If you have an extended layover at Detroit International Airport, you might be thinking about what to do aside from sleep. While the selections are restricted, you should be OK for a quick visit. Here are some activities to do during a layover at Detroit Airport so book your direct flight to Detroit.

1. Grab a bite to eat

If you're not in a rush, the Detroit airport has an excellent range of sit-down restaurants where you may unwind. The best restaurants in McNamara Terminal are Bigalora Cucina, Andiamo (a local franchise), Cat Cora's Taproom, and Harvest & Grounds. The North Terminal has fewer alternatives, but National Coney Island serves a local twist on hot dogs. Clubs close at 11 p.m., so prepare accordingly if you're spending the night, as snack machines are the only choices should you get up in the evening.

2. Relax in a lounge

Not all lounges are reserved exclusively for First Class passengers! If you are departing from the North Terminal and using the Lufthansa lounge, you can purchase a pass regardless of your airline or class of service. To get entrance, simply pre-book a pass online or use a lounge membership program, and you may spend your stopover in a peaceful lounge complete with food, WiFi, and other amenities.

3. Check out the Light Tunnel

If you've seen a photo from Detroit Airport, it was most likely taken from the Light Tunnel. The 700-foot tunnel joins Concourses A, B, and C while displaying a fantastic coordinated light and music spectacle, ideal for selfies. Another outstanding installation is the captivating water element in Concourse A. Spend a few minutes here and you might forget you're in an airport!

4. Go shopping

You can take a leisurely walk through the stores. McNamara has numerous airport basics, specialty shops, and a few foreign fashion brands. Unusual choices such as Michigan Sports, the PGA Tour Shop, and EA Sports highlight the area's apparent fascination with all things sports. If you're in the North Terminal, your purchasing choices are limited to Duty-Free, a few newsstands, and a grocery store.

5. Go Sightseeing

When the weather is nice, spending more time in an airport can feel claustrophobic, so get some fresh air and explore Detroit. Plan to spend at least six hours away from the airport. You have a couple of options for going downtown: During weekday rush hours (6-9 a.m., 3-6 p.m.), SMART buses connect the airport to downtown Detroit for a fixed fee of $2. If you are outside of those hours, or it is a Saturday or Sunday, you must ride the SMART bus and then transfer to a Detroit local bus. To get a direct ride downtown, call a taxi or use a vehicle-sharing app. Taxi ranks are provided outside both terminals. It will cost a little more, but it will save time.

7. Get connected

You can use the airport's free WiFi to connect with relatives and close friends, maintain your social media finances, and browse the web. 

8. Sleep

If you're forced the option of spending the evening at the airport, it should not be a problem. Travelers claim McNamara is cozier and quieter than the other terminal, except when the Express Tram passes through. The terminal architecture includes several private corners, ideal for getting some shuteye. The far end of Concourse B is known to be tranquil, and Gate B21 includes a few large leather loungers. The smaller North Terminal is less busy, but it can be noisy.

Earplugs and a blanket will help you sleep through the night no matter where you camp. If you are trapped at the airport due to substantial aircraft delays or cancellations, you should be aware that cots are available. If sleeping at the airport isn't your style, the Westin Detroit Metropolitan Airport is close to McNamara Terminal at Gate A36 and offers complimentary shuttles and day rooms for rent. Other hotels are within a few minutes' drive. Find cheap Detroit flights if you wish to visit the city and explore a variety of attractions.