Where to Stay in Los Angeles

Published: July 18, 2024

Los Angeles is a fantastic destination that everybody should experience at least once in a lifetime. Still, choosing a place to stay can be a laborious task. The city is so massive and spread out, with iconic sites around every corner. From world-famous landmarks like the Hollywood Sign and the Walk of Fame to Santa Monica Pier and the Getty Villa, the city will always leave you wanting more. For dynamism, cultural impact and sheer diversity, the city is really hard to beat. Still overwhelmed by the prospect of exploring a new city? Don’t worry! In this article, we’ll break down the best areas in Los Angeles to stay in and share some of our top travel tips.

Image of Road, Tarmac, City, Urban, Metropolis, Person, Cityscape, Light, Traffic Light, Zebra Crossing,

Santa Monica

For those who want to be near the beach without missing out on the vibrant city atmosphere, we recommend staying in Santa Monica. This spot is perfect for both families and solo travellers alike, with a wide variety of exciting attractions and activities to choose from. The neighborhood is of course home to the iconic Santa Monica Pier, but that’s not all there is to see here. For nature lovers, we highly recommend heading over to the Santa Monica Mountains for a hike. But if nature isn’t quite your thing, don’t worry - the area is home to some of the best shopping in SoCal, with Montana Avenue and Main Street District right at your fingertips. Stay here, and you’ll also be surrounded by tons of great bars, restaurants, and entertainment. The neighborhood is super walkable and scenic, but if you want to go a little further out, we would recommend calling for a cab or taking advantage of some of the city’s great public transport options.

Image of Floor, Flooring, Shoe, Handbag, Adult, Male, Man, Person, Path, Pants, Child, Female, Girl, Walking, Sidewalk, Sneaker, Walkway,

Hollywood

If you’re looking to be in the center of all the action, Hollywood would be the best bet. A once gritty, urban neighbourhood-turned major tourist hub, this spot now showcases iconic sights at every turn. Hollywood Boulevard, Grauman’s Chinese Theatre, the Walk of Fame, and Universal Studios - you name it, Hollywood’s got it! In addition, the neighborhood is bordered by West Hollywood and Fairfax, the Hollywood Hills, and East Hollywood, granting access to some of the best shopping, dining and entertainment in town. If you’re a foodie, we recommend heading over to East Hollywood, where you’ll find a fantastic array of restaurants in Little Armenia and Thai Town. Or, if it’s high-energy nightlife that you’re after, West Hollywood is the place to be. From spirited cabaret shows to fun comedy clubs, you’ll never be bored here. Since the neighborhood is so popular, you’ll find that there is a wide range of accommodation both in style and budget to choose from. We recommend booking quite far in advance, especially if you plan to visit during the spring or summertime.

Image of Summer, Path, Grass, Nature, Outdoors, Park, Scenery, Tree, Landscape, City, Vegetation, Sidewalk, Palm Tree, Road, Sky, Street, Urban, Garden, Walkway,

Beverly Hills

For a truly luxurious stay in La La Land, what could be a better choice than Beverly Hills? As you might have guessed, this area is pretty extraordinary, so we recommend exploring it on foot as much as you can. Wandering through the neighborhood, you’ll be able to view some schmancy mansions in a wide variety of architectural styles and carefully-manicured gardens. Still, this notably glamorous place has much more to offer outside of its evident beauty. Living up to its famous zip code, this spot is home to some great attractions - here, you can visit the Beverly Hills sign, the Greystone Mansion, and the Virginia Robinson Gardens. Still, one of our favorite spots has got to be the Spadena House, a quirky only-in-Los Angeles attraction. Standing as a distinctive example of storybook style-architecture, this spot has served as a filming location for many fantasy films over the years. Though it is now a private residence, visitors are welcome to visit and take guided tours to marvel over its wholly unique interiors. The neighborhood is also home to one of the best shopping destinations in L.A., Rodeo Drive. Even if you’re not a big spender, this pristine thoroughfare is perfect for a casual day of window shopping and grabbing a bite to eat. And of course, the area boasts some of the swankiest hotels in all of Los Angeles, including the Beverly Hilton and the wonderful Beverly Hills Hotel. Though the area is obviously pretty pricey, we promise that staying here is well worth it.

Image of Water, Waterfront, Palm Tree, Tree, Summer, City, Cityscape, Urban, Nature, Outdoors, Sky, Scenery, Boat, Vehicle, Landscape, Metropolis,

Malibu

Another one of our favorite places to stay in the city has got to be Malibu. A little more grown-up than Santa Monica, Malibu is perfect for romantic getaways or solo travellers, known for its beautiful beachfront and aura of relaxed chic. Aside from serving as a prime destination for soaking up the sun, the district is great for shopping addicts, with Malibu Country Mart, Point Dume Village and Promenade at Westlake drawing in the crowds at weekends. Come nightfall, we highly suggest checking out some of the area’s wonderful waterfront restaurants. Here you’ll be able to find locally-sourced fresh seafood in a wide variety of dishes. From oysters and classic lobster rolls to delicious sushi and coconut shrimp, this place is a total dream for food lovers. Come nightfall, sip a cocktail on the beach, enjoy jazz nights and rooftop theater. Combining SoCal’s laidback nature with a touch of sophistication, this spot has much to offer all visitors.

Los Angeles is a fantastic destination to visit with so many great places to stay in. We recommend taking a little time to think about your itinerary so that you can be certain that your accommodation fits just right! Maximize your travel experience with an All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less

Sarah Harris

Go City Travel Expert

Discover {{destinationFullName}} itineraries

Continue reading

Blog

Make It a Perfect Friday: Top Things to Do in LA

Fridays in Los Angeles hit differently. There's excitement in the air as the city wakes up, ready to show you its movie-star sparkle, beachy breezes, and neighborhoods bursting with flavor. If you’re a tourist on a mission to make the most of your trip, Friday is when LA’s energy really kicks in—from sunrise moments at the Griffith Observatory to dancing under neon lights downtown. Here’s where you can catch epic views, snap sunsets, feast on world-class treats, walk with Hollywood legends, and soak up that endless summer feeling, all in one jam-packed, joy-filled day. Ready for your best LA Friday ever? Let’s start planning. Our Friday favorites in Los Angeles include: Griffith Observatory Tour Big Bus Hop-on Hop-Off Discover Tour Santa Monica and Venice Beach Bike Tour by Unlimited Biking Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood The Original Hollywood Sign Walking Tour by Bikes and Hikes Natural History Museum Aquarium of the Pacific Grand Central Market lunch adventure Rooftop drinks at Perch Live music at The Troubadour Big Bus Hop-on Hop-Off Discover Tour: Doorway to LA’s Neighborhoods Don’t want to stress about parking or deciphering addresses? Big Bus Hop-on Hop-Off Discover Tour is your all-access pass to LA’s dazzling neighborhoods—all while riding in style. Hop aboard an open-top double-decker and lean into that tourist life as you cruise, guided by lively narration packed with local scoops and cheeky stories. Why do we rate this as a top Friday pick? Because it blends total flexibility with classic sightseeing—step off wherever catches your eye, and you’re already part of the party. Maybe you want to wander in Beverly Hills, snap the palm-lined streets, or scope out Melrose’s famous murals. Maybe the Walk of Fame is calling, with its ever-changing crowd and glittering theater marquees. Big Bus lets you bounce effortlessly between must-sees and hidden gems. With multiple loops connecting Hollywood, Downtown, and the beaches, you set the pace—people-watch in West Hollywood, dig up vintage finds on Fairfax, or jump back on and head for the ocean breeze. The vibe on Fridays is unbeatable: you’ll cruise by locals gearing up for the weekend, artists setting up pop-up galleries, and musicians spilling tunes onto sidewalk patios. It’s sightseeing with zero stress and max fun—just don’t forget your sunglasses. Santa Monica and Venice Beach Bike Tour: Sunshine, Surf and Street Art You can’t say you’ve done LA right without hitting the coast, and our secret weapon for Friday feels? The Highlights of Santa Monica and Venice Beach Bike Tour by Unlimited Biking. Imagine miles of golden sand, ocean air in your hair, and a parade of street performers, sunbathers, and bodybuilders giving you a real SoCal welcome. Start by cruising through the Santa Monica Pier, spinning the Ferris wheel, and admiring the view from above. As you pedal south, the scenery quickly shifts: surfers dot the horizon, rollerbladers flash by, and palm trees sway in the salty breeze. Your guide will point out colorful murals, muscle beach gyms, and secret photo spots you’d probably miss alone. Venice’s meandering canals and Boardwalk buzz put you in the center of LA’s most eclectic artistry—think mural-covered walls, skate parks, and high-energy music. Stop for a smoothie at a sidewalk shack or snap selfies with the famous Venice sign overhead. Every stop offers a fresh surprise: street art, boutique food stands, and even a quick detour to quirky local shops. By the tour’s end, you’ll feel like a beach-town regular—sun-soaked, smiling, and ready for the next adventure. Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood: Step Into the Stories Movie magic hits different when you’re walking right on set. Enter the Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood—a Friday adventure that catapults you onto the backlots where big-screen legends (and your favorite TV characters) come to life. This isn’t just a tour; it’s a full-on immersion into the lifeblood of Los Angeles storytelling. What makes it special? Guides share industry secrets and surreal facts—stand in “Central Perk” from Friends, explore the DC Universe, and see where superheroes, sitcom families, and Hogwarts students found their roots. The enormity of the sets, all those vintage cars, and the behind-the-scenes wizardry are enough to make even movie buffs speechless. You’ll recognize corners from recent hits and classic films alike. Friday tours run with extra buzz—maybe you’ll spot a real film crew at work, or catch the stardust whirling as actors and directors scuttle between shoots. The on-site café gets you close to celebrity dining (try their themed lattes!), and the gift shop is a goldmine for souvenirs. Every LA visitor needs a brush with Hollywood—here, you’re part of the story. The Original Hollywood Sign Walking Tour by Bikes and Hikes: Epic Views, Legendary Letters If your LA dreams revolve around catching that up-close shot of the Hollywood Sign, nothing beats The Original Hollywood Sign Walking Tour by Bikes and Hikes. It’s a Friday hike with layers—exercise, city lore, and views you’ll replay in your mind for years. You’ll join a lively crew at the base of the Hollywood Hills, ready to trek up winding city trails. The guides aren’t just fitness pros—they’re local experts, sharing juicy Hollywood gossip, history, and fun facts at every turn. Along the route you pass whimsical hillside houses and spot landmarks straight out of your favorite movies. The grand finale? You're rewarded with panoramic views of the LA skyline, the valley, and a rare side-angle shot with those world-famous white letters. The mood up here feels electric: everyone’s snapping pics, sharing stories, and soaking up that “top of the world” high. Trust us—your Instagram grid will thank you. Aquarium of the Pacific: Ocean Wonders Just Down the Coast Santa Monica and Venice get all the beach buzz, but just a short drive south, the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach delivers a whole different kind of sea excitement. Step inside and instantly, you’re transported to the deep—shimmering tanks, interactive touch pools, and sea otters playing hide-and-seek. What’s extra-special on a Friday? Local families, school groups, and travelers mingle in the glow of blue-lit galleries. Watch sharks swirl, see jellyfish undulate like living art, or pop outside for a waterfront view of the busy harbor. Dive into interactive experiences, from feeding rays to inspecting tidepool creatures, all guided by friendly staff bursting with ocean facts. Each exhibit explores a different slice of Pacific coastline, from tropical reefs to the chilly waters of the north. The Aquarium even spotlights California’s vibrant marine conservation movement, giving you a sense of place and purpose while you explore. With food stands and picnic tables overlooking Rainbow Harbor, it’s easy to make an afternoon of it—plus, you’re close to the Queen Mary for a bonus stroll after. Grand Central Market: Global Eats in Every Bite Lunchtime in Downtown LA means one thing: Grand Central Market. This grand old market, running since 1917, brings together LA’s best and boldest food purveyors under one buzzing roof. On Fridays, the energy is infectious—locals and globetrotters alike lining up for everything from ramen to tacos. What’s on our must-try list? Start with an Eggslut breakfast sandwich (the “Fairfax” is famous for a reason!), then grab a carnitas taco from Tacos Tumbras a Tomas, or cross continents with Filipino rice bowls from Sari Sari Store. Love spice? Sichuan bites at China Café kick up the heat. For dessert, we vote for the funfetti doughnuts at The Donut Man or a classic horchata from Horchatería. The setup is 100% unpretentious—long communal tables, neon signs, and a hustle-bustle soundtrack of cooks, buskers and happy eaters. It’s the definition of LA’s never-ending food story, and the perfect pit stop before your next adventure. Rooftop Drinks at Perch: Sundowners with Style Sunset hour in Los Angeles means rooftop bars, and Perch is where the Friday transformation really happens. Located downtown, this French-inspired sky lounge delivers knockout views, lush greenery, and a soundtrack of clinking glasses and live jazz. As day turns to night, the mood is both elegant and easygoing. Perch’s 16th-story perch (pun intended) means you get glittering panoramas stretching across the city, while the décor—think Parisian garden meets contemporary LA—makes every seat selfie-worthy. The signature cocktails are a feast for the senses: “French Maid” with cucumber and mint is a crowd-pleaser, and the truffle fries are outrageously good for sharing. On a Friday, Perch draws a mellow yet lively crowd: date nights, friends celebrating, out-of-towners gazing wide-eyed at the LA cityscape. Come for the sunset, but stay for the shared plates, tunes, and the sheer feeling of being part of something special. You’ll leave with a fresh appreciation for how LA does “Friday night out.” Live Music at The Troubadour: Legends and New Discoveries Round off your Friday with the beating heart of LA’s nightlife: live music. For this, The Troubadour in West Hollywood gets top billing. Since the 1950s, this intimate venue has hosted everyone from Elton John and Joni Mitchell to today’s hottest indie stars. You never know if you’re catching an emerging legend or experiencing a surprise secret show. What sets The Troubadour apart? The space oozes character—low ceilings, simple wooden décor, and a stage close enough you feel every note. The sound is pristine, and the crowd comes for one thing only: great music. Fridays here range from folk and indie to rock and jazz, often with two or even three bands on the bill. Grab a craft beer at the bar and settle in—one night at The Troubadour and you’ll understand why LA’s music scene still leads the pack. Friday in LA: The Full Experience If you want to know what makes Los Angeles so endlessly fascinating, it’s Friday. Art and sunshine, world-class eats and blockbuster studios, panoramic hiking trails and salty ocean breezes—all within reach in a single city. Whether you’re chasing celebrity trailblazers, noshing at vibrant markets, or raising a toast on a glowy rooftop, LA’s Friday rhythm is pure magic. Trust us: you’ll want to stay until Sunday. Enjoyed this? Check out Things to Do When it Rains in Los Angeles or Everything You Need to Know About Go City’s Los Angeles Passes. Step up your sightseeing with Go City® We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets. See more, do more, and experience more with Go City® – just choose a pass to get started!

Blog

Free things to do near Madame Tussauds Hollywood

Wander the Walk of Fame, hit hidden Hollywood gardens and discover LA’s creative side—all absolutely gratis.

Blog

Los Angeles Staycation - Ideas to Plan a Fun Weekend at Home

We all love a good vacation. But sometimes, life gets in the way and we can’t get out of town for a variety of reasons. That’s where the idea of a Los Angeles staycation comes in handy. Explore your local city with fresh eyes, seeing and doing things you’ve never done, or only done once. You could even stay in a hotel to make it seem like more of an escape from daily life. If you’re in Los Angeles looking for some ways to explore your hometown, then check out this list of our favorite things to do in L.A. for a fun staycation. Our top staycation ideas include: Aquarium of the Pacific OUE Skyspace L.A. Natural History Museum California Science Center Newport Landing Whale Watch Cruise L.A. Zoo & Botanical Gardens Roller-Skating in Santa Monica The Huntington Library & Gardens Griffith Park Save on Admission Looking to save on tickets to your favorite Los Angeles staycation ideas? Pick up a Go Los Angeles® Card to save up to 50% on top area museums, tours, activities, and more. See all available attractions and prices – here. Newport Landing Whale Watch Cruise In search of something truly special for your staycation? Then a whale watch cruise it is! This delightful and educational excursion is an excellent way to not only see more of your city via the water, but also to appreciate the natural environment in a way you might not have before. Come here to see these majestic creatures in the wild, from Giant Blue Ways to smaller Minke Whales. The kind of whales you’ll see varies seasonally, so be sure to ask your captain what to expect! Getting In: Whale watch tickets are included with the Go Los Angeles Card. Roller-Skating in Santa Monica If you’re in search of some old-fashioned fun, why not try your hand at roller-skates after all these years? Cruise around the Santa Monica Boardwalk on your skates, and enjoy the fresh air and exercise. Adults and kids alike will delight in this fun activity. You can rent skates easily from Perry’s Beach Café, which also doubles as an excellent place for some tasty lunch or snacks (see above - doesn't it look relaxing?) Getting In: Perry’s Beach Café rentals are included with the Go Los Angeles Card. Don’t Forget to Save There you have it – our favorite suggestions for Los Angeles staycation ideas. Whether you’re the type that loves to explore and learn new things, or just love to kick back and relax, we’re sure you’ll be able to create that perfect staycation plan. Remember, if you’re looking to spend wisely while enjoying your local attractions, pick up a Go Los Angeles® Card today!

Katie Sagal

Have a 5% discount, on us!

Sign up to our newsletter and receive exclusive discounts, trip inspiration and attraction updates straight to your inbox.