If you’re planning to attend a Lakers or Clippers game, a concert, or any major event in Downtown LA, knowing how to get to Crypto.com Arena from Union Station in 2026 can save you time and stress.
This guide provides the fastest, cheapest, and most convenient options to travel between Los Angeles Union Station and Crypto.com Arena, formerly known as Staples Center. Whether you’re riding the Metro, catching a bus, driving, or walking, this guide has all the updated travel tips you need.
🚆 🚇 Option 1: Metro Rail – Fastest & Most Reliable Option
Taking the Los Angeles Metro Rail is the fastest, most reliable, and budget-friendly way to travel from Union Station to Crypto.com Arena without dealing with Downtown LA traffic. Board either the Metro B Line (Red) or Metro D Line (Purple) subway toward 7th Street/Metro Center, which runs every 10 to 12 minutes during peak transit hours.
After a quick ride, exit at the 7th Street/Metro Center Station and take a flat, 10-minute walk southwest straight to the arena doors, bringing the total trip time to approximately 15 to 18 minutes.
At just $1.75 one-way via a TAP card, this climate-controlled subway route offers major cost savings compared to rideshares or arena parking fees.
The entire transit journey is fully ADA accessible, featuring working elevators and escalators at every station for travelers with mobility needs. For live train arrivals, platform alerts, and digital fare payments, download the official Transit app or LA Metro Transit app before heading to the platform.
🚌 🚌 Option 2: Metro Bus – Cheapest with More Stops
Route: Take Metro Bus Line 78, 79, or 378 from Union Station (Patsaouras Transit Plaza) to Figueroa St/Wilshire Blvd, then walk 10–12 minutes
Travel Time: ~25–35 minutes depending on traffic
Fare: $1.75 with TAP card
Pros: Cheap, frequent service
Cons: Slower than Metro Rail, susceptible to traffic delays
Accessibility: All Metro buses are ADA compliant and bike-friendly
🚖 🚗 Option 3: Taxi or Ride-Share (Uber, Lyft) – Best for Convenience
Taking a taxi or ride-share service like Uber or Lyft offers the most convenient, door-to-door transportation option from Union Station to Crypto.com Arena in Downtown Los Angeles. Covering a distance of roughly 2.5 miles, the trip typically takes 10 to 15 minutes, though travel times fluctuate based on real-time DTLA traffic conditions.
Depending on demand and dynamic surge pricing, standard one-way fares generally range between $10 and $18, making it an affordable, hassle-free choice when splitting costs among groups or heading home after late-night concerts and sporting events.
For pickup at Union Station, passengers can head directly to the designated ride-share zones at the East Portal or along Alameda Street.
Drivers typically drop off passengers curbside near the main Figueroa Street entrance of Crypto.com Arena, providing direct access to the venue without requiring additional walking. While ridesharing eliminates the need to navigate public transit or pay for expensive venue parking garages, travelers should anticipate potential traffic delays, road closures, and higher peak fares immediately before and after major arena events.
🚶♀️ 🚶 Option 4: Walking – Scenic but Only for the Fit
Distance: ~2.5 miles (approx. 50–55 minutes on foot)
Route: South on Alameda St → West on 7th St → South on Figueroa St
Safety Tip: Avoid late-night walking unless in groups
Pros: Free, gives you a feel of DTLA
Cons: Not practical for hot days or tight schedules
🚘 🚘 Option 5: Driving & Parking at Crypto Arena
Driving directly to Crypto.com Arena from Union Station is a straightforward choice for travelers prioritizing personal vehicle flexibility when attending games, concerts, and live events in Downtown Los Angeles.
The primary driving route heads west on Cesar Chavez Avenue, turns left onto Grand Avenue, takes a right onto 11th Street, and finally turns right onto Figueroa Street, leading straight into the arena and L.A. LIVE entertainment district.
Event parking options surrounding the venue are plentiful, with official on-site facilities including the L.A. LIVE West Garage, Lot W (Gate B), and Lot C. Official parking rates generally range from $20 to $40, though pricing fluctuates depending on the specific event, artist, or team playing.
To guarantee a parking spot, secure early-bird rates, and skip post-event payment queues, reserve a designated space in advance through the Crypto.com Arena official website or authorized parking partners prior to arrival.
Final Recommendation
For most travelers, taking the Metro B or D Line from Union Station to 7th Street/Metro Center is the fastest and most cost-effective option in 2026. From there, it’s just a short 10-minute walk to Crypto Arena. If you’re in a rush or traveling with family, a ride-share or taxi may be more comfortable. Buses are best avoided during rush hours, and walking is doable but not ideal for first-time visitors or nighttime events.
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FAQs About How to Get to Crypto Arena from Union Station in 2026
What is the fastest way to get to Crypto Arena from Union Station?
Take the Metro B or D Line from Union Station to 7th Street/Metro Center, then walk 10 minutes to Crypto Arena. Total travel time is about 15–18 minutes.
Is there a direct train from Union Station to Crypto.com Arena?
No direct train, but you can take the Metro Red or Purple Line to 7th/Metro and walk 10 minutes. It’s the quickest public transit route.
Can I walk from Union Station to Crypto Arena?
Yes, it’s possible. The walk is about 2.5 miles and takes 50–55 minutes. Not recommended during extreme weather or late hours.
How much does a taxi or Uber cost from Union Station to Crypto Arena?
Expect to pay around $10–$18, depending on the time of day and demand.
Are LA Metro buses available from Union Station to Crypto Arena?
Yes, Metro Bus Lines 78, 79, and 378 stop near Crypto Arena. However, travel time is longer due to traffic.
Where can I park near Crypto Arena if I’m driving from Union Station?
You can park at L.A. Live garages or Lot W near Crypto Arena. Prices range from $20–$40 depending on the event.
🛂 Trusted Government Sources
- LA Metro – Official Transit Info
- Los Angeles Department of Transportation (LADOT)
- Crypto Arena Events & Parking
Pro Tip: If you’re attending a sold-out event, plan to leave Union Station at least 60–75 minutes before the start time to account for walking, crowds, and security checks at Crypto Arena.