Quick Answer
The fastest way from Long Beach Airport (LGB) to the Long Beach Convention Center is by taxi or rideshare (Uber/Lyft), taking 10-15 minutes and costing $18-$35. The cheapest way is the public bus (LB Transit Route 111) for just $1.25, taking 25-40 minutes. For a good balance of cost and convenience, consider a rideshare or the bus+free shuttle combination.
Public Bus & Free Shuttle – The Most Economical Choice
Long Beach has an efficient public transit system that makes getting downtown very affordable. This is best for budget travelers, solo visitors, or those without excessive luggage.
Primary Option: LB Transit Route 111
This is the main bus line connecting LGB to downtown Long Beach.
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| 1. Find the Stop | Walk from baggage claim to the "Long Beach Airport" bus stop on Lakewood Blvd. (a 2-3 minute walk). |
| 2. Board & Pay Fare | Board Route 111 heading towards "Downtown Long Beach". Fare is $1.25 per ride. Pay with exact cash or use the TAP card system. |
| 3. Ride & Alight | The ride takes about 20-30 minutes. Get off at a stop near the convention center, such as Ocean Blvd. & Pine Ave. or Ocean Blvd. & Elm Ave.. |
| 4. Final Walk | Walk 5-10 minutes to the main convention center entrances. |
Check real-time schedules on the LB Transit website.
Bonus: Free Downtown Passport Shuttle
Once downtown, you can transfer to the FREE Downtown Passport shuttle (Route A or D), which circulates the downtown area and stops directly at the convention center. This can reduce your walking distance after getting off the 111 bus.
Pros: Extremely cheap ($1.25), regular service.
Cons: Longer travel time, requires some walking, luggage space is limited, not ideal late at night.
Private Shuttles, Car Rentals & Hotel Transfers
For specific needs like large groups or maximum flexibility.
Shared-Ride & Private Shuttles
- Shared Shuttles: Companies like SuperShuttle or ExecuCar may offer service from LGB. You must book in advance online. Cost is per person, often $20-$40. Wait times for other passengers can occur.
- Hotel Shuttles: Many downtown Long Beach hotels offer free airport shuttles for guests. Contact your hotel directly to confirm availability, schedule, and pickup location.
- Private Car Service: For a premium experience, pre-book a sedan or SUV with a company like Bel Air Limousine (a local provider). Rates start around $65-$100+ one-way.
Renting a Car at LGB
Renting a car is practical if you plan to explore beyond Long Beach. All major rental agencies have counters in the terminal. Note: The convention center area has paid parking lots/garages; factor in daily parking costs ($15-$30/day).
Is Walking from LGB to the Convention Center Feasible?
Not recommended. The distance is about 5.5 miles via major roads like Lakewood Blvd. and Anaheim St. This would take over 1 hour and 45 minutes of continuous walking without luggage. The route is not particularly scenic or pedestrian-optimized, and sidewalks may be inconsistent. This is not a viable option for travelers.
Cost, Time & Convenience Comparison Table
Use this table to quickly compare all your options from Long Beach Airport to the Convention Center.
| Transport Method | Approx. Cost (One-Way) | Approx. Travel Time | Best For | Convenience Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rideshare (UberX/Lyft) | $18 - $30 | 10-20 min | Speed, door-to-door service | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Taxi | $25 - $35 | 10-20 min | Immediate pickup, no app needed | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Private Shuttle (Pre-booked) | $20 - $40+ per person | 20-40 min | Groups, pre-planned travel | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Public Bus (Route 111) | $1.25 | 25-40 min | Budget travelers, solo travelers | ⭐⭐ |
| Car Rental | $40-$80/day + parking | 10-20 min | Exploring the wider region | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (with parking hassle) |
Verdict: For most visitors, Uber/Lyft offers the best balance. For the absolute lowest cost, the bus is unbeatable.
Traveler Tips & Insider Insights
Maximize Your Trip:
- Event Day Traffic: During major conventions (like EDM festivals or comic conventions), traffic around the convention center gridlocks. Allow at least 30 extra minutes if using a car, taxi, or rideshare.
- Luggage Strategy: If you have heavy bags and want to use the bus, try to travel during off-peak hours (mid-day) when the bus is less crowded.
- Free Downtown Circulation: Once you're downtown, remember the FREE Passport shuttles (Routes A, B, C, D) can take you between the convention center, Pike Outlets, Aquarium, and many hotels. It's a huge saver.
- Rideshare Surge Pricing: When a flight lands or an event ends, Uber/Lyft prices can spike. Wait 15-20 minutes or walk a block away from the main pickup zone to potentially get a better rate.
- Consider the “Last Mile”: The convention center is massive. Know which hall or entrance your event is using (e.g., Hall B, Promenade entrance) and tell your driver for the closest drop-off.
- For Attendees with Disabilities: All public buses are wheelchair accessible. For door-to-door accessible service, taxis and rideshares (UberWAV, Lyft Access) can be requested, though availability varies. Pre-booking a specialized transport service is most reliable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is there a direct shuttle from Long Beach Airport to the Convention Center?
No, there is no dedicated, direct public shuttle service operating exclusively between Long Beach Airport (LGB) and the Long Beach Convention Center. However, you can use the public bus system (LB Transit Route 111) which stops near both locations, or utilize hotel shuttles if you are staying at a participating hotel nearby.
What is the cheapest way to get from LGB to the Convention Center?
The cheapest way is by public bus. Taking LB Transit Route 111 costs only $1.25 per ride. Additionally, the Downtown Passport (a free shuttle bus) can cover part of the journey from downtown to the convention center, making a combination of these options extremely cost-effective.
How much is a taxi from Long Beach Airport to the Convention Center?
A taxi from LGB to the Long Beach Convention Center typically costs between $25 and $35, depending on traffic and your exact drop-off point. The ride usually takes 10-15 minutes. It's a fixed-rate zone, so confirm the price with the driver before departing.
Is Uber or Lyft available at Long Beach Airport?
Yes, both Uber and Lyft operate freely at Long Beach Airport. The designated rideshare pickup zone is located on the lower level, outside baggage claim. Fares are comparable to or sometimes slightly less than taxis, ranging from $18 to $30 for the trip to the convention center.
How long does it take to get from the airport to the convention center?
Travel time varies significantly by mode of transport: By taxi/rideshare: 10-15 minutes. By private car/shuttle: 10-20 minutes. By public bus (Route 111): 25-40 minutes, depending on wait times and traffic. Walking is not practical (over 2.5 hours).
Can I walk from Long Beach Airport to the Convention Center?
Technically yes, but it is not recommended. The distance is approximately 5.5 miles, which would take over 2 hours to walk on urban streets with luggage. It is not a pedestrian-friendly route for travelers and is not considered a viable option.
What public bus goes from LGB to the Convention Center?
LB Transit Route 111 is the primary public bus connecting Long Beach Airport to downtown and the convention center area. You board at the "Long Beach Airport" stop on Lakewood Blvd. and get off at stops near Ocean Blvd. and Pine Ave., a short walk from the convention center.
Are there any luggage restrictions on the public bus from the airport?
LB Transit buses allow luggage, but space is limited. You are responsible for your bags, which must not block aisles or seats. During peak times or with large suitcases, a taxi or rideshare might be more convenient. Consider the size and number of your bags before choosing the bus.