There was a time when a visit to downtown Los Angeles was out of the question unless you had a meeting during business hours. What was once a bustling district with shopping and entertainment attracting both local residents as well as tourists, the district sat floundering in decline until the early 2000s, when the depressed area started to recover. And, today? It’s a destination, with much to offer. Among those offerings are accommodations that – while mostly identified as boutique hotels – have luxury style. I’ve picked a few favorites to try, whether you’re visiting the area, want to have a staycation-style getaway, or just want to go somewhere new and fun for a cocktail, downtown LA is on my list and I suggest you add it to yours.
Luxe City Center Hotel
Photo source: Luxe City Center
Described as “a stylish urban oasis”, the Luxe is ideal if you’re going to The Staples Center or L.A. LIVE. With boutique hotel charm and luxury hotel service, the Luxe is a luxe as its name suggests. Though, for me, this one borders on decadent with its rich, cozy room decor and – my favorite – the plush double pillow-top mattresses with exquisite linens. While it’s close to The Staples Center and L.A. Live, it’s also just steps from the Grammy Museum and to excellent shopping and dining.
Ace Hotel Downtown Los Angeles
Photo source: Ace Hotel
Probably the most interesting hotel on my picks for Downtown Los Angeles, The Ace is as rich with history as it is with style. Located in the historic United Artists building that was built in 1927, Ace describes this location as a “vibrant Los Angeles gem” and they see it as one that “stands as a monument to a group of seminal American artists pushing out on their own”. This project, which opened in 2014, was a dream project for the Ace group and it shows. It’s funky, it’s fun, and I know when I’m headed there, the only thing that can get me down is the inevitable LA traffic! But, once you arrive, you know it was well worth it. The rooms, ranging from small to Ace Suite, are unique and fun and couldn’t feel more DTLA!
LEVEL Furnished Living DTLA
Photo source: Level
Not technically a hotel, Level Furnished Living offers short-term accommodations as well as long-term. You’ll feel like a local and – as they describe their property – it’s “so luxurious, you’ll be looking for a red carpet.” I’d opt for this for almost everything from a girls’ weekend to a family getaway, with one-, two-, and three-bedroom suite options and every amenity you’d expect from a luxury hotel including a rooftop pool with cabanas, a steam room and sauna, full gym, basketball courts, areas to host parties and barbecues, and a full concierge service.
Want a luxe hotel experience on a more permanent basis? How about the Ritz Carlton Residences at LA Live?
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