Best Hotels in Los Angeles, California
We're a big fan of Los Angeles. From star-powered favorites of Beverly Hills and Hollywood to laid-back boutiques in Santa Monica and the Beach Cities, we have endless options when it comes to Los Angeles hotels.
Home to the stars, Disneyland, ocean views and skyscrapers, Los Angeles is a sprawling SoCal city that deserves lots of attention. Whether you're hitting the big ones like Universal Studios and the Walk of Fame or the Santa Monica pier, strutting your stuff on Rodeo Drive or catching a game at Staples Center, Los Angeles has plenty to offer with hotels to match.
Why We Love Los Angeles
It's impossible to dial a city like Los Angeles down to a few bullet points, but if we have to choose, here are a few of our favorite parts:
- Hip hotels: This is where we shine. Los Angeles hotels totally kill it with style, service and selection. From celebrity mainstays with rooftop parties to cool boutique hotels that get you near the action, Los Angeles hotels have it all.
- Iconic attractions: You can't possibly see it in a day. From Universal Studios to the Chinese Theatre, Sunset Boulevard to the Getty, Los Angeles is flooded with famous institutions, landmarks and buildings. There's so much to do, you'll be planning your next trip before you even go home.
- Good neighbors: Los Angeles stretches far beyond Hollywood. Exploring outside what you know can be a great way to experience the culture and the history of LA. Go antiquing in Pasadena, take a boat ride to Catalina Island, hit the sand in Redondo Beach, or catch the street art downtown.
- Endless exhibits: Los Angeles is crawling with museums on museums. Peep the iconic street lamps at Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), marvel at the expansive Getty (this one's free), see the stars at the Griffith Observatory and graze the gardens at The Huntington.
- Beachy keen: Is there anything better than a sunny California day at the beach? Los Angeles offers plenty of chances to swim, surf and play. From Venice Beach to Manhattan Beach, there's a beach for everyone. There's plenty of room to hike in the South Bay, and family-friendly options cover Marina del Rey.
Where to Stay in Los Angeles
Los Angeles has long been a destination for artists, musicians and soon-to-be stars. Visitors flock to LA to catch sight of VIPs, relax on palm-lined beaches, and explore the SoCal culture. As one of the largest cities in the country, there's no shortage of amazing and distinct neighborhoods for every personality. Whether you need a luxury business hotel or a beach hotel with a view, Los Angeles will not disappoint. Here are some of the best neighborhoods to stay in for a memorable LA adventure:
- Los Feliz: With access to beautiful hiking parks, gorgeous views and iconic landmarks, it's hard not to love Los Feliz. Located just outside of Hollywood, this relaxed neighborhood is perfect for a genuine Los Angeles experience. Here you can hike to new heights in Griffith Park, hang with chimpanzees at the Los Angeles Zoo, or take your Rat Pack for classic Italian eats at Little Dom's. You'll find plenty of nice budget hotels near this part of Los Angeles.
- Thousand Oaks: Thousand Oaks is located in Ventura County between Los Angeles and Santa Barbara. This desirable city is filled with beautiful garden attractions and places to shop, eat and learn. Here you can stroll through Gardens of the World, explore the Chumash Indian Museum, and shop fashion-forward retailers at The Oaks. While it is about 40 miles from downtown LA, this city has everything you'll need for a great trip and plenty of mid-range hotels perfect for the whole family.
- Santa Monica: If you're spending time in Los Angeles, you have to spend some time beachside. Santa Monica is one of the best coastal cities in California, but its appeal goes far beyond the sandy shoreline. With centers for arts, entertainment and fashion, this city will always have something for everyone — including some of the top beach hotels in Los Angeles. While staying in Santa Monica, make sure to visit the iconic Santa Monica Pier, shop the Third Street Promenade downtown, or play a game of human chess at the Chess Park.
- Burbank: Burbank is a beautiful metropolitan city and home to some of the best attractions in Los Angeles. Here you can tour Warner Bros. Studios, see where your favorite movies come to life at The Walt Disney Studios, or hike the dramatic ridges of Wildwood Canyon Park. From movie magic to heavenly hikes, delicious restaurants to luxury suite hotels, if you want a top-notch LA experience, book a trip to Burbank.
- Downtown Los Angeles: Does it get any better than downtown LA? It's definitely one of the best places to visit in the Los Angeles area. With dug-up history at the La Brea Tar Pits and Museum, designer fashion in the Fashion District and sports at Staples Center, downtown has a pretty widespread appeal. You'll also find a variety of posh boutique hotels in downtown Los Angeles perfect for business travelers or fashionistas.
- Hollywood: Hollywood is a top LA destination and a great place to stay for first-time visitors. You'll find several LA landmarks in Hollywood such as the famous Hollywood Sign, TCL Chinese Theatre — home of red carpet movie premieres — and the Hollywood Walk of Fame. You'll find an abundance of luxurious high-end hotels as well as affordable digs in Hollywood.
- Beverly Hills: In the mood to stargaze? If so, Beverly Hills awaits you. This LA County city is home to celebrities, upscale shops and some of the swankiest hotels in LA. If you want to shop, dine and live la vida dulce among the stars, book your room in Beverly Hills.
Places to Eat in Los Angeles
LA eateries are as diverse as the region's neighborhoods. From juicy cheeseburgers to belly-warming ramen, there's something yummy to satisfy every palate. Here are a few iconic LA restaurants locals and visitors swear by:
- Philippe the Original: Philippe is one of LA's most famous restaurants and home of the original "French Dipped Sandwich." Since 1908, Philippe has been serving meaty sandwiches dipped in gravy — all because the owner accidentally dropped a roll in the roasting pan one day. Stop in Philippe the Original for an authentic and juicy bite of LA.
- Langer's Deli: Langer's fans would likely agree that this is the place to get the best pastrami sandwich in the country. For over 70 years, Langer's Delicatessen has been serving hot pastrami sandwiches and other deli classics to customers in the mood for something smoky and satisfying. Whether you crave pastrami, roast beef or tuna salad, this old-school institution is worth checking out.
- Pink's: Pink's has been a Hollywood hot dog legend since 1939. Everyone from movie stars to tourists head to Pink's to pick a unique dog off the menu and gaze at over 200 photos of celebrities on the dining room wall. Who could resist a dog topped with grilled steak, coleslaw and barbecue sauce?
- The Musso and Frank Grill: The Musso and Frank Grill, located on Hollywood Boulevard, is a must-try for those who want the ultimate glam dining experience. As Hollywood's oldest restaurant, Musso's is proud to provide impeccable service and a classic menu that hasn't changed for decades. Want to taste the same fettuccine alfredo recipe that celebrities like Marilyn Monroe, Elizabeth Taylor and Jimmy Stewart dug into? There's a cushy red booth calling your name.
- La Scala: If you plan to stay in or visit Beverly Hills, consider dining at La Scala, an innovative Italian restaurant that's been serving stars, locals and visitors for over 60 years. Make sure to start your meal with their famous Original Chopped Salad.
- Golden Deli: Golden Deli, located in San Gabriel, has been serving pho since 1981. This Vietnamese restaurant is so good it was featured on the Food Network. Head to Golden Deli for out-of-this-world egg rolls, soups, sandwiches and more, and you'll feel that all is golden.
Looking for a low-key spot to relax with friends and a quality meal? LA's got you covered. Here are a few casual gems you won't regret:
- Messob Ethiopian Restaurant: If you're looking for a cozy spot that will make you feel like you're eating at a friend's house, visit Messob Ethiopian Restaurant to enjoy a traditional Ethiopian meal and communal dining. At Messob, it's all about sharing fresh, flavorful food with friends and savoring the experience together.
- DeSano Pizzeria: Head down bustling Santa Monica Boulevard towards Silver Lake, and you'll find DeSano Pizzeria, a spacious and laid-back pizza restaurant serving authentic Neapolitan pizza. Stop here to plop down at a picnic table, enjoy a slice and a homemade cannoli, and take a break from Hollywood glitz.
- Stout Burgers and Beers: Stout is a casual neighborhood pub and upscale burger joint combined. Here you can choose from a vast selection of craft beers and creative mouthwatering burgers topped with homemade goodies. With locations in Hollywood, Santa Monica and Studio City, it won't be hard to drop in and get acquainted with a burger topped with rosemary bacon or fig jam.
- Plan Check Kitchen and Bar: Looking for a low-key spot for date night not too far from downtown? Consider Plan Check Kitchen and Bar. At Plan Check, you can expect quality American comfort food like burgers, sweet potato waffles fries and rib sandwiches. They also use their signature ketchup leather to keep your burger bun sturdy. Make sure to share a cruller donut with your date.
Things to Do in Los Angeles
It can be tough deciding how to spend your time in a city as big as Los Angeles. From world-class museums to spectacular parks, and all the stargazing destinations in between, how do you know where to begin? To help you get started, here are the top LA attractions you don't want to miss, especially if it's your first time exploring the City of Angels:
- Universal Studios Hollywood: Universal Studios, located about a half hour from downtown LA, is a great way to experience the region's moviemaking magic. Kids and adults will enjoy the many rides, attractions, studio tours and entertainment options this theme park has to offer. You'll know you're in LA when you come face to face with Jaws and shake Homer Simpson's hand an hour later — what's not to love?
- Griffith Park: Famous for hosting the trails to the Hollywood Sign, Griffith Park is more than a national landmark. Locals and visitors alike travel its mountain hiking trails to take in the renowned city views. It's also home to the Griffith Observatory, a planetarium with public telescopes to observe Los Angeles from the sky.
- Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County: With large fossilized skeleton exhibits of prehistoric dinosaurs, mammals and birds, the
- Grand Central Market: Grand Central Market is a landmark in downtown LA, and has been since 1917. Foodies will be in heaven as they taste everything from handmade pupusas to build-your-own ice cream sandwiches. Don't forget to take home candy from La Huerta and a glamorous ring from Grand Central Jewelry.
- The Getty: With collections of American and European art, gorgeous architecture, creative gardens and a breathtaking view to boot, The Getty is one of the most popular art museums in Los Angeles. Whether you spend mere minutes or hours here, you certainly won't regret a moment of it.
- OUE Skyspace: What's the best way to see LA? How about from above? Located on the 70th floor of the U.S. Bank Tower, OUE Skyspace gives you an unparalleled experience. Here you can view the city via Skyslide ride, or take in 360-degree views from the tallest open-air observation deck in the state. With such astonishing views, it's no wonder this has become a must-see attraction.
If you're looking for hidden gems in LA, you'll find many treasures scattered throughout. Here are a few worthwhile attractions to tour the city like a local:
- The Gamble House: Set in Pasadena, The Gamble House is a work of architectural art. This house, designed in 1908, is a National Historic Landmark and demonstrates American Arts and Crafts style in gorgeous condition. Stop here to take a docent-led tour or enjoy a lunch on the terrace if you visit on Brown Bag Tuesday.
- Museum of Jurassic Technology: There are plenty of ways to experience the latest technology in LA, but what about Jurassic technology? The Museum of Jurassic Technology, located about a half hour west of downtown LA, is a lesser-known gem for museum and history lovers. This relaxing museum invites you inside to explore unusual exhibits and relics from the Lower Jurassic. While visiting the museum, make sure to stop by the Tula Tea Room on the second floor for complimentary tea and cookies.
- The Huntington: Do rare books, a Japanese tea room and 15th-century European art sound like fun? If so, The Huntington is for you. Located just 12 miles north of downtown LA, The Huntington is a library, art collection and botanical garden wrapped into one. Here you can stroll through a gorgeous botanical collection spanning 120 acres, visit the Main Exhibition Hall in one of the world's greatest independent research libraries, and examine a fantastic collection of American and European art.
- Hollyhock House in Barnsdall Art Park: If you want to see a house built by Frank Lloyd Wright while in LA, head to Hollyhock House. Hollyhock House was Wright's first LA project and is now owned by the city. You can take a self-guided tour of this beautiful home, or enjoy a docent-led tour for greater insight. If you have extra time, consider visiting the Los Angeles Municipal Art Gallery, which is also located in Barnsdall Art Park.
Where to Find the Top Hotels in Los Angeles, California
Nowhere says palm trees, movies stars and beachside glam like LA — but that's not all LA is about. If you're getting ready for a trip to LA, make sure to prepare for lots of culture, diversity, history, recreational opportunities and delicious eats. You'll also find an abundance of celeb-worthy digs to suit a range of budgets and styles. Whether you need a pet-friendly hotel with a great view or a family-friendly suite hotel close to moviemaking magic, we've curated the best hotels in LA.
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