Not having a car in college might sound stressful, but honestly, it ended up being a blessing in disguise.

My car was totaled at the end of my freshman year, and while that felt like a disaster at the time, it completely changed how I get around. Ever since then, I’ve been using the Valley Metro system and the app to plan every trip, and it’s made getting around Downtown Tempe and campus way easier than I expected.

Why You Should Embrace the Rails

As a freshman, using the light rail felt a bit intimidating, but there is so much you might not know about the Valley Metro Rail & Streetcar. The biggest tip is downloading the Valley Metro app. You can check pickup times, plan your route, and load your pass all in one place so you can just get where you need to go without overthinking it. You never have to worry about paying for parking or ordering expensive Ubers. It’s especially a game changer for nights out on Mill Avenue since it drops you right in the middle of everything and gives you a safe way to get around.

Using the Valley Metro Rail system and Streetcar makes it easy to get all around Downtown Tempe. I use it to reach my classes every day, whether they are near the Memorial Union or further out like the Design North building. It is also the perfect way to get to campus events like Devil’s Palooza, student club meetings, or just catching up with friends. It is my go to way to reach Laymoon Cafe for a study session or grab a bite at Sauce Pizza and Wine and shopping at Knee Deep, proving that you can experience the very best of Downtown Tempe without ever needing a steering wheel.

Choosing to be car-free also makes a huge difference in the heat. Instead of walking everywhere in 110-degree weather, you can step onto an air-conditioned Rail or Streetcar. And if you’re going somewhere close, Lime scooters are super helpful for filling in the gaps.

Honestly, not having a car has taken a lot of stress off my shoulders. I don’t have to deal with traffic, parking permits, gas, or maintenance. Whether I’m catching an early ride for an 8 AM class or heading home later at night, the Valley Metro Rail system is always there when I need it. It even makes getting between the Tempe and Downtown Phoenix campuses feel really seamless.

I’ve also saved a lot of money by not having a car, which is huge as a student. Between gas, maintenance, and parking, it adds up fast!

If you’re thinking about going car-free, my biggest advice is to download the app, check your route ahead of time, and just try it out. It’s way easier than it seems.

See you around in Downtown!