When you get off the Red Line, there are two ways to exit. It doesn't matter which way you go -- one way takes you to the transit plaza at the back of the station, the other will take you to the main lobby. Each end is linked by a tunnel with exits leading to the train platforms.
Take a stroll around and check out the high-ceilinged main waiting room with its wood and leather chairs and wrought-iron decoration, and the wonderful tiled patio to one side. On either side of the lobby are the Traxx Restaurant (on the expensive side and with limited hours) where you can sit and have a leisurely meal and Union Bagel, where you can get a more affordable quick snack. There's also a "newsstand" where you can purchase magazines, soft drinks, candy, and chips. If you run short of cash, there's a Wells Fargo ATM in the service area between the tunnel and the main lobby.
On the silly side --the large restrooms off the lobby have the latest in hand-dryers -- your hands are dried in seconds and you can watch your skin ripple from the force. Your tour guide thinks these are made from surplus jet engines and is trying to figure out how to use one in her village.
On the Pataouras Transit Plaza end of the station you find a wonderful fountain made from bits and pieces, including someone's dentures, found when the site (originally a Chinatown location) was excavated. You can't miss it -- it looks like a volcano with a bench atttached to it.
Keep your eyes open -- in one dark end of the plaza, one wall is actually the side of a large aquarium. Overhead you'll find a mural depicting the broad spectrum of people who pass through the station. Just outside the building is a sunken patio with steps leading up to the bus area. During weekday "commuter" hours there is also a small news stand and hot dog cart in you need a quick snack.
If you exit the station from the main lobby, right across the street you will see El Pueblo Historic Park, whose best known feature is Olvera Street. This is another favorite spot of your tour director. Built at the site of the original Pueblo that became Los Angeles, Olvera Street celebrates the Mexican contribution to the city's culture. It's very small and can be crowded at times, but there always seems to be a festive atmosphere between the bright colors and sounds of the strolling mariachis. You can shop for everything from souvenirs to leather goods and Mexican clothing, pottery, candles, and art objects. If you're hungry, there are several sit-down restaurants and food stands.
Phillippe, The Original, founded in 1908, claims to be the originator of the beef-dip sandwich and is a local favorite. It's just around the corner on Alameda.