Getting Around in Phoenix, Arizona
Looking at the sophisticated metropolis of Phoenix, Arizona, it’s hard to imagine that this was once a peaceful agricultural area composed of small villages divided by irrigation channels carved out of the Sonoran Desert by Indigenous Hohokam people more than 2000 years ago.
Today, Phoenix’s 1.62 million people (4.85 million if you include everyone in Greater Phoenix) inhabit a sprawling mass of 24 municipalities and scenic sites nicknamed “The Valley of the Sun.”
Downtown Phoenix (and neighboring urban centers, Scottsdale, Tempe and Mesa) have public transportation, but if you’re hoping to hike up Camelback Mountain or watch the Cactus League’s spring training at the city’s 10 stadiums and ballparks, it’s easier to explore in your own vehicle. Gas prices are considerably cheaper in Arizona than in nearby California and Nevada.
Car and Motorcycle
Having a rental car provides the freedom to explore this massive city’s considerable charms. All the major car rental agencies are represented at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport, and many have downtown offices in urban centers. It is essential to compare prices before making any decisions.
Daily rates for renting a compact car (including taxes, fees and unlimited mileage) typically range from $60 to $80 on weekdays; however, prices can almost double on weekends. If the budget is tight or a car isn’t needed for the entire trip, consider using a ride-hailing service like Uber or Lyft, or try Turo, a public car-sharing marketplace.
Although motorcycles are an excellent way to enjoy Arizona’s glorious stretches of open road, few of the big rental companies in Phoenix offer them. Nonetheless, many small local companies can outfit you with two-wheeled machines, along with off-highway vehicles (OHV), which are street legal in Arizona.
Phoenix is a tourist magnet year-round thanks to its near-perfect weather; however, summer monsoons (July to early September) can bring torrents of rainfall, generally in the afternoon. Although the roads are well-maintained, motorcyclists should remember to wear the appropriate safety gear. Helmets aren’t legally required for riders over 18, but it’s wise to wear one regardless of the law.
Bus
Phoenix’s Valley Metro buses ($2 for one ride; $4 for a day pass) link seamlessly with light rail services, creating a sustainable way to navigate the city. Buses are a hassle-free option for exploring, allowing you to enjoy the view of urban life unfold from the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle—a welcome luxury, especially during the summer months.
Although some rural routes exist, service to outlying destinations isn’t as convenient or reliable as it is in urban areas. For those eager to explore sites beyond Greater Phoenix, such as Saguaro National Park in Tucson, the long-distance FlixBus offers easy transfers between major Arizona cities. Trips are quite affordable; for instance, a ticket from Phoenix to Tucson is about $12.
Light Rail and Streetcar
Navigating downtown and Greater Phoenix by car can be challenging even for experienced drivers. Thankfully, taking the Valley Metro Rail lets you avoid the city’s inevitable traffic jams. Charging $2 for a one-way ticket or $4 for an all-day pass, the light rail network traverses central and downtown Phoenix.
Light rail trains also extend to nearby Tempe (which has its electric streetcar line) and Mesa, stopping at popular destinations such as the Pueblo Grande Museum and Archaeological Park and Chase Field, home of the Arizona Diamondbacks. An added bonus is the $8 million worth of public art adorning the Valley Metro’s 38 stations.
Bike
Greater Phoenix’s car-centric culture is slowly shifting, with almost 600 miles of designated bike lanes and routes, alongside more than 100 miles of paths and off-street trails. Exploring the historic Willo district downtown by bike is exhilarating, allowing you to trace the city’s picturesque streets without the hassle of traffic or parking fees.
While Phoenix no longer has a bike-share program, Old Town Scottsdale has a popular bike-sharing scheme, and several companies offering rentals and guided cycle tours are readily available in Greater Phoenix. Additionally, many hotels provide complimentary bicycles for their guests.
Do not overlook the surrounding desert—Phoenix features some excellent mountain biking trails, including the renowned National Trail at South Mountain Park.
Walking
When the weather is pleasant, walking through Phoenix’s charming neighborhoods and discovering city parks is a fantastic way to absorb the local vibe. While most individuals still prefer the convenience of driving, Phoenix and the urban areas of Old Scottsdale and Tempe are among the most pedestrian-friendly spaces in the state.
Be sure to explore the walking trails in urban wilderness areas such as South Mountain Park and North Mountain Park.
Accessible Transportation in Phoenix
In Greater Phoenix, the Valley Metro ADA Paratransit system offers a variety of accessible transportation options, including ramps, lifts, and “kneeling” buses that facilitate boarding for people using wheelchairs and scooters.
Light-rail stations feature level pathways near entrances and platforms, complemented by accessibility features such as raised print, braille, and audible vending machines. For more information and tips on accessible travel, it is suggested to consult external resources focused on accessible travel options.
