Getting from RST to your hotel, Mayo Clinic appointment or other destination in Rochester is relatively simple. But if you’re visiting Rochester for the first time, you may not know what transportation options are available or which one makes the most sense for your trip.
From shared shuttles and private cars to rideshare, taxis and hotel shuttles, here’s what to know before you land. (Find booking information for all these transportation options here.)
What is Rochester Shuttle Service?
You may have heard about Rochester Shuttle Service, especially if you’re traveling to Rochester for medical care. Despite a common misconception, the service is not operated by Mayo Clinic and is not free. It is a private transportation service operated by Star Transportation, which has been serving the area since 1997.
The shared shuttle provides transportation between RST and hotels, apartment complexes and other destinations throughout Rochester. Drivers are there for all arriving flights, and passengers can reserve a seat in advance or inquire about hopping on when they arrive. The vans accommodate up to 14 passengers and have plenty of room for luggage.
Katie Fliehr, Marketing Manager at Star Transportation
Because it is a shared service, the shuttle may make multiple stops, generally serving downtown destinations before continuing to outlying areas.
According to Katie Fliehr, Marketing Manager at Star Transportation, one question the company often hears from travelers is simple: Will someone actually be there when I land?
Fliehr says the answer is yes, even when a flight arrives early or is delayed. RST’s small terminal makes it relatively easy for passengers to find their driver, and Rochester Shuttle Service drivers are clearly identifiable and waiting inside the terminal for arriving passengers.
“We want customers to be treated like family,” said Fliehr. “Our drivers greet people with a smile. Our service makes you feel seen and welcomed.”
That familiarity is particularly evident among some of the company’s longtime drivers. Star has a chauffeur who has been with the company for nearly 17 years and has customers who specifically request him, while two other drivers regularly handle the morning and evening RST shuttle routes. “People give them hugs. They love their energy and smiles,” Fliehr said.
Want a private ride instead?
Rochester Shuttle Service isn’t Star Transportation’s only option at RST. Travelers can also reserve private transportation, including sedans, SUVs and vans.
That can be helpful for families and groups, travelers who want to go directly to their destination, or those carrying extra luggage or medical equipment. Sedans are lower to the ground and easier to get in and out of than the shared shuttle vans and also offer ample trunk space.
Need your own set of wheels?
RST makes it easy to grab the keys and go. Avis, Budget, Enterprise and National all offer rental cars right here at the airport, so you can land, pick up your ride and get moving. Even better, rental car counters are open until the last scheduled arrival of the day or make arrangements with you if you’re delayed, so you don’t have to worry about getting in late.
Prefer rideshare?
Uber and Lyft are also permitted to pick up and drop off passengers at RST. A designated rideshare pickup area is located on the sidewalk in front of the terminal.
For travelers accustomed to using rideshare apps, this can be a convenient option because you can request your ride when you’re ready to leave the airport.
Looking for a traditional taxi?
Taxi service is another option at RST. Med City Taxi provides service from the airport, and advance reservations are recommended.
If you know when your flight is arriving, particularly if you’re arriving later in the day, arranging your transportation before your trip can provide additional peace of mind.
Does your hotel have a shuttle?
Several Rochester-area hotels provide transportation to and from RST, but don’t assume your hotel shuttle is free. Some hotels provide complimentary airport transportation while others charge a fee.
Contact your hotel before traveling to ask whether airport shuttle service is available, whether there is a charge and whether you need to reserve a pickup in advance.
Choosing the option that works for you
The best choice depends on what matters most for your trip. A shared shuttle may make sense if you want a prearranged shared ride into Rochester, while a private car or SUV offers a more individualized trip and may be better suited to travelers with significant luggage or medical equipment. Rideshare and taxi services offer additional alternatives, and your hotel may already provide airport transportation.
If you’re visiting Rochester for medical care, arriving later in the day or have specific mobility, luggage or transportation needs, it’s recommended to make arrangements before you travel.
Whichever option you choose, one advantage remains the same: RST’s smaller size makes the transition from airplane to ground transportation a relatively short one. Once you have your bags, your next ride is just steps away.
