Bus Travel In and Around West Covina
West Covina is home to one of the most respected public transit agencies in Southern California, and its residents enjoy a surprisingly robust network of bus options. Whether you are commuting to Downtown Los Angeles, traveling to a nearby college, visiting friends across the San Gabriel Valley, or heading out of state on an intercity coach, buses provide an affordable and environmentally friendly way to travel.
This guide highlights ten of the best bus companies and transit services serving West Covina, covering local routes, express commuter service, intercity travel, and private charter options. Each was selected for reliability, coverage, comfort, and value.
Tips for Riding the Bus
Use real-time transit apps to track arrivals and plan connections. Consider purchasing a TAP card, which works on most transit systems across Los Angeles County and offers fare capping benefits that limit how much you pay over a day or week. For intercity trips, book in advance for the lowest fares, and check luggage policies before you travel.
1. Foothill Transit
Headquartered in West Covina, Foothill Transit is the primary public transit provider for the San Gabriel and Pomona Valleys. It operates dozens of local and express routes connecting communities from Pasadena to Claremont. Foothill Transit is known for its clean, modern fleet, including battery-electric and hydrogen fuel cell buses, and its consistently high customer satisfaction ratings.
2. Foothill Transit Silver Streak
The Silver Streak is Foothill Transit's signature express service, running between Montclair, West Covina, El Monte, and Downtown Los Angeles. Using the El Monte Busway, Silver Streak buses move quickly through traffic, offering commuters a fast and comfortable alternative to driving. It is one of the most popular commuter options in the San Gabriel Valley.
3. LA Metro
The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority operates the largest bus network in the region, along with Metro Rail and the J Line bus rapid transit service. West Covina riders can connect to Metro services at the El Monte Station, one of the busiest bus terminals west of Chicago, gaining access to destinations throughout Los Angeles County.
4. Go West Shuttle
The City of West Covina operates the Go West shuttle, a local service that connects residential neighborhoods with shopping centers, parks, schools, and civic facilities. Its affordable fares and convenient routes make it ideal for short trips within the city, particularly for students and seniors.
5. Greyhound
Greyhound is the most recognized intercity bus company in the United States. From stations in the Los Angeles area, it offers service to destinations across California and beyond, including Las Vegas, Phoenix, and San Francisco. Greyhound's extensive network makes it a dependable option for budget-friendly long-distance travel.
6. FlixBus
FlixBus is a modern intercity bus operator known for low fares, free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and an easy-to-use app. It serves major routes from Los Angeles to Las Vegas, San Diego, and Northern California. FlixBus has grown quickly by offering a fresh, tech-forward travel experience.
7. Amtrak Thruway
Amtrak Thruway buses connect travelers to Amtrak train services across California. These coordinated bus connections extend rail access to communities without direct train service, allowing West Covina travelers to combine bus and rail for seamless trips throughout the state.
8. Montebello Bus Lines
Montebello Bus Lines provides local and express service in the western San Gabriel Valley and East Los Angeles. Its routes connect riders with key destinations, including Downtown Los Angeles and regional shopping centers, and it serves as a useful link for West Covina residents traveling west.
9. Omnitrans
Omnitrans is the public transit provider for the San Bernardino Valley. West Covina riders can connect with Omnitrans through Foothill Transit services at the Montclair Transit Center, gaining access to the Inland Empire, including Ontario, Rancho Cucamonga, and San Bernardino.
10. Silverado Stages
Silverado Stages is a California-based charter bus company offering motorcoach service for group travel. It serves schools, corporate events, sports teams, and tour groups throughout Southern California. For West Covina organizations planning group trips, Silverado Stages provides comfortable coaches and professional drivers.
Bus Travel Trends
Zero-emission buses are transforming public transit in Southern California. Foothill Transit has been a national leader in deploying battery-electric and hydrogen buses, and agencies across the region are working toward fully zero-emission fleets in line with California's clean air goals. This shift reduces pollution and creates quieter, smoother rides.
Fare innovation is also improving the rider experience. TAP card fare capping, mobile ticketing, and reduced fare programs for students, seniors, and low-income riders make transit more affordable. Looking ahead, preparations for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games are expected to bring additional investment in regional transit service.
Final Thoughts
West Covina is fortunate to have a strong network of bus services, anchored by its hometown transit agency, Foothill Transit. Whether you need a quick local trip, a fast commute downtown, or an affordable intercity journey, these bus companies offer reliable options. Leave the car at home, enjoy the ride, and help reduce traffic and emissions across the region.