LA is spread out—your base impacts how much you see. Choose one of these neighborhoods and start with the top nearby places to visit.
1) Hollywood — Close to Classic Sights
Ideal for first-timers who want studio tours and famous landmarks within minutes.
Top Places to Visit
- Hollywood Walk of Fame & Dolby Theatre
- Griffith Observatory (views & planetarium)
- Universal Studios Hollywood (short drive/Metro)
- Hollywood Bowl concerts under the stars
Hotel Suggestions
Modern hotels around Hollywood & Highland, boutique stays near Franklin Village, and apartment-style options east of Vine for quieter nights.
2) Santa Monica — Beaches & Sunsets
Ocean breezes, bike paths and pedestrian shopping make this a vacation classic.
Top Places to Visit
- Santa Monica Pier & Pacific Park
- Third Street Promenade shops & cafés
- Marvin Braude Bike Trail to Venice/Marina del Rey
- Day trip to Malibu beaches & Getty Villa
Hotel Suggestions
Oceanfront resorts with pools and beach access, family suites near the pier, and boutique hideaways a block from the sand.
3) Downtown LA (DTLA) — Culture & Dining
Great for museums, architecture and a thriving food scene with solid transit links.
Top Places to Visit
- The Broad & MOCA museums
- Walt Disney Concert Hall & Music Center
- Grand Central Market food hall
- Angels Flight & Historic Core
Hotel Suggestions
Design-forward towers near Bunker Hill, historic-renovation hotels in the Broadway Theatre District, and apartment-style stays around South Park.
Getting Around & Booking Tips
- Plan days by cluster (Hollywood/Griffith, Beaches, DTLA) to reduce driving.
- Check nightly parking rates; they vary widely by area.
- The Metro Red/Expo (E) Lines help with Hollywood ↔ DTLA ↔ Santa Monica.
"In LA, staying near your top two daily activities beats being 'central'."
Disclaimer: Availability and pricing change seasonally. Always confirm current details with the property.
