Ankeny
Ankeny
Detroit
Detroit
Flight Driving

Ankeny to Detroit

Updated: 28 May 2026

Traveling from Ankeny to Detroit covers roughly 550 miles. The most direct driving route follows I-80 East to I-94 East through Illinois and Indiana. You will pass through major hubs like Chicago and Ann Arbor. Alternatively, flights are available from Des Moines International Airport to Detroit Metropolitan Airport. The drive takes approximately 9 hours without heavy traffic.

Total Distance: 885 km driving, 780 km air distance.
Fastest Way
Flying is significantly faster, saving over 5 hours of travel time.
Cheapest Way
Driving is the most economical choice for solo travelers or families.
Compare Ankeny to Detroit Routes
Flight
Connecting
Driving
Direct
Duration 3 hours 30 mins 9 hours
Avg Price $300-$500 $100-$150 in fuel
Operator Delta Air Lines Personal Vehicle
Route DSM to DTW via Minneapolis or Chicago. I-80 East to I-94 East.
Tip Delta offers the most frequent connections to DTW. Traffic in downtown Chicago can add 2 hours to your trip.
Travel Tips
  • Traffic Avoidance
    Use the I-294 bypass around Chicago to avoid city center congestion.
  • Parking
    Use parking apps to find secure garages in downtown Detroit.
  • Airport Transit
    DTW is located in Romulus; allow 30 minutes to reach downtown.
  • Road Conditions
    Check Michigan Department of Transportation for construction updates on I-94.
  • Dining
    Try a Detroit-style deep-dish pizza while in the city.
Safety Tips
  • Urban Awareness
    Stick to well-lit, populated areas when exploring downtown at night.
  • Vehicle Security
    Do not leave valuables visible in your car while parked.
  • Emergency Prep
    Keep a portable charger and flashlight in your vehicle.
  • Navigation
    Download offline maps as cell service can be spotty in rural Indiana.
People Also Ask
  • Is there a train?
    Amtrak runs from Chicago to Detroit, but there is no train from Ankeny.
  • How long is the flight?
    Total travel time including layovers is usually 3 to 5 hours.
  • Is I-94 busy?
    Yes, expect heavy traffic near Ann Arbor and Detroit.
  • Are there tolls?
    Yes, the Chicago Skyway and Indiana Toll Road have fees.
  • Best time to visit?
    Summer offers the best weather for outdoor activities.
Quick Info
  • From Ankeny, Iowa, United States
  • To Detroit, Michigan, United States
  • Modes
Best Time to Travel

June to August for pleasant weather and outdoor festivals.

Things to Do in Detroit
1
The Henry Ford
Visit this massive museum complex in Dearborn to see historical artifacts and innovation exhibits.
2
Detroit Institute of Arts
Explore one of the largest art collections in the country, featuring the famous Diego Rivera murals.
3
Belle Isle Park
Enjoy this island park on the Detroit River, featuring an aquarium, conservatory, and beach.
4
Eastern Market
Browse one of the oldest and largest public farmers' markets in the United States.
Tags
Ankeny to Detroit drive flights to Detroit I-80 to I-94 route traveling Iowa to Michigan Ankeny to Detroit distance best way to Detroit Midwest travel Detroit trip planning