The Point: Climb aboard Metrolink for cold weather excursions
While winter is a great time to cozy up with a book or binge-watch your favorite shows, it is also the perfect time to explore southern California. Check out these five destinations for winter fun. These family-friendly spots are easy to access using Metrolink trains from Riverside County.
1. Visit the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels
During the holidays, visit the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels. With beautiful stained glass, art, and design, the Cathedral is called the “model Church.” Try an inclusive Mass service, celebrated in 42 different languages. Take the Metrolink 91/Perris Line to L.A. Union Station to visit the Cathedral, which is about a 15-minute walk from Union Station. The cathedral is open daily until 6 p.m.
2. Learn the Science of Gingerbread at Discovery Cube, Santa Ana
Design, build and zip your very own vehicle through the holiday skies, tinker like an elf and build a toy at the Elves Workshop, experiment with Fahrenheit in the southern California winter temperatures, and more. There are plenty of fun events for kids to enjoy! Visit www.discoverycube.org. Ride the Inland Empire-Orange County Line from Riverside County and exit at the Santa Ana Station, then take OCTA Bus Route 83 North.
3. Enjoy ice-skating in downtown LA at Pershing Square
Bundle up! For a true winter experience, go ice-skating at Pershing Square in Los Angeles. The rink will be open from November 15 to January 21. Ride Metrolink and receive $1 off your ice skating admission.
From Riverside County, take the 91/Perris Line to LA Union Station, then use a free transfer to board the Metro Red Line or Purple Line to Pershing Square.
4. Explore historic San Juan Capistrano
During cooler winter weather, consider visiting the historic town of San Juan Capistrano. Explore the Mission to see the birthplace of Orange County and experience hands-on exhibits. Pet the exotic animals at Zoomars Petting Zoo or brush up on history as you tour the Historic District and see adobe homes built in 1794. For a more active experience, bring your bike and enjoy the sights from two wheels. Whichever activities you choose, Metrolink will get you to and from San Juan Capistrano safely. From Riverside County, take the Inland Empire-Orange County Line for a direct route.
5. Take the Train to the Game
The Los Angeles Rams continue to have a great season, and Metrolink’s Football Train offers a fun way to ride to the L.A. Memorial Coliseum. The last Football Train of the season is December 30 for the game against the San Francisco 49ers. Train tickets are only $10, so make an end run around costly parking and traffic hassles. The 91/Perris Valley Line offers special Sunday service to Los Angeles Union Station. Use your Metrolink ticket for a free transfer to the Metro Expo light rail, and ride to the Coliseum.
Have more ideas for winter destinations accessible by Metrolink? Leave us a comment on social media @theRCTC.