Fodor's Expert Review The Garland

The cool kid of the Valley with a Hollywood pedigree, this 7-acre hideaway was founded by the current hotelier's mother, actress Beverly Garland, who decked it out with a theater, restaurant, and pool to entertain her Industry friends. Rooms, all of which come with private balconies or patios, are set in two separate buildings, all with a kitschy, playful vibe—check out the paparazzi wallpaper in the closets. Rooms next to the freeway are double-paned for soundproofing. Transportation to Universal Studios and a nearby Metro stop is free. A sweet bonus: special kids' suites have bunk beds and access to video games.