California’s largest counties and the most populous city in the US, Los Angeles boasts many cities and neighborhoods, each offering a unique vibe. In this article, we’ll share the best places to stay in LA and what to do in each area.
There’s something for everyone, from trendy, laid-back locations to upscale neighborhoods. Many of these are also close to each other, making it easy to explore different places.
What is the best area to stay in Los Angeles?
The best places to stay in LA depend on what you’re looking for, but Koreatown is one of the most memorable locations, while Santa Monica offers endless fun.
Los Angeles County includes almost 100 cities and more than 400 neighborhoods, so choosing just one can be challenging. We’ve narrowed it down to the 13 best places to stay in Los Angeles.
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1) The Arts District (Downtown LA)
The Arts District is a neighborhood on the eastern edge of downtown LA and the best area to stay in LA for art lovers. It’s where local artists hang out, and walking the graffiti-lined streets makes for a fun adventure to find galleries, eateries, shops, and bars.
What to do in DTLA:
- Visit art galleries.
- Explore various restaurants.
- Watch a show at Rooftop Cinema Club or Resident, a live music venue.
- Go to LA’s first and largest art and music dome park, Wisdome LA.
- Enjoy a lively nightlife scene. EightyTwo is a must-visit arcade!
Where to stay in DTLA:
- Freehand Los Angeles: a trendy hotel with a rooftop pool & bar
- Miyako Hotel: Japanese-style hotel with sleek rooms and a sushi bar
2) Koreatown (Downtown LA)
If you’re looking for unique places to stay in LA, Koreatown is among the best spots. LA’s Koreatown is the largest in the world. With something to do any time, day or night, it’s easy to enjoy Koreatown.
What to do in Koreatown:
- Indulge in delicious authentic food.
- Explore hidden gems, including karaoke rooms, arcades, and speakeasies.
- Have a spa day.
Where to stay in Koreatown:
- The Line LA: a stylish boutique hotel with unique rooms
- Hotel Normandie: a conveniently-located, newly-renovated hotel
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3) Historic Core (Downtown LA)
The Historic Core is a Downtown Los Angeles district filled with unique architecture, modern art galleries, gourmet restaurants, and hip bars. It’s also next to LA’s popular Financial District, home to various landmarks.
What to do in the Historic Core:
- Hang out at the Grand Central Market for food vendors, movies, and local events.
- See a show at the Orpheum Theatre or the Los Angeles Theatre.
- Go to The Last Bookstore, an iconic book and record store.
- Visit a park – Pershing Square, Biddy Mason Memorial Park, and Grand Hope Park.
- Explore the Financial District and watch a Walt Disney Concert Hall performance.
Where to stay in the Historic Core:
- Ace Hotel: a hip hotel with many activities and within walking distance of popular attractions
- citizenM: an elegant hotel with incredible city views
4) Pasadena (NE of Downtown LA)
If you’re hoping to escape the hustle of LA, Pasadena is an excellent option. This charming area is just outside of downtown Los Angeles, so you’re close to the action but not in the center of it.
What to do in Pasadena:
- Wander around Old Town Pasadena, where you can find boutiques, cafes, eateries, and bars.
- Explore the historic architecture.
- Go to a game at the Rose Bowl Stadium.
- Appreciate nature at a park or on a hike – Hahamongna Watershed Park, Loma Alta Park, Cobb Estate Trailhead, and Eaton Canyon Falls.
Where to stay in Pasadena:
- Pasadena Hotel & Pool: an upscale hotel with a restaurant and cocktail lounge
- Pasadena Rose & Crown Hotel: a simple yet lovely hotel near all the action
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5) Santa Monica (Westside)
Not only is Santa Monica fun for almost everyone, but it’s also the best place to stay in Los Angeles without a car. There’s so much to do in Santa Monica, and it’s easy to get around.
What to do in Santa Monica:
- Hang out on the Santa Monica Pier and enjoy the amusement park, concession stands, scenic views, and fishing.
- Spend time at Santa Monica State Beach – sunbathe, swim, play volleyball, and stunning sunset scenery.
- Go to The Third Street Promenade, an open-air pedestrian mall with shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Where to stay in Santa Monica:
- Santa Monica Hostel: a popular, modern hostel and one of the best places to stay in Los Angeles for a fun experience
- Shutters on the Beach: a luxury 5-star hotel on the beach
6) Venice (Westside)
Venice offers an authentic Southern California experience with palm trees, great food, and street art. It’s also close to the Los Angeles International Airport for added convenience.
What to do in Venice:
- Stroll around the world-famous Venice Beach, where you can find funky shops, street performances, and Instagrammable murals.
- Relax on the beach and enjoy the scenery.
- Explore Abbot Kinney Boulevard for dining and shopping.
- Visit the Venice Canals for a peaceful experience and beautiful landscapes.
Where to stay in Venice:
- Hotel Erwin: a lively hotel with a rooftop bar and dining next to the ocean
- Venice Beach House: Historic and peaceful hotel by the beach. Focused on wellness.
- Inn at Venice Beach: an artsy hotel also close to the beach
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7) Culver City (Westside)
Culver City is close to the airport, too, and is one of the best places to stay in LA for a diverse experience. This historical, scenic neighborhood has a lot to offer, including dining, shopping, and exploring the arts and nature.
What to do in Culver City:
- Dine at various globally-inspired restaurants.
- Visit iconic film locations, including the original MGM Studies and Culver Studios.
- Explore the shops and art galleries.
- Enjoy nature and beautiful scenery at the Baldwin Scenic Overlook and Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area.
Where to stay in Culver City:
- The Culver Hotel: a unique 1920s building with plush rooms actors from The Wizard of Oz stayed in
- Airbnb: various guesthouses and vacation rentals
8) Beverly Hills (Westside)
As one of the nation’s most grand cities, Beverly Hills is the best area to stay if you want to treat yourself to a luxury vacation. Enjoy fine dining, shopping, spa days, and spotting celebrities.
What to do in Beverly Hills:
- Visit Rodeo Drive, California’s finest designer shopping district.
- Treat yourself to dinner, drinks, and views at a rooftop restaurant. The Rooftop by JG and The Roof Garden at The Peninsula Beverly Hills are excellent options.
- Take a picture at the famous Beverly Hills sign in Beverly Gardens Park.
- Enjoy local art at the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts.
- Have a spa day.
Where to stay in Beverly Hills:
- The Beverly Hills Hotel: a sophisticated hotel with a pool and spa
- Four Seasons Hotel: a grand luxury hotel that dates back to 1928
9) West Hollywood (Westside)
If you’re looking for a fun atmosphere and iconic LA sites, West Hollywood is a wonderful place to stay. It’s also known for its gay community and one of the world’s best LGBTQ events, WeHo Pride.
What to do in WeHo:
- Hang out on Sunset Strip, a lively area with colorful billboards, shops, dining, and clubs.
- Explore Santa Monica Boulevard, where you can find fun stores, eclectic restaurants, and vibrant culture.
- Go to rooftop pools and bars. There are many to choose from!
Where to stay in WeHo:
- Andaz West Hollywood Hotel: an iconic boutique hotel conveniently located on Sunset Blvd
- The London West Hollywood at Beverly Hills: a glamorous hotel at the end of Sunset Strip
10) Studio City (The Valley)
Just above Hollywood Hills is Studio City, where you can enjoy city life and nature. This is one of the best places to stay in LA for various activities.
What to do in Studio City:
- Go shopping, dining, and drinking on Ventura Boulevard.
- See popular filming locations, like Warner Bros. Studio and the Brady Bunch house.
- Watch a live show at Hollywood Bowl.
- Hang out at Universal Studios.
- Get outdoors at Wilacre Park, Mulholland Scenic Overlook, and Franklin Canyon Park.
Where to stay in Studio City:
- The Garland: an upscale resort hotel with a restaurant, bar, and pool
- El Royale Hotel: a restored hotel within walking distance of Universal Studios
11) Hollywood (Central LA)
Hollywood is easily one of the best places for tourists to stay in Los Angeles because it’s filled with many things to see and do, including many iconic attractions.
What to do in Hollywood:
- Go to Universal Studios Hollywood.
- Explore and hike at Runyon Canyon Park.
- Visit the Hollywood Museum.
- Shop at Ovation Hollywood.
- Enjoy interactive experiences at World of Illusions Los Angeles.
Where to stay in Hollywood:
- Loews Hollywood Hotel: a conveniently located high-end hotel
- Kimpton Everly Hotel: a trendy hotel with a rooftop pool and restaurant
12) Los Feliz (Central LA)
Los Feliz is the perfect area for those looking for a laid-back vibe. Los Feliz is where creatives enjoy spending time and where celebrities, including Kristen Bell, live.
What to do in Los Feliz:
- Explore the neighborhood’s stunning architecture, including Frank Lloyd Wright’s Ennis House and Hollyhock House.
- Walk around Los Feliz Village, where you can find restaurants, boutiques, and a historic movie theater.
- Appreciate nature at Barnsdall Art Park and Griffith Park.
Where to stay in Los Feliz:
- Cara Hotel: an upscale yet relaxed hotel with sophisticated rooms
- Airbnb: various guesthouse and bungalow vacation rentals
13) Silver Lake (Central LA)
Just southeast of Los Feliz is Silver Lake, which has a similar atmosphere. Hipsters and creatives love this funky neighborhood, too.
What to do in Silverlake:
- Visit cocktail bars and innovative eateries.
- See comedy and live music at Lyric Hyperion Theater & Bar.
- Climb the Mattachine Steps for breathtaking views.
Where to stay in Silverlake:
- Airbnb: various residential guesthouses
- Silver Lake Pool & Inn: a trendy hotel near several restaurants, bars, and cafes
We hope you enjoyed this guide to the best places to stay in LA and have found the perfect location. If you enjoyed this article, please consider sharing.
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