Getting Around Los Angeles – Best Modes of Transportation
Driving is the best way to get around Los Angeles. Los Angeles is approximately 500 square miles in size, and while there is public transportation, its routes are limited in comparison to those found in other major cities. You can rent a car from one of the dozen or so rental agencies at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), which is about 15 miles southwest of downtown, or from any of the rental agencies located throughout the city. The airport is also served by the Metro and bus systems, but expect a slow ride. You can also take a taxi from the airport into the city, but it will cost you: One-way flat rates between the airport and downtown are nearly $50. Lyft and Uber are also available at the airport. You’ll meet your taxi, Lyft, or Uber at LAX-it (pronounced “LA exit”), a newly introduced taxi and ride-share pickup area. Travellers can either walk to LAX-it or take the dedicated shuttle from their terminal.
Car
Because of the city’s size, a car is required for transportation. However, driving in Los Angeles isn’t always easy; preparation and patience will go a long way. Several major motorways crisscross the region, but they are frequently congested during rush hours, so avoid driving in the morning or early evening. You’ll also need a map or a GPS system to help you get around. If you do decide to rent a car, keep in mind that finding parking near major attractions (particularly beaches) can be difficult. For about $40 to $60 per day, you can rent a car at Los Angeles International Airport or once you arrive in the city.
Metro
When compared to major cities like New York and Chicago, LA’s rail lines leave a lot to be desired. The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority operates six color-coded Metro lines throughout the county, though few rail routes pass through major tourist attractions. The Red Line’s Universal City/Studio City station (which is within walking distance of Universal Studios Hollywood) and the light blue Expo Line’s Downtown Santa Monica station (located near the Third Street Promenade and the Santa Monica Pier) are two stations that may be useful. Sunday through Thursday, trains typically run from 4 a.m. to 1:30 or 2 a.m., with extended hours until 3 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Single rides are $1.75 and can only be paid for with a reloadable TAP card, which can be purchased for $1 at TAP vending machines at stations or for $2 at various vendors throughout the city. A day pass with unlimited rides is also available for $7, as is a seven-day pass for $25.
Bus
The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority also operates approximately 170 bus lines throughout the city, though schedules and routes can be difficult to understand for those unfamiliar with the area. Most buses begin service between 4 and 5 a.m. and end between 7:30 p.m. and 2:30 a.m.; hours vary greatly by route, and there are modified timetables on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays. Consult the schedules on the system’s Maps & Timetables page for more information. Like the Metro, you can buy a one-day or seven-day pass for $7 or $25, or pay the $1.75 one-way fare with a TAP card; exact change is also accepted on buses.
If you’re staying in Santa Monica, the Big Blue Bus runs several efficient routes into downtown Los Angeles and other oceanfront neighbourhoods. Tickets for the Big Blue Bus cost $1.25 per ride, with discounts available for seniors, students, and children. TAP cards can also be used to pay for fares, and one- and seven-day passes cost $4 and $14, respectively. Big Blue Bus routes make daily stops between 5:30 and 12:30 a.m., though exact times vary by day and bus. Rides can be scheduled using the information on Big Blue Bus’ Trip Planning page.