7th Street/Metro Center Station
LA's busiest transit hub, connecting 5 major Metro lines and undergoing Olympic-era renovations.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Catch the commuter rush, see DTLA wake up.
7th Street/Metro Center Station
Best Time
Catch the commuter rush, see DTLA wake up.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
LA's busiest transit hub, connecting 5 major Metro lines and undergoing Olympic-era renovations. +1
"The Metro Subways are the best kept Secret in L.A... for less than 2 Bucks you can travel South to Long Beach, North Hollywood, East to Pasadena or West to Santa Monica..."
🎯 Use the Metro App
Simplify your journey with real-time schedules and route planning. :iphone:
🤝 Ask for Help
If confused about tapping in or out, ask station staff for guidance. :question:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Concourse
Main concourse area
Witness the bustling heart of LA's transit system, where multiple lines converge. A true urban artery.
Olympic Renovation Sneak Peek
Various platforms and walkways
See upgrades like new lighting and flooring, preparing the station for the 2028 Olympics.
Seasonal Decorations
Station platforms and entrances
During holidays, the station often features festive decorations, adding a cheerful touch.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Hub
Safety and Cleanliness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Use the Metro App
Simplify your journey with real-time schedules and route planning. :iphone:
🤝 Ask for Help
If confused about tapping in or out, ask station staff for guidance. :question:
💰 Budget Travel Hack
Travel across LA for under $2! A great way to see the city affordably. :moneybag:
⚠️ Be Aware of Surroundings
Keep valuables secure and be mindful of your environment. :eyes:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Use the Metro App
Simplify your journey with real-time schedules and route planning. :iphone:
🤝 Ask for Help
If confused about tapping in or out, ask station staff for guidance. :question:
💰 Budget Travel Hack
Travel across LA for under $2! A great way to see the city affordably. :moneybag:
⚠️ Be Aware of Surroundings
Keep valuables secure and be mindful of your environment. :eyes:
📅 Check for Delays
Service disruptions can happen; check Metro alerts before you travel. :warning:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
7th Street/Metro Center is a vital, albeit sometimes challenging, transit hub. Riders appreciate its affordability and extensive connectivity, making it easy to explore LA. However, concerns about cleanliness and safety due to the presence of unhoused individuals are frequently mentioned, alongside occasional issues with ticketing machines.
"I was here today with my ex boyfriend we tried to purchase a card out of the kiosk which took our money and gave us a receipt for a $2 refund. So as we go up to tap I tap my card and the man is standing there so we tried to explain to him what the receipt in hand he starts screaming I know you guys know you can't do this you do this all the time at Union station I have never met this man before I paid because I have a handicap disabled card. He then started screaming at me to go back past the terminal even though I've paid and we're trying to explain to him that it took the last of our cash at the kiosk and that we have a receipt. You can clearly see him in the video helping the next person who walked up with their receipt from the kiosk he is clearly calling or checking to see if the receipt is valid and he allowed them to pass but just prior screamed and yelled at me at my ex-boyfriend that we had to go back and that he knew us and we do this all the time. So that would be impossible that he has met me before and saying I do this all the time because my card is currently loaded with ample money so that would not be correct. I end up paying TWICE ! The following video is our interaction after I was accused of I guess jumping the terminals and profiled by this man."
Aegean Sea
"Maybe because of the virus its deturning the homeless to gather in big group and the presents of alot more officers"
THEE HAVSTER25 RODZ
"Quick simple and easy though was confused about where to tap in and out. Using the tap app made it so simple though. No complaints."
Oliver Guise-Smith
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take the A Line (Blue) or E Line (Expo) directly from Union Station to 7th Street/Metro Center. The journey is quick and efficient.
This station is a major hub and serves the B (Red), D (Purple), A (Blue), E (Expo), and J (Silver) lines, making it a key transfer point. +1
Yes, numerous bus lines also serve the area around 7th Street/Metro Center, providing further connectivity throughout Downtown LA and beyond.
Absolutely! Take the E Line (Expo) directly from 7th Street/Metro Center towards Santa Monica.
The B Line (Red) from 7th Street/Metro Center will take you directly to Hollywood.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
A single ride on the Metro Rail is typically under $2, making it a very affordable way to travel around Los Angeles.
TAP cards can be purchased from ticket machines located within the station. Some users have reported issues with kiosks, so be prepared.
Yes, the TAP app on your smartphone can be used to pay for rides, offering a convenient alternative to physical cards.
Yes, discounted fares are available for individuals with a valid disabled person's identification card.
Metro Rail lines generally operate from early morning until around midnight, but it's always best to check the specific schedule for each line.
🎫 📍 Onsite Experience
While generally safe, it's advisable to be aware of your surroundings, especially during off-peak hours. The presence of more officers has been noted recently.
The station is undergoing significant renovations for the 2028 Olympics, including upgrades to floors, lighting, and security.
Restroom availability can vary. It's recommended to use facilities before or after your journey if possible.
If a ticket machine malfunctions, keep the receipt and try to speak with station personnel. Some travelers have reported needing to pay twice.
Yes, Metro often posts service alerts and updates on social media and their website. Keep an eye out for announcements regarding delays.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally permitted, but be mindful of other passengers and avoid obstructing operations. Some trainspotting content is popular.
The concourse areas and platforms offer good vantage points for capturing trains as they arrive and depart.
Look out for the ongoing renovations, seasonal decorations, and the dynamic movement of trains and people for interesting shots. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
During holiday seasons, the station might feature festive decorations, which can add a bit of fun for younger travelers.
💰 Budget Travelers
Utilizing the TAP app on your phone can streamline fare payment and make tracking your spending even easier.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Connecting LA: The 7th Street/Metro Center Hub
The station's significance is further underscored by its ongoing $50 million renovation project, a key component of Metro's $444 million Olympic readiness plan for the 2028 Games. Upgrades include new terrazzo floors, improved lighting, enhanced security measures, and accessibility improvements. These changes aim to modernize the transit hub and create a more welcoming and efficient experience for millions of riders.
Navigating this busy interchange requires a bit of planning. Understanding which lines serve which destinations and where to transfer is key to a smooth journey. While the Metro app can be a lifesaver for real-time information, familiarizing yourself with the station's layout beforehand can prevent confusion, especially during peak commuting hours.
Rider Experiences: Safety and Cleanliness
Some travelers have noted that the station can sometimes feel overwhelming due to crowds and the visible challenges of homelessness in the downtown area. However, there are also reports of increased police presence, which some riders find reassuring.
Despite these challenges, many still find the Metro to be an invaluable and cost-effective way to explore Los Angeles. The station's central role in connecting various parts of the city means it remains a vital artery for daily commuters and tourists alike, with ongoing renovations aiming to improve the overall environment.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit