Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) and State Farm Stadium, home of the Arizona Cardinals and a major venue for concerts and events, are located in different cities within the greater Phoenix metropolitan area. While PHX is in Phoenix, State Farm Stadium is situated in Glendale, Arizona.
So, how far is Phoenix Airport to State Farm Stadium? Let's break it down!
The Distance Defined
The driving distance between Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) and State Farm Stadium is approximately 19-20 miles (30-32 kilometers). This is a relatively straightforward drive, mostly on major highways.
Factors Affecting Travel Time
While the distance is fixed, the time it takes to travel between the two locations can vary significantly based on several factors:
Traffic Conditions: This is by far the biggest variable. Phoenix traffic can be notoriously heavy, especially during rush hours (typically 6:00 AM - 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM - 6:30 PM on weekdays) and, crucially, on event days at State Farm Stadium.
Time of Day: As mentioned, rush hour will add considerable time. Late at night or very early in the morning will be the quickest.
Day of the Week: Weekends generally have lighter commuter traffic, but event traffic can still be substantial.
Special Events: If there's a major Cardinals game, a huge concert, or another large event at State Farm Stadium, expect significant delays on roads leading to and from the stadium. Allow extra, extra time.
Road Construction: Phoenix, like any growing city, often has road construction, which can impact travel times.
Under ideal, light traffic conditions, the drive can take as little as 25-30 minutes. However, with moderate to heavy traffic or on an event day, it can easily stretch to 45 minutes to over an hour.
Your Step-by-Step Guide: Getting from Phoenix Airport to State Farm Stadium
Alright, let's get you from the airport to the stadium with ease! Follow these steps, and you'll be cheering on your team or singing along to your favorite artist in no time.
Step 1: Determine Your Arrival Time and Event Schedule!
Before you even think about transportation, engage with your travel plan! Are you arriving during peak traffic? Is there a big game or concert scheduled that day? Knowing this information is crucial for selecting the best transportation option and setting realistic expectations for travel time. Check the State Farm Stadium event calendar and current Phoenix traffic conditions (Google Maps or Waze are your friends here!).
Step 2: Choosing Your Transportation Method
You have several options to get from PHX to State Farm Stadium, each with its own pros and cons in terms of cost, convenience, and travel time.
Sub-heading: Option 1: Rideshare (Uber/Lyft/Waymo/Wridz)
This is often the most convenient and popular choice for many travelers.
Pros: Door-to-door service, on-demand availability (usually), comfortable, good for groups. Waymo offers autonomous vehicle rides which can be a unique experience.
Cons: Can be expensive, especially with surge pricing during high-demand times (like after an event or during rush hour).
Estimated Cost: Typically ranges from $30-$70, but can be much higher with surge pricing (potentially $100+ after a major event).
Estimated Travel Time: 25-60 minutes, depending on traffic.
How to Use Rideshare:
Download the App: Ensure you have the Uber, Lyft, Waymo, or Wridz app downloaded on your smartphone and an account set up before you land.
Collect Your Bags: Once you have your luggage and are ready to leave the terminal, open your chosen rideshare app.
Enter Destination: Input "State Farm Stadium, Glendale, AZ" as your destination.
Select Vehicle Type: Choose the service level you prefer (e.g., UberX, Lyft Standard, Uber Black, XL for more space).
Follow Pickup Instructions: PHX has designated rideshare pickup zones.
Terminal 3: Entire south outer curb, minus the far east end.
Terminal 4: Level 1, north outer curb (far west end outside door #1) or south outer curb (east end outside door #6 or #8, and west end door #2).
Always double-check the in-app instructions, as these can sometimes change.
Confirm Your Ride: Verify the driver's name, car model, and license plate before getting into the vehicle.
Sub-heading: Option 2: Taxi
Traditional taxis are readily available at the airport.
Pros: Reliable, no surge pricing (rates are regulated), generally quicker than public transport.
Cons: Can be more expensive than rideshares during off-peak times, not as flexible for payment options as apps.
Estimated Cost: ~$55-$70 (this includes initial fare, mileage, and potential traffic delay charges).
Estimated Travel Time: 25-60 minutes, depending on traffic.
How to Use a Taxi:
Locate Taxi Stands: Follow signs for "Taxis" at the airport. They are usually found on the first level (baggage claim level) of each terminal.
Get in Line: Taxis operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
State Your Destination: Inform the driver you are going to State Farm Stadium in Glendale.
Sub-heading: Option 3: Shuttle Service
Various private shuttle services operate between PHX and the greater Phoenix area, including Glendale.
Pros: Can be cost-effective for solo travelers if opting for a shared ride, direct service, convenient. Many offer advanced booking.
Cons: Shared rides may involve multiple stops, increasing travel time. Private shuttles can be costly.
Estimated Cost: Shared ride shuttles can range from $25-$50 per person, while private shuttles will be higher, similar to taxi/rideshare rates.
Estimated Travel Time: 45 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on the type of shuttle and number of stops.
How to Use Shuttle Service:
Research and Book in Advance: For shared-ride shuttles, it's highly recommended to book online beforehand. Companies like Groome Transportation and GO Airport Shuttle serve the Phoenix area.
Confirm Pickup Location: Shuttles typically have designated pickup areas at the airport. Confirm this when booking.
Look for Company Signage: Find your specific shuttle company's vehicle or designated meeting point.
Sub-heading: Option 4: Rental Car
If you plan on exploring more of Arizona or need flexibility during your trip, a rental car is a great option.
Pros: Ultimate flexibility, independence, cost-effective for longer stays or multiple destinations.
Cons: Cost of rental, gas, parking fees at the stadium (can be substantial), navigating unfamiliar roads and traffic.
Estimated Cost: Varies widely based on car type, rental duration, and company (plus gas and parking).
Estimated Travel Time: 25-60 minutes driving, plus time for rental car pickup/drop-off.
How to Rent a Car:
Book in Advance: Especially during peak travel seasons or major events, reserve your car well ahead of time.
PHX Rental Car Center: All rental car companies at PHX operate out of a consolidated Rental Car Center.
Take the PHX Sky Train: From any terminal, take the free PHX Sky Train directly to the Rental Car Center.
Complete Paperwork and Pick Up Car: Follow the instructions provided by your rental company.
Navigate to Stadium: Use a GPS or navigation app (like Google Maps or Waze) for directions to State Farm Stadium.
Sub-heading: Option 5: Public Transportation (Bus & Light Rail)
For the most budget-conscious traveler, Phoenix's public transit system (Valley Metro) offers a way to get to the stadium, though it requires transfers and more time.
Pros: Extremely affordable!
Cons: Longest travel time, requires multiple transfers, not ideal with a lot of luggage, limited service late at night.
Estimated Cost: ~$2-$4 (for a single ride or day pass).
Estimated Travel Time: 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes, or even longer depending on connections.
How to Use Public Transportation:
Take PHX Sky Train to 44th St/Washington Station: From any terminal, take the free PHX Sky Train to the 44th Street/Washington Valley Metro Rail Station.
Board Valley Metro Rail (Light Rail): Purchase a ticket at the station. Take the westbound light rail towards Glendale/19th Ave. The most common transfer point will be around the Glendale/19th Ave station.
Transfer to a Bus: From the light rail, you will need to transfer to a local Valley Metro bus that heads towards State Farm Stadium. Route 70 (Glendale Avenue) is a common option that will get you close. You'll likely need to get off around 95th Ave & Glendale Ave and walk a bit.
It is highly recommended to use the Valley Metro Trip Planner or Google Maps (set to public transit mode) for the most accurate and up-to-date route information, as bus routes and schedules can change.
Step 3: Navigating to the Stadium Entrance
Once you're in the vicinity of State Farm Stadium, especially on event days, traffic and pedestrian flow will be heavily managed.
If driving or taking a rideshare/taxi: Your driver will likely drop you off at a designated point. Be prepared for some walking, as road closures around the stadium are common.
If using public transport: You'll be dropped off at a bus stop within walking distance. Follow the crowds and signage.
Important Tip: Familiarize yourself with the stadium's bag policy and prohibited items before you arrive to avoid delays at security.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How to check real-time traffic from Phoenix Airport to State Farm Stadium?
You can check real-time traffic conditions using apps like Google Maps or Waze on your smartphone. Simply enter "State Farm Stadium, Glendale, AZ" as your destination and select your current location as Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX).
How to find designated rideshare pickup points at Phoenix Airport?
Rideshare pickup points at PHX are clearly marked. In Terminal 3, it's the entire south outer curb (minus the far east end). In Terminal 4, it's Level 1, north outer curb (far west end outside door #1) or south outer curb (east end outside door #6 or #8, and west end door #2). Always confirm the exact pickup spot within your chosen rideshare app.
How to book a private shuttle from PHX to State Farm Stadium?
You can book private shuttles by searching online for "Phoenix airport private shuttle to State Farm Stadium." Companies like GO Airport Shuttle and AZ Shuttle Select offer this service. It's best to book in advance, especially for specific times or larger groups.
How to use the PHX Sky Train to reach public transport?
The PHX Sky Train is a free automated train that connects all airport terminals (3 & 4), the East Economy Parking area, the 24th Street PHX Sky Train Station, and the Rental Car Center. To connect to public transport (Valley Metro Rail), take the Sky Train to the 44th Street/Washington Valley Metro Rail Station.
How to find bus schedules for Valley Metro to State Farm Stadium?
You can find Valley Metro bus schedules and use their trip planner tool on the official Valley Metro website (valleymetro.org). Google Maps also provides excellent public transit routing with real-time departure information.
How to estimate the cost of a taxi from PHX to State Farm Stadium?
Taxi fares from PHX are regulated. The first mile is $5, and each additional mile is $2.30. There's also a $23 per hour charge for traffic delays. Expect the total cost to be in the range of $55-$70, depending on traffic.
How to avoid surge pricing for rideshares to the stadium?
To avoid surge pricing, try to schedule your rideshare before peak demand times (e.g., well before an event starts or waiting an hour or two after an event ends). You can also compare prices between Uber and Lyft, as surge pricing can vary.
How to get from State Farm Stadium back to Phoenix Airport after an event?
After an event, expect heavy traffic and high demand for rideshares and taxis. You can queue for a taxi, use rideshare apps (be prepared for surge pricing and longer wait times), or pre-arrange a private shuttle. Some public bus routes might still be operating, but check schedules carefully. Walking a bit further away from the immediate stadium area might sometimes help with rideshare pickups.
How to find parking at State Farm Stadium if driving?
State Farm Stadium offers various parking lots. It's highly recommended to purchase parking passes in advance, especially for major events, through the stadium's official website or ticketing platforms. Follow signage for your designated lot upon arrival.
How to get a wheelchair-accessible ride from Phoenix Airport to State Farm Stadium?
When booking a taxi, rideshare, or shuttle, you can specifically request a wheelchair-accessible vehicle. Rideshare apps often have an option for "Access" or "WAV" (Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle). For shuttles, inform them of your needs when booking.
