Originally Posted By ecdc This isn't so much a Disney trip planning request as it is a general southern California trip planning request. My family will be in L.A. in mid-July for a beach/sight-seeing/relaxation getaway. We're just not quite sure the best locale to stay for what we're doing. I'm looking at Venice Beach, just because there's at least some interesting stuff to see near hotels, but I'm just not familiar enough with the area to know if that's a good idea. We're kinda bored easily with just laying around, so I think we've ruled out Orange County beaches. We'll go to the beach for a day, see the Santa Monica Pier, we'll take the kids to Griffith Observatory and the California Science Center. We may get to Hollywood but we've decided to play that one by ear. It's unlikely we'll actually go to Disneyland this time; if we do any sort of theme park thing, we'll take a day to go down to LegoLand. We're flying into LAX and renting a car, so driving (within reason, and keeping in mind the appalling traffic) isn't a problem. I know, it's not exactly a fleshed out, detailed itinerary, which is kinda how we want it for now. Any ideas for a great locale to stay that won't cost me an arm and a leg? Any considerations I should take into account? Any "must dos" for two boys nearing ages 11 and 12? Many thanks in advance for any advice!
Originally Posted By Tikiduck I would not rule Hollywood out. It is probably the most centrally located place in regards to a Los Angeles trip. Dodger Stadium, beaches, Beverly Hills, Griffith Park, man it's all right there. Plus if you stay in Hollywood, like say the Roosevelt, that is about as cool as it gets. Bored at the hotel? Hit the street! Watch a movie at one of those cool old theaters. Have lunch at the Highland complex, see the Chinese Theater, watch all the freaks, and have a blast. Don't forget the Autry Museum, right across from the LA Zoo, incredible! So there it is...Hollywood.
Originally Posted By ecdc Thanks! Darcy, anything you recommend doing in Burbank, or any particular place you like to stay? Tiki, you're starting to talk me into Hollywood area. I'd love to take the family to a movie at the Arclight Dome or even a classic at the New Beverly. And not that I'd choose my hotel location based on this, but when I was there a few months ago, I went into Amoeba Music. I seriously forgot how fun it was to spend a couple of hours flipping through music and movies. I'm so accustomed to just going to Amazon because local stores (read: Best Buy) never have anything I'm interested in.
Originally Posted By SingleParkPassholder I'm not so sure a family vacation should involve staying at the Roosevelt on Hollywood Blvd.
Originally Posted By Tikiduck I haven't stayed at the Roosevelt in a while, but I loved the atmosphere, and that pool is so cool. The proximity to everything is undeniable, but it may be a little mature for some families. The Renaissance would be more family friendly, but it is very pricey, and the walls are thin, not good if you are a light sleeper. One thing I can guarantee, looking out at night from your window at the Roosevelt will make you feel giddy.
Originally Posted By Yookeroo Here's the July Hollywood Bowl schedule: <a target="blank" rel="nofollow" href="http://www.hollywoodbowl.com/tickets/calendar?month=2014-07">http://www.hollywoodbowl.com/t...=2014-07</a> If you've never seen a concert there, it's really an amazing venue. Of check out the Greek: <a target="blank" rel="nofollow" href="http://www.greektheatrela.com/events/index.asp">http://www.greektheatrela.com/...ndex.asp</a>
Originally Posted By Dabob2 Haven't stayed there in a while, but the Best Western Sunset Plaza in West Hollywood is in a VERY central part of LA (closer to BH and beaches than Hollywood) and used to be quite reasonable.
Originally Posted By ecdc Great thoughts and suggestions, all. I appreciate it! I like to think I'm a savvy traveler, but L.A. always stymies me. I suppose it's just the sheer size—give me compact and good public transit and I'm home free
