Planning your trip from Dallas Airport to downtown Dallas? Whether you’re arriving at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) for business or pleasure, getting from the airport to downtown Dallas is the first step in your Texas adventure. With multiple transportation options available, from the affordable DART Orange Line to convenient rideshare services, this comprehensive guide will help you choose the best way to get from Dallas airport to downtown Dallas based on your budget, schedule, and preferences.
DFW Airport is located approximately 20 miles from downtown Dallas, and there are several transportation methods to bridge that distance. This guide covers everything you need to know about getting from Dallas airport to downtown Dallas in 2025, including up-to-date costs, travel times, and insider tips to make your journey as smooth as possible.
Transportation Options from DFW Airport to Downtown Dallas: At a Glance
Before diving into the details, here’s a quick comparison of your options for getting from Dallas airport to downtown Dallas:
| Transportation Method | Cost | Travel Time | Frequency | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DART Orange Line | $3 (single ride), $6 (day pass) | 50 minutes | Regular service | Budget travelers, solo travelers |
| Taxi | $45-67 | 25-40 minutes | On-demand | Groups, travelers with luggage |
| Uber/Lyft | $35-46 | 25-40 minutes | On-demand | Convenience, door-to-door service |
| Shuttle Services | $46-92+ | 30-60 minutes | Varies by service | Budget groups, scheduled arrivals |
| TEXRail | $2.50 | Varies | Regular service | Budget travelers (requires transfers) |
Note: Prices may vary, always verify on official websites for the most current details.
Now, let’s explore each option in detail to help you decide the best way to get from Dallas airport to downtown Dallas.
DART Orange Line from DFW Airport to Downtown Dallas
DART Details:
- Cost: $3 for a single ride, $6 for a day pass (as of January 2025)
- Travel Time: Approximately 50 minutes to West End Station/Downtown Dallas
- Hours of Operation:
- Weekdays: 3:50 a.m. – 1:20 a.m.
- Weekends: 3:50 a.m. – 1:19 a.m.
- Departures:
- Weekdays: 4:17 a.m. – 1:27 a.m.
- Weekends: 4:05 a.m. – 1:29 a.m.
- Station Location: Terminal A, Lower-Level Curb, Entry A-10
How to Take DART from DFW to Downtown:
- Follow signs for “DART” or “Ground Transportation” within the airport
- If you’re not at Terminal A, use the free Terminal Link shuttle bus or Skylink people-mover to reach Terminal A
- The DART station is located at Terminal A, Lower-Level Curb, Entry A-10
- Purchase your ticket at the DART Smarte Carte station located between the station and Terminal A
- Board an Orange Line train with “DFW” destination signs
- Exit at West End Station for downtown Dallas (transfer point for Red and Blue Lines)
DART Pros:
- Most affordable option
- Avoids unpredictable road traffic
- Environmentally friendly
- Regular service throughout the day and night
- Convenient for solo travelers
DART Cons:
- Longer travel time than road transportation
- May require additional transportation from DART station to your final destination
- Less convenient for large amounts of luggage
- Center section of each train car offers platform-level boarding for luggage, but there are no luggage racks
Taxi from DFW to Downtown Dallas
Taxi Details:
- Cost: $45-67 plus tip (15-20% is customary)
- Travel Time: 25-40 minutes (depending on traffic)
- Availability: 24/7
- Pickup Location: Designated taxi zones on the lower level of Terminals A, B, C, D and E
Taxi Pros:
- Door-to-door service
- No waiting for scheduled departures
- Fixed rates (not subject to surge pricing)
- Available 24/7
- DFW Airport Guest Assistant available at taxi stands between 8:00 AM and 12 AM
Taxi Cons:
- Most expensive option
- Subject to traffic delays
- Cash payment may be required by some drivers
Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) from DFW to Downtown Dallas
Rideshare Details:
- Cost: $35-46 for standard service (can increase during peak times)
- Travel Time: 25-40 minutes (depending on traffic)
- Availability: On-demand through mobile apps
- Pickup Location: Designated rideshare pickup areas at each terminal
Rideshare Pros:
- More affordable than taxis
- Door-to-door service
- Easy app-based booking and payment
- Various vehicle options (economy to luxury)
- No need to carry cash
Rideshare Cons:
- Subject to surge pricing during peak times
- Pickup locations require some walking from arrival areas
- Wait times can vary based on driver availability
Airport Shuttles to Downtown Dallas
Shuttle Details:
- Cost:
- Shared shuttles to downtown Dallas: $58 (shuttlefare.com)
- Private transfers: $92+ (Viator luxury vehicle)
- Wingz private service: Starting at $46
- Travel Time: 30-60 minutes (with potential stops for other passengers)
- Companies: SuperShuttle, Texas Shuttle, Wingz.
- Booking: Online reservation recommended, some walk-up service available
Shuttle Pros:
- More affordable than taxis for solo travelers
- Door-to-door service
- Can be economical for groups using private shuttles
- Some services operate 24/7
Shuttle Cons:
- Shared shuttles make multiple stops, increasing travel time
- Advance booking often required
- Less frequent departures than other options
TEXRail to Downtown Dallas
TEXRail Details:
- Cost: $2.50 ($1.25 reduced fare for seniors)
- Pickup Location: DFW Airport Terminal B Station
- Note: While TEXRail is an affordable option, it primarily serves Fort Worth and requires additional transfers to reach downtown Dallas. For direct service to downtown Dallas, the DART Orange Line is recommended.
Which Option is Best for Getting from DFW to Downtown Dallas?
The best transportation option from Dallas airport to downtown Dallas depends on your specific needs:
- Best for budget travelers: DART Orange Line ($3 single ride, $6 day pass)
- Best for speed during non-peak hours: Uber/Lyft ($35-46) or Taxi ($45-67)
- Best for convenience: Uber/Lyft or Taxi for door-to-door service
- Best for late-night arrivals: DART runs until after 1 a.m., but taxis and rideshares are available 24/7
- Best for groups of 3-4: Taxi or Uber/Lyft (cost-effective when split)
- Best for larger groups: Private shuttle service
Tips for Traveling from DFW to Downtown Dallas
- Consider traffic patterns: During weekday rush hours (7-9 a.m. and 4-7 pm), DART may be faster than road transportation despite the longer nominal travel time.
- Use Terminal Link or Skylink: If you arrive at a terminal other than Terminal A and want to take DART, use the free Terminal Link shuttle (outside security) or Skylink people-mover (inside security) to reach Terminal A.
- Download relevant apps before arrival: Have the DART GoPass, Uber, or Lyft apps installed and set up before landing to save time.
- Book shuttles in advance: If using a shuttle service, book at least 24 hours ahead to ensure availability and potentially secure better rates.
- Consider your final destination: If your hotel isn’t near a DART station, factor in the additional cost of getting from the station to your accommodation.
- Check for events: Dallas hosts many major events that can affect traffic and transportation availability. Check if any major events coincide with your visit.
- Luggage considerations: If you have multiple or heavy bags, consider booking luggage storage in Dallas with Radical Storage.
Frequently Asked Questions About Getting from Dallas Airport to Downtown Dallas
How far is DFW airport from downtown Dallas?
DFW Airport is approximately 20 miles from downtown Dallas.
What is the cheapest way to get from Dallas airport to downtown?
The DART Orange Line is the most economical option at $3 for a single ride or $6 for a day pass.
How much is an Uber from DFW to downtown Dallas?
Standard Uber service costs approximately $35-46, but prices can increase during peak times.
Does DART go from DFW to downtown Dallas?
Yes, the DART Orange Line provides direct service from DFW Airport Terminal A to downtown Dallas.
How long does it take to get from DFW to downtown Dallas?
By DART: Approximately 50 minutes By taxi or rideshare: 25-40 minutes (depending on traffic)
What time does the DART train start running from DFW?
The first departures from DFW are at 4:17 a.m. on weekdays and 4:05 a.m. on weekends.
How much is a taxi from DFW to downtown Dallas?
Taxis cost approximately $45-67 plus tip, depending on your exact destination and traffic conditions.
Are there shuttles from DFW to downtown hotels?
Yes, several shuttle services operate between DFW and downtown hotels, with prices starting around $46 for private services and $58 for shared services.
Conclusion: The Best Way to Get from Dallas Airport to Downtown Dallas
For most travelers, the DART Orange Line offers the best combination of affordability and reliability when traveling from Dallas airport to downtown Dallas. At just $3 for a single ride and with service running from early morning until after midnight, it’s hard to beat for value.
However, if you’re traveling with family, have substantial luggage, or are in a hurry, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft provide a good balance of convenience and cost. For the ultimate in door-to-door service, traditional taxis remain a reliable, if more expensive, option.
Whichever transportation method you choose, you’ll soon be enjoying all that Dallas has to offer – from the historic West End to the arts district, shopping, dining, and the unique Texas culture that makes Dallas a destination worth exploring.