Fodor's Expert Review Hotel Royal

A great value for Long Beach, the family-owned, European-style Hotel Royal makes up for in kindness what it lacks in fancy extras. Think free breakfast, a lively wine happy hour, and free bike rentals. The hotel was built in 1923 in the art deco style and is in the center of Long Beach's au courant arts district. In keeping with the building's age, the small lobby and some of the rooms have exposed brick walls. If you really want to live the 1920s dream, you can even reserve a room with a built-in Murphy bed, which folds out of sight when you're not using it. The decor is somewhat uninspired, but for the price, the Royal has all you need. The studios, lofts, and suites are individually decorated. Some rooms have en suite private baths, while less-expensive options share a bathroom with other rooms on the floor. Some rooms are equipped with kitchenettes, but there's a fully stocked community kitchen, making this a perfect stop for families, larger groups who want to spend time together, or those who prefer to cook. While not oceanfront, the hotel is a 15-minute walk from the beach.