With pump prices more than $4 a gallon again and more than 50 cents a gallon higher than they were in January, Metro and the Automobile Club of Southern California today joined forces to help teach drivers how to spend less on gas. They were joined by representatives from the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, including Hunter the T. rex.

Standing on the platform of the Metro Expo/Vermont Station, with some of the finest museums in the world just steps away, Metro urged L.A. residents to maximize their spring break and summer vacation dollars by picking up a $5 Day Pass and making easy-to-reach destinations on the Metro system part of their plans.

Drivers were reminded by the Auto Club that gas prices have jumped 82 percent in the last decade while the median household income for Californians has risen just 16 percent. But the good news is that many drivers can save up to $1,000 or even $2,000 a year on fuel at today’s prices by consistently following a few good habits, including slowing down and adopting a smooth, even driving style.

For inspiration, Simon Adlam, Director of Exhibits at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, invited vacationers to explore the many new and exciting exhibits at the Natural History Museum and he brought along Hunter the T. rex to make sure everyone paid attention.