Quick Answer
The best way for most travelers is the Valley Metro Rail light rail: it's direct, costs only $4 for a day pass, and takes about 45 minutes total from baggage claim to the arena steps. For the fastest door-to-door service, a taxi or rideshare (Uber/Lyft) takes 10-20 minutes and costs $18-$40. There is no direct shuttle specifically to the stadium, but shared airport shuttles and rental cars are other available options.
Light Rail: The Best Public Transit Option (Cheapest & Direct)
The Valley Metro Rail is the top recommendation for budget-conscious and eco-friendly travelers. It provides a seamless, fixed-route connection from PHX directly to downtown Phoenix, stopping within a short walk of Footprint Center.
Why It's the Top Choice:
- Extreme Cost-Effectiveness: A full All-Day Pass is only $4.00 (as of 2024), valid for unlimited rides.
- Direct Route: No transfers needed between the airport and downtown.
- Predictable Travel Time: Avoids unpredictable road traffic congestion.
- Event-Friendly: Heavily used by fans on game/event days, creating a safe and lively atmosphere.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- From Your Terminal: Collect your bags and follow signs for "PHX Sky Train" (it's free and runs 24/7).
- Take the Sky Train: Ride it to its final stop, "44th St/Washington."
- Transfer to Light Rail: Follow signs to the Valley Metro Rail platform. Take a WESTBOUND train (towards Downtown Phoenix / 19th Ave).
- Disembark: Get off at the "3rd St/Jefferson" station.
- Walk to Footprint Center: Exit the station and walk north on 3rd Street for about 5 minutes. The arena will be on your left.
Total Time: ~15 min (Sky Train) + ~20 min (Light Rail) + 5 min walk = ~40-50 minutes.
Total Cost: $4.00 (All-Day Pass). Tickets can be purchased at vending machines at the 44th St/Washington station (credit/debit card or cash).
Important Considerations & Tips:
- Luggage: The light rail has designated spaces for luggage and bicycles. Avoid peak commute hours (7-9 AM, 4-6 PM) with large suitcases if possible.
- Frequency: Trains run every 12-20 minutes depending on the time of day. Check the current schedule.
- Service Hours: Service starts around 4 AM and ends around midnight (later on Fridays and Saturdays).
Airport & Hotel Shuttles
This option involves shared-van services, which are a middle-ground between public transit and private rides.
Shared-Ride Airport Shuttles (e.g., SuperShuttle, Krystal Transportation)
These are shared vans that make multiple stops at downtown hotels, some near Footprint Center.
- How it Works: Book in advance online or at the counter on the commercial level. You'll share the van with other passengers going to different hotels.
- Cost: Approximately $15 - $25 per person one-way.
- Travel Time: 30-60+ minutes door-to-door, highly variable depending on the number of stops.
- Pros: Curbside drop-off at your hotel, potentially cheaper than a solo taxi.
- Cons: Can be slow, less direct, and you must wait for the van to fill. Note: Major operators like the classic SuperShuttle brand have shifted to primarily pre-booked, non-shared service in many markets.
Hotel-Specific Shuttles
Some downtown hotels (e.g., the Hyatt Regency, Sheraton Grand) offer complimentary or fee-based airport shuttle service for guests.
Action Required: You must contact your hotel directly before your trip to:
- Confirm if they offer a shuttle.
- Learn the pickup procedure (often requires a call upon arrival).
- Check if there's a fee and reserve a spot if needed.
Rental Car & Driving Directions
Renting a car at PHX is straightforward, but it's often an inefficient and expensive choice for a trip focused on downtown Phoenix and Footprint Center.
When a Rental Car Makes Sense:
- Your trip extends beyond downtown (e.g., to Scottsdale, Sedona, Grand Canyon).
- You are traveling with a large family/group with extensive luggage.
- You have business meetings scattered across the Phoenix metro area.
Why It's Usually Not Recommended for Arena Visits:
- High Cost: Daily rental rate + ~30%+ in airport concession fees/taxes + mandatory insurance considerations + fuel.
- Parking Hassle & Cost: Downtown and Footprint Center event parking is expensive ($20-$50+) and fills up quickly. Hotel self-parking often carries a daily fee ($25-$40/night).
- Traffic & Navigation: You'll contend with Phoenix traffic and one-way streets downtown.
If You Do Drive: Quick Directions
Take the I-10 West from the airport area. Merge onto I-17 North. Take exit Jefferson St (Exit 195). Turn left (west) onto Jefferson St. Footprint Center will be on your right between 1st and 3rd Streets. Always use Google Maps/Waze for real-time traffic.
Rental Center: All rental car companies are located at the Rental Car Center. Take the free PHX Sky Train to the 44th St/Washington station, then transfer to the Rental Car Center Shuttle Train (clearly marked).
Side-by-Side: Cost, Time & Experience Comparison
| Transport Method | Approx. Cost (One-Way) | Travel Time (PHX to Gate) | Best For | Key Consideration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Valley Metro Rail (Light Rail) | $4.00 (Day Pass) | 40-50 min | Budget travelers, solo travelers, eco-conscious visitors | Unbeatable value; requires short walk; fixed schedule. |
| Rideshare (UberX/Lyft) | $18 - $30 (Base) | $40+ (Surge) | 10-20 min | Small groups, speed, door-to-door convenience | Prices surge heavily near event times. |
| Taxi | $25 - $40 + tip | 10-20 min | Immediate pickup, no app needed, regulated fares | Most expensive standard option; always available at stands. |
| Shared-Ride Shuttle | $15 - $25 per person | 30-60+ min | Travelers to specific downtown hotels | Time-consuming due to multiple stops; requires advance booking. |
| Rental Car | $40 - $80+/day + parking + fees | 15-30 min (drive time only) | Travel beyond downtown, large groups with wide itinerary | Parking at arena/hotel is costly and limited. |
Verdict: For the vast majority of visitors heading straight to a Footprint Center event, the Light Rail is the best overall value, while Rideshare/Taxi is the best for premium speed.
Traveler Tips & Local Advice
Go beyond the basics with these insider tips for a smooth Phoenix airport transfer.
- Download Essential Apps Before You Land:
- Valley Metro App: For buying light rail passes digitally and checking real-time schedules.
- Uber & Lyft: Have both installed to compare surge prices.
- Google Maps / Waze: For accurate driving/walking directions and live traffic.
- Handle Event-Day Surge Pricing: If using rideshare to get to an event, go early (3+ hours before). To leave, be patient or walk 10-15 minutes east or north of the arena before requesting. The light rail has no surge pricing—just crowds.
- Accessibility: All PHX Sky Trains and Valley Metro Rail trains/stations are fully accessible. Taxis and rideshares can accommodate wheelchairs (select the appropriate vehicle option in the app). The PHX Airport website has detailed accessibility guides.
- For Late-Night Arrivals: If your flight lands near or after midnight, the light rail may not be running. Your only practical options are taxi (always at stands) or rideshare (may have high late-night surge). The PHX Sky Train to the 44th St station runs 24/7.
- Luggage Strategy: Traveling light? The light rail is easy. Have multiple large bags? A rideshare might be worth the extra cost for door-to-door service, especially in Phoenix heat.
FAQs: Getting from Phoenix Airport to Downtown & Footprint Center
What is the cheapest way to get from Phoenix Airport to Footprint Center?
The Valley Metro Rail light rail is the absolute cheapest option, costing only $4 for a full-day pass. It's a direct route with a short walk at the end.
What is the fastest way to get from PHX to Footprint Center?
A taxi or rideshare (Uber/Lyft) is typically the fastest door-to-door option, taking 10-20 minutes depending on traffic, compared to ~45 minutes on the light rail.
Is there a direct train from Phoenix Airport to the stadium?
Yes, the Valley Metro Rail (light rail) offers a direct connection. Take the westbound train from the 44th St/Washington station (connected to Terminal 4 via Sky Train) and get off at the 3rd St/Jefferson station, just a 5-minute walk from Footprint Center.
How much is a taxi from Phoenix Airport to Footprint Center?
A taxi fare typically ranges from $25 to $40, not including tip. Rideshares like UberX or Lyft Standard usually cost between $18 and $30, subject to surge pricing during peak events or hours.
Can I take a shuttle from Phoenix Airport to downtown hotels near Footprint Center?
Yes, shared-ride shuttle services like SuperShuttle or hotel-specific shuttles serve downtown. Shared shuttles cost $15-$25 per person but can take longer due to multiple stops. It's best to check with your hotel in advance.
Is the light rail from PHX safe to use, especially at night?
The Valley Metro Rail is generally safe and well-patrolled, especially on gamedays and event nights when many fans use it. As with any public transit, practice standard awareness: keep valuables secure, be mindful of your surroundings, and travel with others if possible late at night.
Where do I catch the light rail at Phoenix Airport?
First, take the free PHX Sky Train from any terminal to the 44th St/Washington station. This automated train runs 24/7. The Valley Metro Rail platform is directly connected to this station. Follow signs for "Valley Metro Rail."
Should I rent a car at Phoenix Airport to get to Footprint Center?
For most visitors only attending an event at Footprint Center, renting a car is unnecessary and expensive due to daily rates, airport fees, and challenging downtown parking (which can cost $20-$40+ for event parking). The light rail, taxi, or rideshare are more cost-effective and convenient.