara Terminal is well-stocked with food and retail options. Check out the table below to know a few of them:

CategoryVenueDescription/Type
Full-Service DiningAndiamoClassic Italian cuisine and fine dining.
Born in Detroit Kitchen & BarLocal spirits and comfort food.
Cat Cora’s TaproomMediterranean-inspired small plates and craft beer.
Chili’s / Chili’s To GoReliable American favorites and Tex-Mex.
Local FlavorsBuddy’s PizzaIconic Detroit-style deep dish pizza.
Berry’s Halal JerkySpecialty snacks and local artisanal jerky.
Detroit -vs- EverybodyPopular local apparel and Detroit-branded gear.
Eastern Market ShoppeGoods inspired by Detroit’s historic market.
Quick BitesChick-fil-AFamous chicken sandwiches and breakfast.
7greensHealthy, made-to-order salads and bowls.
Detroit Street LunchboxQuick, convenient sandwiches and local eats.
Dunkin’Donuts, breakfast sandwiches, and coffee.
Coffee & DrinksCoffee BeaneryPremium coffee and espresso drinks.
Cask & Craft Local SpiritsA spot for regional craft beers and cocktails.
Coca-Cola 24/7 VendingGrab-and-go beverages any time of day.
Shopping & RetailBrooks BrothersHigh-end professional and casual apparel.
Brighton CollectiblesAccessories, jewelry, and leather goods.
Dylan’s Candy BarSpecialty sweets and colorful candy gifts.
BenefitCosmetics and quick beauty solutions.
Eastside GolfLifestyle apparel and golf-inspired fashion.
Wellness & ServicesBe RelaxAirport spa offering massages and beauty treatments.
Delta Sky ClubPremium lounge access for eligible passengers.
AG1Nutritional supplements and wellness products.
Bottle Filling StationFree filtered water stations, located near restrooms.

Free Wi-Fi

Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the McNamara Terminal. The airport’s official website lists Wi-Fi as a standard amenity for both terminals. Some airlines, like Delta, also offer charging stations at the gate, and power outlets are available throughout the terminal for topping off your devices. With three easy steps, you may connect to the wi-fi network:

  • Go to the network name and select Detroit Airport wi-fi. 
  • Go to your device and launch a web browser
  • Start your session by clicking on free wi-fi. 

ATMs

Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) are available throughout both terminals and serve a variety of banks and credit unions. If you need cash before your flight, you won’t have to look far. Here are some of the locations post-security at McNamara where you will find the ATMs:

  • Gates A8-A10
  • Gates A20-24
  • Gates A28-34
  • Gates A34-36
  • Gates A44-50
  • Gates A54-56
  • Gates A60-64
  • Gates A70-72
  • Gates B2-B4
  • Gates B15-B19

At pre-security, you will find the ATM in the parking garage on Level 6. 

Nursing Rooms

DTW has nine nursing rooms available across the airport. These are private, lockable rooms designed for mothers, featuring a sink, counter, comfortable seating, and electrical outlets. To enter, you’ll call a number from your cell phone to receive an access code, and you may be asked to provide boarding pass information. Once inside, you can lock the door — and an ‘Occupied’ indicator appears on the outside. All of these have been done with privacy in mind. At the McNamara terminal, the nursing rooms are located near gates A18, A53, A25, A63, and C2. 

Family Restrooms 

Family restrooms are also available for those traveling with young children or individuals requiring special assistance. The family restrooms have the following amenities: 

  • Toilets
  • Diaper dispensers
  • Benches
  • Needle disposal holders
  • Baby changing tables 

Reflection Rooms

DTW doesn’t have a chapel, but both terminals have Reflection Rooms — quiet, non-denominational spaces for meditation, prayer, or just a moment of peace away from the terminal noise. These rooms are available pre- and post-security. At the McNamara Terminal, you will find the reflection rooms at the Central Link. 

Armed Services Lounge (Freedom Center)

DTW operates a Freedom Center in both terminals — a complimentary hospitality lounge hosted by the Michigan Armed Forces for traveling military personnel, veterans, and their dependents. It’s a thoughtful touch in a busy airport. At the McNamara Terminal, you will find this lounge adjacent to Gate A 43. You can reach out to them at (734) 247-2762. 

Refill Stations

In the McNamara Terminal, you will find it adjacent to Gates A34 and A50. It is also located near Central Link’s entrance after you’ve cleared the TSA checkpoints. If you like to bring your own bottle to stay hydrated, these spots make it easy.

Service Animal Relief Areas

Service Animal Relief Areas (SARAs) are located in both terminals, both pre- and post-security. These spaces are clearly designated for service animals traveling with passengers. At the McNamara Terminal, you will find two relief areas for service animals. You will find one of them post-security near Gate A34. The other relief area is located near the pre-security area outside the international arrivals area. 

Electric Vehicle (EV) Parking

EV charging stations are available at the McNamara Terminal parking structure at no additional cost. This is a nice perk if you’re driving an electric vehicle to the airport.

The Westin Hotel

The Westin Hotel is connected directly to the McNamara Terminal via an elevated walkway from Level 2. It’s an AAA Four-Diamond property, offering full hotel services including restaurants and other guest amenities. Non-hotel guests with a verified purpose can also access the hotel concourses.

Lost And Found

If​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ you have lost an item during TSA security screening at Detroit Airport, please reach out to TSA Lost & Found by phone at (734) 942-3126 or by email at DTWtsalostandfound@tsa.dhs.gov. When it comes to items left at the gate or on a plane, contact your airline. In case of a loss, you can register your complaint with the airport police or dial (734) 942-2222, Ext. 1. The lost and found office is situated in the McNamara Terminal near the TSA checkpoint at the gate level. 

Delta Lounges

At​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ the McNamara Terminal, Delta Sky Club lounges are present in several locations. They provide a cozy atmosphere with free refreshments, internet services, a range of seating options, and private areas for those who want to relax, work, or just enjoy themselves before their ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌journey.

Biometric Tech at the DTW Airport 

To speed up the boarding process, both McNamara and the Evans Terminal use biometric screening. In fact, to implement this technology, DTW has worked closely with CBP and TSA. You will find facial recognition technology in concourses A-C at the McNamara Terminal. 

Multi-Sensory Room

DTW offers a Multi-Sensory Room for passengers who need a calming environment. This is particularly helpful for travelers with sensory sensitivities. You will find this room across Gate A 36, and it remains open 24/7. Several features at the multi-sensory rooms include bubble tubes, a crash pad, dimmable lights, and more. 

Evans Terminal Facilities at Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW) Terminal Explained

The Evans Terminal was renamed in April 2022 in honor of former Wayne County Executive Warren Cleage Evans, recognizing his dedication to public service. This terminal serves all other airlines operating out of DTW — including American Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Southwest, United, JetBlue, Frontier, Lufthansa, Turkish Airlines, and more.

If you’re not flying Delta or a Delta partner, Evans Terminal is where you’ll be spending your time at DTW.

Getting Around Inside Evans

Like McNamara, Evans Terminal has moving walkways to help you navigate to your gate. Wheelchair assistance is available through all airlines serving the terminal.

Check-In & Security

The same check-in and security setup applies here as at McNamara. Both TSA and Clear lanes are available at Evans Terminal checkpoints.

Dining & Shopping

Evans Terminal is home to more than a dozen dining options. The airport completed a $21 million dining redevelopment program in the Evans Terminal, bringing 15 food and beverage concepts to the terminal, many of them Metro Detroit favorites. Retail options are also available, including Michigan memorabilia shops, newsstands, and pharmacy items.

The list of dining and shopping options includes: 

  • Anita’s Kitchen 
  • Better +
  • Berry’s Halal Jerky
  • Chick-fil-A
  • Detroit Market Place
  • Common Grace
  • Illy Coffee
  • InMotion
  • Lego
  • MOD Pizza
  • McDonald’s 
  • Quix Chocolate 
  • Starbucks 

Recycling

These bins are throughout the Evans Terminal — a small but meaningful detail for environmentally conscious travelers.

Water Bottle Refill Stations

You will find these refill stations near gates D10, D8, D23, D17, and D26. Additional stations are located in the baggage claim area, inside the U.S. Customs, and also in the Ground Transportation Center.

Free Wi-Fi & Charging

Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout Evans Terminal. Certain airlines also provide charging stations at gate areas, and outlets are available in various locations throughout the terminal.

Reflection Rooms & Nursing Rooms

Just like McNamara, Evans Terminal also has Reflection Rooms for quiet contemplation and nursing rooms for new mothers. The nursing rooms are private, lockable spaces with sinks, counters, seating, and electrical outlets — accessible via an access code system.

You will find nursing rooms across gates D8, D15, and D24.  Besides, there are family restrooms located throughout the Evans Terminal. You will find the reflection room near gate D17. 

Service Animal Relief Areas

SARAs are available in Evans Terminal both before and after security, just as they are in McNamara. You will find three service animal relief areas at the Evans Terminal. One of them is located within the terminal, while the other two are outside the terminal premises. 

Lufthansa Club:

The​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ Evans Terminal is home to a Lufthansa Lounge that serves as a gateway to a selection of luxurious amenities like comfortable seating, refreshments, Wi-Fi, and a calm environment, giving eligible international travelers a chance to unwind before their ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌flights.

Services Across Both Terminals at Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW)

Here is a list of additional services available in both the Evans and McNamara Terminals. Please have a look at the ones mentioned below:

Transportation Between Terminals

The free shuttle service connects both terminals and stops at the Westin Hotel. Shuttles run 24/7 and depart from the Ground Transportation Centers in each terminal. Follow the signs to Ground Transportation to find the shuttle stop.

For passengers parked in the Green Lot, free shuttle service is available around the clock to both terminals’ ground transportation centers.s.

Airport Ambassadors

DTW’s Airport Ambassador program puts trained volunteers throughout the terminals to assist travelers. You’ll recognize them by their uniforms, and they’re there to help with directions, answer questions, and make your experience a little smoother. 

DTW Dogs Pet Therapy Program

DTW launched its pet therapy program in 2022, and it’s been a genuine comfort to many travelers. The program brings certified therapy dogs from The Fur Angels Pet Therapy Group (based in Rochester, Michigan) into the terminals to reduce travel stress. The dog-and-owner teams are trained volunteers, similar to the Airport Ambassador program. If you’ve ever felt the anxiety of air travel melt away when a friendly dog wanders by your gate, you understand why this program exists.

Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program

DTW’s Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program allows passengers with non-visible disabilities to discreetly signal that they may need extra attention or assistance. Travelers can request a Sunflower lanyard or wristband by contacting the Airport Authority’s External Affairs team. It’s important to note that displaying the Sunflower symbol doesn’t allow travelers to move ahead in lines — you’ll still need to notify your airline directly for wheelchair accommodations or other specific needs. But it does let airport staff know to be extra attentive.

Wheelchair & Mobility Assistance

Wheelchair assistance is available at DTW at no cost — though tipping the agent is appreciated. All airlines serving DTW provide this service. If you have special needs during the security screening process, you can also reach out to TSA Cares for additional assistance (855-787-2227).

Luggage Carts

Smarte Carte luggage carts cost $7 each in various pre-security areas, including the Ground Transportation Centers in both terminals. Carts are not permitted past security.

DTW Destination Pass

Want to come to the airport without a flight? DTW offers the Destination Pass, which allows non-ticketed visitors to enjoy the restaurants and shops past security. This is great for meeting someone, seeing them off, or just exploring the dining options in the terminals.

Airlines at DTW by Terminal

Here’s a quick breakdown of which airlines operate out of each terminal, according to DTW’s official homepage:

McNamara Terminal

These are the airlines at the McNamara Terminal. 

  • Delta Air Lines
  • WestJet Airlines
  • Aeromexico
  • Air France

Evans Terminal

The following terminals are at the Evans Terminal. Check out the list below: 

  • Air Canada
  • Turkish Airlines
  • Sun Country Airlines
  • Royal Jordanian
  • Southwest
  • United
  • Lufthansa
  • JetBlue
  • Spirit Airlines
  • Alaska Airlines
  • American Airlines
  • Avelo
  • Frontier
  • Icelandair

Conclusion:

Navigating Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW) terminals will be much simpler once you understand the layout. Regardless of whether you are passing through McNamara or Evans Terminal, both offer dependable services, dining options, and passenger support. In addition to features such as terminal shuttles, friendly personnel, and up-to-date facilities, DTW is designed for your comfort. If you plan your travel well and have the knowledge of your terminal, you will be able to save time, stay calm, and your whole travel experience will be easier and more ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌enjoyable.

FAQs

Which terminal does Delta fly from at DTW?

Delta operates exclusively from the McNamara Terminal, which includes Concourses A, B, and C.

Can I walk between McNamara and Evans Terminals?

No. The two terminals are separate buildings. Use the free Terminal Shuttle, which runs every 10 minutes, 24/7.

Does DTW have free Wi-Fi?

Yes. Connect to the network named “Detroit Airport WiFi” in both terminals to access free wi-fi.

Where do I pick up a rental car at DTW?

All rental car companies are located off-airport. Take the free Rental Car Shuttle from the Ground Transportation Center at either terminal.

Is there a hotel inside DTW?

Yes — the Westin Detroit Metropolitan Airport Hotel is connected directly to Concourse A in the McNamara Terminal via skybridge. Non-flying guests can request access passes to enter the concourse.

Does DTW have electric vehicle charging stations?

Yes. EV charging stations are available at the McNamara Garage and the Big Blue Deck (Evans Terminal) at no additional cost.

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