Reviewed by:
D. Goren
Head of Content
Updated March, 30
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Family Travel at Detroit Metropolitan Airport: Everything You Need to Know
Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW) is a major Delta Air Lines hub and one of the most transit-friendly airports in the Midwest. The airport's two main terminals — McNamara and North — are connected by a tunnel, and each offers a distinct mix of amenities. DTW's relatively modern infrastructure makes it a generally comfortable airport for families passing through.
Family Amenities at Detroit Metro
DTW provides families with a solid set of resources across both terminals. Nursing rooms and baby care stations are available in McNamara and North Terminals, family restrooms offer additional privacy for parents with young children, and the McNamara Terminal's central corridor — with its light tunnel and open design — gives kids something visually engaging while adults recharge. Food options across both terminals include family-friendly spots with children's menus.
This guide maps out key family amenities at DTW so you can move through the airport smoothly, regardless of which terminal you're flying from.
Nursing Rooms and Baby Care Facilities at Detroit Metropolitan Airport
Nursing rooms and breastfeeding facilities
Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW) has options for breastfeeding and pumping, with facilities that are generally designed to give parents privacy and a calmer space away from busy gate areas. In most large U.S. airports like DTW, you’ll typically find nursing/pumping spaces inside the secure (airside) terminal areas so you can use them without leaving and re-clearing security. Some airports also provide lactation spaces before security (landside), but availability can vary, so it’s best to plan on using the airside options once you’re through screening.
What parents can usually expect from airport nursing spaces:
- A private room or pod (not a restroom stall) intended for nursing and pumping
- A lockable door or privacy indicator to reduce interruptions
- A bench or chair, a small shelf/ledges for a pump, and power outlets in many locations
- A quieter environment than gate seating, helpful for babies who get distracted easily
Baby changing stations
Baby changing stations are widely available at DTW and are most commonly located in public restrooms throughout the terminals. You’ll typically find them in women’s and men’s restrooms, and many airports also place them in family or companion-care restrooms where available.
Where you’ll usually see changing tables at the airport:
- Restrooms near gates and main concourses (airside)
- Restrooms near ticketing, baggage claim, and ground transportation areas (landside)
- Family/companion restrooms when provided, offering extra space for strollers and siblings
Accessibility notes: changing stations are often mounted at a standard height and fold down from the wall. If you need more room to manage a stroller, a companion-care or family restroom is usually the easiest setup when available.
Baby care centers (what they typically include)
Some airports provide a dedicated baby care center or family room that combines several baby needs in one place. When available, these spaces usually include:
- A changing table with more counter space than a standard restroom setup
- A private nursing area or screened seating
- A sink for washing hands, bottles, and small items
- Hooks or small shelves for diaper bags and coats
At DTW, you may also see nursing/pumping rooms provided as separate lactation spaces rather than a single large “baby center” in every area; what’s available can differ by terminal and concourse.
Bottle warming and formula preparation
Dedicated bottle-warming stations are not guaranteed in airports, and availability can vary even within the same terminal. For formula preparation and feeding at DTW, families typically rely on a combination of lactation rooms, restaurant support, and standard terminal amenities.
- Warm water requests: Many coffee shops and restaurants can provide a cup of warm water that you can use to warm a bottle by placing it in the cup. (For safety, avoid microwaving bottles, which can heat unevenly.)
- Mixing formula: If you need to mix powdered formula, a nursing room or baby care space with a sink (when available) is usually the most comfortable place to do it. Otherwise, plan to use sealed bottled water and clean surfaces.
- After security: Concession areas and lounges (when accessible) are generally the easiest places to ask for warm water, since you won’t need to leave the secure area.
If your baby uses ready-to-feed formula, keeping a small feeding kit (nipples, rings, wipes) together helps you do quick feedings without needing special equipment.
High chairs in restaurants
In DTW’s sit-down restaurants and many quick-service dining areas, high chairs are commonly available, though the exact number varies by location and time of day. During peak meal times, high chairs can be in high demand, so it may take a few minutes for staff to bring one over or wipe it down.
- Sit-down restaurants: Most offer high chairs and sometimes booster seats, depending on inventory.
- Food courts/quick service: Some seating areas have accessible table space, but high chairs may be limited and shared among nearby vendors.
Notable family-friendly features often seen at DTW
As a major hub airport with two large passenger terminals, DTW is built with a wide range of traveler needs in mind. Families generally benefit from:
- Numerous restrooms throughout the terminals, making it easier to find a changing station without walking far
- Plenty of seating areas near gates for feeding and settling little ones, with quieter pockets depending on the concourse
- Family/companion restrooms in many airport layouts (availability varies by area), which can be helpful when traveling with multiple small children or when one parent needs extra space to manage a stroller
Because facility placement can differ between the McNamara Terminal and the Evans Terminal, the most consistent expectation is that restroom-based changing stations are easy to find, while dedicated nursing/pumping rooms may require a short walk within the secure area depending on where your gate is.
TSA Security Tips for Families at Detroit Metropolitan Airport
Strollers Through Security
You can bring a stroller to the TSA checkpoint, but it must be screened before you can take it to the gate. In most cases, you’ll be asked to take your child out and fold the stroller so it can go through the X-ray; if it won’t fit, TSA will screen it by other approved methods. Expect to place any removable stroller items (like a parent console, storage bag, or cup holders) on the belt for screening, and remove bulky items from the stroller basket so they can be scanned. If you are carrying your child during screening, TSA may also do a quick additional screening of your hands or the carrier after you pass through. It’s normal for this to take a little extra time, especially with larger strollers or travel systems.
Liquids for Infants & Toddlers
TSA allows breast milk, formula, toddler drinks, baby food, and puree pouches in carry-on bags in reasonable quantities, even if they are over the usual 3.4 oz (100 mL) limit. At security, tell the officer you are traveling with infant or toddler liquids, and take these items out of your bag so they can be screened separately. These liquids may go through X-ray, and TSA may also do additional screening such as testing the container or asking to open it; the liquid is not required to be tasted. You can bring these items with or without your child present, but they must be for an infant or toddler. Gel or liquid teethers and ice packs/gel packs used to keep these items cold are also allowed, and they may receive additional screening.
Family & Accessible Lanes
Some airports provide a family lane or an accessible lane at TSA security to help travelers who need a little more time, including families with strollers, car seats, and young children. If available, you can choose that lane instead of the standard line; availability varies by airport and time of day, and it may be signed or managed by a TSA officer. Expect the same screening rules as other lanes, but usually with a bit more space and patience for extra items like baby gear. You may be asked to remove your child from the stroller, and strollers and car seats typically go through the X-ray when they fit; if something is too large, TSA may screen it by hand. Keep your items grouped and easy to reach so you can quickly place them in bins without rushing.
Shoe Removal for Young Children
At TSA security, children 12 and under can usually keep their shoes on during screening. In practice, this means your child will most often walk through the metal detector (or be screened as directed) wearing their shoes, while adults typically must remove shoes. TSA officers may still ask for a child’s shoes to be removed if the shoes set off an alarm, have bulky parts, or need extra screening. If shoes do come off, place them in a bin along with any items in pockets, and let your child step forward as instructed. Slip-on shoes can make things quicker in case removal is needed, and socks can help keep little feet comfortable on the checkpoint floor.
Kids' Play Areas at Detroit Metropolitan Airport
Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW) is a large, family-friendly airport, but it is not especially known for having many dedicated, purpose-built children’s playrooms compared with some airports that advertise big themed play zones. Families should plan for play opportunities, but also be ready to use other kid-friendly spaces (open gate areas, wider concourses, and family restrooms) when a formal play area isn’t available or is busy.
Where play spaces are generally found: At many major U.S. airports, any children’s play areas are most commonly located airside (past security) near clusters of gates, where families spend the most time waiting. If DTW has a designated play area available during your visit, it is most likely to be in a terminal concourse near seating and restrooms rather than outside security. Landside play facilities (before security) are less common and usually limited to small “kid corners” rather than full play zones.
What Kids’ Play Areas Typically Look Like
When airports provide a children’s play area, the setup is usually designed for short bursts of movement and distraction rather than a full playground. Depending on what’s available on the day you travel, you may see:
- Soft-play elements (padded flooring, soft blocks, low platforms) designed to reduce bumps and falls
- Small climbing structures sized for younger children, often with gentle ramps rather than tall ladders
- Interactive features such as wall-mounted activity panels (spinners, sliders, “busy boards”) that keep hands occupied without lots of running
- Simple ride-on or crawl-through shapes (tunnels or sculpted forms) meant for quick play between boarding announcements
- Space to move—some “play areas” are simply a clearly defined corner with child-friendly seating and activities rather than equipment
Airports are careful about safety and accessibility, so you’ll usually find open sight lines (easy for parents to supervise) and easy-to-clean surfaces. Anything that looks like a screen-based game area is typically made for short interactions and may not always be active or maintained.
Best Ages for Airport Play Areas
Most airport play zones are designed with toddlers through early elementary in mind. In practical terms:
- Babies and young toddlers benefit most from padded areas where they can crawl and cruise, but they’ll need close supervision and a clean surface is never guaranteed in a public space.
- Toddlers (about 1–4) are usually the “target” age—short climbs, busy panels, and soft structures fit them best.
- Older kids may get bored quickly if the area is small; they often do better with a walk along the concourse, stretching, or simple games at the gate.
If you’re traveling with siblings of different ages, it helps to treat the play area as a quick energy reset rather than your only plan for a long layover.
Quiet Spots for Overstimulated Kids
Even when a dedicated play area is available, it can get noisy and busy—especially around peak departure waves. For children who get overwhelmed (or for younger kids who need a calmer break), look for these quieter alternatives inside the terminal:
- Family restrooms for a private reset, diaper change, or a few minutes away from crowds
- Less-busy gate areas a short walk away from the busiest clusters (often noticeably calmer)
- Terminal seating areas slightly off the main walkway, where foot traffic is lighter
In most airports, truly silent “quiet rooms” are limited and not always designed for children. A calm corner with a snack, a picture book, and reduced noise can work just as well when you need to bring energy down before boarding.
Airside vs. Landside: What to Expect at DTW
For families, the most useful play options are typically airside (past security), because that’s where you’ll be waiting to board and where returning to the play area is easy. Landside spaces (before security) are generally less helpful unless you arrive very early, and they tend to be smaller and less consistent. If you’re aiming to use any play space during your trip, plan to do it after you clear security so you’re not rushing right after active play.
Notable Kid Attractions
DTW is well known for being modern and comfortable, but it is not widely recognized for a signature, must-see children’s attraction (such as large themed play parks or airport slides). Families typically find DTW’s biggest advantage is that it’s a well-equipped major hub with the types of facilities that make traveling with kids smoother—good restrooms, plenty of seating, and space to walk—rather than a destination for airport play zones.
Practical Tips for Using Play Areas Before a Flight
- Build in a buffer so playtime doesn’t end with a rushed sprint to the gate; stop play about 10–15 minutes before boarding to regroup.
- Do a quick safety check: look for hazards (crowding, older kids running through, slippery socks on smooth floors) and choose the calmer side of the area.
- Hand hygiene helps: airport play surfaces are high-touch, so keep wipes or sanitizer handy and use them before snacks and after play.
- Use play strategically: a short, active break can help kids settle during boarding and takeoff, especially on longer flights.
- Keep essentials within reach: stash diapers, wipes, and a small snack in an easy-access pocket so you’re not unpacking everything while supervising.
Family Dining and Kids' Menus at Detroit Metropolitan Airport
1
Anchor Bar
Anchor Bar at Detroit Metro’s DTW brings the vibe of a casual American sports bar to the concourse, with a menu built around wings, burgers, and other pub classics that travel well. The brand is best known for its Buffalo, New York roots and its claim to fame as the birthplace of the Buffalo chicken wing, so ordering the signature Buffalo wings (in a range of heat levels) is the most on-brand move for parents and adventurous kids. For families, the laid-back setup and familiar comfort-food menu make it easy to please picky eaters, and you can typically count on a kids’ menu and a generally forgiving, bustle-friendly atmosphere where normal kid noise won’t feel out of place. Expect standard airport sit-down pacing with table service, shareable portions (wings and fries are easy to split), and plenty of TVs that can help keep older kids occupied while you wait. Beyond wings, the crowd-pleasers tend to be burgers, chicken tenders, and fries—simple choices that work well before a flight without surprising flavors. Pricing is in typical airport casual-dining territory—about $15–$30 per adult depending on what you order—so it’s not bargain dining, but it can feel like reasonable value if your family shares appetizers and sticks to the classic pub plates. Overall, it’s a reliable, kid-tolerant stop when you want something familiar and filling, with a bit of real American food history behind the sauce.
2
Plum Market Kitchen
Plum Market Kitchen at Detroit Metro (DTW) brings the feel of the Michigan-based Plum Market grocery and prepared-foods brand into the terminal, focusing on fresh, health-minded meals, quality ingredients, and grab-and-go convenience alongside made-to-order options. It works well for families because it’s casual and efficient, with plenty of familiar choices, and kids’ menu availability varies by airport setup, but there are usually kid-friendly staples like simple sandwiches, mac-and-cheese-style comfort options, soups, and smoothies that travel well. Parents tend to appreciate the mix of wholesome bowls and salads, while popular crowd-pleasers often include freshly made sandwiches and comfort-forward mac-and-cheese that don’t feel like typical fast food. The vibe is bright and low-pressure—more “market café” than full-service restaurant—so it’s easier with little ones, and service is quick since many items are ready to go. Portions are generally practical for travel (easy to share or split), with reliable quality that matches Plum Market’s reputation in metro Detroit and Ann Arbor for curated, better-for-you prepared foods. Expect a price range of about $12–$20 per adult (less for simpler kids’ items), which can feel a bit premium but often delivers good value for families who want fresher options than standard airport fare. As a local Michigan institution known for its upscale grocery format and chef-driven prepared foods, Plum Market’s airport outpost is a welcome “taste of home” for Detroit-area travelers and a solid reset meal for everyone else.
3
Elias Brothers Big Boy
Elias Brothers Big Boy at Detroit Metropolitan Airport brings a familiar slice of Michigan diner culture to the terminal, based on the long-running Big Boy brand known for casual American comfort food and its iconic Big Boy character. It’s an easy win for families because the vibe is relaxed and diner-like, staff are used to quick-turn travelers, and there’s typically a kids’ menu plus practical basics like high chairs and a noise level that won’t make little wiggles feel like a problem. The can’t-miss classic is the Big Boy hamburger (a double-decker style burger), and many kids are just as happy with simple breakfast plates, fries, or a kid-friendly dessert like a milkshake. Service is generally counter-to-table diner pace—solid for a pre-flight meal—while portions skew hearty, so sharing can work well with younger children. Expect about $12–$20 per adult (more with drinks or dessert), which can feel like decent value in an airport setting when you want a sit-down meal that everyone recognizes. Locally, “Elias Brothers” is a name longtime Michigan travelers associate with Big Boy restaurants around Metro Detroit, so it has a bit of hometown nostalgia compared with the usual national airport fast-food lineup.
4
TGI Fridays
TGI Fridays at Detroit Metro (DTW) brings the familiar, upbeat American casual-dining vibe the brand is known for worldwide, built around burgers, sandwiches, salads, and a big bar menu in a lively setting. For families, it’s an easy choice because the room is typically energetic (kid noise won’t stand out), and you can expect a kids’ menu with straightforward, crowd-pleasing options plus family-friendly basics like high chairs/booster seating when available. Parents often gravitate to hearty appetizers and comfort-food mains, while kids tend to go for chicken tenders, burgers, and fries—reliably familiar airport food when you don’t want surprises. Service is full-service sit-down, but the pace can be “airport fast” when it’s busy, with staff used to travelers on a clock and portions that lean generous for a chain restaurant. Expect about $18–$30 per adult (plus kids’ meals), with airport pricing meaning it’s not a bargain, but the shareable plates and large portions can make it decent value for a family meal. As a long-running U.S. chain founded in New York City, TGI Fridays built its reputation on a fun, casual “Friday-any-day” atmosphere and dependable comfort food—exactly what many families want before a flight.
Family Airport Guide FAQ
Where are the nursing rooms or breastfeeding pods at Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW)?
DTW has Mamava lactation pods in both the McNamara Terminal and the Evans (North) Terminal. Locations can change, so check the DTW interactive map, terminal directory, or ask the information desk for the nearest pod. These spaces are intended for private nursing or pumping and are separate from restrooms.
Can I bring formula, breast milk, and ice packs through TSA security at DTW?
Yes. TSA allows breast milk, formula, and juice for infants and toddlers in “reasonable quantities” through security, even if they exceed the 3.4 oz limit. Ice packs, freezer packs, and gel packs are allowed when used to cool these liquids, and they may be partially melted as long as they’re still needed for cooling. Tell the TSA officer you’re carrying them before screening; they may be subject to additional inspection.
Are there any kids’ play areas or play zones at Detroit Metro Airport (DTW) for toddlers?
DTW does have children’s play areas, but availability depends on the terminal and what spaces are currently open. The McNamara Terminal’s A Concourse has a known children’s play area that is often listed on airport amenity maps. For the most accurate location and current status, use DTW’s interactive map or ask a gate agent or information desk.
What is the stroller policy at DTW—can I gate-check a stroller and bring it through security?
You can bring a stroller through TSA security at DTW, and it will need to be screened (smaller strollers typically go through the X-ray, and larger ones may be inspected separately). Airlines generally allow strollers to be gate-checked, and you can usually use the stroller until you reach the boarding area. Policies can vary by airline and stroller size, so confirm at check-in or the gate if you have a large or specialty stroller.
Does Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW) have a family security lane or family check-in line for passengers with children?
DTW and TSA may offer a dedicated family or passenger-assistance lane at some checkpoints, but it isn’t guaranteed at all times. When available, it’s typically based on checkpoint staffing and queue management rather than a permanent, always-open lane. Ask a TSA officer or airport staff at your checkpoint if a family lane or alternate screening line is available.
