Summary
LA’s vast land area makes navigation expensive, but the city’s bus system offers an eco-friendly and affordable solution for tourists.
Explore neighborhoods like Santa Monica and Downtown with the convenience of the TAP card for seamless transit around the city.
Experience iconic Hollywood sights like the TCL Chinese Theatre and Santa Monica Pier easily by hopping on and off Metro buses.
Tourists flock to Los Angeles, the City of Angels, to see the Hollywood sign, the star-studded Walk of Fame, and glamorous Beverly Hills. While it is a great city to visit, it is one of the largest cities in the United States by land area, so navigating it can be expensive. Luckily, the city’s extensive bus system provides a hassle-free way to navigate LA’s busy streets.
This network of bus routes allows visitors to explore LA in an eco-friendly way, avoiding the need to rent a car and the stress of notorious traffic jams. Tourists can sightsee at their own pace, hopping on and off buses to enjoy the sights, including panoramic views from the upper deck of double-decker buses.
Every neighborhood in LA has unique characteristics and history that make it compelling to visit, like the beach vibes of Santa Monica or the historical feel of Downtown. Riding the bus allows you to experience these different areas at a relatively low cost.
A
TAP card is a convenient way to pay
for fares on both the subway (metro) and buses in Los Angeles. This makes getting around the city very easy because you can switch between these different transit options without needing separate tickets.
Related How To Spend A Cheap Weekend In Los Angeles The Entertainment Capital of Los Angeles boasts enough budget-friendly attractions and activities for an unforgettable getaway.
8 Route: DASH B
Downtown LA to Chinatown
Board the DASH B bus in Downtown Los Angeles at Hill Street Station and set off for Chinatown, comparing it to its famous New York sibling. Watch for the vibrant Chinatown West Gateway at Broadway and Cesar Chavez Ave—it’s your colorful welcome to this district, perfect for a snapshot and a preview of the cultural delights ahead. Alight at Jung Jing Road to delve into the labyrinth of alleys brimming with shops that offer everything from traditional Chinese medicinal herbs to lucky charms. Be sure to visit the picturesque Central Plaza on Jung Jing.
If hunger strikes, rejoin the DASH B and ride to the North Broadway stop, where a host of genuine Chinese eateries await to satisfy your cravings with sumptuous dim sum, noodles, and more. Before reaching the final stop at Union Station, consider getting off at Cesar Chavez Avenue and Bernard Street for an insightful visit to the Chinese American Museum, just a brief stroll to the west.
Stop
Description
Estimated Time
Hill Street Station
Starting point in Downtown LA
Chinatown West Gateway
Broadway & Cesar Chavez Avenue
10 minutes
Central Plaza
Jung Jing Road
15 minutes
North Broadway
Various dining options
10 minutes
Union Station
Final stop
7 Route: Big Blue Bus 1
Visit beautiful Santa Monica by bus
The Big Blue Bus 1 has 47 stops, and it connects Main Street and Santa Monica Boulevard with UCLA. Departing from Main / Market and ending at UCLA Hilgard Terminal, this bus route serves several key areas and landmarks along the way. As it travels along Main Street, passengers can soak in the coastal charm of Santa Monica, with its iconic pier and vibrant Third Street Promenade.
The Lincoln stop provides easy access to the Santa Monica History Museum. Other museums worth checking out are the Hammer Museum and Geffen Playhouse on Wilshire. The route ends near the UCLA campus with beautiful architecture and the Flower Museum.
Stop
Description
Estimated Time
Main Street & Santa Monica Boulevard
Starting point
Lincoln Boulevard
Santa Monica History Museum
10 to 15 minutes
Wilshire Blvd
Hammer Museum & Geffen Playhouse
15 to 20 minutes
UCLA Hilgard Terminal
Endpoint near the UCLA campus
1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes
Related 10 Of The Most Exciting Things You Can Do On The Santa Monica Pier The Santa Monica Pier is a popular SoCal attraction for visitors and locals alike. Here are some activities to explore for all ages and interests.
6 Route: Hollywood And Beaches
Take Metro 4 & Metro Rapid 720 to explore LA’s most famous sights
Hit Hollywood first! Explore the TCL Chinese Theatre, famous for handprints of movie stars. Built in the 1920s, this magnificent theater is celebrated for the handprints and footprints of movie stars set in concrete. Next, board the Metro Bus Line 4 and disembark at Santa Monica Pier, a site frequently showcased in films and TV shows.
This bus route operates regularly, and the journey takes approximately 1 hour. The pier, just a brief stroll from the bus stop, is home to Pacific Park, a free-entry amusement park. Finally, catch the Metro Rapid Bus Line 720 from Hollywood/Vine to Wilshire/Rodeo Drive. This express service is faster than standard buses, and from the bus stop, it’s only a short walk to Rodeo Drive, famed for celebrity sightings and its array of designer boutiques.
Stop (Line 4)
Description
Estimated Time
Hollywood & Vine
Starting point and TCL Chinese Theatre
Santa Monica Pier
Endpoint near the pier with amusement park and beach access (Pacific Park)
1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes
Transfer to Metro Rapid 720 (Optional)
Santa Monica Pier
Transfer point from Line 4
Wilshire/Rodeo Drive
Stop for celebrity spotting and high-end shopping
15 to 20 minutes
This route involves transferring between Metro Lines 4 and 720.
5 Route: Malibu
Take the Metro 534 to some of the area’s most famous beaches
Photo by Tom Briskey on Pexels
Zuma Beach, Malibu in California
Malibu’s pristine beaches and laid-back charm are within easy reach using Los Angeles public transportation. The bus ride on the 534 offers stunning coastal views of the Pacific Ocean, giving you a taste of Malibu’s natural beauty before you even arrive. The route primarily focuses on beaches and high-end destinations.
Hop off at your desired stop and sink your toes into the sand at iconic locations like Zuma Beach (known for its expansive shoreline) or Malibu Beach (a quintessential California beach experience). Paradise Cove, a secluded gem with limited public access, is also accessible for those seeking a quieter escape. The route includes stops near celebrity hotspots like Nobu Malibu (a high-end sushi restaurant) and Nicolas Eatery (a French bistro with ocean views).
Stop
Description
Estimated Time
Main Street & Santa Monica Boulveard
Starting point
Zuma Beach
Popular beach known for surfing
45 to 60 minutes
Malibu Beach
Classic California beach experience
10 to 15 minutes
Paradise Cove (Limited Public Access)
Secluded beach for a quieter escape
15 to 20 minutes
Nicolas Eatery
Celebrity hotspot for a French dining experience with ocean views
10 to 15 minutes
Related 7 California Beach Alternatives To Malibu Explore captivating California beach alternatives to Malibu Beach, offering scenic beauty and tranquility away from the crowds.
4 Route: Eastside Experience
Red Line Rapid 740 for a glimpse into Hollywood
The LA Metro system is extensive and its Red Line Rapid buses offer a great way to sightsee with fewer stops and more frequent service. For example, the Red Line Rapid 740 whisks you from Warner Center (home to Warner Bros. Studios) to bustling Downtown LA’s Union Station in 30 to 45 minutes. Along the way, you can hop off and explore Studio City’s shops, enjoy the entertainment hub of Universal CityWalk, or stroll down the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
The Rapid 740’s primary route is along Broadway, passing by attractions such as the Grand Central Market, the Theater at Ace Hotel, and the Historic Street Lighting Museum. To reach Grand Central Market, disembark at the Pershing Square Station. From Pershing Square Station, Grand Central Market is just a few blocks away.
Stop
Description
Estimated Time
Warner Center
Starting point, home to Warner Bros. Studios
Studio City
Explore shops and restaurants in this entertainment hub
10 to 15 minutes
Universal CityWalk
Immerse yourself in the world of entertainment
15 to 20 minutes
Hollywood Walk of Fame (East End)
See a portion of the famed sidewalk stars
10 to 15 minutes
Grand Central Market
Diverse food options in a historical landmark
15 to 20 minutes
3 Route: DASH Observatory / Hollywood Sign
Ride the DASH Observatory bus for cheap, but scenic views
The DASH Observatory bus sometimes referred to as the DASH Observatory/Los Feliz, runs from the Metro Red Line’s Vermont/Sunset Station to several locations in Griffith Park. A cheap and easy way to get to Griffith Observatory, one of the most famous sights in the city, is via this bus service.
There are locations throughout the bus route where you may see the Hollywood sign quite well. If that’s not enough, there’s also the 8.8-mile (4.4-mile round-trip) climb from Griffith Observatory to the Hollywood Sign on Mount Lee, which is a highly well-liked hike in Los Angeles. The DASH buses are easily accessible, spotless, and well-maintained. You can get off at several points along the route to enjoy a variety of clubs, places to eat, bars, and hotels.
Stop
Description
Estimated Time (one-way)
Vermont/Sunset Station
Starting point: Metro Red Line connection
1 to 1 hour 10 minutes
Griffith Observatory
Famous landmark with city views
15 to 20 minutes
Various Stops
Throughout the route with potential Hollywood Sign glimpses
Varies depending on the desired stop
2 Route: Downtown LA to Long Beach
Metro Bus Line 704 for a trip down the coast
For anyone seeking the quintessential Southern California experience, Metro Bus Line 704 is a must. This route runs from Downtown LA to the vibrant Long Beach in approximately 1 hour to 1 hour and 20 minutes, with air-conditioned comfort all the way.
En route, Metro 704 offers views of notable attractions such as the Aquarium of the Pacific and the Long Beach Shoreline, where one can partake in a variety of activities including kayaking, biking, or simply unwinding on the beach. An additional point of interest along the route is the Queen Mary, which is permanently docked in Long Beach.
Stop
Description
Estimated Time (one-way)
Downtown LA
Starting point
Aquarium of the Pacific
Renowned aquarium showcasing marine life
45 to 50 minutes
Long Beach Shoreline
Offers activities like kayaking, biking, and relaxing on the beach
1 to 1 hour 10 minutes
Queen Mary
Historic ocean liner permanently docked in Long Beach
1 to 1 hour 20 minutes
Eastern Los Angeles College
Historic educational institution
1 to 1 hour 20 minutes
1 Route: Boyle Heights
Metro Bus Line 60 to the cultural eastern side of LA
GTD Aquitaine, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s Mariachi Plaza station
Discover a different side of Los Angeles, away from the usual tourist spots. This route takes you on a journey through the city’s eastern side, starting from the world of entertainment in Universal City and ending in the historic and culturally rich Boyle Heights neighborhood.
Disembark near 1st / Boyle and immerse yourself in the heart of Boyle Heights, a vibrant Latino community. Explore Mariachi Plaza, a cultural landmark known for its street performers, vibrant murals, and traditional Mexican restaurants. Alight near Brooklyn / Soto to visit the campus of Eastern Los Angeles College, a historic educational institution celebrated for its diverse student population and dedication to social justice. The renowned Self Help Graphics & Art Inc. is along the route near Soto / Chavez. It’s a non-profit organization and its gallery showcases works by local artists and offers workshops.
Stop
Description
Estimated Time (one-way)
Universal City (Universal CityWalk)
Starting point, entertainment complex near Universal Studios Hollywood
1st / Boyle
Stop in the heart of Boyle Heights, a vibrant Latino community
30 to 40 minutes
Mariachi Plaza
Cultural landmark with street performers, murals, and restaurants
35 to 45 minutes (including stop at 1st / Boyle)
Brooklyn / Soto
Stop near Eastern Los Angeles College
40 to 50 minutes
Eastern Los Angeles College (optional stop)
Historic educational institution
45 to 55 minutes
Soto / Chavez
Stop near Self Help Graphics & Art Inc.
50 to 60 minutes
Boyle Heights
Endpoint