Station guide · MI, USA
Detroit Amtrak Station Guide
The Detroit Amtrak station connects Michigan's largest city to Chicago and Pontiac, offering a practical transit point in the New Center area just north of downtown.
- Station
- Detroit
- City
- Detroit, MI
- Code
- DET
- Routes
- 1
At a glance
- The Amtrak station is in the New Center area north of downtown
- The historic Michigan Central Station was restored and reopened as an event and tech space in 2024, not as an Amtrak station
- Served by Wolverine trains
Detroit serves as a major stop on the Amtrak network in Michigan. The current station is a functional passenger facility located in the New Center area. Visitors often confuse the active Amtrak stop with the historic Michigan Central Station. That monumental building was restored and reopened as an event and tech space in 2024, and it does not serve passenger trains.
The active Amtrak station provides a straightforward starting point for journeys across the state and into Illinois. Whether you are traveling for business or leisure, the station offers basic amenities for a comfortable wait. First-time riders can review our guide on first time on Amtrak to prepare for their trip.
Trains from Detroit
| Train | Between | Runs |
|---|---|---|
| Wolverine | Chicago to Pontiac | Three round trips a day |
Detroit is served exclusively by the Wolverine route, operated by Amtrak. This daytime service runs between Chicago and Pontiac. As of 2026, the schedule offers three round trips a day. The journey takes about 6 hours 20 minutes end to end.
If you are heading west, the next stop is Dearborn. Eastbound trains call at Royal Oak before continuing to the terminus in Pontiac. One of the most popular direct trips is the journey from Chicago to Detroit, which takes about 5 hours 30 minutes to 6 hours.
There are no overnight trains or scenic railroads operating directly from this station. Passengers planning a trip should check current timetables and read our Amtrak and VIA booking tips for the best fares.
Getting to and from the station
The Amtrak station is located in the New Center area, which sits north of downtown Detroit. Since the facility is outside the central business district, passengers should allow extra time to reach their final destination.
Local transit options are available, but travelers should check local transit websites for current schedules and routes before arriving. Taxis and ride-share services frequently operate in the area and provide direct connections to downtown hotels and offices.
If you require assistance navigating the station, review our guide to accessible train travel. Always arrive early to navigate the station and manage your baggage smoothly.
Around the station
The station's location in the New Center area places it near several commercial buildings and local businesses. Downtown Detroit is a short ride to the south, where visitors will find major sports arenas, theaters, and corporate headquarters.
The historic Michigan Central Station is located in the Corktown neighborhood, significantly south and west of the active Amtrak station. Remember that the 2024 restoration of Michigan Central turned it into an event and tech space, so do not go there to catch a train. The surrounding New Center neighborhood offers a few dining options for a quick meal before departure.
Station tips
- Make sure you go to the active station in the New Center area rather than the historic Michigan Central Station.
- Review the luggage rules on Amtrak and VIA before packing for your trip.
- Book your tickets well in advance to secure a seat on the popular Chicago route.
- Check local transit schedules online to plan your onward journey from the station.
Popular trips from Detroit
Questions travellers ask
Does the train stop at Michigan Central Station?
No, the historic Michigan Central Station does not serve passenger trains. It was restored and reopened as an event and tech space in 2024. You must go to the active Amtrak station in the New Center area north of downtown to catch your train.
How long is the train ride from Chicago to Detroit?
The train journey from Chicago to Detroit takes about 5 hours 30 minutes to 6 hours. The full Wolverine route from Chicago to Pontiac takes about 6 hours 20 minutes end to end.