How to Get to Pasadena from Union Station [2025-2026 Guide]

Posted on by John Mathew

How to Get to Pasadena from Union Station [2025–2026 Guide]

Travel from Union Station Los Angeles to Pasadena in 25–30 minutes by Metro Gold Line ($1.75–$2.00) or 20–25 minutes by taxi/Uber ($25–35) for fast, convenient access to downtown Pasadena attractions.

Pasadena, California is a historic city known for attractions like the Rose Bowl, Norton Simon Museum, and Old Town Pasadena. Traveling from Union Station Los Angeles to Pasadena is straightforward with multiple options, including public transit, rideshare, and driving routes. This guide covers all 2025–2026 options, including travel time, cost, and accessibility.

🚇 Option 1: Metro Gold Line (Affordable & Reliable)

The Metro Gold Line (L Line) offers a fast and budget-friendly way to reach Pasadena from Union Station.

  • Board the Gold Line at Union Station heading northeast toward APU/Citrus College.

  • Disembark at Lake Avenue, Memorial Park, or Del Mar stations, all located in central Pasadena near major attractions.

  • Travel time: Approximately 25–30 minutes.

  • Cost: $1.75–$2.00 using TAP card or contactless payment.

  • Best for: Tourists, students, and commuters seeking a cost-effective and direct route without traffic concerns.

🚖 Option 2: Taxi, Uber, or Lyft (Fastest Door-to-Door)

If convenience is your priority, a taxi or rideshare provides a direct route from Union Station to Pasadena.

  • Pick up a taxi, Uber, or Lyft at Union Station and follow US-101 North to CA-110 North toward Pasadena.

  • Travel time: 20–25 minutes depending on traffic conditions.

  • Cost: $25–$35.

  • Best for: Travelers with luggage, mobility needs, or tight schedules, or anyone wanting a stress-free trip.

🚗 Option 3: Driving Your Own Car (Flexible & Comfortable)

Driving from Union Station to Pasadena gives you flexibility for stops or luggage.

  • Head north on US-101, then merge onto CA-110 North toward Pasadena.

  • Travel time: 20–25 minutes under normal traffic conditions.

  • Cost: Fuel cost only; parking in Pasadena varies ($5–$20/hour).

  • Best for: Visitors who want control over timing or multiple stops along the route.

♿ Option 4: Accessibility Options (Wheelchair-Friendly)

All routes from Union Station to Pasadena are accessible for wheelchairs or strollers.

  • Metro Gold Line stations have elevators, ramps, and accessible boarding platforms.

  • Rideshare and taxis provide door-to-door service with accessible vehicles upon request.

  • Travel time: Metro 25–30 minutes, taxi 20–25 minutes.

  • Cost: Metro fare $1.75–$2.00; taxi $25–$35.

  • Best for: Wheelchair users, travelers with strollers, or those needing extra accessibility support.

✅ Travel Summary Table

Option Route Time Cost Best For
🚇 Metro Gold Line Union Station → Gold Line → Pasadena stations 25–30 mins $1.75–$2.00 Affordable & reliable
🚖 Taxi/Uber/Lyft Union Station → US-101 N → CA-110 N → Pasadena 20–25 mins $25–$35 Fast & convenient
🚗 Driving Union Station → US-101 N → CA-110 N → Pasadena 20–25 mins Fuel + parking Flexible & comfortable
♿ Accessibility Metro elevators/rideshare accessible vehicles 25–30 mins $1.75–$35 Wheelchair & stroller friendly

❓ FAQs: How to Get to Pasadena from Union Station

1. How far is Pasadena from Union Station LA?
It’s approximately 11–13 miles northeast of Union Station, depending on your route.

2. How long does it take to reach Pasadena from Union Station?
Metro Gold Line: 25–30 minutes; taxi/Uber: 20–25 minutes; driving: 20–25 minutes.

3. What is the cost to travel from Union Station to Pasadena?
Metro Gold Line fare is $1.75–$2.00, taxi/Uber ranges $25–$35, and driving cost depends on fuel and parking.

4. Can I take public transit to Pasadena from Union Station?
Yes, the Metro Gold Line provides direct service to several central Pasadena stations.

5. Are taxis or rideshares necessary to reach Pasadena?
Not necessary, but rideshare or taxi is faster and door-to-door, ideal for luggage or tight schedules.

6. Is Pasadena accessible for wheelchairs or strollers?
Yes, Metro stations, taxis, and rideshare vehicles are wheelchair-accessible, and streets in Pasadena have accessible pathways.

7. Which Metro Gold Line stations are closest to Pasadena attractions?
Lake Avenue, Memorial Park, and Del Mar stations provide easy access to Old Town Pasadena, Rose Bowl, and local museums.

✅ With this guide, you now know the fastest, most affordable, and most convenient ways to travel from Union Station Los Angeles to Pasadena in 2025–2026, whether by Metro, rideshare, driving, or accessibility-friendly routes.

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