Hollywood Hotels
 

Going to Los Angeles next month. Going to visit the mission in San Fernando, Universal Studios, Hollywood area & a short visit to Santa Monica. Thinking of someplace within walking distance to the sights on Hollywood Blvd that is safe for walking during the day & night & a good in & out location for driving to the other places. Thinking about lodging in the N. Highland Avenue/Franklin Avenue area which is close to the Hollywood tourist sights & also Hwy 101. I was planning on lodging in Santa Monica but I have been heard it is too hard getting in & out of there. I have heard that the formerly seedy Hollywood area has been cleaned up recently. If that's the case I would rather be where I will be spending the most time. Any comments would be appreciated. Thank you.

stayed at the new Renaissance Marriott hotel about a year ago, and it was great (try an executive suite if you can afford it). My spouse and I had a wonderful time in Hollywood; I thought, all in all, it had a good vibe. I've also done an overnight in Santa Monica at the JW Marriott, which was more expensive and not as nice as the Renaissance...and Hollywood was more fun!

The Hollywood Renaissance is a fairly recently-renovated property that has gotten good comments-- and you're right, the immediate area is cleaning up quite nicely thanks to the Hollywood/Highland entertainment complex.

The Hollywood Roosevelt is another possibility, though a notch down in luxury. I think they've either renovated or are in the process, but it's a nice old hotel with a few ghosts and a first-tier cabaret room (Feinstein's, née the Cinegrill).

Personally, I'd be inclined to stay farther west on Sunset in West Hollywood, but that's me. There's not a huge amount to see any more in the Hollywood neighborhood itself, but the Sunset Strip is still a lot of fun. In any case, I think (based on travelers' comments) that the two properties I mention in Hollywood would be just fine for your needs. Since I live south of LA, I generally don't need lodging up there, so I can't comment personally. Anyone else...?

Shea

I stayed at the Hollywood Roosevelt and felt very safe walking around the immediate area. The hotel is comfortable with a great deal of charm and good parking at the back, as easy to get to everywhere as anywhere else in LA. Lots to do within walking distance also.

I love the Roosevelt. Lots of atmosphere,great Mission style tiles and interior. The Renaissance is very cool and modern--opposite of the Roosevelt. Either would be a great choice. I think you're wise to select Hollywood over Santa Monica. Much more central and more to do.

Thanks for some very informative responses to my query. Now to make my reservations for Hollywood area lodging.

If I'm not too late, there is also a Holiday Inn on Highland as well as a Best Western. The Magic Hotel is also quite nice on Franklin.