Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) is a major airport serving the Detroit metropolitan area, while Windsor is a city located just across the border in Ontario, Canada. If you're planning a trip to Windsor from Detroit Airport, there are several options to consider. In this article, we'll explore 7 ways to travel from Detroit Airport to Windsor.
Understanding the Distance and Border Crossing
Before we dive into the transportation options, it's essential to understand the distance and border crossing requirements. Detroit Airport is approximately 25 miles (40 km) northwest of downtown Detroit, while Windsor is about 10 miles (16 km) east of downtown Detroit, across the Detroit River. Since Windsor is in Canada, you'll need to clear customs and immigration before entering the country.
Option 1: Taxi or Ride-hailing Services
One of the most convenient ways to travel from Detroit Airport to Windsor is by taxi or ride-hailing services like Uber or Lyft. Taxis are available outside the airport terminals, and you can expect to pay around $60-$80 CAD ($45-$60 USD) for a one-way trip, depending on traffic and the time of day. Ride-hailing services are also available, and prices may vary depending on the time of day and traffic conditions.
Tips for Taking a Taxi or Ride-hailing Service
- Make sure to check the estimated fare and traffic conditions before you start your journey.
- Consider sharing a ride with fellow travelers to split the cost.
- Always check the driver's ID and license before getting into the vehicle.
Option 2: Public Transportation
Another option is to take public transportation, which is more affordable but may take longer. You can take the Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) bus from the airport to the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel Bus Terminal. From there, you can take the Transit Windsor bus to Windsor. The total travel time is around 1-2 hours, depending on traffic and the time of day.
Tips for Taking Public Transportation
- Check the bus schedules and plan your trip in advance.
- Consider purchasing a reusable transit card for convenient travel.
- Be prepared for potential delays due to traffic or road closures.
Option 3: Shuttle Services
Shuttle services are another option for traveling from Detroit Airport to Windsor. Companies like Air Ride and Metro Cars offer shared or private shuttle services to Windsor. The travel time is around 30-60 minutes, depending on traffic and the number of passengers.
Tips for Taking a Shuttle Service
- Book your shuttle service in advance to ensure availability.
- Check the shuttle schedule and plan your trip accordingly.
- Consider sharing a shuttle with fellow travelers to split the cost.
Option 4: Car Rental and Drive
If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car from Detroit Airport and drive to Windsor. Several car rental companies have desks at the airport, including Alamo, Avis, and Hertz. The drive to Windsor takes around 30-60 minutes, depending on traffic.
Tips for Renting a Car and Driving
- Check the car rental company's policies and requirements before booking.
- Consider purchasing car insurance to cover any potential damages.
- Make sure to have the necessary documents, such as a valid driver's license and car insurance, before crossing the border.
Option 5: Private Car Service
If you prefer a more luxurious and personalized experience, you can book a private car service from Detroit Airport to Windsor. Companies like ExecuCar and Carmel offer private car services with professional drivers.
Tips for Taking a Private Car Service
- Book your private car service in advance to ensure availability.
- Check the company's policies and requirements before booking.
- Consider sharing a private car service with fellow travelers to split the cost.
Option 6: Shuttle Services with a Twist
Some companies offer shuttle services with a twist, such as the Detroit-Windsor Shuttle, which offers a shared shuttle service with a guaranteed 30-minute travel time.
Tips for Taking a Shuttle Service with a Twist
- Check the company's policies and requirements before booking.
- Consider sharing a shuttle with fellow travelers to split the cost.
- Be prepared for potential delays due to traffic or road closures.
Option 7: Border Crossing by Foot or Bike
If you're feeling adventurous, you can cross the border on foot or by bike. The Detroit-Windsor Tunnel is a popular route for pedestrians and cyclists.
Tips for Crossing the Border on Foot or by Bike
- Check the border crossing requirements and regulations before attempting to cross.
- Make sure to have the necessary documents, such as a valid passport and identification.
- Be prepared for potential delays due to traffic or road closures.
Conclusion
Traveling from Detroit Airport to Windsor can be convenient and affordable, depending on your preferred mode of transportation. Whether you choose to take a taxi, public transportation, shuttle service, car rental, private car service, or cross the border on foot or by bike, make sure to plan ahead and check the necessary requirements and regulations.
What is the fastest way to travel from Detroit Airport to Windsor?
+The fastest way to travel from Detroit Airport to Windsor is by taxi or ride-hailing services, which takes around 30-60 minutes depending on traffic.
Do I need a passport to cross the border from Detroit Airport to Windsor?
+Yes, you will need a valid passport, enhanced driver's license, or other accepted identification to cross the border from Detroit Airport to Windsor.
Can I take public transportation from Detroit Airport to Windsor?
+Yes, you can take the Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) bus from the airport to the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel Bus Terminal, and then take the Transit Windsor bus to Windsor.
We hope this article has helped you plan your trip from Detroit Airport to Windsor. Whether you choose to take a taxi, public transportation, shuttle service, car rental, private car service, or cross the border on foot or by bike, make sure to plan ahead and check the necessary requirements and regulations.