Tucson Transportation - Page 2

Getting around

Tucson is very easy to navigate. The streets were designed using a grid pattern which means most major streets are one mile (1.6 km) apart with streets running east-west and avenues running north-south.

Arizona Wash Sign
Photo by Elizabeth Blair
©Elizabeth Blair

The Catalina Mountains sit directly north of Tucson and serve as a convenient landmark for drivers.

Buses

Sun Tran is Tucson's public bus system with 37 routes throughout Tucson. Fares are only one dollar and transfers are free but riders must get their transfer tickets at the beginning of the trip.

Bicycling

Old Pueblo Trolley

The Old Pueblo Trolley is located in one of Tucson's historical areas, the Fourth Avenue Business District. The route travels down 4th Avenue and continues down University Boulevard, stopping shy of the University of Arizona's main gate.

Handicap Access

Van Tran is the alternative for local residents and visitors who are unable to take Sun Tran city bus. Those who wish to ride Van Tran must apply for an Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Eligibility Card. Applications must be submitted through the City of Tucson's ADA Eligibility Office.

Driving Warnings

Throughout Tucson and other Arizona areas there are dry river beds, called "washes," that remain dry most months of the year until the summer monsoon season arrives. During the heavier storms the washes often overflow and flood the nearby streets. When this occurs local officials place barricades to prevent drivers from trying to cross the stream. Sometimes visitors underestimate the danger of crossing these flooded roads and end up needing to be rescued.

A combination of high summer temperatures, under inflated tires, and high driving speeds can easily lead to tire blowouts and deadly accidents. Please use caution when driving the hot Arizona highways.

Written by: Elizabeth Blair

Top Photo: Tucson Scenic Highway Panorama by James Randklev © Metropolitan Tucson Convention & Visitors Bureau