Where to stay in LA
Posted by Questo Team
Are you a bit undecided about what to visit and where to stay in LA? Well, it’s understandable, this is one of the biggest cities not only on the West Coast but in the USA too. We got your back!
First of all, you have to know what your expectations are exactly. What are you eager to explore in the City of Angels? Are you just eager to sip fancy cocktails on the beach? Or are you curious to check out the nightlife? Palm trees, luxury, Hollywood, what a reverie, right? It also depends on whether you’re planning to visit alone or with your family. Here are the best options for where to stay in LA.
Santa Monica
Located on the coast, Santa Monica is a great choice if you’re coming to LA together with your family. You could all relax on the beach, and then go visit the arcades, the shops, or outdoor cinemas on the Santa Monica Pier. The kids would definitely enjoy the Ferris Wheel, the Aquarium (plenty of sharks and fishes there), or even the Museum of Flying, about the history of flight. Make sure to check out Santa Monica History Museum and the Farmer’s Market as well.
Accommodation
The only downside to this area of LA is that it’s a bit expensive. Keep in mind that hotel rates are higher at the beach. Two affordable places where to stay are HI Los Angeles – Santa Monica Hostel and Santa Monica Motel – the latter offers free coffee at breakfast!
Downtown
Where to stay in LA if you’re interested in art and culture? Pick Downtown, this area is also the business district of LA. We recommend you visit the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA), Chinatown, the Disney concert hall, and the Grammy Museum. Or if you wish to get a taste of the nightlife in LA, there are plenty of bars – The Broken Shaker even has a rooftop pool – and clubs to choose from. Plus, some of the city’s best restaurants are also located here.
During the day, this area is generally safe, but families should take care during the night; unfortunately, there are a lot of unsheltered people.
Accommodation
Downtown is relatively cheap. One affordable hotel is The Freehand Hotel. During your stay, you can unwind at the rooftop pool, the bar, or the full-service restaurant. Another good option is The Hoxton, located near Staples Center, in the south end of Downtown. Or, if you want to splurge in a 5-star hotel, go to The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles, where you can enjoy the rooftop pool or the spa.
Hollywood
Where to stay in LA if you’re coming here for the first time? Well, Hollywood has some of the most popular attractions in LA. Check out celebrities’ stars on the famous Hollywood Walk of Fame (you may even spot a celebrity walking on the sidewalk). You have to go see the Hollywood sign, plus some of the iconic entertainment places in the city: the Chinese Theatre, the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel (supposedly haunted by Marilyn Monroe!), the Universal Studios Hollywood or Griffith Park.
Accommodation
Hollywood is safe at night, even for families. If you’re looking for luxury, then stay at Loews Hollywood. This 4-star hotel is very close to the Walk of Fame and Universal Studios. The budget-friendly options are Hollywood Celebrity Hotel and Samesun Hollywood; the latter is located right on Hollywood Boulevard’s Walk of Fame, just a few steps from the Hollywood Metro Station.
Beverly Hills
This is the area most known for... sophistication and luxury. Situated between Hollywood and the coast, Beverly Hills is generally considered a safe and suitable area for families, since there’s not much of a nightlife. Besides the opportunity to spot a celebrity, you can enjoy its beautiful streets, all sorts of boutique shops (especially on Rodeo Drive), fancy restaurants, and, of course, palm trees. Take a stroll through Beverly Gardens Park and admire its fountains and rose gardens, or check out Virginia Robinson Gardens, a historical landmark with a luxurious mansion (be sure to make an appointment though).
Accommodation
Accommodation is a bit pricy in Beverly Hills. If you’re looking for luxury, then go to Hotel Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills, a 5-star hotel with amazing views from each room. At Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles, you can even bring your pet. A more affordable option is Hotel Sirtaj, situated only a five-minute walk from Rodeo Drive, which offers free Wi-Fi.
Koreatown
If you’re planning to visit a hidden gem of LA, then definitely check out Koreatown, a vibrant area that blends the Art Deco style with the 21st-century building boom. It’s got plenty of amazing restaurants and one of the largest concentrations of nightclubs in the country. Check out Sixth Street for its diverse bars and restaurants. For a unique experience, go to Wi Spa: it’s open 24 hours and features hot tubs, treatment rooms, dry and steam saunas, sleeping rooms, plus a restaurant.
Accommodation
Where to stay in LA’s Koreatown? There are options for any budget. If you want to treat yourself, then go to the Line Hotel, which offers a greenhouse-enclosed restaurant (Openaire), a karaoke bar, plus a wonderful view of the city. A more affordable place is H for Hospitality, where you’ll love the decor and the furnishing.
Sunny and vibrant, the City of Angels has plenty of entertainment options for anyone, from relaxing activities on the beach, to cultural spots and retail therapy. So, where to stay in LA exactly? Have a clear vision of your vacation, then simply pick the area of LA that can offer you that unique experience. And while you're there, make sure to check out Questo's city exploration games in Los Angeles.