Getting Around Springfield: Walkability, Public Transit & Biking

Springfield, Missouri, is a city where a traveler will find some areas to be quite walkable, especially in the downtown region. Here, a compact layout with shops, eateries, and attractions makes exploration easy and appealing on foot. However, beyond downtown, many daily errands and necessities, such as grocery stores and services, are spread out across the city, necessitating the use of a vehicle. Consequently, while it's pleasant to walk in local pockets, Springfield largely relies on car transportation for full accessibility.

Springfield's public transit, known as 'The Bus,' offers a basic yet functional service with 14 routes and numerous stops across the city. It can be a useful option for travelers, especially with affordable rates and various pass options. However, reaching all parts of the city solely by public transit can be challenging due to the limited coverage area. The express service within Missouri State University provides a useful free option, but overall, bus routes may not be extensive enough for widespread convenience.

For travelers who enjoy cycling, Springfield provides a promising environment with a growing network of bike routes and trails. As a Gold Level Bicycle-Friendly Community, it offers over 80 miles of on-street bike paths and the 'Link,' an 8-mile route connecting major areas. Despite this, there may be occasional gaps in the network and some roads where biking isn't as comfortable. Overall, it presents a decent opportunity for biking around, though some areas may require caution due to traffic or lacking infrastructure.