How to Get Around Tempe Without a Car (ASU Student Guide)
Not having a car in college can feel limiting, but in Tempe, it really doesn’t have to be. Between public transit, bike-friendly streets, and how close everything is to campus, it’s totally doable to get around without your own wheels.
Whether you’re trying to save money, cut down on your environmental footprint, or just don’t want the hassle of parking, there are plenty of ways to get where you need to go.
Valley Metro Light Rail
If you’re heading farther than you want to walk or bike, the Valley Metro Light Rail is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to get around.
The light rail runs through Tempe and connects you to Phoenix, Mesa, and downtown areas. Stops are conveniently located near ASU’s Tempe campus, and trains come pretty frequently during the day. You can use it to get to classes, shopping, restaurants, or even the airport.
Here’s what makes it even better for students:
- Student U‑Pass: ASU offers a special program where, with your student ID, you can get the U‑Pass for the school year. That’s unlimited rides on the light rail and local buses, and it only costs $150 for the academic year. Buy it from ASU’s Parking & Transportation early (it drops to $75 after January), then just tap and ride.
- Single-ride fares: Without the U‑Pass, rides are still affordable: $2 each way, or a $4 daily cap if you ride multiple times.
- Simple payment: You can tap on with a reloadable Copper Card or pay through the Valley Metro app. The station ticket machines can handle it, too.
Tips for students:
- Always tap that U‑Pass before boarding; ASU pays, and you’ve already paid for it!
- During summer, there’s a shortened U‑Pass for $75—still a bargain.
- Want to go farther? A day pass is just $4, and it’s good all day—even on weekends.
Tempe Streetcar
Newer to the scene is the Tempe Streetcar, which is perfect for short trips around downtown Tempe and the ASU campus area.
The streetcar runs a three-mile loop and stops at Mill Avenue, Tempe Beach Park, and other Tempe hot spots. It’s free to ride, and it’s a great option when you don’t feel like walking in the heat or you’re carrying groceries or books.
It’s also designed to connect easily with the light rail, so you can hop between both if you’re headed farther out.
Biking Around Tempe
Tempe is a very bike-friendly city — it even ranks among the most bikeable places in Arizona. With plenty of designated bike lanes, wide sidewalks, and bike racks all over campus and downtown, it’s easy to make biking your main way of getting around.
The city also has a map of bike routes that shows the safest and most efficient paths, including shaded paths along the lake and through neighborhoods.
If you don’t have your own bike yet, you can find plenty of affordable second-hand options locally. Just make sure you also pick up a solid lock — bikes are popular in Tempe, and you don’t want yours riding away without you.
Scooters & Rideshare Options
For those times when walking or biking isn’t practical, Tempe also has a ton of scooters and rideshare options that can fill in the gaps.
You’ll see electric scooters from companies like Bird and Lime parked all over downtown and near campus. They’re great for quick trips — just download the app, scan, and go. Just remember to ride safely and park them out of the way when you’re done.
Of course, Uber and Lyft are also readily available, and there are even bike-share programs if you just want a ride for the day.
Walking Distance Hotspots Near ASU
One of the best parts about living near ASU is how much you can reach just by walking. Downtown Tempe has a walkability score of 99 and if you’re at Paseo on University, you’re already within walking distance of some of Tempe’s best spots.
- Mill Avenue: A favorite part of downtown Tempe, with options for restaurants, coffee shops, bars, and stores. Perfect for a night out or just grabbing food after class.
- Tempe Beach Park & Town Lake: A beautiful, scenic place to run, walk, or just sit by the water and relax. You can even kayak or SUP on the lake.
- ASU Gammage: If you’re looking for theater or live performances, this iconic venue is just a short stroll away.
You really don’t need a car to enjoy the best of what Tempe has to offer.
Why Paseo on University is Perfect for Car-Free Living
At Paseo on University, you’re set up to live comfortably without needing a car — but if you do bring one, there’s still assigned covered parking available.
Here’s why it works so well for car-free living:
- Walkability: Easily walk to campus, Mill Avenue, and grocery stores from your front door.
- Biking: With bike racks and easy access to Tempe’s bike paths, you can ride anywhere quickly.
- Public Transit: You’re close to both light rail and streetcar stops, making it simple to get around the city.
- On-Site Perks: When you’d rather stay home, there are quiet study areas, lounges, and fast Wi-Fi so you can work or relax comfortably without going anywhere.
Whether you’re trying to save money on gas and parking, lower your carbon footprint, or just prefer a simpler lifestyle, Paseo puts you in the middle of everything — no car required.
Getting around Tempe without a car is easier than you think. Between the light rail, streetcar, bikes, scooters, and just good old-fashioned walking, you’ll have no trouble getting where you need to go.
And with a home base like Paseo on University, you’re perfectly positioned to take advantage of all of it. If you’re ready to experience Tempe on foot (or two wheels), take a virtual tour and see for yourself.