Getting from LAX to the Los Angeles Convention Center
Travel into Los Angeles for the NAMA Show starts at Los Angeles International Airport, and how you leave the airport will shape your first impression of the trip.
What to expect at LAX right now
LAX uses a centralized pickup system called LAX-it for taxis and rideshare. After baggage claim, you either walk or take a free shuttle to the pickup lot, which typically runs every few minutes and takes about 15 minutes or less.
Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)
- Pickup: LAX-it lot
- Cost to convention center: about $45 to $65, depending on demand
- Typical time: 25 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic
Operator takeaway: Fastest balance of cost and convenience. Expect surge pricing during peak arrival windows.
Taxi
- Pickup: LAX-it lot
- Cost: typically $50 to $70 to downtown
- Time: ~25 minutes in light traffic
Operator takeaway: Slightly more predictable pricing than rideshare, but not always faster.
FlyAway bus + Metro (budget option)
- Cost: about $9 to $15 total
- Time: ~60 minutes+ with transfers
- Route: FlyAway to Union Station, then Metro to Pico Station (near convention center)
Operator takeaway: Cheapest option, but adds complexity and time — not ideal if you’re arriving late or carrying booth materials.
Shuttle / private car
- Options include shared vans or pre-booked car services
- Cost: typically $60+ depending on service level
Operator takeaway: Best for groups or for a scheduled pickup.
Bottom line
- Best overall: rideshare
- Fastest: taxi (in light traffic)
- Cheapest: FlyAway + Metro
The distance from LAX to the convention center is about 13 to 19 miles, but traffic can easily double travel time.