How to Use Arizona’s Park-and-Ride and Light Rail Systems

Arizona’s park-and-ride and light rail systems are underrated — but surprisingly useful. Here’s how to use them without hassle.

1. What’s a Park-and-Ride?

Free or low-cost parking near transit stations.

Why use it:
- Skip downtown parking
- Save gas
- Ride to events without traffic stress

2. Where to Find Them

Mainly in the Phoenix metro:
- Along I-10, I-17, Loop 101, Loop 202
- Tempe, Mesa, Glendale

Top lots:
- 19th Ave/Dunlap
- Mesa Dr/Main
- Tempe Marketplace

Use: valleymetro.org/park-and-ride for maps

3. Phoenix Light Rail 101

Covers 28 miles through:
- Downtown Phoenix
- Tempe (ASU)
- Mesa

Runs every 15–30 mins depending on time/day. Operates from early morning to midnight.

4. Fares and Tickets

Pricing:
- $2 per ride
- $4 for all-day pass
- $20 for 7 days
- $64 for 31 days

Same fare works on bus + rail. Buy via:
- Valley Metro app
- Station kiosks
- Fry’s, Circle K

5. How to Ride

Do:
- Tap in at green validator
- Keep ticket visible
- Offer priority seating to those who need it

Don’t:
- Eat full meals onboard
- Play music without headphones
- Forget to validate

6. Best Times to Ride

Use light rail when:
- Attending concerts or sports
- Heading to the airport
- Avoiding ASU or downtown Mesa parking

7. To/From the Airport

From 44th/Washington station:
- Free Sky Train to PHX terminals
- Runs every few minutes

Fast, easy, no shuttle needed.

8. Safety and Accessibility

- ADA accessible trains + platforms
- Security on most trains
- Stations monitored by cameras
- Avoid empty stations late at night

9. Tucson Alternative: Sun Link

Streetcar connects:
- Downtown Tucson
- UA campus
- 4th Ave + Mercado District

$1.75 per ride or $4 day pass. Park at Mercado and ride in.

10. Final Tip

Arizona transit isn’t NYC — but it works. Park-and-ride + light rail can save time, cash, and stress on your next Phoenix adventure.