by Kathryn Aurelio ‘25

“During my time at USC I want to explore LA on the weekends,” said every incoming student ever. To make those Class of 20-something Instagram post bios, ZeeMee chats, and first day of class introductions hold some truth, you need to start exploring! Whether you’re taking a solo self care day or bonding with new friends, this “No Car, No Money, No Problem” series will help you get the most of your college experience (and USC’s U-Pass program). This pass makes all public transportation in the LA area FREE. I repeat, FREE. Transport on USC’s dime is surely something U can’t pass up.

Every semester (including summers if you’re registered for units), you can apply for the UPass program by simply following the instructions and referencing the USC Transportation site for more information. After filling out the online forms and receiving a confirmation email, you can head to the McCarthy Parking Structure (UPC) or the Health Science Campus to pick up your card!

Let’s start off easy with the E-line (yellow/gold)! Ever hear honks, robotic speaking, and dings from Mudd Hall or your business class? It’s probably the Metro five steps off the south end of campus! The newly extended line takes riders west to east and east to west, between Santa Monica and East L.A.

The E-line has three points of access for USC students:

Expo/Vermont Station diagonally across the street from the Parkside corner of campus
Expo Park/USC Station across Mudd Hall (aka the one you probably cross on your way to the Coliseum)
Jefferson/USC Station across from the Galen Center and the infamous Felix the Cat sign on Figueroa
**Bonus** LATTC/Ortho Institute Station is in walking distance if you live at the Lorenzo or nearby

Now that you have your departure lined up, here are my favorite spots along the E-line that require no bus transfers or walking more than ten minutes.

Downtown Santa Monica & the Pier

Last semester, to take a break from finals stress, I hopped onto the E-line on one of the study days to soak in some sun and salt air. I started my day at “The Hive,” grabbing a smoothie and matcha waffle – accompanied by an attempt to do some work on a final for my PR class. I recommend bringing a charger (they have several outlets) and trying one of their specialty acai bowls! Next, make your way down to the pier or head to the beach for sunset. Relax with a sweet treat to end the day. Go Greek is a froyo Greek yogurt substitute that’s a new favorite. Santa Monica is the perfect destination to visit multiple times over the years because there’s so much to do that’s easily walkable.

Culver City Steps

I took another solo trip on the E-line to Culver City to explore its many food and dessert options. My friends and I frequent the Latea boba and Salt & Straw the most, but I also recommend grabbing a specialty Philz Coffee creation, sit on the Culver Steps and people-watch (or do some homework).

The Bloc or Fig at 7th for Shopping

Downtown LA can be daunting, but the E-line stops at the 7th Street Metro Center on the bottom floor of the Bloc outdoor shopping mall! You’ll come out of the underground to be greeted by cafe’s, a UNIQLO, Macy’s, Marugame Udon (I recommend the Chicken Katsu Udon), JOEY DTLA, and the Alamo Drafthouse to watch an artsy movie.

A block away is Fig at 7th with classic “mall shops” like H&M, Sephora, Nordstrom Rack, Bath and Body Works, and more. You can get your shopping done and make any needed returns right here!

The Broad and MOCA (Museum of Contemporary Art)

Nested in Downtown LA just outside the Grand Ave Arts/Bunker Hill Station, you’ll find yourself at the Broad contemporary art museum (with installations such as the Insta-famous blue balloon dog and gigantic table/chair installation). I went to Keith Haring’s exhibit last semester and absolutely enjoyed the learning about gender equality and LGBTQ+ issues through vibrant art.

Across the street from The Broad and the Metro station is the Museum of Contemporary Art that features works dating forward from the 1940s from around the world but mainly features Southern California and Los Angeles artists. From 11a.m. into the evening (hours vary by day of week), you can enjoy free admission as long as you book an entrance time in advance.

Little Tokyo

In 2023, the E-line added more stops including one in among the most culturally vibrant enclaves of LA at the Little Tokyo/Arts District Metro station. Here, you’ll find some of the best food, drink, and dessert spots in the city. My personal favorites are Daikokuya (ramen), Somi Somi (soft serve ice cream served in a fish-shaped waffle), Millet Crepe (Crepes filled with custard, fruits, etc.), and Sunright (boba)! You can also find another location of the infamous Cafe Dulce (yes, the one from the Village) and shop novelty items from cosmetics to clothing.

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