LMU Student Guide to Public Transportation in Los Angeles

Introduction:Living off-campus as a student at Loyola Marymount University opens the door to exploring Los Angeles beyond campus life. But in a city known for traffic and limited parking, navigating without a car can seem daunting. Thankfully, LMU students have access to multiple public transportation options that make it possible to commute affordably and efficiently. This guide covers how you can make the most of LA’s transit system as an LMU student.

Public Transit Options Around LMUBig Blue Bus (BBB):Santa Monica’s Big Blue Bus system offers convenient access to LMU and nearby neighborhoods like Playa Vista, Marina del Rey, and Culver City. Route 3 and Rapid 3 stop near campus and connect directly to Santa Monica and the Metro E Line (Expo). Students can ride for a discounted fare with a TAP card.

Culver CityBus:This local bus system also runs routes through the Westside of LA. Route 6 and Rapid 6 connect LMU students to Westwood, UCLA, and Downtown Culver City. It's another great option for commuting or visiting friends at neighboring schools.

Metro Bus and Rail:While the nearest Metro Rail station isn’t within walking distance of campus, LMU students can take Big Blue or Culver CityBus to the Metro E Line, which runs between Downtown LA and Santa Monica. From there, you can connect to LA’s entire Metro Rail and bus network.

LMU Shuttle Services:LMU operates its own shuttle service, providing convenient transport to key off-campus locations like Playa Vista, LAX, and nearby student apartments. The shuttles are free for students and run regularly on weekdays and weekends.

Bike and Scooter Sharing:LMU is located in a bike-friendly part of LA. Services like Bird and Lime offer electric scooters and bikes, which are perfect for short trips around Playa del Rey or to nearby grocery stores and cafes. LMU also has bike racks across campus to support your commute.

Car-Free Living Near LMU:Students living in areas like Playa Vista, Westchester, or Marina del Rey can take advantage of frequent bus lines, walkable amenities, and proximity to the beach. With reliable public transit and campus shuttles, it’s entirely possible to live off-campus at LMU without owning a car.

Conclusion:Whether you're commuting to class, interning across town, or heading to the beach, LMU students have several public transit options at their fingertips. With shuttles, local bus systems, and Metro connections, getting around LA without a car is easier than it seems. Embrace the flexibility of public transportation while discovering everything Los Angeles has to offer.