Step 1: Book Your Travel Getting to Phoenix

Phoenix, AZ, is easily accessible whether you’re flying, driving, or even taking the bus.
Let’s start with planning how you’ll arrive for your labs at Sonoran University.
SCU OTD TRAVEL GUIDE | BOOK YOUR TRAVEL

AIRPORTS

Phoenix has two major airports:

• Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX): The main airport, located about 7 miles, or 10
  minutes from Sonoran University, is one of the busiest in the U.S., offering flights from all over the
  country. It’s usually the most convenient option.
• Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport (AZA): Located about 30 miles from campus, this airport is smaller
  and offers fewer flights, mainly from budget airlines like Allegiant Air.

FLIGHTS

The PHX airport offers nonstop service to and from over 120 cities in the U.S., making it convenient for
students no matter where they live. Booking early is key to scoring the best prices! Download flight apps like
Skyscanner or Hopper and visit websites like Secret Flying to track deals and price drops. You can also use
financing apps like Klarna, Affirm, Zip, and Airfordable to split your payments, making travel more affordable.
If you're into road trips and you meet someone in your cohort that lives close to you, carpooling in from
nearby states might also be worth considering.

BUS TRAVEL

• Greyhound offers affordable tickets into Phoenix from many cities across the U.S. Prices vary, but it’s a
  budget-friendly option, with round-trip fares ranging from $50–$150.
• FlixBus and Megabus also offer affordable long-distance routes from various states.
  

While Phoenix itself doesn’t have a central Amtrak station, Amtrak offers services that stop at nearby
cities, with Maricopa, AZ being the closest station. From Maricopa, you can take a bus or rideshare service
to Phoenix, about a 45-minute drive away.

Amtrak Routes Serving Maricopa: 

• Texas Eagle (Chicago - San Antonio - Los Angeles)
  If you're coming from cities like Chicago, St. Louis, Dallas, or San Antonio, this route is ideal.
• Sunset Limited (New Orleans - San Antonio - Los Angeles):
  If you're coming from New Orleans, Houston, or El Paso, you can take this route to Maricopa.         
• After arriving at Maricopa station, you can use the following options to reach Phoenix:
  • Amtrak Thruway Bus: Amtrak offers connecting bus services from Maricopa to
    Phoenix. (Cost: ~$15 - $25, Duration: ~1 hour)
  • Rideshare: Uber or Lyft services are available from Maricopa to Phoenix.

Where to Stay in Phoenix 

Once you’ve booked your travel, the next step is to secure a place to stay. Whether you’re looking for
budget-friendly options or want to find something cozy and convenient, Phoenix has plenty to offer.

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS: 

• Airbnb, VRBO, and HomeAway: These platforms offer a wide variety of stays in different
  neighborhoods nearby campus. You can find entire homes, private rooms, or shared spaces.
  Airbnb also offers several flexible payment options.
• Hostels: For the budget-conscious, hostels like HI Phoenix – The Metcalf House (around
  $30–$60/night) offer affordable stays and a social atmosphere.
• Hotels: If you prefer a traditional stay, look into budget-friendly hotel chains like La Quinta
  Inn, Motel 6, or Holiday Inn Express, which are often $80–$120/night
  • Motel 6 Phoenix Tempe - Priest Dr.
    Distance to Campus: 6 miles (~10 minutes by car)
    A basic, budget-friendly option with no-frills rooms.
    Price Range: $
  • Extended Stay America - Phoenix - Airport - E Oak St.
    Distance to Campus: 7 miles (~12 minutes by car)
    Rooms with kitchenettes and weekly rates for long-term stays.
    Price Range: $$
  • Red Roof Inn PLUS+ Tempe
    Distance to Campus: 8 miles (~13 minutes by car)
    Affordable, pet-friendly, and located near the highway for easy access to campus.
    Price Range: $
• Stay with Family/Friends: If you have friends or family in Phoenix or nearby, this a great way
  to save on accommodation costs.

NEIGHBORHOODS NEAR CAMPUS 

When looking for a stay, proximity to Sonoran University is key to keeping travel costs and commutes
low. These neighborhoods are nearby and offer various accommodations

• Downtown Tempe: Just 5 miles away, it’s a lively college town with plenty of affordable
  Airbnb options. Right in the heart of student life and social scenes
• South Scottsdale: 7 miles from campus, known for shopping and dining.
• Arcadia: Trendy and close to outdoor activities like Camelback Mountain
• Ahwatukee Foothills: A quiet, suburban option, around 12 miles away

Things to Do While You're Here 

After you’ve sorted out your travel and accommodations, it’s time to think about how you’ll spend your downtime
in Phoenix. Phoenix offers a blend of outdoor adventure, arts, and culture, so there’s something for everyone

GETTING AROUND PHOENIX

Once you're in Phoenix, you’ll need a plan for local transportation. Here are your options

• Public Transit: The Valley Metro offers a bus and light rail service. A one-way bus/light rail fare is $2, or you
  can get a full-day pass for $4
• Ride Share: Uber and Lyft are widely available in Phoenix. Depending on the time of day, rides to campus
  may range from $10–$25
• Car Rentals: If you plan to explore the city, renting a car might be a good idea. Companies like Enterprise
  offer student discounts
• Car Share Services: Try Turo (peer-to-peer car sharing) for affordable rates, or Zipcar if you just need a car
  for short trips
• Waymo is a fully autonomous, driverless ride service available in the Phoenix metro area. If you're seeking
  added safety and convenience, download the Waymo app to hail a ride. With costs similar to services like
  Uber or Lyft, it’s a great option for avoiding the hassle of driving and parking during your stay

OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES 

• Camelback Mountain: One of Phoenix’s most famous hikes! If you love the outdoors, the views are worth
  the climb. Free entry.
• Papago Park: A great spot for easy hikes and Instagram-worthy views. Free entry.
• South Mountain Park: The largest municipal park in the U.S., perfect for hiking and scenic drives. Free entry.

ARTS & CULTURE

• Phoenix Art Museum: Dive into world-class art exhibits with discounted student tickets.
• Heard Museum: Explore Native American history and culture. Admission is $18, but look out for free days.
• Roosevelt Row: A vibrant arts district with murals, galleries, and hip cafes.
  
  

SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT 

• Chase Field: Catch a Diamondbacks game for an affordable sports fix. Tickets can be as low as $20.
• Footprint Center: Home to the Phoenix Suns and major concerts.
• Old Town Scottsdale: Explore galleries, restaurants, and nightlife. Just a short drive from campus.

BUDGET FRIENDLY IDEAS

• Explore Local Bars: Check out affordable student-friendly bars like Casey Moore’s Oyster House or
  The Yucca Tap Room, both in Tempe.
• Hiking Trails: The best part about Phoenix’s hiking trails? They’re free!
  • South Mountain Park and Papago Park offer free entry and breathtaking views.
• Visit Local Farmers Markets: Enjoy fresh, local produce and artisanal goods without breaking the bank.
• First Fridays Art Walk: On the first Friday of each month, enjoy free admission to galleries and
  museums in downtown Phoenix.
• Phoenix Public Library: Access free Wi-Fi, study spaces, and community events

WHERE TO EAT 

No trip is complete without trying the local food! Phoenix offers a variety of cuisine types that fit any budget.
Here are some must-try spots

• Lolo’s Chicken and Waffles
  Cuisine: Southern/Soul Food
  Location: 1220 S. Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85004
  About: Famous for its fried chicken, waffles, and Southern comfort food, Lolo’s is a Phoenix staple.
• The Breadfruit & Rum Bar
  Cuisine: Caribbean
  Location: 108 E Pierce St, Phoenix, AZ 85004
  About: A high-end restaurant offering a vibrant Caribbean menu with an emphasis on sustainable
  seafood, plus a rum bar.
• Trapp Haus BBQ
  Cuisine: Barbecue
  Location: 511 E Roosevelt St, Phoenix, AZ 85004
  About: Known for its award-winning smoked meats, Trapp Haus BBQ serves up juicy ribs, pulled
  pork, and brisket.
• Brunch & Sip
  Cuisine: Breakfast/Brunch
  Location: 3950 E Indian School Rd Suite 120, Phoenix, AZ 85018
  About: A stylish brunch spot offering classic dishes with a twist. Try their unique takes on eggs
  benedict and pancakes.
• Mrs. White's Golden Rule Cafe
  Cuisine: Soul Food
  Location: 808 E Jefferson St, Phoenix, AZ 85034
  About: A legendary spot for soul food in Phoenix, serving classic dishes like fried chicken, collard
  greens, and cornbread.
• Barrio Café
  Cuisine: Mexican
  Distance from Campus: 10 miles (~18 minutes by car)
  About: A local favorite serving elevated Mexican cuisine with dishes like cochinita pibill.
• Café Lalibela
  Cuisine: Ethiopian
  Distance from Campus: 6 miles (~10 minutes by car)
  About: Authentic Ethiopian cuisine, offering traditional dishes like injera and doro wat.

INEXPENSIVE EATS 

• Los Taquitos: Delicious and affordable Mexican fare.
• Chino Bandido: A unique blend of Mexican and Chinese food.
• Pita Jungle: Mediterranean dishes with vegetarian options
• The Original ChopShop: Healthy bowls and smoothies, perfect for students on the go.

MID-RANGE DINING 

• The Gladly: Known for its signature chopped salad and modern American fare.
• Postino WineCafe: A relaxed wine bar with great appetizers and sandwiches.
• The Vig: A local favorite offering comfort food with outdoor seating.
• Oregano’s: Italian eats, known for their giant pizzas.
• Cornish Pasty Co.: Cozy and affordable British-inspired savory pies.

If you want to save even more money, consider picking up groceries
and preparing your own meals. Here are some stores close to campus:

• Fry’s Food and Drug
  Location: 4025 E Chandler Blvd, Phoenix, AZ 85048
  Distance from campus: 2.3 miles (5-minute drive)

• Safeway
  Location: 4857 E Greenway Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85032
  Distance from campus: 15.4 miles (22-minute drive)

• Walmart Supercenter
  Location: 6131 E Southern Ave, Mesa, AZ 85206
  Distance from campus: 11.9 miles (19-minute drive)

• Trader Joe's
  Location: 4025 E Indian School Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85018
  Distance from campus: 12.5 miles (20-minute drive)

• Whole Foods Market
  Location: 4701 N 20th St, Phoenix, AZ 85016
  Distance from campus: 13.7 miles (20-minute drive)
  
  
• Arizona’s Original Farmers Market
  Location: 721 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85004
  Distance from campus: 17.3 miles (25-minute drive)

• Lee Lee International Supermarkets
  Location: 7575 W Cactus Rd, Peoria, AZ 85381
  Distance from campus: 37 miles (45-minute drive)

• Phoenix Public Market Café
  Location: 14 E Pierce St, Phoenix, AZ 85004
  Distance from campus: 17.4 miles (25-minute drive)

• Baiz Market
  Location: 523 N 20th St, Phoenix, AZ 85006
  Distance from campus: 15.7 miles (23-minute drive)

• Cesar Chavez Supermarket
  Location: 1202 S 16th St, Phoenix, AZ 85034
  Distance from campus: 13.9 miles (22-minute drive)