How to Get to Ontario from Los Angeles [2025 Guide]
To get from Los Angeles to Ontario, you can drive, take a Metrolink train from Union Station, take an Amtrak train, use a bus service, or use a ride-share service like Uber or Lyft. Driving is the fastest option at about 45 minutes to an hour, while Metrolink is a convenient and affordable choice for public transit users, taking roughly an hour.
🍁 Why Travel from Los Angeles to Ontario?
When people say Ontario, they might mean either Ontario, California or Ontario, Canada. The travel options are very different, so let’s break them down clearly.
- Ontario, California (ONT): Just east of Los Angeles in the Inland Empire, home to Ontario International Airport.
- Ontario, Canada (Toronto): Across the U.S.-Canada border, requiring a long flight or multiple-day drive.
This guide covers both destinations so you know exactly how to plan your 2025 trip.
🚗 Option 1: Los Angeles to Ontario, California (Fastest Local Trip)
If you’re heading to Ontario, California from Los Angeles:
- Distance: ~40–45 miles east of Downtown LA
- Driving Time: 45 minutes–1.5 hours (depending on traffic)
- Best Route: Take I-10 East or I-60 East
👉 Driving is the most convenient way, especially if you’re catching a flight at Ontario International Airport (ONT).
🚌 Option 2: Bus from Los Angeles to Ontario, California
Buses also connect LA to Ontario.
- Operators: Greyhound, FlixBus, Omnitrans
- Travel Time: 1–1.5 hours
- Cost: $10–$25 one way
- Departure: Downtown Los Angeles or Union Station
👉 A budget-friendly alternative if you don’t want to drive.
✅ Compare the best hotel deals and offers in your destination before you book.
🚆 Option 3: Train from Los Angeles to Ontario, California
Amtrak and Metrolink provide train services.
- Route: Los Angeles Union Station → East Ontario Station
- Travel Time: ~1.5–2 hours
- Cost: $15–$25
- Perk: Comfortable ride without worrying about traffic.
✈️ Option 4: Flight from Los Angeles to Ontario, Canada
If you’re traveling to Ontario, Canada (Toronto), flying is the best choice.
- Airlines from LAX: Air Canada, WestJet, Delta, United, American Airlines
- Direct Flight: Los Angeles (LAX) → Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ)
- Flight Duration: ~4.5–5 hours
- Cost (Round Trip): $250–$600 depending on season
👉 This is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Ontario, Canada.
🚗 Option 5: Drive from Los Angeles to Ontario, Canada
A road trip from LA to Toronto is an epic adventure.
- Distance: ~2,500 miles (4,020 km)
- Driving Time: 36–40 hours (spread over 5–7 days)
- Route: I-15 North → I-80 East → I-90 East into Canada
- Cost: ~$400–$700 in gas + hotels
👉 This is for road trip lovers who want to see multiple U.S. states along the way.
✅ Compare the best hotel deals and offers in your destination before you book.
📊 Quick Comparison Table
| Destination | Mode | Travel Time | Cost (One-Way) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ontario, CA | 🚗 Car | 45–90 min | Gas ~$10–$15 | Convenience & speed |
| Ontario, CA | 🚌 Bus | 1–1.5 hrs | $10–$25 | Budget travelers |
| Ontario, CA | 🚆 Train | 1.5–2 hrs | $15–$25 | Relaxed ride |
| Ontario, Canada | ✈️ Flight | 4.5–5 hrs | $250–$600 RT | Fastest & easiest |
| Ontario, Canada | 🚗 Drive | 5–7 days | $400–$700+ | Road trip lovers |
🙋 FAQs About Getting to Ontario from Los Angeles
1. How far is Ontario, California from Los Angeles?
It’s about 40–45 miles east of Downtown LA, around an hour’s drive.
2. What’s the cheapest way to get to Ontario, California from Los Angeles?
Buses like FlixBus and Greyhound cost as little as $10 one way.
3. Can you take a train to Ontario, California?
Yes, Metrolink and Amtrak run routes from Union Station to East Ontario.
4. How long is the flight from Los Angeles to Ontario, Canada?
A direct flight to Toronto takes about 4.5–5 hours.
5. Is there a direct train from Los Angeles to Ontario, Canada?
No, traveling by train would require multiple transfers and days of travel—flying is much faster.
6. Can I drive from Los Angeles to Ontario, Canada?
Yes, but it’s a long 2,500-mile road trip that takes around a week with stops.
✅ Final Tip: In 2025, the best way to get to Ontario depends on your destination. For Ontario, California, driving is fastest, while for Ontario, Canada, a direct flight is the most practical.