Exploring Phoenix entirely dependent on public transit.

Question

This will be my 3rd time in Phoenix, but the 1st time without a car. I would like to stay close to a Valley Metro Line station and plan to use it along with the local bus to explore Phoenix. I would appreciate any advice on what area to stay in as well as activities or places that I can go to using public transit.

My visit is in mid December for 4 days, and I enjoy hiking and outdoor activies as well as exploring neighborhoods and visiting cafes and restaurants. Shopping comes at a distant 3rd. Thank you!

Answer

Exploring Phoenix without a car is completely doable, especially if you plan to stay near a Valley Metro Light Rail station. The light rail and local bus system can get you to most major attractions, and mid-December weather is generally mild, making walking and outdoor activities very enjoyable.

Where to stay:

Staying near the Central Phoenix or Downtown Phoenix light rail stations is ideal, as it provides easy access to both the light rail and bus routes. Consider these neighborhoods:

Downtown Phoenix: Close to Roosevelt, Washington, and Central Stations. Good for walking to restaurants, cafes, bars, and cultural spots like the Phoenix Art Museum and Burton Barr Central Library.
Midtown Phoenix / Encanto: Near the Encanto / Central Avenue station. Quieter than downtown, but still walkable and close to coffee shops, local eateries, and Encanto Park for outdoor activities.
Tempe / ASU area: Near the Mill Avenue / College Avenue light rail stations. Vibrant college-town vibe with cafes, restaurants, and easy access to Tempe Town Lake and hiking trails in the nearby Papago Park.

Activities accessible via public transit:

Hiking and outdoor activities:
- Papago Park (Red Rock formations, Hole-in-the-Rock) – accessible from the Central Station on the light rail and a short bus or walk.
- South Mountain Park – largest municipal park in the U.S.; take a bus to the base and hike trails from there. Note: some trails may require a short taxi or rideshare from the nearest bus stop.
- Tempe Town Lake & Desert Botanical Garden – take light rail to the Papago/Desert Botanical Garden station.
Neighborhood exploration:
- Roosevelt Row Arts District – street murals, galleries, cafes, and local shops. Accessible from Central Avenue stations.
- Historic Heritage Square – old town architecture, small museums, and restaurants; walkable from downtown light rail stations.
- Mill Avenue in Tempe – lively area with coffee shops, restaurants, and Tempe Marketplace. Light rail and bus connections available.
Museums and cultural spots:
- Phoenix Art Museum – near Central Station downtown.
- Heard Museum (Native American art and culture) – short bus ride from Central Station.
- Arizona Science Center – near downtown, accessible by light rail and walking.
Cafes and restaurants:
- Downtown cafes: Short Leash Coffee, Cartel Coffee Lab, and Lux Central (in Midtown) for local vibes.
- Tempe options: Cartel Coffee Lab, Press Coffee Roasters, and a wide variety of casual dining along Mill Avenue.

Additional tips for navigating Phoenix by public transit:

Purchase a 3-day or 7-day Valley Metro pass for unlimited rides on light rail and local buses; it’s more convenient than paying per ride.
Check bus schedules ahead of time, especially for routes that reach trailheads or parks, as service may be less frequent on weekends.
Consider combining transit with occasional rideshare or bike rentals for destinations slightly off the main light rail line.
December temperatures are mild, often 60–70°F (15–21°C) during the day, but mornings and evenings can be cooler, so dress in layers for outdoor activities.

With careful planning, staying near a light rail station allows you to experience Phoenix’s urban neighborhoods, cultural attractions, and outdoor adventures without needing a car.

Exploring Phoenix entirely dependent on public transit.

More Phoenix Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions