Getting Around Los Angeles Without a Car

Though cars are an iconic part of the coastal California landscape, driving around the city alone can be stressful with all the traffic. Our guide to getting around Los Angeles without a car should help you make the most of your visit.

LAX FlyAway Bus

Worried about getting to and from the airport without a car? The LAX FlyAway bus has you covered. Instead of shelling out for an Uber or Lyft, you can ride in style to one of six destinations (including Hollywood and Downtown) for just $10.

Please check the schedule in advance, but the bus is an economical and efficient option. The waiting area should be clearly labeled in your terminal when you arrive at LAX, so there'll be no guesswork or stress involved.

L.A. Metro Red Line

If you're staying in Hollywood, the Red Line can take you to Universal Studios Hollywood or Downtown Los Angeles in no time. This transportation option also allows you to see the Hollywood Sign in person.

Even if you stay Downtown, the Red Line will take you to Hollywood in just 20 minutes. And as a bonus, the Downtown area is a very walkable section of the city, especially compared to New York.

Town Car or Limo

If money is no object—or at least not a major concern—you can hire a car and driver to act as your private chauffeur. This is a nice option for solo travelers, as you'll be able to use the carpool lane and reduce your time in transit.

Hiring a town car can be less expensive than shelling out shuttle fares or individual tours when traveling with a group. Large families might also want to look into this option. The kids will get a kick out of the special attention, and the parents won't be arguing over directions for the trip, so it's a win.

Metro Bus

Buses aren't widely regarded as a posh transportation option, and the ones in LA are no exception. But they still offer a quick and convenient means of getting around Los Angeles without a car.

Though there may be a few bad apples, most buses are clean and air-conditioned. Best of all, it's super affordable—you can get from Santa Monica to Downtown for just a few bucks. Depending on the hour and the circumstances, taking the bus can be faster than driving.

Sightseeing Tours

Make the most of your time in LA by taking a sightseeing tour. Some involve a lot of walking, but biking and horseback riding tours are also available, along with several that use buses to haul curious tourists around.

Starline Tours, for example, offers a Grand City Tour, taking you through highlights such as the La Brea Tar Pits, Rodeo Drive, and Olvera Street. The Hop-On Hop-Off Bus tour is more flexible, offering three narrated tour routes with stops at dozens of locales, all of which provide access to numerous attractions.

We hope you'll make the Hollywood Sign one of your top destinations while getting around Los Angeles without a car. Looking forward to seeing you soon!