Metrolink gives riders a break on Rose Parade and off-peak travel

Metrolink has a goodie that lasts beyond Christmas: two-for-one fares for weekday travelers during off-peak hours. This discount applies to all lines through the end of the month and all day Jan. 2.

The deal: The discount works for those traveling between 9:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Monday-Friday on selected lines. It also includes two-for-one fares all day on Jan. 2, the day of the Rose Parade in Pasadena, though service is limited to San Bernardino and Antelope Valley lines. (The special does not apply to Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner.)

When: The offer is good Monday-Friday and Jan. 2.

Tested: I calculated some sample fares to check the savings. Round-trip tickets to downtown Los Angeles cost $16.50 each from Anaheim and $23.50 each from San Bernardino. This deal could be good for families that want to try the train instead of driving, particularly for those heading to Pasadena to see parade floats before, during or after the parade.

For train schedules and ticketing information, go to the Metrolink website or call (800) 371-5465