The specific CoCo tour are for those with memberships for the event plus extra fee for the tour (they fill tours just like classes on a sorting system). However, I suppose your mom could meet you downtown if not actually part of the tour bus group. I’ve never been on the tour but have been to DTLA many times. Staying in small groups is recommended and I think most from the CoCo group do. You won’t be alone and can find many who would love to have you tag along. The cost of the tour will be out with the final list of classes in April sometime. Again, open to those with a Costume College membership. DTLA is filled with little hole-in-the-wall shops, many very tightly packed with fabrics hanging and/or standing up. As with any urban city center safety precautions are suggested like keeping money in pants pockets, hanging tightly onto purses, and being aware of your surroundings. Again, on the tour you won’t be on your own. I think something like 30 to 40 people go from CoCo.