LA Hotels Where Legendary Musicians Played and Stayed

When most people think of LA and celebrities, the first thing that comes to mind is the movie industry. But Los Angeles is also a big player in the music business, from world-class recording studios to the annual Grammy Awards. LA is also the home of iconic live music venues like the Hollywood Bowl and Greek Theatre, as well as the famed clubs along the Sunset Strip such as the House of Blues. Read on for our roundup of historic LA hotels where legendary musicians have played and stayed.

It’s hard to imagine now, but this downtown treasure was built in 1925 as a YWCA. In its current incarnation as a low-key but high-design Moroccan palace-style hotel, it has hosted many luminaries of the music world, including Depeche Mode, Elton John, Eminem, Madonna and folk singer Will Oldham, aka Bonnie “Prince” Billy. Its proximity to STAPLES Center and LA LIVE helps too, as this has been the site of many post-Grammy parties.

939 S. Figueroa St., Los Angeles, 213.627.8971

Once known as the Hollywood Landmark Hotel, the Highland Gardens Hotel has hosted a number of touring bands and singers. Among them are members of the Rat Pack, Jefferson Airplane and even blues great Janis Joplin, who lived here while she was recording what was to be her final album, Pearl.

7047 Franklin Ave., Hollywood, 323.850.0536

The Andaz West Hollywood is an upscale boutique property, but back in the day, it was known has the “Riot Hyatt,” thanks to the antics of hard-partying bands like Led Zeppelin and the Rolling Stones. Zeppelin drummer John Bonham is rumored to have cruised the hallways on a motorcycle, and it’s also where Robert Plant had his “Golden God” moment. Hurling TVs out of the windows was a hobby of both Keith Moon and Keith Richards.

8401 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 323.656.1234

Referred to by regulars as simply “the Chateau,” this Sunset Strip hot spot has a long legacy of misbehavior, first by early Hollywood movies stars, and later by long-haired rockers like Doors lead singer Jim Morrison, who nearly fell off the roof one night. It’s also been visited by the likes of Bob Dylan, Mick Jagger, John and Yoko, and Blues Brother John Belushi.

8221 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 323.656.1010

Because of its enviable proximity to the Gibson Amphitheatre and the Hollywood Bowl, the Sportsmen’s Lodge has hosted some of the biggest names in the music business. Many are repeat visitors, and some choose to stay and relax long after their tours have wrapped. Notable bands include Chicago, Journey, the Temptations and Earth Wind & Fire.

12825 Ventura Blvd., Studio City, 818.769.4700