Is there a direct flight?

No, all flights from SMF require a connection.

How far is the train station from downtown?

It is about 3 miles north of the city center.

What is the best way to get around?

A rental car is the most practical option.

Is Detroit safe for tourists?

Major tourist areas are generally safe during daylight hours.

Do I need a passport?

No, this is a domestic trip within the US.

Davis

Detroit

Train Flight

Davis to Detroit

Updated: 28 May 2026

Traveling from Davis to Detroit involves crossing the heart of the United States. The most efficient route is flying from Sacramento (SMF) to Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW). If you prefer rail, Amtrak offers service to Detroit via the Wolverine line from Chicago. The journey covers diverse landscapes from the Pacific coast to the industrial Midwest. Plan for a total travel time of at least 7 hours by air.

Total Distance: Driving distance 3,700 km, Air distance 3,200 km.

Fastest Way

Flight from SMF with a single connection.

Cheapest Way

Booking a flight at least one month in advance is usually cheaper than rail.

Compare Davis to Detroit Routes

	Train Connecting	Flight Connecting
Duration	75 hours	7 hours
Avg Price	$450-$1000	$350-$850
Operator	Amtrak	Delta Air Lines
Route	California Zephyr to Chicago, then Wolverine to Detroit.	SMF to DTW via MSP or ATL.
Tip	The Wolverine line is one of the few Amtrak routes with high-speed segments.	Delta offers the most frequent connections to Detroit from Sacramento.

Travel Tips

Airport Transport
Use the SMART bus system to get from DTW to downtown Detroit.
Train Station
Detroit's Amtrak station is located in the New Center area, not downtown.
Car Rental
Detroit is a car-centric city; renting a vehicle is highly recommended.
Dining
Try a Detroit-style deep-dish pizza while you are in the city.
Booking
Use flight comparison tools to track price drops for SMF to DTW.

Safety Tips

Area Awareness
Stick to well-lit, populated areas when exploring downtown at night.
Vehicle Safety
Do not leave valuables visible in your rental car.
Emergency Services
Dial 911 for any emergency assistance.
Walking
Use designated crosswalks as traffic can be heavy in the city center.