“Making My Way Downtown”: Navigating LA Transit from USC

One of the best parts about being a Trojan is living in the heart of Los Angeles: A vibrant city with endless possibilities--, from world-class museums to iconic eateries, ---all waiting to be explored. But let’s be honest: navigating a city as sprawling as LA can feel like a Herculean task. No worries! This guide will help you make the most of LA’s public transit system while keeping your adventure stress-free.

1. Getting to Know LA Transit: The Basics

Los Angeles’ public transportation network, operated by Metro, is far more extensive than most people think. Here are the key components:

• Metro Rail: Six rail lines that cover the city and beyond, including the Expo Line, which conveniently has a stop just steps away from campus at Expo Park/USC.

• Metro Bus: A network of local, rapid, and express buses connecting neighborhoods.

• DASH: Affordable, short-distance shuttles perfect for quick trips around downtown.

• Bike & Scooter Rentals: For short strolls, Metro Bike Share and various scooter options (like Lime and Bird) are widely available.

Pro tip: Download the Metro Transit App to plan routes, check schedules, and even pay your fare. However, as a USC student, you can get a TAP card for free!

Making the Most of Metro: Key Destinations

The Metro Expo Line is your gateway to downtown, but it’s also your first step to exploring all that LA has to offer. Here’s how to reach some of the city’s most iconic spots:

• Crypto.com Arena (formerly Staples Center): Whether USC students are cheering on the Lakers, Clippers, Sparks, or Kings, this is the place to experience LA’s electric sports culture. The arena also hosts some of the biggest concerts and events in the world, making it a can’t-miss destination for entertainment lovers.
  Metro Stop: Pico Station (Expo/Blue Line)

• Grand Central Market: For foodies, this historic marketplace is a dream come true. Located in the heart of downtown, it features vendors offering everything from fresh tacos to artisanal ice cream. Students will find a perfect blend of flavors from LA’s diverse communities here.
  Metro Stop: Pershing Square Station (Red/Purple Line)

• The Broad Museum: With its cutting-edge architecture and impressive collection of contemporary art, The Broad Museum is a cultural hotspot. Admission is free, but reservations are recommended to avoid waiting in line. Its famous Infinity Mirrored Room is an unforgettable experience!
  Metro Stop: Civic Center/Grand Park Station (Red/Purple Line)

• Little Tokyo: Our students can dive into Japanese culture, cuisine, and shopping in this vibrant neighborhood. They can enjoy authentic ramen, pick up handmade goods, or visit the Japanese American National Museum to learn about Japanese American history.

Metro Stop: Little Tokyo/Arts District Station (Expo Line)

• The Last Bookstore: A must-visit for book lovers, this iconic bookstore features winding shelves, a book tunnel, and a labyrinth of used books. It’s not just a place to shop—it’s an experience. Our students loved the art galleries upstairs for its “Instagrammable” spots.

  Metro Stop: Pershing Square Station (Red/Purple Line)

• Dodger Stadium: Whether USC students are catching a Dodgers game or attending a special event, Dodger Stadium is an LA landmark. Set against the backdrop of the city skyline, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy America’s favorite pastime.

  How to Get There: Take the Expo Line to 7^th St/Metro Center, Transfer to the Red/Purple Line and take it to Union Station, then hop on the free Dodger Stadium Express shuttle on game days.

Go Beyond Downtown

For USC students looking to expand their horizons, here’s how to reach other must-see destinations around Los Angeles:

• Santa Monica: The quintessential Southern California experience awaits at the Santa Monica Pier and its stunning beaches. Students can ride the iconic Ferris wheel, grab a bite at the waterfront, or simply enjoy the ocean breeze. It’s the perfect spot for them to escape the hustle of the city.

  How to Get There: Take the Expo Line westbound to Downtown Santa Monica Station (end of the line).

• Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA): From ancient artifacts to cutting-edge installations, LACMA offers a little something for everyone. Our students know to snap a photo at the “Urban Light” installation—a collection of restored streetlamps that’s become an LA landmark. Nearby are the Petersen Automotive Museum and the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, for a full day of exploring.

  How to Get There: Take the Expo Line to Wilshire/Western Station, then transfer to the Metro Rapid 720 bus heading west to Wilshire Blvd/Fairfax Ave.

• Hollywood Walk of Fame: Students can take a stroll along Hollywood Boulevard and discover the stars of their favorite actors, musicians, and entertainers embedded in the sidewalk. The area is also home to the iconic TCL Chinese Theatre, where there are the handprints of legends like Marilyn Monroe and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson.

  How to Get There: Take the Expo Line to 7th St/Metro Center Station, then transfer to the Red Line northbound to Hollywood/Highland Station.

• Universal Studios Hollywood: Students can dive into the magic of movie -making at this world-famous theme park. Whether exploring the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, taking the behind-the-scenes studio tour, or braving thrill rides, there’s something for everyone.

  How to Get There: Take the Expo Line to 7th St/Metro Center Station, transfer to the Red Line northbound to Universal City/Studio City Station, then take the free shuttle to Universal Studios.

• West Hollywood: Known for its trendy shops, vibrant nightlife, and LGBTQ+ pride, West Hollywood is a cultural gem. Students can spend the afternoon exploring the chic boutiques along Melrose Avenue or dining at some of LA’s hottest restaurants. By evening, the iconic Sunset Strip comes alive with live music and entertainment.

  How to Get There: Take the Expo Line to 7th St/Metro Center Station, then transfer to the Metro Rapid 704 bus heading west to Santa Monica Blvd/La Cienega Blvd.

With a free TAP card in hand, LA’s endless possibilities are just a train or bus ride away for USC students. LA without a car seems daunting at first for our students, but once they got the hang of the transit system, it became a treasure trove of experiences.

Written By: Tyler Swartout, International Admissions Officer – Office of Undergraduate Admission