Retro Friday: 1979 L.A. TV Remembers The Red Cars

As we celebrate the opening of the Metro's Expo Line next weekend, L.A. finally gets light rail service to West L.A. for the first time since the Red Cars were shut down. Here's Channel 2's "Two on the Town" in 1979, remembering the old Pacific Electric Red Car system and lamenting the lack of a rapid transit system (and visiting the Orange Empire Railway Museum in Perris). (Things have improved, obviously.)

Exploring L.A.'s Railway Past in Perris

Driving to Perris, California -- deep inside the Inland Empire -- is a chore. And let's be honest, the town itself isn't that hot. (Indeed, Perris... is no Paris.)

But for Los Angeles history buffs, railroad fanatics and kids who simply enjoy choo-choos, the Orange Empire Railway Museum is worth making the trek at least once.

We hit the museum last year with Blogger Kid in tow for a special "Thomas the Tank Engine"-themed weekend. Evan enjoyed riding the trains -- but I loved climbing aboard old Los Angeles Yellow and Red cars, and examining old L.A. transit maps and memorabilia. I'm a nerd.

Some pics from the museum: