Getting around town has never been easier. Our public transportation system has been voted best in the nation, and our network of walking and biking trails make getting around sans-motor a realistic alternative. Those who can't part with their preferred personal vehicle can take advantage of lots of cheap and free parking.

The City of Bloomington's public transportation system is one of the best in the nation. In 2010 Bloomington Transit won the American Public Transportation Association’s Outstanding Public Transportation System Achievement Award in the small cities category. The systems serves more than 3 million riders annually with nine City-wide routes. A one-way fare is only $1, and IU students can ride free by showing their student ID.

The IU Campus Bus is another great way to get around for riders located near IU's campus. The service's five routes are free to all riders regardless of student status. From 10 p.m. to 3 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays both the IU Campus Bus and Bloomington Transit operate Night Owl services on the Campus A route and the BT 6 and 9 routes.

More information on both systems, including route maps and schedules, can be found at the Campus Bus and Bloomington Transit websites.

Although Bloomington is a city that prides itself on its walk-ability, there are plenty of commercial and residential parking options.

Downtown parking is plentiful. Many spots are free for up to two hours, and City meters provide either short or long term parking. Meters are patrolled 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday (excluding holidays). Commuters and visitors also have the option of choosing from three parking garages -- known as Art, Band, and Market -- or five parking lots. For more information on fees, visit the City's website.

The City also sells residential street parking permits in 10 different zones for a low price of $25 per year. More information on long-term parking can be found at the City's website.