The Point: Metrolink offers a variety of destinations and low-cost fares to enjoy the holidays without the hassle of driving
Dashing through traffic
In a Tier 4 locomotive
O’er southern California we go
Laughing all the way
Jingle bells, Jingle bells…
Being stuck in traffic during the holidays can make us all feel quite Grinch-like. Fortunately, we here in southern California are on Santa’s “nice list” and we have Metrolink to help with holiday travels.
Whether it’s visiting relatives, shopping for presents, or heading to holiday celebrations, Metrolink’s “Kids Ride Free” is sure to make the season bright. Up to three children ages 17 and under ride free on Saturdays and Sundays with a paying adult. With fares just $10 per day on weekends, that’s a deal worth unwrapping.
From Riverside and Corona, take the kids on Metrolink’s Inland Empire/Orange County Line to the Irvine Spectrum for shopping and skating. Two morning trains depart for Orange County and two late afternoon trains return to Riverside County, offering the perfect schedule for this day trip while skipping driving and parking stress.
If you live in Perris, you can take an early morning trip to downtown Riverside to see holiday décor, take a whirl on carnival rides, explore the new Cheech Museum, (ticket purchase required), visit the Riverside Library, and take selfies along the Main Street pedestrian mall. Trains return to Perris as late as 8:47 p.m., offering plenty of time to enjoy the Mission Inn Festival of Lights, hot cocoa, and yummy roasted almonds.
Heading out to Los Angeles? The 91/Perris Valley Line can take you to Union Station in the heart of downtown Los Angeles, where the historic station is decorated with holiday displays.
If you plan to travel on Christmas Day or New Year’s Day, these holidays fall on the weekend in 2022, with fares again only $10 per adult with the “Kids Ride Free” promotion also in effect. Available through the Metrolink app and at ticket vending machines, the $10 “Holidays” passes are good for unlimited rides these two days.
Finally, if marching bands, floral-covered floats, and prancing horses make your heart skip a beat, Metrolink has your ride covered to the Tournament of Roses Parade. Remember, the parade will be held Monday, January 2 this time, and Metrolink is offering special schedules to L.A. Union Station with a free transfer to the Metro L Line (formally known as the Gold Line) toward Pasadena. More information at: https://metrolinktrains.com/rose-parade
RCTC is proud to support Metrolink service during the holidays and throughout the year as a member of the Southern California Regional Rail Authority Joint Powers Authority.