The landscape of Detroit Metro Airport's McNamara Terminal is set for a change as the Wayne County Airport Authority announces the addition of 20 new businesses slated to open starting next year. A range of retail shops, dining options, and even entertainment in the form of video game lounges are part of this influx, representing a concerted push to enhance the travel experience with a Detroit-centric touch. CBS News Detroit reports that 12 retail stores and six new dining venues, along with two gaming lounges by Gameway, are expected to greet travelers by the beginning of 2025.
Driving the initiative is an $18.8 million collective investment from major concessionaires including Paradies Lagardère, Delaware North, WH Smith North America/The Marshall Retail Group, and Gameway, Inc. The thrust includes a mix of Michigan-based small businesses and well-known national brands, creating a dynamic environment that endeavors to reflect the spirit of Detroit. In a press release cited by The Detroit News, Chad Newton, CEO of the Wayne County Airport Authority, underscored "These additions, with their Detroit-centric branding, will help us maintain our position among the top airports in the country, as we take Detroit to the world and bring the world to Detroit."
Among a the offerings, travelers can anticipate enjoying more than just traditional airport fare. Stores like Detroit-VS-Everybody and pure Michigan boutique within Corktown Place cater to those looking to take a piece of Detroit with them. Reflecting a diverse culinary scene, options such as the health-forward café 7greens and Wahlburgers, owned by the Wahlberg brothers, promise to satisfy diverse palates. The actor and co-owner of Wahlburgers, Mark Wahlberg, expressed his enthusiasm about joining DTW airport, emphasizing the significance of sharing their "signature burgers" with travelers, according to The Detroit News.
On the entertainment front, two distinct video game lounges operated by Gameway will cater to gamers of all stripes. The "Classic" Lounge is expected to house 12 gaming stations featuring the latest console offerings, while the "Ultra" Lounge will blend modern gaming with a nostalgic edge, including stations for retro gaming. Emma Walbridge, founder of Gameway Inc., highlighted Detroit's vibrant gaming community, stating that it makes the city "a perfect fit for our newest locations," as reported by The Detroit News. Additionally, the airport is investing $38 million to upgrade all 67 bathrooms at the McNamara Terminal, as mentioned by CBS News Detroit.
All told, these 20 new amenities are poised to reinvigorate DTW's retail and dining landscape, potentially elevating the airport's already distinguished reputation. The Wayne County Airport Authority has set its sights firmly on enriching the traveler's journey through Detroit, one shop, meal, and gaming session at a time.
