With 114,000 square miles of canyons, deserts, and forests, Arizona is the sixth-largest state in the US, and the country’s favorite Wild West wilderness. While driving is a popular choice due to the scenic routes, decent rail and bus links provide alternatives for those who wish to explore without a car.
Most urban centers in Arizona have passable public transportation systems, but intercity links are more limited. Driving through empty, open roads past lonely ghost towns and landscapes made famous by classic Westerns is still the norm. However, a handful of long-distance buses, trains, and light rail services allow for longer excursions by public transport, and taxis and ride-hailing services are great for getting around cities.
Cars and Motorcycles: The Classic Way to Navigate Arizona
Rental agencies and car-sharing marketplaces operate in Arizona’s major urban centers and tourist hubs, offering the freedom to explore this vast state’s remote areas. Make sure to shop around before renting; daily rates for a compact car range from about $85 to $300. The demand for rental cars has surged since the Covid-19 pandemic, which can affect availability and pricing.
The condition of Arizona’s highways and roads is generally good, but travelers should be mindful of the weather. High summer temperatures can lead to engine overheating, and the monsoon season may bring heavy rains that can create dangerous flash floods.
Additionally, Arizona has a law requiring that if you ignore flood warnings and need rescue, you may incur costs for the operation. Motorcyclists over 18 are not required to wear helmets, and off-highway vehicles are street legal in many areas.
Convenient Bus Services Between Major Cities
Arizona’s larger cities offer public bus networks, which can be convenient, especially during the summer heat. Phoenix’s Valley Metro connects with light rail services and offers local-area shuttles that travel among popular sights. However, public transportation options in smaller cities or rural areas tend to be sparse.
For those who want an economical alternative to driving, long-distance bus services are available. For example, it costs approximately $12 to travel from Phoenix to Tucson using services like FlixBus. The Greyhound service also operates within the state, although its routes may not cater specifically to tourists.
Light Rail and Streetcars in Phoenix and Tucson
Metro Phoenix spans an extensive area, making navigation challenging due to heavy traffic. To ease this, patrons can utilize the Valley Metro Rail network, which serves central Phoenix and extends to Tempe and Mesa. Tickets are reasonably priced at $2 for a one-way journey or $4 for an all-day pass. The rail system not only provides transportation to various attractions but also showcases art installations at its stations.
Tucson features the Sun Link Streetcar, which covers city districts along a 4-mile route with multiple stops. As of now, public transportation here is free, making it an affordable option for visitors.
The Benefits of Biking in Arizona
While cars remain predominant in Arizona, biking initiatives are gradually gaining traction in certain cities. Renting a bike offers a unique way to explore neighborhoods and appreciate Arizona’s natural beauty. Sedona stands out as a top destination for off-road mountain biking, while Phoenix and Tempe emphasize cycling as a sustainable mode of transport.
Old Town Scottsdale has an active bike-sharing program, and Tucson provides TUGO, a bike-share system that connects patrons to an extensive network of trails and parks.
Sparse Train Connections in Arizona
Train services in Arizona are limited, although Amtrak provides connections from the Midwest and California that stop in select towns like Flagstaff and Tucson. Tourists may also enjoy scenic excursions on special tourist trains like the Grand Canyon Railway or the Verde Canyon Railroad, but these are primarily for entertainment rather than practical transportation.
Exploring on Foot in Urban Areas
While Arizonans enjoy hiking, walking is less commonly embraced in urban centers due to the climate. Tempe, Tucson, Phoenix, and Old Scottsdale are known for being more pedestrian-friendly. Sedona has introduced an interactive walking map for exploring connections to local eateries, art studios, and museums.
Accessible Transportation Options in Arizona
Metro Phoenix offers a range of accessible travel options, including the Valley Metro Paratransit system, which features buses equipped for individuals with mobility challenges. Some cities, including Sedona and Tucson, provide on-demand shuttle services designed to assist those who cannot use fixed routes. Researching the necessary steps for eligibility in these programs ahead of travel is advisable.
This content has been curated to provide a helpful guide to navigating transportation in Arizona. For more in-depth information, consider checking out local resources or travel guides specifically focused on the region.
