Hollywood is steeped in cinematic history, with many popular tourist attractions like the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Madame Tussauds, Grauman’s Chinese Theatre and the Dolby Theatre at the Hollywood & Highland Center—home to the Academy Awards. Best of all, there are a number of family-friendly hotels in the area.
Loews Hollywood Hotel
Formely known as the Renaissance Hotel, the Loews Hollywood Hotel debuted during the summer of 2012. A large property connected to the Hollywood & Highland Center shopping and entertainment complex, the hotel features 632 rooms, including 32 suites. The Walk of Fame is only 1/5 of a mile away.
Unexpected bonus: Loews is a family-friendly brand, and offers special amenities for children and teenagers. Complimentary gift bags are given to all guests under 10, and include a Fisher-Price toy. Teens and tweens are provided with music download cards. Children of all ages are also welcome to borrow board games, Game Boys and DVD players.
1755 N. Highland Ave., Hollywood, 323.856.1200
Holiday Inn Express Hollywood Walk of Fame
Located on Highland Avenue, just north of the Hollywood & Highland Center, the Holiday Inn Express offers much of the value for which the brand is well regarded, including a free breakfast. There are 104 rooms and suites in total. The hotel is located 4/10 of a mile from the Walk of Fame.
Unexpected bonus: Check out the painted movie-themed mural in the parking lot. Everyone from Lucille Ball and Marilyn Monroe to James Dean and Johnny Depp are represented. It makes for a fun family photo opp.
1921 N. Highland Ave., Hollywood, 323.850.8151
Magic Castle Hotel
Located on Franklin Avenue next to the world famous neighbor that inspired its name, the Magic Castle Hotel is family-friendly to the nth degree. It’s a small property, with only 44 rooms, most of which are one- or two-bedroom suites. Among the many perks are free, round-the-clock snacks; DVD rentals; and popsicles by the pool. The hotel is exactly 3/10 of a mile to the Walk of Fame.
Unexpected bonus: Not only is it close to all of Hollywood’s main attractions, but staying here gets guests access to one that is normally off-limits to non-members: the Magic Castle. However, please note that only the Saturday and Sunday brunches are open to all ages, and the dress code is strictly enforced.
7025 Franklin Ave., Hollywood, 323.851.0800
Hilton Garden Inn
This popular property pays homage to all things Hollywood—down to the mock Hollywood sign by the pool. The hotel itself has 160 guest rooms, and WiFi is included in the rate. It is located a half-mile from the Walk of Fame.
Unexpected bonus: Thanks to a special arrangement with Madame Tussauds, guests who show their room keys receive $8 off the cost of admission to the wax museum.
2005 N. Highland Ave., Hollywood, 323.876.8600
Hollywood Orchid Suites
Situated directly behind Grauman’s Chinese Theatre, Hollywood Orchid Suites offers 40 rooms—the majority of which are suites (only four junior rooms are not). The property has the look and feel of an apartment building, including a small pool in the middle. Breakfast is included in the rate, as is Internet access. The Walk of Fame is a mere 1/5 of mile away.
Unexpected bonus: The rooftop deck provides a nice spot for sunning during the day, plus there are patio tables available for those who want to enjoy breakfast outdoors. It’s open daily until 9pm.
1753 Orchid Ave., Hollywood, 800.537.3052