Los Angeles, the city where the sun is always shining, the streets are full of energy, and there’s something for everyone. LA has it all, from the sparkle of Hollywood to the calm of Santa Monica Beach. But with its big size and famous traffic, getting around can feel tricky.
Good news! You don’t have to rely on a rental car or ride-sharing apps to navigate LA. The Los Angeles bus system gives you an affordable, convenient, and easy way to travel throughout the city. If you're visiting the Hollywood Walk of Fame, enjoying a show at the Hollywood Bowl, or relaxing at Venice Beach, LA’s Metro buses and city routes make it easy to get there affordably.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to get around LA by bus and share some must-visit attractions and helpful tips about LA public transportation.
Ways to get around Los Angeles by bus
When it comes to exploring Los Angeles, the bus is one of the best ways to get around. Not only is it affordable, but it also provides access to many of the city’s most iconic destinations. Let's break down how the LA bus system works and how you can make the most of it during your visit.
1. Los Angeles Metro Buses
Los Angeles Metro Rapid bus | Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons
The Los Angeles Metro buses are an easy way to get from one neighborhood to another. These buses cover a wide range of routes throughout the city, connecting you to key areas like downtown, Hollywood, Venice Beach, and Santa Monica. If you're staying near a Metro bus stop, you'll find it easy to hop on and off, exploring LA at your own time.
There are different types of LA city bus routes depending on the bus you choose:
• Local buses (orange): These stop about every two blocks.
• Rapid buses (red): These are faster with fewer stops, focusing on major intersections.
• Express buses: They travel on freeways for longer distances.
• Bus Rapid Transit (BRT): These buses run on dedicated busways along the G and J lines and require payment by TAP card.
To ride, simply pay your fare when you board. A one-way ride on the LA Metro buses costs $1.75. Children ages 0-5 can ride for free with a paying adult. You can also use a TAP card to pay, which allows free transfers within the LA Metro network and has fare caps to save you money.
2. Los Angeles Hop-On Hop-Off Bus
Los Angeles hop-on hop-off bus passing by Santa Monica
The Los Angeles Hop-On Hop-Off Bus is a fun and easy way to see the city’s top attractions. With unlimited rides, you can explore famous spots like the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Griffith Observatory, and Rodeo Drive at your own pace.
For a complete LA experience, take the Classic Route, which covers key locations in Hollywood, Downtown LA, and Santa Monica. You can hop off at any stop to explore and hop back on when you're ready. It’s the perfect way to navigate the city without the hassle of traffic or parking!
3. LADOT Commuter Express
LADOT Commuter Express | Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons
If you’re traveling from the suburbs, the LADOT Commuter Express is a great option. These buses are designed for commuters during rush hours (6:00 AM to 9:00 AM in the morning and 3:30 PM to 7:00 PM in the evening) connecting you to neighborhoods like Pasadena, Century City, and Long Beach to Downtown LA.
It’s a convenient and comfortable way to avoid traffic while heading to the city, especially during peak times. With dedicated routes, you can relax and enjoy a smooth ride into LA without the hassle of driving.
The LADOT Commuter Express operates Monday through Friday during rush hours. Morning buses typically run from 5:30 AM to 9:00 AM, while evening buses run from 3:30 PM to 7:00 PM. Check the specific schedule for your route to plan your trip accordingly.
Where to go to in LA
Now that you know how to get around LA by bus, it’s time to talk about the amazing spots you’ll want to visit. If you're into history, art, shopping, or simply soaking up the California sun, LA has something for everyone. Here are some top attractions you can easily reach using LA’s mass transit system:
1. Hollywood Walk of Fame
Aerial view of Hollywood Walk of Fame | Photo Credit: Rino Adamo on Pexels
A trip to Los Angeles wouldn’t be complete without visiting the Hollywood Walk of Fame. You’ll find over 2,600 brass stars honoring celebrities from the entertainment industry. It's a great spot to take some photos and take a selfie with your favorite star. Take the LA Metro bus to get here without the hassle of parking.
Want to shine like a star? Get your own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame with the Walk of Fame experience! Create lasting memories and be part of Hollywood history.
🚌 Which bus to take: The easiest and most flexible option here is a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour. It stops right along Hollywood Boulevard, so you can explore at your own pace without worrying about parking.
2. Santa Monica Pier
Santa Monica Pier | Photo Credit: Matthew LeJune on Unsplash
If you love the beach, Santa Monica Pier is the perfect destination. The iconic pier is home to an amusement park, an aquarium, and family-friendly restaurants. You can even get a Santa Monica bike rental and ride along the beach path at Santa Monica Pier!
Take a quick 10-minute bus ride from downtown LA, and you’ll find yourself at the beach in no time. The LA city buses frequently run to this area, making it an easy trip for any traveler.
🚌 Which bus to take: Take the Metro E Line (Expo Line) train from Downtown LA to Downtown Santa Monica, then walk about 5–10 minutes to the pier. It’s affordable, easy, and avoids beach traffic.
3. Venice Beach
Locals exploring Venice Beach | Photo Credit: Matthew LeJune on Unsplash
Another must-visit spot is Venice Beach. Known for its bohemian vibe and colorful boardwalk, Venice Beach is where you'll find street performers, skateboarders, and some of the best people-watching in LA. You can catch a Los Angeles city bus route that’ll take you straight to the beach.
🚌 Which bus to take: Take Metro Bus Line 33 or 733 from Santa Monica or Downtown LA for a direct and budget-friendly ride to Venice Beach.
4. The Getty Center
The Getty Center in Los Angeles | Photo Credit: Lydia Koh on Unsplash
Art lovers will appreciate a visit to the Getty Center, which houses an impressive collection of European paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. Located in the hills above Los Angeles, the Getty Center gives you stunning views of the city. It’s easily accessible via public transportation, so hop on the bus and head out to experience world-class art.
🚌 Which bus to take: Take Metro Bus Line 761 along Sepulveda Boulevard and get off at Getty Center Drive. From there, hop on the free Getty tram up the hill.
5. Griffith Observatory
Griffith Observatory at sunset | Photo Credit: Pedro Marroquin on Unsplash
For amazing views of Los Angeles and the Hollywood Sign, you should definitely go to the Griffith Observatory. You can take a bus from downtown to reach this iconic spot. The observatory has a great view of the city and is a wonderful place to learn about the stars, both the celestial kind and the Hollywood ones!
🚌 Which bus to take: Take Metro Bus Line 180 or 181 to Vermont/Sunset, then transfer to the DASH Observatory Shuttle for a quick and affordable ride up the hill.
6. LACMA (Los Angeles County Museum of Art)
Urban Light installation in LACMA | Photo Credit: Intricate Explorer on Unsplash
If you're an art enthusiast, you’ll want to check out LACMA, one of the largest art museums in the country. With its incredible collection and the famous "Urban Light" installation, LACMA is a must-see for anyone interested in culture and history. Hop on a bus and enjoy a day filled with art and exploration!
🚌 Which bus to take: Take Metro Bus Line 20 (Wilshire) or Line 720 Rapid for a direct and budget-friendly ride along Wilshire Boulevard to LACMA.
Tips for riding the Los Angeles bus
Traveling around Los Angeles by bus is an affordable and easy way to see the city, but knowing a few local tips can make your trip even smoother. Here are some things to keep in mind to make your bus journey through LA stress-free.
Pay with a TAP card
When riding the Los Angeles bus, you’ll need to pay your fare using a TAP card. It works across all of LA’s public transportation, including the metro buses and LA Metro Rail. You can load money onto your TAP card online or at any metro station, making it simple to board and go.
Arrive early for your ride
Buses in LA can get crowded, especially during rush hours. It's a good idea to arrive at the bus stop a few minutes early to make sure you get a seat. The wait is usually not too long, but timing matters during peak periods, such as in the morning and late afternoon.
Luggage rules
If you're traveling with luggage, keep in mind that LA buses don't have strict baggage rules like trains do. However, it’s still a good idea to keep your bags small and easy to manage. There's no formal check-in, but there’s limited space for larger bags, especially during busy times.
Regional buses offer more flexibility
Shorter routes and local buses are often more flexible and don’t require reservations. These buses are perfect for exploring LA at your own pace, especially if you're heading to a smaller neighborhood or area that doesn't get as much foot traffic. You’ll have more freedom to hop on and off without the worry of finding a seat or booking ahead.
Local buses in LA
• Metro Local 33: This bus route travels through downtown LA, taking you past popular areas like Hollywood and Echo Park. It’s perfect for a short trip within the city.
• Metro Local 204: This route runs from Santa Monica to Westwood, passing through neighborhoods like Brentwood and Culver City. It’s a great option for getting to the beach or exploring West LA.
• Metro Local 62: This bus travels through areas like South LA and Mid-City, offering access to a variety of local spots and communities.
FAQs getting around LA by bus
How do you pay for the bus in Los Angeles?
You can pay for your ride on the bus in Los Angeles using a TAP card. TAP cards are reloadable cards that can be used to pay for fares on both the metro buses and the LA metro trains. You can load your card at various vending machines or online.
Do I need cash to ride the bus in LA?
Cash is not the most convenient way to pay for the bus in LA, but it is possible. However, it’s best to use a TAP card, as it’s faster and more efficient. You can load your TAP card with funds before hopping on the bus.
How much is a TAP card in LA?
A TAP card costs around $2, and you can load it with a variety of amounts depending on your travel needs. It’s the easiest and most efficient way to pay for LA public transportation.
Does LA have free public transportation?
While LA does not have completely free public transportation, some buses and routes offer discounts for seniors, people with disabilities, and students. There are also occasional free rides or discounted days, so it’s worth checking for special offers during your trip.
All set for your LA journey!
Golden hour at Griffith Observatory | Photo Credit: Katie Mukhina
Getting around Los Angeles by bus is one of the best ways to explore the city without the stress of driving or parking. If you're hopping on the LA metro buses or taking a scenic ride along Los Angeles mass transit routes, there are lots of ways to experience this iconic city without spending too much.
So grab your TAP card, hop on a bus, and start exploring LA! For more information on how to make the most of your LA trip, check out more options for transportation and sightseeing with Klook. Ready for your next adventure? Your LA journey is just a bus ride away!
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