U-M students, faculty, and staff have access to many modes of transportation for getting to and from their engagement sites in and around Detroit.

Regional Transit

D2A2

The Regional Transit Authority of Southeast Michigan (RTA) has launched the D2A2 service, a commuter bus service that connects Detroit and Ann Arbor. This service, in partnership with The Ann Arbor Area Transportation Authority (TheRide) offers roundtrip transportation for those traveling between the two cities. Trips are offered hourly between Detroit and Ann Arbor from 5:45 a.m.-11 p.m. weekdays with limited service on weekends.

Fares:

One-way fares: $8 base fare

Advanced booking discount: $6

Eligible senior/disability fare: $4

Special offers: 

• Book of 10: $5 each ($50 total)
• Reduced fares are available for senior citizens (65+) and persons with disabilities with valid identification.
• Tell @UMich about your experience riding the D2A2 bus service and receive a voucher for a free ticket. Look for a QR code posted on select D2A2 buses to access the survey. Present your completed survey on your next ride.

Links and Contact Information:

For bus schedules and fare information

Michigan Flyer Office:

Hours of Operation: Monday – Friday 8:00 am – 5:00 pm

Phone Number: 517-333-0400 

Have questions? Refer to D2A2’S FAQ page

In the news: Detroit Press Release

 

SMART

SMART (Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation) is Southeast Michigan’s only regional public transportation provider, offering 47 bus routes and over 5,300 stops across Macomb, Oakland and Wayne Counties. SMART’s fixed route services operate on weekdays, with limited weekend availability. Regional and 31-day passes are available for purchase.

Amtrak

Amtrak provides one-way and round-trip train rides between Ann Arbor and Detroit. Amtrak can be used for day trips, as well as prolonged travel. Many of their trains have free wi-fi. The Ann Arbor station is located at 325 Depot Street, and the Detroit station is located at 11 West Baltimore Avenue.

Greyhound

Greyhound offers one-way and round-trip bus rides between Ann Arbor and Detroit. Greyhound can be used for day trips, as well as prolonged travel. Many of their buses have free wi-fi. The Ann Arbor station is located at 325 Depot Street and the Detroit station is at 1001 Howard Street.

AirRide

AirRide provides low-fare bus rides to and from Detroit Metro Airport. Daily round trips serve downtown Ann Arbor and two locations at each of the two DTW terminals. This service is temporarily suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

U-M Vehicles

U-M fleet vehicles are available for faculty, staff, and student organizations (with approval) to rent and can accommodate up to seven people for one or more days.

University blue bus charters are available to transport large groups on day trips. This service is available to departments or student organizations (with approval) and charters are limited to a 50-mile radius from Ann Arbor.

CEAL-Ride vehicles are available for students in LSA Community-Based Learning courses only. Students will need to complete CEAL-Ride modules and attend an online meeting before being assigned a vehicle.

Ginsberg Center vehicles are available for students in programs or student organizations that have a contract with the Ginsberg Center, and can use Ginsberg vehicles for activities related to their service.

 

Personal Vehicles

Using U-M vehicles and services is recommended, whenever possible. If you decide to drive your personal vehicle to and from Detroit, please read the Guidelines and Resources on Engaged Michigan to make sure you know the risks involved and are prepared in the event of an accident.