The condition of the freeway system varies and can be hectic during the spring construction season and clogged during rush hours. Aside from the river, the area presents no natural impediments. Navigating the downtown area can be tricky, but it helps to know that the city is laid out in a grid pattern, superimposed on a fan. Woodward Avenue runs north and south dividing the city into east and west.
Interstate highways form a loop around the downtown area and lead to the major suburbs.
The Peopl e Mover is one way to get around downtown, though it s said that walking from station to station is quicker. The area the People Mover covers is limited, but it serves the major hotels, entertainment areas, office buildings, the convention center and Joe Louis Arena. The service is relatively safe and inexpensive, and a ride will give you a feel for downtown. BY AIR Detroit Metro Airport seems to string out for miles, hence the fleet of beeping carts. While construction is under way, the facility is rather confusing to use, and walks from the gates to baggage claim or from the check-in counter to the gates can seem interminable.