Tips for Families When Traveling Through DTW Airport

No matter how well prepared you are when it comes to traveling as a family, things don’t always follow your ideal itinerary. Whether you’re nervous about your little traveler’s first flight or you’ve found yourself with extra time to kill due to a delayed flight or other turbulent travel scenarios, we’ve got it under control. Use these tips to find kid-friendly activities and restaurants and rest assured that, no matter what your final destination, it’s sure to be a smooth flight. 

Tips for families flying at DTW

• There are several Family Restrooms located throughout the airport. 
• There are nine nursing rooms in the airport. To ensure privacy, guests wishing to use the nursing room must call for a secure access code.
• Terminal to terminal shuttles depart every 10 minutes from the Ground Transportation Centers.
• Airports can be overstimulating for anyone. When going through the McNamara tunnel, a walkway that features changing LED lights and sounds, guests can pause the light display for five minutes by pressing one of the buttons located at the end of the tunnel. 

• Review TSA’s helpful videos ahead of time to make getting through security a breeze, including their informational videos on traveling with children and baby gear.

Things to do and see at DTW

• Make a wish and toss a penny into the water feature located in the center of McNamara terminal. Inspired by a flight map, this beautiful fountain is nearly 40 feet wide! 
• If flying out of Evans Terminal, swing by the PlayPort to get the wiggles out before your flight. 
• There are four children’s play areas in the McNamara Terminal. Try playing mega chess or explore small climbers and play structures. 
• Visit Creative KidStuff, a children’s store filled with toys, dolls, games and more, all designed to keep kids occupied during their travels. 
• Take home a souvenir from The Mitten State from Michigan Treasures or Michigan Sports, two boutique stores offering local and regional gifts, apparel, snacks and more. 

Where to eat at DTW

• Detroit Street Lunchbox is a grab ‘n’ go cafe with snacks, cold drinks and gourmet sandwiches and salads. 
• Elevate your caffeine fix at Harvest & Grounds. In addition to coffee, this eatery has Michigan-sourced food and drink options so you can support local while you travel. 
• There are plenty of kid-approved restaurants that are great whether you need something on-the-go or have time to find a seat before boarding. Try Chick-fil-A, Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, Potbelly, QDoba or Subway. 
• Grab a sweet treat at Pinkberry, a fresh and frozen yogurt stand where kids can create their own fro-yo treat.

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