How to Take the Subway in Los Angeles

Hard as it is for some to believe, car-clogged Los Angeles has a subway system. The Los Angeles subway runs from downtown Los Angeles to the San Fernando Valley, Pasadena, the South Bay, and Long Beach. The Metro Rail system opened in 1990, and runs daily from early morning to midnight on most lines. Los Angeles Metro Rail consists of many interconnecting subway and light rail lines. Read on to learn more.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Check the Metro website for route information. It has a trip planner, route information, and other pertinent information about the Los Angeles subway.
2. Get a pass. They are available at many stores, mini-markets and MTA service centers. They're available in monthly, weekly and daily denominations, and save you the hassle of searching for change and dollar bills.
3. Buy a ticket. Tickets are available from machines located near the entrance to each station. You may buy a day pass, one way or round trip ticket from these machines. You can use your credit card or ATM card to pay for it.
4. Admire the artwork at the stations. Every station is decorated with mosaics from local artists. Certain stations have sculptures and other artwork.
5. Park and ride. Most subway stations have a spacious parking lot designed for commuters who need to drive to the subway station.
6. Keep track of station changes and closures. The Los Angeles subway system is a work in progress, with repairs, improvements and schedule changes taking place on a regular basis. Check the tickers at subway station platforms and the MTA website for details.