The Best Historic Hotels to Book Near Hollywood, Los Angeles

The Hollywood Roosevelt is a different kind of star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Not only was it where the first Oscars ceremony was held, but Marilyn Monroe called it home for two years. Live your Norma Jean dreams in the Marilyn Monroe Suite, a thoroughly modern open-plan loft. Spend your days on the wraparound balcony overlooking the Tropicana Pool & Café and receive star treatment with the hour-long house special massage at the outdoor Massage Garden.

The Sunset Strip’s original hotel, Andaz West Hollywood, was central to LA’s rock ‘n’ roll explosion in the swinging ‘60s. The Rolling Stones, the Who and Led Zeppelin all reveled in its legendary bar scene. In a nod to that time, today’s hotel brings retro elements into an ultra-modern look, featuring pieces from design genius Philippe Starck. Follow in Zeppelin’s footsteps by toasting to a rockin’ time in LA at the aptly named Riot House Bar.

Villa Delle Stelle was built in 1924 to accommodate the silent film stars signed to Columbia Studios. In 2004, it was renovated by owner and celebrity designer Brogan Lane to its original splendor. The exclusive villa features only six suites, each dedicated to a different design era or style – all with a hint of Tinseltown. For an old-school Hollywood stay, opt for the sultry Grace Kelly-inspired Parisian Suite, complete with a full kitchen, formal dining room and private entrances.

The Garland was dreamed up by actor Beverly Garland in the 1970s as a hideaway for family and friends. It’s now been reimagined by son James, who has brought a mid-century and modern cool. Bring the whole gang and stay in one of the Family Suites; kids will love the bunk beds, and you’ll love the space. Hop on the complimentary trolley to make memories on the Universal Studios Tour and, upon your return, treat the family to Cali-inspired souvenirs at the Store.

An icon of Hollywood’s skyline, the Art Deco Sunset Tower drew in elite stars such as Frank Sinatra, Marilyn Monroe and Elizabeth Taylor. The hotel now alludes to its Golden Age glamour but with renewed modern sophistication. Enjoy that glitz in the often star-studded Tower Bar, which is housed in mobster Bugsy Siegel’s former apartment. Head there for impressive cocktails after you visit the Spa by Joanna Vargas for one of the celebrated aesthetician’s sought-after LED treatments.

With booming music venues just around the corner, Sunset Marquis became the go-to hotel for musicians in the heyday of rock and roll. Since then, its Bar 1200 has witnessed many star-studded parties. Start your stay here by toasting the rock gods with a Rising Sun – Kikori whisky, lemon juice, canton and Laphroaig. Also visit the hotel’s recording studio, Nightbird Studios, where Grammy-winning songs have been recorded, and see iconic photographs on display at the in-house Morrison Hotel Gallery.

Opened in 1912, the Beverly Hills Hotel has become such a pop culture icon that it’s featured in more movies than some of its famous guests. It took off when its in-house bar, the Polo Lounge and Pool Club, opened in the 1930s attracting stars like Fred Astaire and the Beatles. Now, you can reserve a room or suite at the Sunset Boulevard institution and dine or drink in that same lounge. You never know who you might rub shoulders with.