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LEGO Discovery Michigan Best Transport Guide: 2026
Planning your visit to LEGO Discovery Center Michigan?
Getting there is much easier when you know the best transport option for your family, budget and where you’re travelling from. Whether you’re driving, flying into Detroit, using public transport or booking an Uber, this guide explains everything you need to know before you leave home.
Inside you’ll discover:
- Best transport options for families
- Driving directions
- Parking information
- Public transport routes
- Airport transfers
- Uber and taxi advice
- Accessibility information
- Money saving transport tips
Where is LEGO Discovery Center Michigan?
LEGO Discovery Center Michigan is located inside Great Lakes Crossing Outlets in Auburn Hills, Michigan, approximately:
- 35 miles (56 km) north of Downtown Detroit
- 45 minutes from Detroit city centre
- Around 50 minutes from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW)
Being inside one of Michigan’s largest shopping malls makes it simple to combine your LEGO visit with shopping, dining and other attractions like SEA LIFE Michigan.
Planning Your Visit?
Before you travel, compare the latest admission options to find the best value for your family and avoid paying more at the gate.
Driving to LEGO Discovery Center Michigan
For most families, driving is the quickest and easiest option. Great Lakes Crossing Outlets sits directly beside Interstate 75 (I-75), making it straightforward whether you’re travelling from Detroit, Flint or northern Michigan.
Approximate driving times:
| Starting Point | Journey Time |
|---|---|
| Downtown Detroit | 45 minutes |
| Troy | 20 minutes |
| Rochester Hills | 20 minutes |
| Flint | 35 minutes |
| Ann Arbor | 1 hour |
| Lansing | 1 hour 20 minutes |
Roads are clearly signposted and the shopping centre is easy to locate using Google Maps or Apple Maps. Families travelling with younger children generally find driving the least stressful because you can bring pushchairs, spare clothes and shopping without worrying about carrying everything.
Parking at LEGO Discovery Center Michigan
One of the biggest advantages of visiting is the amount of parking available. Great Lakes Crossing offers free parking across multiple large parking lots surrounding the mall. The closest parking areas to LEGO Discovery Center are located near the entertainment section of the shopping centre.
Parking benefits include:
- Free all day
- Thousands of spaces
- Accessible parking bays
- Family-friendly walkways
- EV charging available in selected locations around the mall
Arriving before late morning during weekends usually makes finding a nearby space much easier.
Using Public Transport
Although driving is recommended, public transport is available. SMART Bus services connect Detroit and surrounding suburbs with Auburn Hills.
Most visitors travelling by bus will need to transfer before reaching Great Lakes Crossing. Depending on your starting point, journey times can be significantly longer than driving.
Public transport may suit:
- Visitors staying in Detroit
- Older children
- Solo travellers
- Visitors without access to a car
Families with toddlers or pushchairs generally find driving or rideshare much easier.
Public Transport Pros
- No parking required
- Budget friendly
- Suitable from Detroit
Public Transport Cons
- Longer journey
- Transfers often required
- Less convenient with young children
Taking an Uber or Lyft
Uber and Lyft both operate throughout Detroit and Auburn Hills. Many visitors staying in nearby hotels choose rideshare services because they avoid parking altogether.
Approximate one-way costs:
| Journey | Typical Fare |
|---|---|
| Downtown Detroit | $45 to $70 |
| Troy | $18 to $30 |
| Rochester Hills | $18 to $30 |
| Auburn Hills hotels | $8 to $15 |
| Detroit Airport | $65 to $95 |
Prices vary depending on demand and time of day. Pickup and drop-off take place outside Great Lakes Crossing entrances.
Taxi Services
Traditional taxis remain available throughout Metro Detroit. Popular companies include local taxi operators serving Auburn Hills and surrounding communities. While taxis can be convenient, they are usually more expensive than Uber or Lyft. Booking ahead is recommended if you’re returning after shopping centre closing times.
Travelling from Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW)
Flying into Detroit?
Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) is the closest major airport.
Journey options include:
- Rental Car
Around 50 minutes. Best option for families planning to explore Michigan.
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- Uber or Lyft
Around 50 to 60 minutes. Ideal if you’re staying nearby without needing a vehicle afterwards.
- Taxi
Available directly outside airport terminals. Usually the most expensive option.
- Public Transport
Possible but involves several transfers and takes considerably longer than driving. Most families choose either a rental car or Uber.
Accessibility
Families visiting with mobility needs will find transport relatively straightforward.
Available facilities include:
- Accessible parking spaces
- Step free entrances
- Wide pavements
- Wheelchair friendly mall access
- Accessible public transport options
The short indoor walk from parking to the attraction is particularly useful during poor weather.
Which Transport Option is Best?
| Transport | Best For |
|---|---|
| Car | Most families |
| Uber/Lyft | Hotel guests |
| Rental Car | Airport visitors |
| Public Transport | Budget travellers |
| Taxi | Simple direct journeys |
For the majority of families, driving offers the quickest, easiest and most flexible experience.
Money-Saving Tips
Before travelling:
- Leave early on weekends.
- Combine your LEGO visit with SEA LIFE Michigan.
- Use free mall parking.
- Book attraction tickets online in advance.
- Stay nearby if visiting multiple attractions.
These simple steps can save both time and money while making the day less stressful for children.
FAQ's
- What are the best ways to get to the Lego Discovery Center Michigan using public transportation?
The easiest option is to take a SMART bus to Great Lakes Crossing Outlets. Depending on where you’re travelling from, you may need to change buses, so allow extra travel time and check the latest routes before you leave.
- What are the ride services available for trips to Lego Discovery Center Michigan?
Uber and Lyft are widely available throughout Detroit and the surrounding area, offering convenient drop-off and pick-up at Great Lakes Crossing Outlets. Local taxi services are also available if you prefer a traditional ride.
- What are the directions from Detroit airport to Lego Discovery Center Michigan?
From Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW), take I-94 East to I-75 North and follow signs to Great Lakes Crossing Outlets in Auburn Hills. The drive usually takes around 50 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic.
- What are affordable shuttle services near Lego Discovery Center Michigan?
There are no dedicated shuttle services to LEGO Discovery Center Michigan. If you’re flying into Detroit, the most affordable options are shared airport shuttles to nearby hotels or using rideshare services like Uber and Lyft for the final part of your journey.
- Are there car rental companies offering drop-off near Lego Discovery Center Michigan?
Yes. Major car rental companies such as Enterprise, Hertz, Avis, Budget and National operate from Detroit Metropolitan Airport. You can drive to Great Lakes Crossing Outlets and return your vehicle at a participating rental location if your booking includes one-way drop-off.
- What is the cheapest way to travel to the Lego Discovery Center in Michigan?
If you’re travelling locally, the SMART bus is usually the cheapest option. If you’re driving, free parking at Great Lakes Crossing Outlets can make travelling by car a great value choice for families or groups.