The Metro Rail Art Tours were recommended by Downtown News readers as “Best Downtown Tours” in last week’s annual Best of Downtown recognitions. Tours are led by the dedicated volunteers of the Metro Art Docent Council, who are celebrating 20 years of teaching the public about artwork in Metro stations and taking transit.
Metro’s unique program was developed in response to requests received by Metro Art for tours of artwork in the Rail System and has since provided free tours to over 60,000 residents and visitors. The innovative program has been a fun and accessible way to introduce new riders to the transit system. The Board of Directors recently recognized the Council on the occasion of its 20th anniversary, celebrating the group as the world’s first transit art tour program led by volunteers.
The program consistently receives rave reviews from enthusiastic riders:
“The docent tour was educational, enlightening, and entertaining…we had no idea such a rich art collection was waiting underground.” – Art tour participant
“The Union Station Metro Art Docent Tour is one of the best I’ve ever been on. It has it all — art, architecture, history. It’s classic California beautiful and the preservation and restoration efforts make me proud of the city and the people who make this possible. Can’t wait to explore some more Metro Art docent tours. Thanks again.” – Art tour participant
“I am so grateful for the time [the docents] both took with us and for the day passes on the Metro. I will definitely use Metro more often as it is so easy to use and much better than getting in my car!” – Art tour participant
Get involved!
Docent-guided tours are offered the first and second Saturday and Sunday of each month.
Tours for groups of 10 or more are also available by special arrangement. Book a tour by calling (213) 922-2738.
Become a docent!
For specific tour offerings visit metro.net/art and click on Art Tours or call (213) 922-2738.
Metro Art Program
Metro Art enhances the customer experience with innovative, award-winning visual and performing arts programming that encourages ridership and connects people, sites and neighborhoods throughout Los Angeles County. A diverse range of site-specific artworks are integrated into the growing Metro system, improving the visual quality of transit environments and creating a sense of place. From photography installations to onboard posters, art tours and live performances, our multi-faceted arts programs add vibrancy and engage communities throughout Los Angeles.