Keolis NA Blog

Maximizing Thanksgiving Break with Public Transit: The Best Routes for College Students Across North America

Written by Keolis Communications Team | Nov 4, 2024 3:14:53 PM

With Thanksgiving break approaching, college students are looking forward to unwinding, visiting family, or simply exploring their city before the holiday rush. Given the rising cost of travel, public transit is a budget-friendly and stress-free alternative to driving or flying.

At Keolis, we’re committed to making transit the preferred option for getting around in the communities we serve—not just an alternative to driving. So, as we move into the fall and winter seasons, we’re excited to support passengers in reaching new destinations and experiences—conveniently, sustainably, and affordably—through public transit.

Whether you’re headed home for Thanksgiving break or staying local for some much-needed rest, here’s how Keolis’ partner agencies across North America can help you get where you need to go—without breaking the bank.

The Southwest:

Austin, TX:
Whether you’re heading downtown, catching a flight at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, or just grabbing a bite to eat on South Congress, CapMetro’s buses and rail lines have you covered. Check out Rapid routes and MetroRail routes for quick, convenient service.

Phoenix, AZ:
Valley Metro connects Arizona State University students to the entire Phoenix metropolitan area, including the airport. Take the light rail for easy access to downtown, or catch a bus to nearby Tempe Marketplace for some shopping before the holidays.

Reno, NV:
The Regional Transportation Commission (RTC) offers multiple routes that serve the UNR campus and the greater Reno area. Hop on the bus to explore the downtown area, or use RTC’s airport shuttle services if you're flying out for the holidays.

The East Coast:

Boston, MA:
The MBTA Commuter Rail network connects Boston’s top universities to major destinations. Whether you're taking the Red Line to Harvard Square or catching the Commuter Rail to Logan Airport, Boston's public transit makes holiday travel a breeze. Pro tip: Check for student discounts on monthly passes!

Canada:

Québec:
For students at McGill, Concordia, and other Québec universities, Orléans Express offers convenient intercity bus services to major destinations across the province, including Québec City, Trois-Rivières, and Drummondville. Whether you're planning a trip home for the holidays or just looking to explore more of the province during fall break, Orléans Express provides affordable and comfortable travel options. Skip the hassle of driving, save on gas, and enjoy the scenic ride through Québec’s beautiful landscapes.

Waterloo, ON:
Grand River Transit (GRT) connects students in Waterloo to nearby cities like Kitchener and Toronto. The ION light rail makes it easy to explore local shops, cafés, and holiday markets or transfer to a GO Transit bus if you’re heading home for the holidays.

The West Coast:

Pomona, CA:
Foothill Transit provides Pomona College students with routes to Los Angeles and Ontario International Airport. Whether you’re flying out for fall break or heading to the city for a weekend adventure, public transit makes the trip easy.

Orange County, CA:
OCTA buses connect UC Irvine to all of Orange County, including nearby beaches, shopping centers, and John Wayne Airport. Hop on a bus to enjoy the sunny coast before winter sets in, or use public transit to reach Los Angeles for Thanksgiving.

Tips for Making the Most of Public Transit During Thanksgiving Break:

  • Plan Ahead: Use transit apps to check schedules and routes before you travel. Many of our partner agencies offer real-time tracking so you can plan your trip down to the minute.
  • Pack Light: If you’re heading home or traveling to a nearby city, remember that public transit is best suited for light travelers. Stick to the essentials, especially if you’ll be navigating buses or trains with limited luggage space.
  • Stay Safe: Public transit is a great option for traveling alone, but it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings. Keep your valuables close, avoid distractions like headphones in unfamiliar areas, and don’t hesitate to ask transit staff for help if needed.

Thanksgiving break is the perfect time to explore your city or head home to recharge. Public transportation offers an affordable, convenient, and environmentally friendly option to get you where you need to go—whether it's a short trip across town or a holiday visit with family. So, before you start booking flights or filling up your gas tank, take a look at your local transit system. You might be surprised at how easy and affordable it is to travel this break.