What to do Around Los Angeles Union Station on a Layover

For travelers making their way through California, Los Angeles is a popular place to stop over on a layover. Union Station is located in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles, giving travelers plenty of things to do while they wait for their next train.

What To Do Around Los Angeles Union Station On A Layover

For starters, it depends on how much time you have, and where you need to go. While taking Amtrak, it is important to know that the train does not wait for anyone! Departure times are prompt, and you are expected to be in your seat a few minutes before the train takes off. Unlike air travel, you will not be paged or contacted if you are not in your seat. Always arrive at least fifteen minutes early to your train to make sure you have time to pick your seat and get settled.

Now that we’ve got that covered, let’s highlight a few neighborhoods and attractions near Union Station.

Neighborhoods & Attractions Near Union Station

• Little Tokyo – This neighborhood dates back to the turn of the 20th century and is filled with Japanese culture and unique offerings. From the Museum of Contemporary Art to authentic eats, Little Tokyo has it all. For food, we recommend spots like Fugetsu-Do, which is famous for its mochi, and Suehiro Cafe. For manga lovers, check out Kinokuniya. This bookstore is a mecca for Japanese art books and manga.
• Griffith Observatory – One of the top attractions in Los Angeles, Griffith Observatory gives south-facing views of Los Angeles and Hollywood. It’s a perfect place to spend an afternoon, and the area has several hiking trails. Accessing Griffith Observatory with a car is ideal, as the drive is spectacular. However, bus lines run to the Observatory from Little Armenia, which you can access from Union Station by taking the Metro B Line. Allow a few hours for this adventure, but it is well worth it!
• Hollywood – Hit the iconic Walk of Fame in Hollywood on your layover. From Union Station, you can catch the Metro B Line north and get off at the Hollywood/Vine Station stop. Once you get off the train, you’ll be in the heart of Hollywood. Walk a couple blocks south to the famous Sunset Boulevard and check out some of the most famous establishments in Los Angeles.

Getting Around LA From Union Station

Los Angeles is not known for its impeccable public transportation. Compared to other major cities like New York and Chicago, Los Angeles lacks in this department. There are, however, direct train and bus routes that will help you get around the city without spending a ton of money. If you have several hours to spare before your next connection, we recommend hopping on the Metro train to get around the city. While the Metro doesn’t access all of Los Angeles, it will help you access neighborhoods like North Hollywood, Santa Monica, Long Beach, and Redondo Beach.

Los Angeles features several bus routes that will help you access the city, but this option is best suited for those who have time to spare and are not traveling with heavy bags. Lugging heavy bags around the city, especially on a crowded bus, is not ideal for travelers looking to maximize their time in the city. Since the city is so large and sprawling, it’s best to pick an area and stick to it if you want to explore Los Angeles.

There are maps and schedules available online, or you can always ask for help at one of the kiosks in Union Station.

Hang out at Union Station

If your layover is an hour or less, we recommend hanging out at Union Station to make sure you make your connection. Nothing is worse than having to plan on the fly, especially when you’re on a budget! Buying a new train or bus ticket can be expensive and it’s best to avoid that situation entirely. Union Station is big enough to walk and stretch your legs if you’re feeling stiff. There are also zones designated for travelers who need to rest on a layover.

Union Station is a beautiful building that dates back to 1939. Inside, you’ll find ornate ceiling tiles and flooring. It has a touch of Art Deco and features a Mediterranean-style clock tower. The aesthetic behind Union Station in Los Angeles is what makes it unique, and it’s a perfect place to snap some photos for Instagram.

Lastly, if you’re hungry and have enough time to spare, walk over to Philippe the Original for something to eat! This local diner has been around since 1908 and is one of the oldest fast-food establishments in the state of California. Their specialty is French Dip sandwiches, which they claim to have created. Whether it’s for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, don’t miss out on Philippe the Original!

A great place to stop over for the night in Los Angeles is our ITH Los Angeles Beach Hostel in Hermosa Beach. We offer a free pancake breakfast every morning, and provide nightly activities!

Want even more recommendations on what to do in downtown Los Angeles? Check out this video!

Before booking your stay at ITH, sign up for our Traveler’s Club. This program is free and helps you save money on all future bookings at ITH!