Coolest Hotels in Los Angeles California

Los Angeles County in California has 88 cities, with over 1,200 hotels from which to choose! So my list of the best hotels is kind of a drop in the bucket. But after nearly a dozen trips to Los Angeles over the past few of years ( to visit my daughter who lives there now) I’ve stayed in a wide range of hotels across the city. Some were boutique gems with a funky flair, others were trusted chains that surprised me with thoughtful touches and serious comfort.

If you’re planning a trip to LA and want accommodations that feel safe, welcoming, and a little bit special, whether it’s a quirky boutique or a clean, modern chain hotel, this list is for you. These are the coolest hotels in Los Angeles that I’ve personally stayed in and genuinely recommend, especially for solo travelers or those in their “it’s finally my time” chapter of life.

From iconic Hollywood views to convenient neighborhood stays with free breakfast and comfy pillows (yes, I’ll tell you which), these spots combine character, comfort, and ease, without the overwhelm.

Let’s find your perfect LA stay.

Go back to your 1970's Childhood in a cool way – The Garland Hotel

_{4222 Vineland Avenue, North Hollywood, CA}

If you’ve ever wanted to feel like you walked into a chic retro sitcom set, The Garland is your place. Tucked into North Hollywood, this hotel somehow pulls off being groovy and modern at the same time. Think 1970s-inspired décor, fireplaces you’ll actually want to linger by, and a pool scene that feels more like a stylish backyard party than a hotel courtyard.

I loved how the whole place had personality without being kitschy. My balcony doors were a little tricky (note to self: push, don’t pull), but once I stepped outside, the vibe was so California: sunshine, palm trees, and a pool area that lights up beautifully at night. There’s even “Movies at the Pool” evenings, which makes it feel extra fun if you’re traveling solo and want a social option without leaving the property.

The on-site restaurant, The Front Yard, is a neighborhood favorite with hearty portions and a relaxed atmosphere. Add in their gift shop full of California-themed goodies (dangerous for my suitcase) and a free shuttle to Universal Studios, and you’ve got yourself a stay that’s playful and practical.

Highlights:

• Retro-cool 70’s design with modern comfort
• Fun extras like poolside movies and fireplaces
• The Front Yard restaurant is worth staying in for
• Free shuttle to Universal Studios

Lowlights:

• Balcony doors are a bit confusing at first
• Resort fee adds to the nightly cost
• Parking is extra

Ready to channel your inner Mary Tyler Moore?
The Garland makes solo travel feel both playful and safe, with a side of nostalgic charm. Check prices on Expedia and see if you can catch a poolside movie night while you’re there.

Watch my hotel tour, featuring me battling against the sliding doors in my room, here:

Step Into Silver Screen History: The Westin Bonaventure Hotel (Downtown LA)

_{404 S Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA}

Completed in 1976, the iconic Bonaventure Hotel is sure to be recognized by any Gen X or Baby Boomer for its famous appearances in True Lies, Blade Runner, Rain Man, Breathless, Heaven Can Wait and Clint Eastwood's In the Line of Fire. Its futuristic glass towers and revolving rooftop bar (currently not revolving, more on that below) made it the hotel of the '70s and '80s. And walking through it today feels like stepping into a retro sci-fi film, with a touch of nostalgia and grandeur.

When I stayed here solo recently, I felt a mix of awe and curiosity. The glass elevators gliding up the towers gave me that butterflies-in-the-stomach feeling. My room was spacious, with floor-to-ceiling windows that gave me an incredible view of the downtown skyline. There’s a quiet beauty in watching the city lights from 30 stories up with a cup of coffee and no agenda but your own.

The hotel’s Lakeview Bistro made for great people-watching during breakfast, and I appreciated how central the location was—just a short walk to The Broad Museum, Grand Central Market, and Walt Disney Concert Hall. That said, many of the former shopping floors now sit empty, which gave parts of the hotel a slightly haunted charm.

For those of use who love unique architecture, movie history, and a quiet moment of grandeur, it’s worth a night or two. It felt safe, the staff were kind, and while the vibe isn’t trendy, it’s undeniably cool in its own throwback way.

Highlights:

• Iconic architecture and film history
• Spacious rooms with skyline views
• Central downtown location

Lowlights:

• Most of the old shopping/dining areas are now closed
• Parking is in a nearby structure with a bit of a walk
• The revolving bar isn’t spinning—but the view is still worth a visit

Ready to relive a little movie magic?
If you’re looking for a hotel that feels iconic yet cozy—with skyline views and a dash of Hollywood history—the Bonaventure could be your perfect fit.
Check current prices and availability on Expedia to see if a skyline-view room is open for your dates.

Comfort Meets Convenience: Holiday Inn Express (North Hollywood)

_{11350 Burbank Boulevard, North Hollywood, CA}

If you're up in the North Hollywood area (say hi to my kid for me!) maybe to explore the arts district, catch a show at the El Portal Theatre, or visit Universal Studios (4 miles away) this hotel is a surprisingly delightful option. It’s clean, modern, and has everything a solo traveler would want: safety, comfort, and little details that show someone thought about your needs.

When I stayed here, I immediately noticed how refreshingly functional the room was. A coffee maker with pods (yes, real coffee!), a microwave for leftovers, and a refrigerator meant I could comfortably wind down in my room after a day of sightseeing without having to go out again if I didn’t want to. And I cheered when I saw an actual bathtub, something so many hotels have phased out.

A charming touch? The bed pillows were labeled “Firm” or “Soft.” It felt like a wink from the staff saying, “We see you.”

The included breakfast had a solid variety (eggs, pastries, fruit), and the small outdoor pool and gym made it easy to keep a routine if you like starting your day with a stretch or a swim. As a woman traveling alone, I appreciated the quiet, low-key vibe and how everything was easy to navigate.

Highlights:

• Cookies at check in!
• Spotlessly clean and well-maintained
• Thoughtful room features (bathtub, labeled pillows, fridge)
• Breakfast included, plus laundry facilities and pool

Lowlights:

• Parking costs $15/night
• Not a lot of nightlife immediately nearby (which can be a plus for quiet nights)

Want comfort, convenience, and coffee pods at your fingertips?
This North Hollywood stay offers everything you need for a stress-free solo trip: a bathtub to unwind, labeled pillows for your sleep style, and a quiet neighborhood that still feels close to the action.
Book your stay on Expedia and enjoy free breakfast and peace of mind.

Rock Out in Style at Hotel Ziggy (West Hollywood’s Boutique Gem)

_{8462 West Sunset Boulevard, West Hollywood, California}

Hotel Ziggy is a new boutique hotel on Sunset Strip in West Hollywood (WeHo). It's located near famous comedy clubs “The Comedy Store” and “Laugh Factory”. Hotel Ziggy has a rock and roll theme with album covers everywhere, trippy psychedelic murals, and frequent live music in their lobby venue, Backbeat.

The hotel features a saltwater pool, surrounded by lounge chairs and music playing to complete the cool atmosphere. You can even borrow a guitar, a ukulele, or a tambourine if you feel inspired by the vibe!

There was a “margarita hour” mid-afternoon the day I was there, followed by a happy hour! Overall the atmosphere oozes coolness. It's a great place to immerse yourself in the rockstar lifestyle, without the grittiness, and with a boutique hotel's modern amenities and charm!

I loved the decor in my room! It felt plush, and a bit glam. The room has remote control air conditioning, a mini-fridge and a safe. I was given a free upgrade to a pool view King room (thank you, low Sunday occupancy!). It was fun to peek out my window and spy on the goings-on down by the pool!

Like many LA hotels parking was valet only. It was $65 per night with unlimited in and out privileges. Be sure to take into account the parking fee when considering your stay here.

Highlights:

• Vibrant, music-themed decor and regular live performances
• Boutique-style rooms with luxe touches
• Saltwater pool and quirky extras (instrument lending!)

Lowlights:

• Valet parking only, and it's on the pricier side
• May not be ideal for early bedtimes or ultra-quiet stays

Feeling bold, playful, and a little rock-and-roll?
Hotel Ziggy is your backstage pass to a stylish solo escape—complete with live music, poolside lounging, and just the right dose of glam.
Check prices on Expedia and grab a pool-view room if you’re feeling lucky.

Which LA Hotel Feels Like Your Kind of Cool?

Whether you're looking to indulge in some movie nostalgia, unwind in comfort after a long day exploring, or sip a cocktail poolside with a rock-and-roll soundtrack, LA has a cool hotel that fits your solo travel story.

These are the places I’ve personally stayed, and genuinely recommend, because they combine ease, charm, and that little something extra. I’ve walked their halls, tested their beds, and peeked out the windows to see if the views were worth the price tag (spoiler: they were).

So if one of these caught your eye, I encourage you to check availability and pricing for your dates, especially during summer and holidays, when rooms book fast. I’ve linked directly to Expedia for each hotel, since I like their flexible cancellation options (especially helpful when travel plans shift unexpectedly).

Wherever you land, I hope you find a place that feels like a good fit for this chapter of your journey—and maybe even a little magic, too.

Does LA have any fun places to eat?

I'm glad you asked! Take a look here.

Is there anything to do in LA if you're on your own?

Why, yes! Please see this post.

Map of mentioned places

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