Here are a few tips and tricks that we’ve learned to help you get the most out of your MOTA Day:
- Pace yourself! While it is physically possible don’t try to see all six museums in one day. Pick three museums and take your time exploring.
- Don’t go crazy trying to find parking at the museums…use the L Line. It’s easier to park at a L Line station and train it in that circle for parking next to the museums. There are two stops on the L Line (formerly the Gold Line) that can put you right into the action and makes it easy to jump onto the MOTA Day shuttle.
- The South Pasadena Historical Museum is several hundred feet south on Meridian Avenue from the South Pasadena stop ; exit the station on Mission, take an immediate right on Meridian (you’ll see La Monarca Bakery at the corner), and the museum will be on the right side of the street.
- Heritage Square Museum has a back entrance/parking lot that is across Pasadena Avenue and a block and a half south of the Heritage Square station.
- Arrive early. Don’t feel like you have to rush.
- MOTA Day is for you. Whether you’re checking it out solo, exploring with your friends, bringing your family or on a date, its a free and fun yearly event. Share it on social, and feel free to tag the individual museum or #museumsofthearroyo — we’d love it!
- Have a picnic! While the museums don’t sell meals on MOTA Day, there are great local shops nearby in South Pas, Highland Park and Pasadena where you can buy picnic fixins and drinks. With the exception of the Los Angeles Police Museum, there are areas at most of the museums where you can kick back, snack, and enjoy the MOTA Day vibe.
- Bring water. Hydration is good. We’ve had both hot and chilly days in previous years, and the water hits the spot on the hot ones.
- Discover something unique! Show your support for these free days by buying something fun and interesting at the museum gift stores. (Maybe even a membership!)