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Detroit, MI, USA to Watkins Glen, NY, USA from $39: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Detroit, United States of America
to
Watkins Glen, United States of America

How to Get from Detroit to Watkins Glen: 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.

$39 by busBest price
510 kmDistance
3h 42m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Detroit to Watkins Glen 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
Delta
Plane
Average Duration
3h  42m
Estimated price
$80-382
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
14h  45m
Estimated price
$39-148
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 510 km
Duration: 3h 42m

See more options

Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
11h  51m
Estimated price
$51-237
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
12h  32m
Estimated price
$129-800
Company
various
Plane
Taxi
Average Duration
4h  51m
Estimated price
$150-482
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
14h  26m
Estimated price
$801-802
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
16h  57m
Estimated price
$803-804
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
7h  18m
Estimated price
$805-806
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Traveling From Detroit to Watkins Glen

Traveling from the bustling urban landscape of Detroit to the serene beauty of Watkins Glen offers a striking contrast between city life and nature's tranquility.

Best Neighbourhoods in Watkins Glen

Watkins Glen offers charming neighborhoods that enhance your visit.

Watkins Glen Village
• Close to local shops and restaurants
• Offers scenic views of the gorge
Gorge Trail Area
• Access to stunning hiking trails
• Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers
Seneca Lake Waterfront
• Beautiful views of Seneca Lake
• Great for picnics and water activities

Best Times To Visit Watkins Glen's Attractions

Timing your visits to Watkins Glen's attractions can significantly enhance your experience.

Watkins Glen State Park
Visit early morning or late afternoon to enjoy tranquility and stunning lighting.
Seneca Lake
Weekdays in late spring or early fall offer fewer crowds and picturesque scenery.
The Glen Racing
Attending races on weekdays provides a more relaxed atmosphere and easier access.

Watkins Glen Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Watkins Glen experiences a humid continental climate, with warm summers and cold winters, making spring and fall ideal for comfortable weather and outdoor activities. The weather can influence your travel plans, so packing layers and checking forecasts can enhance your experience.

Dining Recommendation in Watkins Glen

At The Seneca Lodge, indulging in their famous smoked brisket sandwich provides a taste of the region that's distinctly different from Detroit's urban flavors. The rustic setting, combined with locally sourced ingredients and a laid-back atmosphere, creates a dining experience that invites you to savor every bite while enjoying the natural beauty of Watkins Glen.

Detroit - Watkins Glen operators

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

Plane
Website
delta.com

Plane from Detroit (DTW) to Elmira/Corning (ELM)

Average Duration
1h 13m
Estimated price
$80-382

Plane from Detroit (DTW) to Binghamton (BGM)

Average Duration
1h 21m
Estimated price
$150-482
Bus
Contact phone
+1-844-800-6828
Website
ourbus.com

Bus from Niagara Falls, NY to Corning, NY

Average Duration
3h 10m
Estimated price
$395-396

Bus from Buffalo, NY to Corning, NY

Average Duration
2h 30m
Estimated price
$395-396
Contact phone
6474775500
Website
onexbus.com

Bus from Windsor, ON - 1320 Wyandotte St. W to Toronto, ON - 44 York St.

Average Duration
5h 15m
Estimated price
$1480-3821
Contact phone
+1 800-858-8555
Website
trailways.com

Bus from Rochester to Ithaca

Average Duration
1h 55m
Estimated price
$396-397

Bus from Rochester to Corning, NY

Average Duration
2h 40m
Estimated price
$390-399
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from Detroit Bus Station to Toronto

Average Duration
6h 10m
Estimated price
$80-1482

Bus from Toronto to Ithaca

Average Duration
6h 55m
Estimated price
$1481-3829
Train
Contact phone
+1 888 842-7245
Website
viarail.ca

Train from Windsor to Aldershot

Average Duration
3h 28m
Estimated price
$3822-3825

Train from Aldershot to Niagara Falls

Average Duration
1h 19m
Estimated price
$3828-390

Train from Aldershot to Rochester

Average Duration
4h 33m
Estimated price
$3822-801
Contact phone
+1 888-438-6646
Website
gotransit.com

Train from Aldershot GO to Niagara Falls GO

Average Duration
1h 23m
Estimated price
$393-394
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Rochester to Corning Amtrak Station

Average Duration
2h 40m
Estimated price
0-0
Other Show other routes
Contact phone
+1 607-722-3447

Other from Binghamton to Watkins Glen

Average Duration
1h 35m
Estimated price
$809-150
all-pages.transport_driving

all-pages.transport_driving from Detroit to Watkins Glen

Average Duration
7h 18m
Estimated price
$805-806

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Detroit to Watkins Glen.

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The distance between Detroit and Watkins Glen is approximately 360 miles by road. If you're driving, the journey typically takes around 6 to 7 hours, depending on traffic conditions. For air travel, flights are often available to nearby airports, with total travel time usually ranging from 4 to 6 hours. Alternatively, taking a bus may take around 8 to 10 hours based on the route and stops.
The most cost-effective transportation option from Detroit to Watkins Glen is typically driving, especially if you can share the ride with others to split costs. If you prefer public transportation, taking a bus can be a budget-friendly choice, although it may take longer than driving. For time efficiency, flying to a nearby airport like Ithaca or Elmira is often the quickest option, but it may come at a higher price. Ultimately, the best option will depend on your priorities between cost and time.
Prices for traveling from Detroit to Watkins Glen can vary significantly based on the mode of transportation. If you're driving, expect fuel costs to be around $40 to $60, depending on your vehicle's efficiency. Bus fares can range from $40 to $80 for a one-way ticket, while flights may cost anywhere from $100 to $300, depending on the time of booking and availability. Additionally, factors like luggage fees and transport to and from the airport can influence the overall cost of flying.
You can get from Detroit to Watkins Glen by driving your own vehicle, which allows for flexibility in your travel schedule. Alternatively, consider renting a car, which can be a convenient option if you don't want to use your personal vehicle. For a more relaxed journey, you could also look into hiring a private car service or ridesharing with friends or family. Each of these methods will enable you to make stops along the way and enjoy the scenic views.
To travel from Detroit to Watkins Glen without a car, you could consider taking a train, as Amtrak offers routes from Detroit to nearby cities. From there, you can use a rideshare service or taxi to reach Watkins Glen. Alternatively, you could explore options for booking a shuttle or private van service that operates between these two locations. Lastly, checking for available bus services is also a viable option, though it may involve longer travel times and additional transfers.
There is no direct public transportation link between Detroit and Watkins Glen. Rail services provided by Amtrak require transfers at intermediate stations, making it necessary to arrange additional transportation to reach Watkins Glen. Similarly, bus services typically involve multiple transfers and may not have a direct route. For the most efficient travel, considering a combination of trains, buses, or rideshares is recommended.
There are no direct flights from Detroit to Watkins Glen as Watkins Glen does not have a commercial airport. The nearest major airports are in Elmira and Ithaca, which are about 20-30 miles away from Watkins Glen. Generally, if you were to fly, the total travel time, including layovers, would be around 4 to 6 hours. Flight costs can vary widely but typically fall within the range of $150 to $300, depending on the time of booking and the airlines.
Near Watkins Glen there are a variety of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. You can find cozy bed and breakfasts, such as the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel, which offers beautiful views of Seneca Lake. Additionally, there are several campgrounds and cabins for those seeking a more rustic experience, especially in the nearby state parks. If you prefer chain hotels, you'll also find familiar options in nearby towns like Montour Falls and Corning.

Trips from Detroit