Things To See And Do In Venice Beach
- Wander down Abbot Kinney Boulevard. The main street in Venice Beach where youll find a mix of local boutiques, great restaurants and fun night spots.
- Grab a cone of fresh French fries at The Wee Chippy.
- Soak up the sunshine on Venice Beach.
- Treat yourself to mini doughnuts at Zeldas Corner.
- Watch the street performers, magicians and musicians who set up shop on Venice Beach Boardwalk.
- Grab a slice of amazing pizza at Big Daddy and Sons.
- Paddle along the Venice Canals and see the neighbourhood from a different angle.
- Cool down with a cone of fresh gelato from Venice Coffee and Creamery.
- Pump some irons at Muscle Beach.
- Grab a board and practice some tricks at the Venice skate park.
- Enjoy fresh and delicious seafood and poke bowls at Poke-Poke.
Best Hostel In Venice Beach: Samesun Venice Beach
Where is the best place to stay in Los Angeles? It could be Venice Beach. A great seaside location and hip décor are just two of the reason this stylish hostel is my top choice for where to stay in Venice Beach. It has a cool common room, comfortable beds and an on-site bar and lounge. A delicious breakfast is also available to guests throughout their stay.
Best Downtown: Freehand Los Angeles
Whether you want a hostel or boutique hotel, Freehand Los Angeles offers both concepts in beautifully designed spaces by Roman and Williams.
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Affordable rates with beds in a dorm starting at $55 and private rooms starting at $144
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Home to Broken Shaker, a James Beard Awardnominated cocktail bar
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Rooftop pool with great views
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Quad dorms are on the smaller side
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$15+ daily resort fee
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Parking not offered through the hotel
Located in Downtowns iconic Commercial Exchange Building, Freehand Los Angeles offers guests a hostel-boutique hotel hybrid with beautifully designed spaces by acclaimed studio Roman and Williams. Shared rooms feature cedar bunks with privacy screens while private accommodations are outfitted with king beds and a sitting space all are decorated with thoughtful details like hand-woven textiles, painted tiles, and works by local artists. The property even offers a rooftop pool for guests to unwind, as well as four dining and beverage outlets to choose from, including James Beard Award-nominated bar Broken Shaker.
Set just a block away from Hollywood Boulevard, Mama Shelter Los Angeles is just steps from some of the neighborhoods most popular attractions.
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Rooftop bar and restaurant with great views
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Live DJ at the first-floor bar
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All rooms are furnished with king-size beds
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Rooms are on the smaller side, starting at 215 square feet
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Ambient noise is audible in accommodations
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Room service is not offered
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Where To Stay In Los Angeles In 2022 6 Top Areas
Hollywood, Santa Monica, Venice Beach Im sure you heard all of these, am I right? Theyre all in L.A.! Los Angeles, also known as the City of Angels is one of the most famous destinations for people interested in arts, film, and music in the United States. With over 17 million inhabitants, it is actually the 2nd biggest city in the USA!
But Los Angeles means so much more than just Hollywood, pristine beaches, and sunny weather actually, the city has so much to offer to ALL types of travelers out there, regardless of whether youre a solo backpacker, a couple, or a family looking for some relaxation or fun at theme parks!
In case you decided to pay a visit to this incredible city, the next thing you probably have in minds where to stay in Los Angeles, am I right? Well, this is quite a challenge, as there are so many INCREDIBLE districts in this HUGE city that it might feel a bit overwhelming to decide, especially for people visiting L.A. for the first time that really want to experience everything that this city has to offer.
And this is where I come to the rescue! In this article youll find everything you need to know about the 6 best areas to stay in Los Angeles, together with my personalized hotel recommendations.
Are you ready? Lets go!
UPDATE: I have just finished another blog post on the Best Airbnbs in Los Angeles where I list all the top apartments in the city , be sure to go through it too!
Contents
These Properties Prove You Don’t Have To Skimp On Style Or Location When Traveling On A Budget
Editor’s Note: Travel might be complicated right now, but use our inspirational trip ideas to plan ahead for your next bucket list adventure. Hotels were chosen based on late summer/early fall 2020 dates and rates are subject to change.
A Los Angeles vacation almost always means glitz and glamour are in the cards. After all, the city is home to the rich and famous, an incredible food scene, and unique attractions that entice people from all over the world. Fortunately, all that doesn’t have to equate to a hefty price tag when it comes to choosing accommodations. We’ve sourced these 10 hotels from Hotels.com with the goal of finding properties that’ll give you the most bang for your buck. Now, the Hollywood celebrity life is looking a little more accessible.
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These Properties Prove You Dont Have To Skimp On Style Or Location When Traveling On A Budget
Editors Note: Travel might be complicated right now, but use our inspirational trip ideas to plan ahead for your next bucket list adventure. Hotels were chosen based on late summer/early fall 2020 dates and rates are subject to change.
A Los Angeles vacation almost always means glitz and glamour are in the cards. After all, the city is home to the rich and famous, an incredible food scene, and unique attractions that entice people from all over the world. Fortunately, all that doesnt have to equate to a hefty price tag when it comes to choosing accommodations. Weve sourced these 10 hotels from Hotels.com with the goal of finding properties thatll give you the most bang for your buck. Now, the Hollywood celebrity life is looking a little more accessible.
Best Hotel In West Hollywood: Grafton On Sunset
Grafton on Sunset is a luxurious and modern four-star hotel and one of my recommendations for West Hollywood as well as favorite places to stay in LA. It has a beautiful saltwater swimming pool, concierge service, and a great on-site restaurant and lounge. It is centrally located and ideal for exploring West Hollywood, Beverly Hills and beyond.
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Best Airbnb In Hollywood: Private Studio Near The Hollywood Sign
If location is your top priority, then this Airbnb is a winner. Adjacent to Griffith Park where you can hike to see the Hollywood Sign and Thai Town, where you can taste various authentic Thai cuisine. This studio apartment is conveniently located near the 101 highway, just a 10-minute drive to Sunset Blvd, Hollywood, Walk of Fame and a few blocks from Franklin Village.
Getting Around Los Angeles
Los Angeles is not a place you want to rent a vehicle, unless you like freeways and city streets that look like parking lots where you are fighting your way along with aggressive drivers. California drivers have a system, a mind of their own, and they can tell when you are not a Californian. Instead, stick with the Metro system. Here you have buses, dash buses, and the trains that take you just about anywhere you need to go. Fares are $1.75 USD per adult, but if you purchase a 7-day card, you skip the lines and get a discounted rate. The TAP cards are $1 USD each at the vending machine and onboard buses and $2 USD at TAP vendor locations.
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Hotel Indigo Los Angeles Downtown
L.A.s downtown is experiencing a resurgence, and the Hotel Indigo Los Angeles Downtown plants you right in the middle of it. Here, youll find bright and airy rooms featuring stunning murals inspired by the citys history. The property is also within short walking distance of some recognizable hot spots: the Staples Center and the Los Angeles Convention Center.
To book: hotels.com, from $234 per night
Other Things To See And Do In Los Angeles
1. Tour Universal Studios Hollywood
Universal Studios Hollywood is the only working movie studio and theme park in the world. Their Studio Tour lasts one hour and gives you a behind-the-scenes look at Hollywood, including a visit to the plane crash scene from War of the Worlds, Peter Jacksons King Kong, the Bates Hotel from Psycho, and cars from Fast & Furious . The theme park is home to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Jurassic World, The Simpsons ride, special effects shows, and more. A one-day ticket costs $109 USD while a two-day pass starts at $149 USD. If you dont want to pay to go into the parks, you can also enjoy shops, restaurants, and atmosphere at Universals City Walk .
2. Party on Sunset Boulevard
Perhaps one of the worlds most famous streets in the world, Sunset Blvd began as a route between the stars posh neighborhoods and the Hollywood studios. It runs from downtown to the ocean, passing through the Sunset Strip with its beaches and movie studios on its way. Spend some time cruising the street and see if you can spot any celebs!
3. Explore Old Town Pasadena
Historic downtown Pasadena is located just ten minutes from Los Angeles. Its pedestrian-friendly zone is designated as a National Register Historic District and stretches for twenty-two blocks. Its filled with boutique shops and restaurants and is also a popular nightspot for all of you party animals out there. Its an eclectic area where people of all ages come to hang out.
8. Go for a hike
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Things To See And Do In Downtown
- Watch top athletes battle it out at the Staples Centre, home to the LA Kings and LA Lakers hockey and basketball teams.
- Sample great craft beer at Angel City Brewery.
- Dine on amazing food at one of the food vendors at the Grand Central Market.
- Sip on delicious whiskey cocktails at Seven Bar Lounge.
- See panoramic views of LA and enjoy DJs spinning the latest tunes at The Rooftop at the Standard Downtown LA.
- Catch a performance at the Walt Disney Concert Hall.
- Enjoy great beer and a wonderful atmosphere at Boomtown Brewery.
- Grab a spot at the Edison, a hip bar built in the basement of an old Downtown nuclear power plant.
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Budget Travel Los Angeles: 10 Tips From Locals
Los Angeles may be home to the rich and famous, but you dont need a movie stars bank account to have an incredible time! Locals in LA provided these 10 tips to keep your Los Angeles trip under budget.
For personalized advice on how to keep your LA trip under budget work with a local to plan your trip. They’ll create a custom guidebook based on your interests and their local knowledge. Learn more.
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Travel Tips For Los Angeles
Accommodation Options Los Angeles, the city of angels, boasts several high quality yet modestly priced hotels as well as the highest of the high class accommodations, of course. A few dozen hotels are located in and around the downtown area with easy access to the metro rail and airport. If youre one of those people who likes to get some rest and relaxation after a long flight, Los Angeles has several dozen hotels located within minutes of LAX. As for the relaxation, LA is home to many hotels along and near the beach from Santa Monica down to Manhattan beach. Looking to do some sight seeing? There are many great hiking spots only 20 miles from most hotels in Los Angeles.
Nightlife Maybe youre craving a bit more excitement. There are over 20 night clubs in Los Angeles easily accessed from any hotel in the area. In addition, Los Angeles has exquisite cuisine available with a wide variety of taste and flavor and close by every hotel you could choose. Over three dozen hotels are located within Los Angeles all of which are within 10 miles of Los Angeles International Airport. With a number of colleges in the area, students will have many great deals available to them.
Helpful Links
Four Points By Sheraton Los Angeles International Airport
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Beverly Hills The Best Neighborhood For Luxury
Beverly Hills is located on the West, in-between Hollywood and the coastal areas. From boutique shops to upscale restaurants, business centers, palm trees, luxurious mansions, and beautiful streets this beautiful area has it all and Im convinced youve seen at least some parts of it in tons of movies!
If youre all about luxury and designer shops, then youll love Beverly Hills. But hey, dont expect this famous neighborhood of Los Angeles to be tailored for the rich only, as everyone is welcomed and the area offers a little bit of something for everyone.
If you want to spot a celebrity during your stay in Los Angeles, trust me, Beverly Hills is THE place where its most likely to happen!
During your stay, you can explore the food places and shops near the famous Rodeo Drive, but you wont have tons of iconic landmarks and attractions for these, youll have to go to the other neighborhoods I am recommending in this post. Ah, and did I mention that Beverly Hills is one of the safest areas in the entire LA?
That being said, here are the best Beverly Hills hotels to choose from :
Best Hostel In Hollywood: Orange Drive Hostel
This Hollywood hostel benefits from an amazing location. Its close to the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Sunset Boulevard and Hollywoods top restaurants. It has a full kitchen, and modern common room, and each stay includes free breakfast. Enjoy a relaxing environment just a few steps from the hustle and bustle of Hollywood.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Los Angeles
Which is the best area to stay in Los Angeles?
The best area to stay in Los Angeles is Hollywood, where all the iconic sights are, like the famous Hollywood Walk of Fame. Stay at the luxurious W Hotel Hollywood or the affordable Banana Bungalow Hollywood.
Where should I not stay in LA?
Although LA is mostly safe to visit and walk around, there are some sketchy areas that are best avoided. Some of these are: Skid Row, Compton, South Central, Hyde Park and West Adams.
Where to stay in Los Angeles for nightlife?
If you want to experience all the cool nightlife spots in Los Angeles, the Downtown area is the right place for you! The InterContinental Los Angeles is the perfect hotel if youre looking for luxury, and the Freehand Los Angeles if youre traveling on a budget
Where to stay in Los Angeles with the family?
The best area to stay in LA with the family is Santa Monica, where the famous Santa Monica Pier is located. Stay at the Best Western Santa Monica or Gateway Hotel Santa Monica, both offering great value for money!
When is the best time to visit Los Angeles?
Spring and Fall is the best time to visit LA as the weather is still good but there are fewer crowds and cleaner air than in Summer. That being said, Los Angeles has a vibrant atmosphere all year round!
Are there any cool beach hotels in Los Angeles?
But if youre still undecided about which is the best hotel for you, let me help you with my favorite ones, both located in the famous Hollywood area:
What Is There To Do In Los Angeles
LA is known around the globe as the entertainment capital of the world, and visitors interested in this aspect will find sightseeing opportunities in and around Hollywood, such as the Walk of Fame, the Hollywood sign, and studio backlot tours.
Nature and outdoors lovers have endless coastline and hiking trails to explore.
Theme parks in the area are another big draw, with Universal Studios in town and Disneyland located in Anaheim to the south.
LA is also known as a multicultural melting pot, with its diversity represented in incredible dining options and world-class museums and cultural institutions, from Lacma to Walt Disney Concert Hall and countless others.
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Final Thoughts On Where To Stay In La
There is a reason LA traffic and the 401 are so famous. Famously awful, that is. When youre planning your trip to LA you want to book accommodation in the best area for your interests so you can avoid the traffic at all costs. The best areas to stay in LA are spread across the city and each has its own character.
And there is plenty to do in LA, whether you want to be close to healthy restaurants, LAs best nightlife, sunny side beaches, or the original skate culture in Venice Beach.
This guide has covered the top areas in the city of Angels. That said, if youre still not sure where to stay in LA, I highly recommend Orange Drive Hostel.
If you need some more inspiration about where to stay in LA, consider checking out these motels in LA for a truly authentic and affordable experience.
Do you own or run a kick ass hostel? Want to be featured in this list? Get in touch at