From Lakeshore Roads to Airport Connections

West Michigan’s travel history began long before modern airport terminals. As the region’s lumber industry declined in the late 1800s, tourism became an increasingly important part of the lakeshore economy. Developed between 1911 and 1922, the West Michigan Pike helped bring automobile travelers from Chicago into Michigan’s shoreline communities, supporting a growing network of places to stay, eat and explore.

Air travel added another way to reach the region. Gerald R. Ford International Airport, Detroit Metropolitan Airport and Chicago O’Hare International Airport developed into gateways for travelers whose journeys continued beyond the terminal. Ground transportation—including taxis and airport shuttles—provides the connection between those flights and travelers’ final destinations.

Gerald R. Ford International Airport — GRR

GRR opened at its current location in 1963 as Kent County Airport. In 1999, it was renamed to honor President Gerald R. Ford, who grew up in Grand Rapids and represented West Michigan in Congress. Its development strengthened the region’s connections with destinations beyond Michigan. Today, Slingshot Taxi provides the ground connection between GRR, Grand Rapids and the lakeshore communities listed below.

Detroit Metropolitan Airport — DTW

Detroit’s Wayne County Airport opened in Romulus in 1930 and received the name Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport in 1958. Its expansion helped establish southeastern Michigan as a major center for passenger aviation. For West Michigan travelers using DTW, the airport journey also includes a trip across the state. Slingshot Taxi provides that airport-to-community connection by appointment.

Chicago O’Hare International Airport — ORD

Originally known as Orchard Field, O’Hare was renamed in 1949 to honor naval aviator Edward “Butch” O’Hare. Commercial passenger service began in 1955. Chicago’s connection with Michigan’s lakeshore tourism predates O’Hare, reaching back to the early automobile routes that brought vacationers north. Today, Slingshot Taxi connects O’Hare travelers with our listed West Michigan destinations, except South Haven.

Explore the Communities We Connect

Each community has its own place in the region’s story. Follow these visitor links to discover local history, attractions and ideas for your stay:

• Grand Rapids

• Muskegon

• Grand Haven, Spring Lake and Ferrysburg

• Holland, West Olive and Port Sheldon

• Saugatuck and South Haven

• Pentwater and Ludington

• Traverse City

Slingshot Taxi serves these communities to and from GRR and DTW. ORD service is available for the same communities except South Haven. We also offer airport transportation for Electric Forest travelers.

Continuing the Connection Today

Our role is straightforward: helping travelers complete the journey between the airport and West Michigan. Slingshot Taxi focuses exclusively on airport shuttle service, with published flat rates and advance reservations.