The 2012 Ann Arbor Art Fair will soon be upon us, which means we’re in for some incredible art, amazing music and food, great people watching, and inevitably – lots of cars around town hunting for a few choice parking spots. There are many ways to get to and from downtown during the festivities, but there’s one that’s super convenient, inexpensive – and air conditioned!

Ann Arbor’s four-fair national event is one of the largest art fair exhibits in the country. More than 1,250 artists come to downtown Ann Arbor for four days of wall-to-wall art. Most downtown streets are closed, but the Ann Arbor Transportation Authority (TheRide) provides an easy way to get you (and your new treasures) to and from without breaking a sweat!

The ArtFairRide shuttles conveniently board at Briarwood Mall, located at I-94 and State Street and Pioneer High School, located at Main Street and West Stadium Blvd. (diagonally across from Michigan Stadium). There are two shuttles from each boarding location: one goes to the corner of State Street and South University; the other to Main Street at William. Shuttles run Wednesday – Friday from 9:00 am – 10:00 pm and Saturday from 9:00 am – 7:00 pm. The cost for the shuttles is just $1.50 each way. Reduced fares are available for seniors, people with disabilities, and children. You can go to TheRide.org or call (734) 996-0400 to find out more.

Known for years as the “Art Fair Shuttle,” the service was recently renamed “ArtFairRide” to match TheRide’s new and improved services that help give those getting around town, or from town to town more convenient transportation choices. Need a lift between Ann Arbor & Detroit Metro Airport? There’s AirRide. Vanpooling to and from work? There’s VanRide. Need to get somewhere when TheRide’s buses aren’t in service? There’s NightRide & HolidayRide. Commuting between Canton & Ann Arbor or Chelsea & Ann Arbor? There’s ExpressRide. Heading to the Big House for a game? There’s FootballRide. Want a simple, fast, and great way to avoid the traffic and parking hassles during the Art Fair? Now there’s ArtFairRide. We live in a unique community where there are always fun & interesting things to do – and wherever you’re going, and whether you’re working or playing, there’s a Ride for that!