Book Amtrak Train

Nestled in the heart of a vibrant, historic downtown, the Amtrak Pomona-Downtown (POA) station offers a convenient and often underestimated starting point for exploring Southern California and beyond. Whether you’re a local looking to escape traffic or a visitor seeking a unique travel experience, POA serves as a vital transit hub, connecting you to major cities, popular attractions, and even key airports.

Let’s dive into everything you need to know about this charming station.

Station Overview: Pomona-Downtown (POA)

• Location: 100 W Commercial St, Pomona, CA 91768
• Services: Primarily served by the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner route, connecting San Luis Obispo to San Diego. It is also a major stop for Metrolink’s San Bernardino Line, making it a true intermodal hub.
• Station Type: Pomona-Downtown is an unstaffed station. This means there are no ticket agents on-site.
  • Tickets: You can purchase Amtrak tickets online, via the Amtrak app, or from the conductor on board (though booking in advance is recommended for best fares and guaranteed seats). Metrolink tickets are purchased via vending machines on the platform.
• Amenities:
  • Open-air platform with covered waiting areas.
  • Restrooms.
  • ADA accessible ramp and platform.
  • Ticket vending machines for Metrolink.
• Parking: Ample paid parking is available adjacent to the station, typically within the Metrolink parking structures. Fees apply; check signage for current rates.

Getting To and From the Station

• Driving: The station is easily accessible from major freeways including the I-10, CA-71, and CA-60.
• Local Transit: Foothill Transit buses serve the area, with stops conveniently located near the station, providing connections throughout the Pomona Valley.
• Ride-Sharing: Uber and Lyft services are readily available in the Pomona area for convenient drop-off and pickup.

Your Connectivity Hub: Distances to Key Cities & Airports

One of Pomona’s greatest advantages is its central location within the sprawling Southern California landscape. Here’s how POA connects you to important destinations:

Key Cities & Attractions (Approximate Driving Distances & Train Times):

• Los Angeles (Union Station – LAX):
  • Driving Distance: ~35-40 miles (expect 45-90+ minutes depending on traffic).
  • Amtrak Pacific Surfliner: Approximately 50-60 minutes direct to LA Union Station. From Union Station, you can easily connect to the FlyAway bus service for a direct, affordable ride to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).
• Anaheim (ARTIC – Disneyland):
  • Driving Distance: ~25-30 miles (expect 30-60+ minutes depending on traffic).
  • Amtrak Pacific Surfliner: Approximately 40-50 minutes direct to the Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center (ARTIC). From ARTIC, it’s a short bus or ride-share to Disneyland Park.
• San Diego (Santa Fe Depot):
  • Driving Distance: ~100-110 miles (expect 1.5 – 2.5 hours depending on traffic).
  • Amtrak Pacific Surfliner: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes – 3 hours direct. Enjoy scenic coastal views!
• Santa Barbara:
  • Driving Distance: ~100 miles (expect 1.5 – 2.5 hours depending on traffic).
  • Amtrak Pacific Surfliner: Approximately 3 hours 30 minutes – 4 hours (sometimes requires a transfer at LA Union Station depending on the schedule).
• Riverside:
  • Driving Distance: ~15-20 miles (expect 20-35 minutes depending on traffic).
  • Metrolink: The Metrolink San Bernardino Line connects directly to Riverside-Downtown and other Riverside County stations.
• Claremont:
  • Driving Distance: ~5 miles (expect 10-15 minutes).
  • Metrolink: One stop west on the San Bernardino Line.

Key Airports (Approximate Driving Distances):

• Ontario International Airport (ONT):
  • Driving Distance: ~10-12 miles. This is by far the closest and most convenient airport to the Pomona station, typically a 15-25 minute drive.
• Los Angeles International Airport (LAX):
  • Driving Distance: ~45-50 miles. As mentioned above, for LAX the best transit option is often Amtrak or Metrolink to LA Union Station, then the FlyAway bus. Driving directly can take 1-2+ hours with traffic.
• John Wayne Airport (SNA – Orange County):
  • Driving Distance: ~35-40 miles. Typically a 45-75 minute drive depending on traffic through Orange County.
• Long Beach Airport (LGB):
  • Driving Distance: ~30-35 miles. Typically a 40-70 minute drive depending on traffic.

Please note: Driving times are highly dependent on Southern California’s notorious traffic conditions and can vary significantly. Train times are generally more consistent.

Why Choose Amtrak from Pomona?

• Beat the Traffic: Avoid the stress and delays of perpetual freeway congestion.
• Scenic Route: The Pacific Surfliner offers stunning views of the California coastline and diverse landscapes.
• Comfort & Amenities: Enjoy spacious seats, onboard Wi-Fi, power outlets, a cafe car, and ample room to stretch your legs.
• Downtown Convenience: The station’s location puts you right in the heart of Pomona’s historic Arts Colony, with restaurants, galleries, and shops just steps away.
• Eco-Friendly: A greener way to travel compared to driving solo.

Exploring Pomona & Beyond

While the station is your launchpad, don’t miss the opportunity to explore Pomona itself! Wander through the Arts Colony, browse antique shops, catch a show at the historic Fox Theater Pomona, or visit one of the many local eateries. For those attending events at the Fairplex (LA County Fairgrounds), the station offers a convenient connection point.

Whether you’re embarking on a grand adventure or just a short day trip, Amtrak’s Pomona-Downtown station (POA) provides a comfortable, convenient, and truly “California” way to travel. So next time you’re planning a trip, consider making POA your starting point!