How to get from Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) to your hotel
Compare prices and travel times for the best transfer options to Dallas
Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) is one of the largest and busiest airports in the world, positioned roughly halfway between the cities of Dallas (approx. 20 miles east) and Fort Worth (approx. 24 miles west). Due to its massive size—spanning nearly 27 square miles—DFW functions like a self-contained city. Getting to your hotel requires navigating this sprawling complex, but excellent public transport links and dedicated roadways make it manageable. Travelers can choose the efficient DART light rail to Dallas, the TEXRail to Fort Worth, or options like taxis, rideshares, and shuttles for direct door-to-door service.
Want the easiest arrival from Dallas Fort Worth International Airport?
Pre-booking a private airport transfer works best when you arrive late, have lots of luggage, or just want a driver waiting at arrivals instead of comparing taxis and rideshare lines.
Take the DART Rail (Orange Line)
For travelers heading to Downtown Dallas, the DART (Dallas Area Rapid Transit) Orange Line is the most cost-effective option. The DFW Airport Station is located at Terminal A (lower level, entry A-10). Trains run daily from early morning until late night, departing every 20 minutes during peak hours. The ride to downtown stations like West End or Akard takes about 50 minutes. If you arrive at another terminal, you can take the free Terminal Link shuttle (landside) or Skylink (airside) to reach Terminal A.
Pros
- Very affordable ($3.00 for a midday pass or $6.00 for a day pass).
- Reliable schedule unaffected by highway traffic.
- Direct connection to key downtown Dallas locations.
Cons
- Takes longer than a car (approx. 50+ mins to city center).
- Requires transfer from other terminals to Terminal A.
- Not convenient for hotels located far from DART stations.
Map of hotels near Dallas Fort Worth International Airport DFW
Compare nearby hotels if you want an easier airport base after a late arrival, before an early departure, or when transfer simplicity matters more than staying in the city.
Best airport hotel picks near DFW
Three stays worth checking when the smoothest terminal-to-bed plan matters as much as the room itself.
Take TEXRail to Fort Worth
If your final destination is Fort Worth rather than Dallas, the TEXRail commuter train is your best bet. It departs from Terminal B (lower level, entry B-47) and connects DFW Airport to Fort Worth Central Station and other stops. The journey takes about 50 minutes. Like the DART, it offers a comfortable ride with Wi-Fi and USB charging ports. Trains typically run every hour, or every 30 minutes during peak times.
Pros
- Best public transit option specifically for Fort Worth.
- Comfortable trains with modern amenities.
- Affordable fare ($2.50 for a single ride).
Cons
- Does not serve Dallas (goes west to Fort Worth).
- Less frequent departures compared to DART.
- Terminal B departure requires transfer if landing elsewhere.
Taxi & Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)
Taxis and rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft are readily available at DFW. Taxis can be found at the lower level curbside of each terminal (Terminals A, B, C, D, and E). A Guest Assistant is usually available to help hail a cab. Rideshare pickups are located at the lower level curbside at specific 'Ride Share' signs for Terminals A, B, C, and E, and strictly at the lower level curb of Terminal D. A ride to downtown Dallas or Fort Worth typically takes 25–40 minutes depending on traffic and costs between $40–$60, though prices fluctuate with demand.
Pros
- Direct door-to-door service to any hotel.
- Available 24/7 at all terminals.
- Good for groups or those with heavy luggage.
Cons
- More expensive than public transit.
- Fares can spike during rush hour or bad weather.
- Traffic on TX-114 or I-35E can significantly delay the trip.
Shared Shuttle & Private Car
Shared-ride shuttles (often blue vans like SuperShuttle) and private car services can be booked in advance or arranged at the airport. Shared vans offer a middle ground between public transit and taxis, grouping passengers heading in the same direction. Private car services offer meet-and-greet in the baggage claim area, providing a more premium experience. These are ideal for business travelers or large groups who want a guaranteed fixed rate and help with luggage.
Pros
- Fixed upfront pricing.
- Helpful for those with lots of luggage.
- Door-to-door convenience.
Cons
- Shared vans can take a long time due to multiple drop-offs.
- Requires advance booking for best rates.
- Private cars are the priciest transfer method.
Have a layover at DFW?
See whether you should stay airside, focus on Terminal D, head into Dallas, Fort Worth, or Grapevine by rail, or book a real rest break instead.