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West Lafayette, IN, USA to Detroit, MI, USA from $17: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
West Lafayette, United States of America
to
Detroit, United States of America

How to Get from West Lafayette to Detroit: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$17 by trainBest price
388 kmDistance
4h 54m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from West Lafayette to Detroit with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
8h  10m
Estimated price
$38-126
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
10h  7m
Estimated price
$17-206
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 388 km
Duration: 4h 54m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
9h  18m
Estimated price
$25-175
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
5h  17m
Estimated price
$45-75
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
8h  51m
Estimated price
$58-148
Company
various
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
4h  56m
Estimated price
$380-381
Company
various
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
6h  51m
Estimated price
$382-383
Company
N/A
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
4h  54m
Estimated price
$384-385
Company
various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
7h  26m
Estimated price
$386-387
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From West Lafayette to Detroit

Journeying from West Lafayette to Detroit offers a delightful contrast, with West Lafayette’s charming college-town vibe giving way to Detroit’s vibrant urban energy and rich cultural history.

Best Neighborhoods in Detroit

Detroit boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering unique experiences for visitors.

Midtown
• Home to the Detroit Institute of Arts
• Thriving music scene with local venues
Greektown
• Vibrant restaurants featuring Greek cuisine
• Historic casino and lively nightlife
Corktown
• Known for its charming, historic architecture
• Home to trendy boutiques and eateries

Best Times To Visit Detroit's Attractions

Maximize your experience in Detroit by visiting these key attractions at the right time.

The Henry Ford Museum
Weekdays in early afternoon offer fewer crowds for exploration.
Detroit Institute of Arts
Visit during late mornings on weekdays for a quieter experience.
Belle Isle Park
Early mornings on weekends provide peaceful scenery and fewer visitors.

Detroit Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Detroit experiences a humid continental climate with cold winters and warm summers, making spring and early fall the ideal times to visit for pleasant temperatures. The weather can impact outdoor activities, so being prepared for varying conditions enhances your overall travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Detroit

Try the iconic Detroit-style pizza at Buddy's Rendezvous, where the deep dish is layered with a crispy crust and generous toppings that reflect the city’s bold culinary heritage. This dining experience contrasts with West Lafayette’s more casual fare, offering a vibrant atmosphere infused with local history and flavors that truly celebrate Detroit’s unique food culture.

West Lafayette - Detroit operators

Explore transport companies operating between West Lafayette and Detroit, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from Lafayette Bus Stop to Dayton Trotwood Bus Station

Average Duration
3h 15m
Estimated price
$38-126

Bus from Lafayette Bus Stop to Chicago Bus Station

Average Duration
2h 20m
Estimated price
$170-177
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Dayton Trotwood Bus Station to Detroit Bus Station

Average Duration
3h 55m
Estimated price
$2066-380

Bus from Lafayette Bus Stop to Chicago Bus Station

Average Duration
2h 25m
Estimated price
$2067-177
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Lafayette Amtrak Station to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
3h 24m
Estimated price
$17-2060

Train from Chicago Union Station to Dearborn

Average Duration
4h 54m
Estimated price
$170-171
Plane Show flights
Website
delta.com

Plane from Indianapolis (IND) to Detroit (DTW)

Average Duration
1h 9m
Estimated price
$1260-1263
Shuttle
Contact phone
+1 765-637-5124
Website
reindeershuttle.com

Shuttle from Purdue Memorial Union to Indianapolis Airport

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
$2068-388
Contact phone
+1(765)4973828
Website
lafayettelimo.com

Shuttle from State Street Bus Stop, Lafayette IN to O'Hare International Terminal 2

Average Duration
3h 48m
Estimated price
$1795-1795

West Lafayette to Detroit: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between West Lafayette and Detroit offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a scenic road trip from West Lafayette to lively Detroit covering a distance of 273 miles. 💸 Enjoy flexibility with prices ranging from $45 to $75 for the journey by car, ensuring an affordable travel option. 🌆 Explore the vibrant city of Detroit after a comfortable 5-hour and 17-minute drive from West Lafayette, ready to discover the Motor City's rich culture and attractions.
Average price
$45 - $75
🚆 Embark on a scenic train journey from West Lafayette to Detroit which takes approximately 10 hours and 7 minutes to reach your destination. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the stunning views along the way. 💰 The cost of a train ticket between West Lafayette and Detroit can range from as low as $17 to a maximum of $206, depending on the class of service and time of booking. Plan ahead to find the best deals and discounts for a budget-friendly travel experience.
🛫 Flying from West Lafayette to Detroit is a breeze with a quick direct flight from Indianapolis Airport to Detroit Airport. The flight duration is just 1 hour and 7 minutes, making it a convenient option for travelers.
Departure Point
Indianapolis Airport
Arrival Point
Detroit Airport
🛤️ With a total travel time of approximately 8 hours and 10 minutes, passengers on this bus route will enjoy a scenic journey through the heart of the Midwest. Flixbus USA and Greyhound USA operate the services connecting these two vibrant cities. 💰 Prices for this bus ride from West Lafayette to Detroit range from $38 to $126, offering a budget-friendly option for those looking to explore the historic city of Detroit from the quaint town of West Lafayette. Travelers can expect a comfortable and affordable journey with the convenience of bus transportation.
Departure Point
Lafayette Bus Stop station
Arrival Point
Detroit Bus Station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from West Lafayette to Detroit.

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The distance between West Lafayette and Detroit is approximately 241 miles. The road distance is slightly longer at 273.2 miles. If you prefer to travel by train, it takes about 10 hours and 7 minutes to reach Detroit from West Lafayette. Combining bus and train travel, the journey takes around 9 hours and 18 minutes. If you choose to drive, the travel time is about 5 hours and 17 minutes, while taking a bus takes approximately 8 hours and 10 minutes.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from West Lafayette to Detroit is to drive. It takes approximately 5 hours and 17 minutes and costs around $45 to $75 for fuel and tolls. However, if time is of the essence, the quickest option is to take a shuttle and fly, which takes about 4 hours and 59 minutes and costs between $95 and $420 depending on the airline and time of booking. Both options offer convenience and flexibility for travelers.
The prices of a train ticket between West Lafayette and Detroit range from $17 to $206, depending on factors such as the type of ticket and the time of booking. Alternatively, the prices of a bus ticket between Detroit and West Lafayette can vary from $38 to $126. It is worth comparing prices and considering different modes of transportation to find the most suitable and cost-effective option for your travel needs.
To travel from West Lafayette to Detroit without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of approximately 273 miles. The estimated travel time is around 5 hours and 17 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The cost of driving from West Lafayette to Detroit can vary between $45 and $75, taking into account fuel expenses.
The best way to travel from West Lafayette to Detroit without a car is by taking a bus via Dayton. The journey takes approximately 8 hours and 10 minutes and ticket prices range from $35 to $130. There are several bus operators that provide this service.
Yes, there is a link between West Lafayette and Detroit but there is no direct route. The most convenient option is to take a bus from Lafayette Bus Stop to Dayton Trotwood Bus Station, and then transfer to a bus heading to Detroit Bus Station. This journey takes approximately 8 hours and 10 minutes, including transfers. The bus services are operated by Flixbus USA and Greyhound USA.
The flight time from West Lafayette to Detroit is typically 1 hour and 7 minutes on a direct flight from Indianapolis Airport to Detroit Airport. However, it is important to note that flight availability and duration can vary depending on factors such as airline, layovers, and time of travel. As for the cost, it also varies depending on factors such as airline, time of booking, and demand, but typically the price for a round-trip ticket can range from $150 to $300.
There are plenty of accommodation options near Detroit with over 325 hotels available in the city. Prices for hotels start at $60, so there is a range of options to suit different budgets. Some popular areas to stay in Detroit include downtown, Greektown, and the surrounding suburbs, where you can find a variety of hotels to choose from. You can easily find and book a hotel that suits your needs and preferences.