LAX is the main international gateway for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Once you land, getting to your hotel or venue isn't complicated — but the options vary a lot in cost, speed, and stress level. This guide covers every realistic way to get from LAX to the key areas visitors will be heading to, with honest time and cost estimates.
LAX has its own internal people mover called the Automated People Mover (APM), which connects airport terminals to a central transport hub at 96th Street and Aviation Blvd. This hub is where you catch Metro trains, shared shuttles, taxis, and rideshares. The APM is planned to be operational before the 2028 Olympics — check flylax.com for the most current status and opening date.
From the transport hub you have four main options: Metro rail, rideshare (Uber/Lyft), traditional taxi, or pre-booked private/shuttle service.
SoFi Stadium is the main Olympic venue — hosting the Opening and Closing Ceremonies and several athletics events. It's roughly 5 miles from LAX, making it the closest major venue to the airport.
Take the Metro C Line from the Aviation/LAX station (reachable via the APM or bus connector) east, then use a short rideshare hop into Inglewood. On major event days, LA Metro is expected to run enhanced service toward SoFi Stadium — confirm details closer to your event at metro.net.
Rideshare is the most convenient door-to-door option from LAX to SoFi, especially if you have luggage. Expect surge pricing on event days — consider booking early or walking a block from the venue before requesting a ride home. Pick up from the Rideshare Lot at the LAX transport hub.
Taxis are metered and available at the Ground Transportation area of each terminal. Slightly more expensive than rideshare in most cases, but no app required and pricing is predictable.
Downtown LA (DTLA) is roughly 17 miles northeast of LAX and is home to Crypto.com Arena, the LA Convention Center, and many hotels. It takes 25–50 minutes without traffic — longer at peak hours.
From the LAX transit hub, connect to the Metro E Line, which runs into Downtown LA (7th/Metro Center). This is the lowest-cost option and avoids highway traffic entirely. Not ideal with heavy luggage, but excellent for event day trips. Check current Metro maps at metro.net.
A direct rideshare is the fastest and most comfortable option with bags. Expect traffic on the I-10 or I-405 during peak hours. Use Waze or Google Maps to estimate real-time travel time before you book.
Santa Monica is a popular base for Olympics visitors — walkable, beachfront, and well-connected by Metro. It's about 12 miles from LAX.
The Metro E Line terminates at Downtown Santa Monica station, right in the heart of the Third Street Promenade area. Connect from the LAX transit hub via the bus shuttle or future APM. This is the cleanest, cheapest option for visitors staying in Santa Monica.
Rideshare is direct and reliable. Traffic on Lincoln Blvd and the I-10 can add time during peak hours. Santa Monica has several rideshare-friendly drop-off zones near the beach and main hotel strip.
Pasadena is around 35 miles northeast of LAX and is home to the Rose Bowl, which will host football (soccer) events during LA28. It's the furthest major venue from the airport — plan extra time.
Pasadena is reachable by Metro but requires transfers. Take the E Line toward DTLA, transfer to the A Line (Blue) or connect to the Gold Line (L Line) heading toward Pasadena. Check current route maps — LA Metro's network is expanding and exact routing details may change. From Pasadena, a short Uber/Lyft to the Rose Bowl is typically needed as the stadium is not directly on Metro.
Rideshare to Pasadena is the most direct option but crosses several freeways (I-105, I-110, or I-210). Midday and evening traffic can significantly extend travel time. Budget at least 90 minutes if arriving during a busy period.
| Destination | Metro (approx) | Rideshare (approx) | Key venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| Inglewood / SoFi | 35–45 min / $3–5 | 15–25 min / $20–40 | SoFi Stadium (Opening Ceremony) |
| Downtown LA | 50–70 min / $1.75–3.50 | 30–55 min / $30–60 | Crypto.com Arena, Convention Center |
| Santa Monica | 35–50 min / $1.75 | 20–40 min / $25–50 | Beach zone, E Line access to venues |
| Pasadena | 80–100 min / $1.75–3.50 | 45–80 min / $55–90 | Rose Bowl (football/soccer) |
All times and costs are estimates. Traffic in LA is highly variable. Verify fares and routes before travel at metro.net and flylax.com.
Use our free itinerary planner to map out transport, accommodation, and events in one place.
Get the free plannerIs there a direct Metro line from LAX to SoFi Stadium?
There is no single direct Metro line, but the C Line (Green Line) brings you close to Inglewood and SoFi Stadium. On major event days, LA Metro is expected to operate enhanced service — check metro.net for confirmed routes as 2028 approaches.
How long does it actually take to get from LAX to Downtown LA?
By Metro: 50–70 minutes. By rideshare: 30–55 minutes without major traffic. During peak LA traffic (7–9am, 4–7pm), rideshare can take 60–90 minutes on bad days. Metro avoids traffic entirely.
What is the cheapest way to get from LAX to any Olympics venue?
Metro rail is consistently the cheapest option at $1.75–$3.50 per trip. A TAP card loaded in advance is the most efficient way to pay. Rideshare costs 10–30x more but offers door-to-door convenience.
Are there shuttle services from LAX to Olympics venues?
Official LA28 shuttle services haven't been fully announced as of mid-2025. Check la28.org closer to the Games for official transport passes and shuttle details. Some hotels may also offer their own service.
Is it safe to take public transport in LA at night?
LA Metro rail lines are generally safe and reliable for visitors during daylight and early evening. As with any major city, stay aware of your surroundings, keep to well-lit stations, and travel with others where possible at night.
Related: Full LAX Airport Guide | Getting Around LA Without a Car | 3-Day LA Olympics Itinerary