Selecting an ideal neighborhood in Los Angeles is key to planning an enjoyable trip. From beaches and rooftop pool parties to world-renowned restaurants and exciting theme parks, Los Angeles offers something for everyone. But here is what you should consider when looking for the best area to stay in Los Angeles.
Los Angeles offers something to fit every traveler’s taste – let this guide help narrow your choices down!
Santa Monica
Santa Monica epitomizes Southern California like no other neighborhood does, with its famed beach, pier, and promenade as a backdrop. Santa Monica provides the ideal atmosphere to experience LA life while its central location makes exploring other parts of the city straightforward.
Families will find this location ideal, with its expansive beaches perfect for relaxing and catching some rays. Additionally, there are numerous restaurants, bars, and shops, as well as an exciting boardwalk and numerous parks that will keep everyone occupied and satisfied.
Santa Monica hotels cater to every budget, from luxury resorts and hostels to more budget options like hostels. There are also plenty of great activities in the area like visiting the pier, shopping at Third Street Promenade, and taking photos with the Santa Monica sign. For an alternative stay that features stunning views and hiking trails nearby Palisades Park is the place for you.
Santa Monica offers many delicious restaurants for foodies to indulge in, as well as cafes and coffee shops offering relaxation spots. If you want something a bit more exciting, visit the Santa Monica Pier with its rides and carnival attractions, or Palisades Park where there are various hiking trails offering breathtaking scenery.
Chinatown offers an unforgettable cultural experience. Boasting an eclectic and lively blend of restaurants, bars, and stores – many of which come alive during events like the Chinese New Year parade and lantern festival at the Museum of Chinese in America – Chinatown also makes a fantastic shopping destination, boasting plenty of boutique stores and art galleries.
Chinatown offers close proximity to Downtown Los Angeles, making it easy for visitors to walk to major attractions like Walt Disney Concert Hall, Grand Central Market, and LA Live – not to mention great nightclubs in the area! For a break from all of that action, you can also relax at one of many parks or gardens nearby.
West Hollywood offers luxurious travelers another option for an indulgent trip. This area, beloved by celebrities and filled with restaurants, bars, and clubs is also home to shopping options including Westfield Century City Mall. Nearby you will also find the iconic Hollywood sign. Additionally, many luxury hotels are opening up in West Hollywood – travel sites offer some amazing hotel deals available there!
West Hollywood
Los Angeles may be known for its glamour, but its many neighborhoods offer distinct experiences, some having to be considered as being the best area to stay in Los Angeles. Finding the best neighborhood to stay in LA depends on understanding what you hope to gain from your trip and selecting one which meets those criteria – no matter where you stay in LA there will always be plenty to see and do!
Hollywood is the go-to spot in LA for all the iconic attractions that have made Los Angeles famous, such as the Hollywood Sign, Walk of Fame, and Universal Studios. Hollywood also offers an excellent nightlife scene and a selection of restaurants offering everything from cheap fare to fine dining experiences.
Staying in Downtown LA could also be an option; home to many of Los Angeles’ iconic cultural landmarks and boasting an exciting atmosphere, it offers visitors an authentic taste of Los Angeles. Additionally, public transport options like the Metro and bus make getting around easier.
Beverly Hills is another top choice when visiting Los Angeles. Renowned for its luxury hotels, budget options can also be found here. However, Beverly Hills can be difficult to navigate without a car; fortunately, LA boasts an efficient public transport system where reloadable bus passes can easily be purchased for use during your visit.
Westwood is an exciting hub where Los Angeles culture meets global influences to form an amazing experience for shopping, dining, and entertainment. A major draw to Westwood is the historic Fox Theater which has hosted many iconic movie premieres over time. Other attractions in this area include Comedy Store or Runyon Canyon Park offering something fun for everyone in Westwood.
Pasadena is an elegant city adorned with tree-lined streets and an abundance of shopping options, not to mention Cal Tech and Pasadena City College being home to several prestigious universities and colleges – not forgetting its annual Rose Bowl game and Tournament of Roses celebration.
Los Angeles offers plenty of things to see and do no matter which neighborhood you choose to call home, so the key is choosing one with exactly what you are searching for and then exploring more widely from there. While Los Angeles may be big, its sprawl can make getting around difficult – to ensure an enjoyable sightseeing trip make use of Los Angeles’ superior public transit system when planning your itinerary.
Downtown
Los Angeles is a massive city, and each of its neighborhoods offers something different and special to visitors. While tourists often stay within one neighborhood during their trip to LA, it is wise to carefully consider your priorities and interests when selecting an accommodation option that meets both budget and priorities. Some parts of Los Angeles may be more costly than others – though with enough research there will likely be many fantastic choices available!
Downtown Los Angeles (DTLA) is an exciting and vibrant part of Los Angeles, bustling with entertainment, culture, and dining options that cater to every taste. Here you will find trendy eateries alongside nightclubs that provide something for every guest – it truly offers something for everyone in DTLA.
DTLA offers plenty of galleries and theaters for art enthusiasts. Music fans should head to The Grove or Wiltern to see their favorite musicians perform live. Rodeo Drive or Abbot Kinney offer luxury shopping opportunities while boutique to upscale hotels are located all throughout Downtown LA.
Hollywood is one of the city’s most beloved neighborhoods, known for its celebrity sightings, movie theaters, and exciting nightlife. A must-visit for visitors is Hollywood is the Walk of Fame; here you’ll be able to spot all your favorite stars while taking selfies! There are also numerous dining options ranging from fine-dining restaurants to quick bites!
Beverly Hills is one of the city’s most celebrated areas, known for its wealth and glamour – hence its signature 90210 zip code. Visitors can stroll down Sunset Boulevard to witness some of Hollywood’s most celebrated celebrity homes before enjoying luxurious accommodations within this area.
Venice Beach is an iconic beachside area that’s well known for its relaxing vibes and breathtaking beaches, not to mention some of the hottest bars and clubs in Los Angeles. A perfect place for hanging out with friends or simply finding somewhere quiet to unwind, Venice Beach makes an excellent getaway destination.
Venice is home to some of the best street art in Los Angeles and features many incredible cafes and restaurants, as well as wonderful strolls along Venice Boardwalk or Muscle Beach. Furthermore, Venice offers plenty of activities designed to delight families.
