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Getting Around Los Angeles

Getting Around Los Angeles

Los Angeles California, USA Travel Guide

Public Transportation Overview

Metro Rail consists of several lines connecting major areas, including the B (Red) Line and D (Purple) Line subways for Downtown LA and Hollywood. The A (Blue) Line and E (Expo) Line streetcars connect Downtown to Long Beach and The holy Monica, respectively. The L (Gold) Line connects Azusa to East LA through Pasadena.

Metro Bus has an extensive network of local, rapid, and express buses throughout Los Angeles County. Other local transit agencies, like Big Blue Bus in Santa Monica and Culver CityBus, additionally run services connecting with Metro.

Important Metro Hubs

  • Union Station (Downtown LA): Major hub for Metro B, L, D Lines, Metrolink, Amtrak, and buses.
  • 7th St/Metro Center (Downtown LA): Central hub for Metro B, D, A, and E Lines.
  • Hollywood/Highland: Central to many Hollywood tourist attractions (Metro B Line).
  • Santa Monica Downtown: Terminus for the E (Expo) Line, connecting to local buses.

Ticketing & Fares

Use a reusable TAP Card for all Metro and most municipal bus lines. Single rides cost $1.75. Day Pass is $7, Weekly Pass $25.

Hours & Frequency

Metro Rail operates approx. 4 AM to 1 AM (weekdays), 4 AM to 2 AM (Fri/Sat). Frequency is 5-20 minutes, varying by time.

Accessibility

All Metro buses and trains are accessible, featuring ramps/lifts, priority seating, and audio announcements.

Navigating Public Transit

Efficient Travel
  • Use apps like Google Maps, Transit, or Moovit for real-time info.
  • Acquire a TAP Card for effortless travel plus getting from a to b.
  • Become acquainted with the rail map; buses supplement where rail does not reach.
Peak Hour Considerations
  • Avoid rush hour (6-10 AM, 3-7 PM) due to crowds on buses and trains.
  • Stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night or in less populated areas.
  • Contactless payment for Metro is gradually being implemented.

Transit Insights

Unlimited Transfers

Free transfers for a pair hours with TAP card.

Metro Bus Coverage

Covers nearly all areas of LA County.

Union Station Hub

Connects to multiple Metro lines, Metrolink, Amtrak.

Accessibility

All Metro services are accessible.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis and ride-sharing services provide flexible, on-demand transportation throughout Los Angeles, often serving as a quicker alternative to public transit.

Taxi Services

  • Licensed taxis are typically yellow or white with a roof sign and company name.
  • Hailing is occasionally simple in busy areas, or find them at designated stands.
  • Cabs take both cash and credit cards.
  • Tipping 10-20% of the fare is customary.

Ride-Sharing Apps

  • Uber and Lyft are the dominant services in Los Angeles.
  • They often present a more affordable and convenient option than traditional taxis.
  • Pre-booking or off-street pickups are common.
  • Available at the LAXit lot (for LAX) or designated zones at other airports.

Fares & Safety

  • Taxi fares are metered; costs can be high for long distances due to traffic.
  • For ride-sharing, verify driver's name, license plate, and car model with the app.
  • Share your ride-sharing trip status with a trusted contact.
  • Avoid surge pricing during peak demand if possible with ride-shares.
  • Always confirm it is a licensed taxi before entering.
  • Sit in the back seat when using ride-sharing services.

Airport/Station Taxi & Ride-Share Arrangements

Lax

Pick up from the designated LAXit lot, accessed via free shuttle.

Regional Airports

Taxis and ride-shares pick up directly at designated zones outside terminals.

Union Station

Designated taxi stands and ride-share pickup zones are available.

Rental Options

Renting a car has the most flexibility for exploring Los Angeles, a city known for its car culture and extensive road network. Other rental options include motorcycles, scooters, and bicycles.

Car Rental

  • Book online in advance for the best rates with companies like DiscoverCars.com.
  • Present a valid driver's license and credit card in the driver's name.
  • Rental car insurance is highly recommended; check if your personal or credit card insurance covers it.
  • Minimum age for rental is usually 21-25; surcharges apply for drivers under 25.

Motorcycle & Scooter Rentals

  • Specialty rental shops provide motorcycles and scooters.
  • A valid motorcycle endorsement on your driver's license is necessary.
  • Less common for general tourist transport due to heavy traffic and safety concerns.
  • Always wear a helmet.

Bicycle Sharing & Rentals

Metro Bike Share

Available in Downtown LA, Hollywood, North Hollywood, and Santa Monica.

Pick up and drop off at different docks.

Private Rental Shops

Many shops in beach cities (Santa Monica, Venice, Marina del Rey) offer rentals.

Hourly or daily rentals of bicycles, e-bikes, and scooters.

Bike Infrastructure

Growing network of bike lanes, notably along the Marvin Braude Beach Trail and in Griffith Park.

Always wear a helmet (strongly recommended).

Driving Laws & Parking

Road Rules
  • Drive on the right-hand side of the road; seatbelts for all occupants.
  • Hands-free use for mobile phones while driving.
  • Right turn on red is permitted after a full stop (unless signed otherwise).
Parking in LA
  • Street parking has strict rules: check signs for street sweeping, permit-only zones, time limits.
  • Parking garages/lots are numerous but often expensive ($10-30+ for a few hours/day).
  • Valet parking is common at upscale venues (usually $10-20+).

Specialty Vehicle Options & Restrictions

  • Tuk-tuks, jeepneys, or similar specialty vehicles are not available for public transportation.
  • Freeways are absolutely prohibited for pedestrians and cyclists.
  • Some major arterial roads are unsafe for cycling due to high traffic speeds and lack of infrastructure.
  • Avoid leaving valuables visible in your rental car to deter break-ins.
  • Observe speed limits and avoid distracted driving.
  • Driver behavior may be assertive; drive defensively.
  • Isolated or industrial areas might be less safe for walking/cycling at night.
  • Gas prices can fluctuate considerably; factor into your budget.

Walking & Cycling

Walking and cycling present special ways to experience Los Angeles, especially in more pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods or along scenic routes.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

  • Santa Monica (Third Street Promenade, pier, beach path).
  • Venice Beach Boardwalk and Beverly Hills (Rodeo Drive).
  • West Hollywood (Sunset Strip, Melrose Avenue) and portions of Downtown LA.
  • Griffith Park offers a wide network of trails and walking paths with great views.

Walking Tour Options

  • Many companies present guided walking tours focusing on Hollywood history, architecture, street art.
  • Ghost tales and food experience tours are available.
  • Self-guided tours use apps like Google Maps or AllTrails for hiking.
  • Download audio guides for specific areas to explore at your own pace.

Bicycle Infrastructure & Safety

Bike Lanes

Los Angeles possesses a growing network of bike lanes, along the Marvin Braude Beach Trail and in parks.

  • Check local maps for dedicated routes.
  • Ideal for picturesque journeys.
  • Infrastructure is expanding.
Cycling Safety

Always wear a helmet (recommended for adults). Stay aware of vehicle traffic, especially where bike lanes end or share with cars.

  • Helmets prevent injuries.
  • Stay alert in traffic.
  • Avoid busy freeways.
No-Go Areas

Freeways are prohibited for pedestrians and cyclists. Some key arterial roads are unsafe due to high traffic speeds.

  • Avoid freeways entirely.
  • Exercise caution on busy streets.
  • Use common sense at night.

Pedestrian & Cyclist Warnings

Restrictions
  • Freeways are strictly off-limits to pedestrians and cyclists.
  • Avoid riding on busy arterial roads that lack dedicated bike infrastructure.
  • At night, isolated or industrial areas may be less safe for walking or cycling.
Safety Measures
  • Wearing a helmet is strongly recommended for all cyclists.
  • Always exercise common sense and caution when exploring unfamiliar areas.
  • Research your routes beforehand, especially for longer rides or walks.

Specialized Transportation

The City of angels has some unique ways to get around for sightseeing and certain area experiences beyond standard transit.

Tour Buses & Water Transport

  • Starline Tours and Big Bus Tours offer popular hop-on-hop-off services.
  • Celebrity Home Tours drive through Beverly Hills and Bel Air residential areas.
  • Marina del Rey WaterBus and Long Beach AquaLink/AquaBus to seasonal water taxis.
  • Catalina Express ferry service for access to Catalina Island.

Unique Local Transport

  • Angels Flight Railway: A historic funicular in Downtown LA, connecting Hill and Olive Streets.
  • Metro Access: A paratransit service for individuals with disabilities (prior approval needed).
  • Accessible Taxis/Ride-Shares: Uber WAV or Lyft Access provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
  • Most major attractions and public buildings are ADA-compliant.

Hop-on-Hop-off

Cover major sights in Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and The holy Monica.

Celebrity Tours

Discover famous residences and landmarks.

Angels Flight

A short, scenic funicular ride up Bunker Hill.

Accessibility Services for Mobility Needs

Metro & Taxi Accessibility
  • Metro Access provides paratransit services for eligible individuals.
  • Taxi companies and ride-sharing apps (Uber WAV, Lyft Access) offer accessible vehicles.
  • Most attractions, museums, and public buildings in Los Angeles meet ADA compliance.
Accessible Features
  • Ramps, elevators, plus accessible bathrooms are common.
  • Audio announcements and priority seating on public transit.
  • Check specific venues for their accessibility details prior to visiting.

Final Transit Tip

While public transit can get you to many places, The City of angels's expansive nature makes renting a car the preferred option for maximum flexibility and to explore beyond central areas.

For finding the best car rental deals, DiscoverCars.com presents a convenient platform.

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