Uber pickup after a LA Kings game

Question

We are going to an LA Kings game and we were wondering if there is a trick to getting an Uber after the game to head back to Anaheim. Should we leave the game a little early to try to snag an Uber without the mayhem of fans all waiting to go home?

Toots

Answer

After an LA Kings game, getting an Uber can be challenging because the area around Crypto.com Arena (formerly Staples Center) gets extremely busy with thousands of fans leaving at the same time. There are a few strategies to make your pickup smoother, especially if you’re heading to Anaheim, which is a long ride and likely in high demand for rideshares.

Here are some tips and considerations:

Leave a little early: Yes, leaving a few minutes before the game ends can help you beat the surge pricing and the biggest crowd. Fans tend to leave en masse right as the game ends, so a slight early exit may get you a car faster and with less stress.
Use designated rideshare pickup zones: Crypto.com Arena has specific areas for Uber and Lyft pickups on Georgia Street and nearby streets. Follow the signs and the app directions carefully to avoid being redirected or walking too far.
Pre-schedule an Uber: Some Uber services allow you to schedule a ride ahead of time. You could set one for just before the end of the game. However, be aware that during high-demand events, there may still be delays or surge pricing.
Consider alternate nearby pickup points: Walking a few blocks away from the arena can sometimes reduce wait times and surge pricing. Areas near L.A. Live or Figueroa Street often have shorter queues.
Check for other transport options: If the wait for Uber is too long, consider using a taxi stand or public transit for part of the trip. For example, taking the Metro Expo Line to a less crowded station and then hailing a ride might be faster.

Summary:

Leaving slightly early is generally recommended to avoid the largest crowd and surge pricing.
Use the designated rideshare pickup zones and follow app instructions carefully.
Be aware that demand is high, so alternate pickup locations or pre-scheduling can save time.

Overall, if minimizing wait time and hassle is your priority, plan to exit a few minutes before the final buzzer and head straight to the rideshare zone. Bring patience, and have your app ready so you can request a ride immediately upon arriving at the pickup area.

Uber pickup after a LA Kings game

More Los Angeles Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions