A few weeks ago I promised an in-depth series on traversing LA without having to spend a lot of precious hard-earned money. I wrote the following at work today, so I thought I would share it with you…

Get out of the driver’s seat and let LA’s public transportation take you for a ride from one attraction to the next. For just $3, the Metro Day Pass allows you to explore the city’s cultural, sports and entertainment venues spread across this 467-square-mile metropolis.

As soon as your feet land above ground at the Red Line Hollywood & Highland exit you will be graced by the Hollywood Walk of Fame’s 2,000 star-studded terrazzos. This station is also your gateway to stars that are out of this world. The iconic Griffith Observatory picks up some of its guests here.

The next stop on the Red Line is where you will find the city’s most revered entertainment attraction, Universal Studios Hollywood. Featuring such unique and groundbreaking attractions as “Revenge of the Mummy—The Ride” and the world-renowned behind-the-scenes Studio Tour, Universal Studios Hollywood has matured into a full day, movie-based theme park.

From the Blue Line in South LA to the Gold Line in Pasadena, such cultural landmarks as the Watts Towers and Chinatown can also be reached via the Metro’s rail system. Moving west through the San Fernando Valley along the Orange Line, a Japanese Garden experience awaits you at the Suiho En. Private meditation, bird watching and nature tours draw visitors of all ages.

Four different Metro lines reach all corners of the city and provide commuters with easy access to major transportation hubs. Those flying into LAX can access the Metro’s Green Line at the LAX/Aviation station. And individuals arriving at Burbank Airport can board the Red Line at the North Hollywood station.

All lines lead to Downtown and its array of hotels, restaurants and shopping options. Home to the Lakes, Clippers, Kings and Sparks, the STAPLES Center is just another stop off the Metro in Downtown at Chick Hearn Station.

The Metro Day Pass includes such local transportation options as the DASH and Rapid transit. Unlike your everyday bus, Rapid busses make fewer stops and are equipped with transponders that cause traffic signals to favor the bus.

LA’s subway system is continually branching out to various regions throughout the city. Coupled with the city’s other public transportation options, you will enjoy practically door-to-door service on a daily basis.

For more information about LA’s award-winning and nationally-acclaimed public transit system, visit www.mta.net.