Not having a car in Carbondale might sound inconvenient at first, but it’s actually way more manageable than you’d expect, especially as an SIU student. Between walkable areas, scooters, trails, and public transportation, getting around town is very accessible for students. Whether you’re heading to class, grabbing groceries, or meeting friends in town, here are some easy ways to navigate Carbondale without a car.
1. Walking
Carbondale is easy to explore on foot, especially near campus. Many essentials like classes, coffee shops, and restaurants are within walking distance of SIU. Walking is free, reliable, and a great way to explore the area while getting some fresh air. It’s also perfect for short trips or when you just need to get somewhere quickly without worrying about parking.
2. Biking
If you have access to a bike, it can be one of the most efficient ways to get around. Carbondale has bike-friendly areas and plenty of bike racks around campus and town. Biking allows you to travel farther than walking while still being affordable and environmentally friendly. It’s a great option for commuting to class or running errands.
3. Veo Scooters
Veo scooters are a popular option around Carbondale as well. They are often easy to find, quick to unlock with the VeoRide app, and great for longer distances when walking feels too much. Scooters can be ridden anywhere bikes are allowed. Designated bike lanes and multi-use paths are ideal. When those aren’t available, riders can ride in the street. See the Carbondale Bike Map for the locations of bikeways throughout town. On campus, Veo scooters can be driven anywhere except for crosswalks and the Campus Lake Trail. Just remember to follow safety rules and park them responsibly when you’re done!
4. Saluki Greenway
The Saluki Greenway is a hidden gem for students without cars. According to the city of Carbondale, the Saluki Greenway is a 10-foot-wide, 2.4-mile-long, paved multi-use bike path that runs along State Highway 13 between Carbondale and Murphysboro, extending from Old Highway 13 to Wood Road. This safe, scenic trail is great for walking, biking, or skating and makes car-free travel easy for students.
5. Saluki Express
SIU’s Saluki Express is extremely helpful for students. This mass transit system provides access to grocery stores, shopping centers, and other parts of town that might be too far to walk. Bus routes focus on student needs, so they are a dependable option when the weather is bad, or you are carrying heavy items. All registered students at SIU can ride for free. Fares are still required on rural routes and the Carbondale to Murphy routes. To ride Saluki Express, all you need to do is show your student ID card. All five routes are open 7 days a week from 12:00 AM to12:00 PM. Check out the route maps to find the stop nearest you.
Living in Carbondale without a car may seem challenging at first, but with the right mix of walking, biking, scooters, and public transportation, it’s completely manageable. Once you get familiar with your options, you’ll realize that getting around town can be simple, affordable, and even enjoyable, all without a car.
