Venue, hotel, parking and travel
Welcome to Ann Arbor! Ann Arbor is a vibrant college town in southeast Michigan and home to the University of Michigan. Plan your trip to Ann Arbor with the following details about the meeting location, hotel accommodation, travel, parking, ground transportation, and more.
Venue information
Sheraton Ann Arbor
3200 Boardwalk Drive
Ann Arbor, Michigan 48108
ASXL Research Symposium and Family Conference events will be held at the Sheraton Ann Arbor hotel. There is ample, surface level parking at the Sheraton Ann Arbor that is free for guests staying in the ARRE Foundation’s room block.
Hotel accommodations
Sheraton Ann Arbor
The ARRE Foundation has a block of discounted hotel rooms at the Sheraton Ann Arbor for a rate of $169/night plus applicable taxes. Breakfast is included in the cost of the room up to 2 people per King Bed guest room and 4 people per Queen-Queen Bed guest room. Reservations must be made by June 1, 2026 using the group booking link to receive the discounted rate.
Check in: 4:00pm
Check out: 11:00am
If you need an accessible room or have other requests (low floor, near the elevator, extra pillows, early check in, etc), you can make these requests on the “Complete your booking page” after you select your room type. We highly recommend calling the hotel after booking to confirm your requests (1-734-996-0600).
Getting to Ann Arbor
By car
Ann Arbor is easily reachable by car from across the Midwest and beyond, making it a convenient destination for families who prefer to drive. Major highways provide straightforward access to the city and conference hotel. There is ample surface level parking at the Sheraton Ann Arbor hotel. Parking is free for guests staying in the ARRE Foundation’s room block.
By air
The closest major airport is Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW), located approximately 25 miles from Ann Arbor. DTW offers nonstop flights from many U.S. cities and is an easy drive to Ann Arbor. See ground transportation options listed below.
Getting to the Sheraton Ann Arbor from Detroit Metro Airport (DTW)
Detroit Metro Airport (DTW) is about 45 minutes from the Sheraton Ann Arbor Hotel. There are several ways to make the trip. Read through each option below to find what works best for you and your family.
New to traveling? The simplest option for most families is a rideshare app (like Uber or Lyft) or a taxi — they take you directly to the hotel door with no transfers needed.
Option 1: Rideshare Apps (Uber or Lyft)
Goes directly to the Sheraton — no transfers needed
Uber and Lyft are smartphone apps that connect you with a nearby driver. Download the app on your phone before you travel. When you land and collect your bags, open the app and request a ride. A driver will meet you at the airport's rideshare pickup area and take you directly to the Sheraton.
Cost: Typically $60–$90 for the full trip, depending on the time of day
Travel time: About 45 minutes (longer during rush hour)
Good for: Small groups or individuals who want a direct, hassle-free trip
Option 2: Rental Car
Goes directly to the Sheraton — and gives you flexibility all weekend
This may be the best option for many families, especially if you are traveling with young children, a lot of gear, a wheelchair, or medical equipment. Having your own vehicle gives you flexibility to come and go on your own schedule throughout the conference weekend.
Parking: Parking at the Sheraton Ann Arbor is free for guests staying at the hotel in the ARRE Foundation’s room block.
Rental cars: All major rental car companies are located at the airport. Book in advance online for the best rates. Be sure to request a vehicle large enough for all your equipment.
Driving directions: The Sheraton is located at 3200 Boardwalk Drive, Ann Arbor, MI 48108. From DTW, take I-94 West — the drive is straightforward.
Option 3: Taxi (Metro Cab)
Goes directly to the Sheraton — available at the airport
Metro Cab taxis are available at the airport taxi stand. You can simply walk up and get in a cab without booking in advance.
Website: metrocabmichigan.com
♿ Wheelchair Accessible Option: Metro Cab has 3 ADA-accessible vehicles, each able to accommodate one wheelchair user and one additional passenger. One accessible vehicle is kept at the airport at all times. You must contact Metro Cab at least 4 days before your travel date to reserve an accessible vehicle — do not wait until you arrive at the airport. Contact Metro Cab directly through metrocabmichigan.com to make your reservation.
Option 4: Michigan Flyer Shuttle Bus
⚠️ Important: Does NOT drop off at the Sheraton — an additional ride is needed
The Michigan Flyer is a shared shuttle bus that runs between Detroit Metro Airport and Ann Arbor. However, it drops passengers at a stop in downtown Ann Arbor, not at the Sheraton. After arriving downtown, you would need to arrange a second ride — such as an Uber, Lyft, or taxi — to get to the hotel.
If you are traveling with a lot of luggage, young children, or a wheelchair, another option may be more comfortable. The Michigan Flyer is best suited for travelers who are comfortable with a transfer and are looking for a lower-cost bus option.
Booking: Visit michiganflyer.com for schedules and fares
Service animals: Permitted on board. It is suggested (though not required) that you bring documentation for your service animal.
♿ Wheelchair Accessible Option: The Michigan Flyer can accommodate up to two wheelchair users per trip, using a lift to board. You must call in advance to reserve your spot. Wheelchair spaces cannot be booked online, and the driver cannot accommodate a wheelchair user without a prior reservation, even if space appears to be available. Call the Michigan Flyer directly to book your accessible spot. For full accessibility information, visit michiganflyer.com/accessibility.
Please note: The Michigan Flyer drop-off is in downtown Ann Arbor. Wheelchair users will need to arrange accessible transportation for the second leg of the trip from downtown to the Sheraton. Please plan accordingly or consider an alternative option that goes directly to the hotel.
Restaurants
On-Site & Walkable (no car needed)
The Bistro ⭐ Hotel restaurant — on-site
The Sheraton's own restaurant, located steps from the lobby. Serves breakfast daily and dinner most evenings. A convenient option when you don't want to leave the hotel. 3205 Boardwalk Dr | https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/dtwa2-sheraton-ann-arbor-hotel/dining/
Seoul Garden ⭐ Short walk
Korean cuisine, including Korean BBQ, bibimbap, and more. Highly rated and just steps from the hotel in the same commercial strip. 3125 Boardwalk Dr | https://www.seoulgardena2.com
Buffalo Wild Wings ⭐ Short walk
A familiar chain with wings, burgers, and bar food. Good for families who want something casual and kid-friendly without a car. 3150 Boardwalk Dr | https://www.buffalowildwings.com
Wendy's ⭐ Short walk
Fast food option right in the Boardwalk shopping area. Open late. 3100 Boardwalk Dr | https://www.wendys.com
Short Drive (5–10 minutes)
Relish Restaurant 🚗 ~5 min drive
A well-regarded American restaurant serving breakfast and dinner. Great for BBQ, burgers, and comfort food. Popular with hotel guests in the area. At the Kensington Hotel, 610 Hilton Blvd | https://www.kensingtonhotels.com/ann-arbor/dining
Texas de Brazil 🚗 ~5 min drive
Brazilian steakhouse in the Briarwood Mall area. An upscale, all-you-can-eat experience — great for a special family dinner. Reservations recommended. 760 Briarwood Cir | https://www.texasdebrazil.com/locations/ann-arbor/
Nearby amenities
Pharmacies
CVS Pharmacy 🚗 ~5 min drive
The closest full-service pharmacy to the hotel. 1700 S Industrial Hwy | https://www.cvs.com/store-locator/cvs-pharmacy-address/1700-S-Industrial-Hwy-Ann-Arbor-MI-48104/storeid=8902
Phone: (734) 827-7980
CVS Pharmacy 🚗 ~7 min drive
A second CVS option a bit further south on Main Street. 2228 S Main St | https://www.cvs.com/store-locator/cvs-pharmacy-address/2228-S-Main-St-Ann-Arbor-MI-48103/storeid=8901
Phone: (734) 663-1811
Ann Arbor Pharmacy 🚗 ~10 min drive
A locally owned, independent pharmacy with excellent reviews for personalized service and fast prescription filling. 2418 E Stadium Blvd |https://www.annarborpx.com
Phone: (734) 677-5555
Grocery and big-box stores
Meijer 🚗 ~7 min drive
A large Midwestern grocery/department store — similar to a Super Walmart. Great for stocking up on groceries, snacks, formula, diapers, medications, clothing, and more. 3145 Ann Arbor-Saline Rd | https://www.meijer.com/shopping/store-locator.html
Target 🚗 ~8 min drive
Full-size Target with clothing, groceries, toiletries, baby supplies, and more. 2000 W Waters Rd | https://www.target.com/sl/ann-arbor-west/3276
Walmart Supercenter 🚗 ~15 min drive
The nearest Walmart is in Saline, a short drive south. Full supercenter with groceries, pharmacy, and everything else. 7000 E Michigan Ave, Saline | https://www.walmart.com/store/2986-saline-mi
Accessibility and family amenities
Additional details about onsite amenities provided by the ARRE Foundation and our partners are listed on the Family Lounge page including:
Adult size diaper changing area
Sensory toys and equipment
Accessing toileting chairs and other equipment
Budget planner
Intended for families traveling to the conference, our budget planning template may be helpful in understanding the costs for your family to attend the ASXL Family Conference.