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

Posted on by John Mathew

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

Learn the best ways to get from Union Station Los Angeles to USC (University of Southern California) in 2025–2026. Options include Metro Expo Line, bus, taxi/Uber, or walking. Find times, fares, and travel tips.

If you’re in Downtown Los Angeles’ Union Station and need to reach the University of Southern California (USC), you’re in luck—USC is only a few miles away. The campus is easily accessible by Metro rail, bus, rideshare, or taxi. Whether you’re a student heading to class, a parent visiting, or a tourist attending an event at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum or Galen Center, this guide explains every way to get to USC from Union Station.

🚇 Option 1: Metro E Line (Expo Line) – Fastest Public Transit

The Metro E Line (formerly Expo Line) is the most direct and convenient way to travel from Union Station to USC.

  1. From Union Station, take the Metro B (Red) or D (Purple) Line two stops to 7th Street/Metro Center.

  2. Transfer to the Metro E Line (Expo Line) toward Santa Monica.

  3. Exit at either Expo Park/USC Station or Jefferson/USC Station, both located right next to the campus.

  • Time: ~20–25 minutes total

  • Cost: $1.75 one-way (with TAP card or contactless payment)

  • Best for: Students, commuters, and visitors who want a cheap, reliable, and traffic-free ride.

🚌 Option 2: Metro Bus – Budget-Friendly Ride

Several buses connect Union Station to USC, though travel times may vary depending on LA traffic.

  • The Metro Silver Line (J Line) from Union Station travels down the 110 Freeway and connects near USC at 37th Street/USC Station.

  • Local buses such as the Metro Line 81, 200, or 204 also run from Downtown toward the USC area.

  • Time: 25–35 minutes depending on traffic

  • Cost: $1.75 per ride (TAP card or cash)

  • Best for: Riders who prefer direct surface travel or are already using the Metro bus network.

🚖 Option 3: Taxi or Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) – Quickest Door-to-Door

If you prefer a direct and comfortable option, a taxi or rideshare is the fastest way to USC.

  • The drive is only about 2.5 miles south of Union Station.

  • Travel time is usually 10–15 minutes in light traffic but can increase during rush hour.

  • Rideshare apps can drop you off at specific USC gates, the USC Village, or near the Coliseum.

  • Time: 10–20 minutes

  • Cost: $10–20 depending on traffic and surge pricing

  • Best for: Families, groups, or visitors with luggage who want door-to-door convenience.

🚶 Option 4: Walking or Biking – Scenic but Longer

If you enjoy urban exploring, you could technically walk or bike from Union Station to USC, but it’s a bit of a stretch.

  • Walking takes about 45–50 minutes (2.5 miles).

  • Biking via Figueroa Street or using Metro Bike Share cuts the trip to 15–20 minutes.

  • Time: Walking 45–50 mins / Biking 15–20 mins

  • Cost: Free (walking) or $1.75+ (bike share)

  • Best for: Those who enjoy a scenic trip through Downtown LA or want exercise.

✅ Travel Summary Table

Option Route Time Cost Best For
🚇 Metro E Line Union Station → 7th/Metro → Expo Park/USC 20–25 mins $1.75 Fastest public transit
🚌 Metro Bus Silver Line J or local buses 25–35 mins $1.75 Budget surface travel
🚖 Taxi/Uber/Lyft Direct via Figueroa or 110 Freeway 10–20 mins $10–20 Direct & convenient
🚶 Walk/Bike Downtown → USC (2.5 miles) 15–50 mins Free / $1.75+ Scenic option

❓ FAQs: How to Get to USC from Union Station

1. How far is USC from Union Station Los Angeles?
USC is about 2.5 miles south of Union Station.

2. What’s the fastest way to get to USC from Union Station?
A taxi or Uber is fastest at 10–15 minutes, while the Metro E Line is the most reliable and avoids traffic.

3. How much is the train from Union Station to USC?
The Metro fare is $1.75 per ride using a TAP card or contactless payment.

4. Can I take the Metro directly to USC?
Yes. Transfer from Union Station to the E Line at 7th Street/Metro Center, then exit at Expo Park/USC Station.

5. Does the Metro Silver Line (J Line) go to USC?
Yes, it stops near 37th Street/USC Station, which is within walking distance of campus.

6. How long does it take to walk to USC from Union Station?
It takes about 45–50 minutes to walk, or 15–20 minutes by bike.

7. What’s the cheapest way to get from Union Station to USC?
The Metro train or bus at $1.75 is the cheapest option.

8. Can I bike from Union Station to USC?
Yes. Using Metro Bike Share or your own bike, you can ride to USC in 15–20 minutes.

✅ With this guide, you now know exactly how to get to USC from Union Station in 2025–2026—whether you’re a student, a commuter, or just visiting for a game at the Coliseum.

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