Hi All,
My friend and I (both in our mid-20's) are traveling to Vegas next month then driving to LA for 2 nights before getting our flight back in Santa Ana. Where should we stay (both area and places?). My friend suggested downtown, but I've heard that is dangerous. We want to go out and have fun (nightlife), but still want to be safe. Suggestions? Do's/Don't's? Thanks!!

I wouldn't call downtown LA dangerous just very quiet at night. I would suggest staying either in Santa Monica or if you want to go to some of the clubs in the West Hollywood area, then stay close to them. What is your budget for a hotel room?

Hi there,
Well, downtown isn't dangerous with a capital D, but there are some gritty blocks and a distressing and visible homeless population. The area is turning around and there are some good hotels, but it may not be the best neighborhood for you.

Would definitely second the motion for West Hollywood, especially if you're keen to hit the bigger nightspots. There's a Standard hotel on the Sunset Strip that's not terribly expensive, has a tongue-in-cheek style, and has a constant buzz (helped by the in-house 24-hour coffee shop). From here you're in easy striking distance of the Marmont bar...

Another Strip option is the Sunset Tower, which has a pretty glam spa too.

If you're thinking more of the beach than the nightclubs, head over to Santa Monica. The Ambrose is a quietly chic place that has decent rates since it's not right on the water. But it's got a neat London black cab to drive you to neighborhood spots.

If you'd like to be closer to the beach, consider the Channel Road Inn (a pretty traditional B&B) or full-out splurge on the Viceroy (glamourpuss feel) or Shutters on the Beach (bungalow style, laid-back luxury).

Have fun!

Hi,
LA's downtown is by far dangerous-it actually has a few good night spots, but i would recommend hollywood! Also i found this great website called SubversiveLA.com and they list night clubs in the LA area.
Hope this helps!
Agnes

Downtown is not necessarily "dangerous" but it is more about business so not the area tourists would usually choose to stay.

How about the Farmers Daughter?
www.farmersdaughterhotel.com

"Nightlife" is all around Los Angeles (a very spread out city) so you need to narrow down the neighborhoods) you're interested in and pick out a hotel nearby.

Santa Monica's a nice area but not particularly convenient if you are going to clubs elsewhere downtown.

I'd probably suggest Newport Beach so that you wouldn't be too far from SNA airport, but depends on what time your flight is. And do you have anything in mind for L.A. as far as what you want to see/visit? It's a big wide and very spread-out city so if you only have two days or less, staying in the wrong area could be very limiting.