Alton, Illinois offers limited walkability primarily due to its car-dependent layout and the dispersed nature of amenities across the town. While the downtown area clusters some shops and eateries that are easily accessible on foot, the majority of errands require a vehicle. Historic areas like Middletown provide interesting sites for 'walking exploration,' but uneven pavements can be a challenge. Travelers without their own transport may face difficulties conducting daily activities solely by walking.

Public transit in Alton is somewhat available but not comprehensive enough to serve all transport needs conveniently. Madison County Transit (MCT) provides some bus services and micro-transit options for local travel, with connections to Amtrak for regional and interstate journeys. However, these services may not cover all areas efficiently or frequently enough for travelers who rely heavily on public transit for commuting and accessing various amenities within the city.

Alton's biking infrastructure shows potential with several designated routes and trails, such as the scenic Sam Vadalabene Bike Trail. These pathways enjoy some scenic appeal and are being gradually developed to facilitate better connectivity. However, hilly terrain, traffic, and incomplete infrastructure in certain areas present challenges for daily biking. Thus, while reasonable for leisure biking, it may not fully support frequent use for errands or commuting for travelers.