Adrian is somewhat walkable, particularly in the downtown area where shops, dining, and entertainment are in close proximity. The presence of colleges like Jackson College and Adrian College boosts the walkability around those areas. However, outside the immediate downtown, many errands require a car, as the city's infrastructure is not entirely conducive to pedestrian travel for all daily needs.

Adrian's public transportation system, the Dial-A-Ride, provides a door-to-door service but is limited in flexibility and convenience. It requires advance booking and operates within restricted hours, making it unsuitable for spontaneous travel or extensive exploration outside city limits. This reduces its appeal for travelers who need a robust and flexible transit option.

Adrian offers some good biking opportunities, particularly with trails like the 8-mile Kiwanis Trail that connects downtown to several parks. However, while these trails are ideal for recreational biking, the infrastructure for daily commuting by bike is lacking, with not all parts of the city easily navigable or accessible by bike.