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Transportation

On-Campus

U-M Buses.  The University of Michigan operates its own line of buses that anyone can ride free of charge. They are the blue buses with “University of Michigan” written in large letters on the side. They run between Central, South, and North Campuses. For a list of routes and schedules, refer to U-M Parking and Transportation Services.

Zipcar.  Zipcar is a car sharing program that lets members use cars by the hour. Currently there are six cars around the U-M campus. Once members have signed up, the cars cost $8.00 an hour. That includes the car, gas, and insurance. To use this service, members need to be over 21, have a valid driver's license and have been licensed for at least one year. A U.S. driver's license is recommended but not required. For more information please see: www.zipcar.com/umich

Public Transportation

Bus Service. The Ann Arbor Transit Authority (AATA) operates a bus system that services the Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti area. University of Michigan students, faculty and staff can ride the buses for free if you show a valid MCard (University of Michigan ID).

The AATA operates two transit centers: Blake Transit Center in downtown Ann Arbor on Fourth Avenue between William and Liberty, and the Ypsilanti Transit Center, located on Pearl Street at Adams Street. Most Ann Arbor routes originate at the Blake Transit Center at 15 minutes after and 15 minutes to each hour. For more information about routes and schedules, refer to the “Ride Guide” available at the transit centers, on the AATA buses, at the U-M International Center, or at the AATA web site listed above.

Taxis. Taxis are a convenient but expensive way to get around Ann Arbor. For a complete list of taxi companies, refer to the Ann Arbor Area Convention and Visitor's Guide. The most commonly used taxi companies are Yellow Cab 734.663.8898 and Blue Cab 734.547.2222. You can usually find taxis waiting on State St. outside of the Michigan Union or outside the Amtrak Station on Depot St.

Driving and Owning a Car

Bicycling

Bicycling is an affordable and environmentally friendly way to get around the Ann Arbor area. For more information about purchasing a bicycle, refer to Buying a Bicycle on this web site. For information on registering your bicycle, refer to U-M Campus Information Center, Bicycle Registration page.

A city bicycle map is available for $2.00 in local bike shops or at the City of Ann Arbor Department of Parks and Recreation, 6th floor of the City Hall building, 100 N. Fifth Ave. Information on safe cycling, university policies, bike routes, and other resources concerning bicycling are available at U-M Parking and Transportation Services, Bicycling in Ann Arbor.

Transportation Beyond Ann Arbor

For further information about transportation in the Ann Arbor area and beyond, refer to the University Campus Information Center, Transportation.

Last reviewed: 1/08