by Lindsay Page

Created on: April 22, 2008   Last Updated: February 15, 2010

Take it from a true local-getting around the Valley of the Sun isn't all that difficult if you know what you're doing. The trouble for most out-of-towners is that the public transportation and street networks here are unlike that of any other city in the country. By acquainting yourself with the layout and being prepared with the proper knowledge prior to your trip, getting around the metropolitan area will be a breeze.

Learn "Phoenix"

The city of Phoenix is actually a large metropolitan area made up of several cities. Locals view each city as a part of the whole area. All of these areas have experienced such rapid growth in the past two decades that they've kind of grown together. So don't let the city names confuse you, it's all relative. Phoenix is in the center. Glendale, Peoria, and Paradise Valley are on the northwest side. Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa, Apache Junction, and Queen Creek are all part of the east side. Tempe and Scottsdale are both east and north-ish. Ahwatukee isn't technically a city, but it's south of Phoenix.

Know the Bus

This is because the public transit system consists of just a few bus lines centered only in certain parts of the city. Taking a bus a few miles can easily turn into an hour long trip with two bus changes. Unless you're staying in Tempe or in downtown Phoenix, you won't be able to reach all of your planned destinations by bus.

Get a Car

If you're in town for more than a one day work-related convention, you may want to get a rental car. Because the bus lines are centralized and abbreviated, a car is the best way to get from one place to another here. Within the metropolitan area, many times, you can get from anywhere to anywhere else in about thirty minutes. The city is all built on a true grid system, so it's incredibly easy to find your way-even if you get lost once or twice! Here's a list of tips and tricks for navigating the roads:

-The main freeway is the I-10. It is an east-west running freeway, except through most of Phoenix where it runs north-south.

-The 101, 202, and 303 each loop around the city and can be used to connect from one area of the city to another in a short amount of time.
-The SR-51 and I-17 are also good freeways to use in Scottsdale and Phoenix areas.

-The US-60 runs east an will take you to all of the east side cities.
-Rush hour on the freeways is pretty impossible. Stay to the surface streets during these times.

-Inconsistencies. Some areas of Phoenix have lagging left turn arrows. Some freeway exits allow right-hand turns during a red light and others don't. Just pay close attention to these and you'll be fine.

Remember that the entire city is based on a true grid system. There are no acute left turns or strange U-turning streets. Get a good basic city map to plan your trip and getting around by car should be a breeze!

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