Metro Gold Line Map
Los Angeles County is not only known for its sunny beaches and luxurious lifestyle, but also for its efficient transportation system. One of the most popular ways to get around LA is through the Metro Gold Line, a light rail system that connects several cities and neighborhoods. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, the Metro Gold Line is a convenient and affordable way to explore the best of LA. In this travel guide, we’ll take you on a journey along the Gold Line and show you the top attractions, hidden gems, and unforgettable experiences along the way.
Top Attractions
Starting from the Atlantic Station in East LA, the Metro Gold Line takes you through some of the most iconic landmarks in the city. One of the must-see attractions is the Union Station, a historical train station that reflects the Art Deco style of the 1930s. From there, you can walk to the Olvera Street, a vibrant Mexican marketplace that offers traditional food, crafts, and entertainment. Another popular destination is the Chinatown, where you can immerse yourself in the Chinese culture and enjoy delicious cuisine.
Hidden Gems
If you’re looking for a more off-the-beaten-path experience, the Metro Gold Line has plenty of hidden gems to offer. For example, the Southwest Museum Station takes you to the Autry Museum of the American West, a fascinating collection of art, artifacts, and stories that showcase the diversity of the American West. Another hidden gem is the Highland Park Bowl, a retro-style bowling alley that serves craft cocktails and gourmet pizzas.
Food Scene
Los Angeles is known for its diverse and delicious food scene, and the Metro Gold Line is no exception. From authentic Mexican food in Boyle Heights to trendy cafes in Pasadena, there’s something for every palate. One of the best spots for foodies is the Grand Central Market, a bustling indoor market that offers a variety of international cuisines and local specialties. If you’re looking for a unique dining experience, try the Mian, a noodle bar that serves hand-pulled noodles and dumplings in a casual setting.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Exploring LA can be expensive, but there are ways to save money while riding the Metro Gold Line. One of the best ways is to purchase a TAP card, a reusable card that allows you to pay for your fare and transfer between different modes of transportation. Another tip is to take advantage of the free shuttle services that connect the Gold Line stations to nearby attractions, such as the Dodger Stadium Express or the Pasadena ARTS Bus.
Outdoor Adventures
LA is blessed with sunny weather and beautiful natural landscapes, and the Metro Gold Line can take you to some of the best outdoor adventures in the city. For example, the Memorial Park Station in Pasadena is the starting point of the Arroyo Seco Trail, a scenic hike that offers stunning views of the San Gabriel Mountains and the LA skyline. Another option is to take the Gold Line to the Sierra Madre Villa Station and explore the Angeles National Forest, a vast wilderness area that offers camping, hiking, and wildlife watching.
Historical Landmarks
LA has a rich history that is reflected in its architecture, museums, and monuments. Riding the Metro Gold Line is a great way to discover the city’s historical landmarks, such as the Pasadena City Hall, a stunning example of Mediterranean Revival architecture that dates back to 1927. Another landmark is the Gamble House, a masterpiece of Arts and Crafts architecture that was built in 1908 and is now open for public tours.
Family-Friendly Activities
If you’re traveling with kids, the Metro Gold Line has plenty of family-friendly activities to offer. One of the best options is the Kidspace Children’s Museum, a hands-on museum in Pasadena that encourages learning and creativity through interactive exhibits and workshops. Another fun destination is the Griffith Observatory, a world-class observatory that offers free admission and breathtaking views of the city.
Natural Wonders
LA is not only a city of concrete and steel, but also a city of natural wonders. The Metro Gold Line can take you to some of the most beautiful and unique natural sites in the region, such as the Monrovia Canyon Park, a lush wilderness area that features a waterfall, a nature center, and hiking trails. Another natural wonder is the Devil’s Gate Dam, a scenic spot that offers panoramic views of the San Gabriel Mountains and the Arroyo Seco.
Vibrant Nightlife
LA is known for its vibrant nightlife, and the Metro Gold Line can take you to some of the hottest bars, clubs, and music venues in the city. One of the best spots for nightlife is the Old Town Pasadena, a pedestrian-friendly district that offers a variety of bars, restaurants, and entertainment. Another option is the Highland Park, a trendy neighborhood that features craft breweries, live music, and eclectic shops.
Local Markets
One of the best ways to experience the local culture is through the markets, and the Metro Gold Line has several markets to offer. One of the most popular is the Pasadena Farmers Market, a weekly market that features fresh produce, artisanal goods, and live music. Another option is the South Pasadena Farmers Market, a smaller market that offers a cozy and friendly atmosphere.
Beaches and Mountains
LA is blessed with a variety of landscapes, from sunny beaches to towering mountains, and the Metro Gold Line can take you to both. For example, the Gold Line takes you to the Sierra Madre Villa Station, where you can take a shuttle to the Mount Wilson Observatory, a historic landmark that offers stunning views of the LA basin and the Pacific Ocean. Another option is to take the Gold Line to the Memorial Park Station and transfer to the Gold Line Shuttle to the Rose Bowl Stadium, a famous venue that hosts sports events, concerts, and flea markets.
Cultural Immersion
LA is a melting pot of cultures, and the Metro Gold Line can take you to some of the most vibrant and diverse neighborhoods in the city. For example, the Mariachi Plaza Station in Boyle Heights is a hub of Mexican culture, where you can listen to live music, taste authentic food, and buy traditional crafts. Another cultural destination is the Little Tokyo, a historic district that offers a glimpse into the Japanese-American heritage through its museums, gardens, and festivals.
Art and Music Scene
LA is home to some of the most innovative and influential artists and musicians in the world, and the Metro Gold Line can take you to some of the most creative and inspiring venues in the city. One of the best spots for art lovers is the Pasadena Museum of California Art, a museum that showcases the art and design of California through its permanent and temporary exhibitions. Another destination is the Highland Park Bowl, a bowling alley that doubles as a music venue and hosts live performances by local and national artists.
Walking Tours
One of the best ways to discover LA is on foot, and the Metro Gold Line offers several walking tours that explore the city’s history, architecture, and culture. For example, the Gold Line Walking Tour in Pasadena takes you on a 3.8-mile route that covers some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, such as the City Hall, the Civic Auditorium, and the Colorado Street Bridge. Another walking tour is the Boyle Heights Walking Tour, a self-guided tour that introduces you to the neighborhood’s rich history and culture.
Architectural Marvels
LA is home to some of the most impressive and innovative architectural designs in the world, and the Metro Gold Line can take you to some of the most iconic and unique buildings in the city. For example, the Del Mar Station in Pasadena is located near the Colorado Boulevard, a street that features several examples of Art Deco and Beaux-Arts architecture, such as the Pasadena Civic Auditorium and the Raymond Theatre. Another architectural marvel is the Bradbury Building, a historic landmark that features a stunning atrium and has been featured in several movies and TV shows.
Historical Sites
LA has a rich and diverse history that is reflected in its museums, monuments, and historical sites. The Metro Gold Line can take you to some of the most fascinating and significant sites in the city, such as the San Gabriel Mission, a historic landmark that was founded in 1771 and is now a museum and a church. Another historical site is the Heritage Square Museum, a living history museum that preserves and interprets the history of the city through its restored Victorian-era homes and buildings.
Biking Routes
LA is a bike-friendly city, and the Metro Gold Line offers several biking routes that connect the stations to the nearby bike paths and trails. For example, the South Pasadena Station is located near the Arroyo Seco Bike Path, a scenic route that follows the Arroyo Seco stream and offers a peaceful and refreshing ride. Another option is the Duarte Bike Trail, a 1.6-mile route that starts at the Duarte/City of Hope Station and takes you through the scenic San Gabriel River Trail.
Wellness Retreats
LA is also known for its wellness and fitness scene, and the Metro Gold Line can take you to some of the best wellness retreats and spas in the city. For example, the Memorial Park