LA hotel advise - please!

Question

Hi, we are visiting in April and having a big sport weekend and so will be at Crypto Stadium two nights and then at dodgers stadium... so fun! During the days we are doing a private tour and then at Universal so I am thinking to change accomodation from our West Hollywood booking to somewhere Downtown LA.... i just keep reading about parking costs and how bad the traffic will be driving from West Hollywood to Crypto twice and Dogers which is why i am thinking to change accomodation but i also keep reading West Hollywood accomodation is far more family friendly.. any advice? Any great family hotels downtown??

Answer

For your upcoming LA trip with a mix of sports events, family activities, and Universal Studios, choosing the right hotel location can significantly impact your experience. West Hollywood is indeed very family-friendly with easy access to shops, restaurants, and a generally walkable area. However, given that you’ll be attending games at Crypto.com Arena (formerly Staples Center) and Dodger Stadium, you are right to consider the traffic and parking challenges from West Hollywood to these venues.

Downtown LA is much closer to Crypto.com Arena, making game days far easier logistically. Parking around the stadium is typically expensive but convenient, and you can also use nearby lots with a short walk. Dodger Stadium is a bit further, north of Downtown, but still easier to reach than from West Hollywood. Traffic will be heavy during game times, but staying Downtown minimizes driving across the city.

If you prefer to split your stay, you could consider staying Downtown for the nights of the sporting events and then moving back to West Hollywood for Universal and your private tour. This approach balances convenience for events with family-friendly amenities for other days.

Family-friendly hotels in Downtown LA:
- The Westin Bonaventure: Iconic downtown hotel with spacious rooms, pool, and easy access to attractions.
- Omni Los Angeles Hotel at California Plaza: Convenient for museums and offers good family accommodations.
- JW Marriott Los Angeles L.A. LIVE: Close to Crypto.com Arena with modern rooms and good amenities.
- Residence Inn by Marriott L.A. L.A. LIVE: Suites with kitchenettes, great for families wanting more space.

Practical tips:

For Crypto.com Arena, Downtown LA hotels allow walking or short Uber rides to the stadium, avoiding most traffic stress.
For Dodger Stadium, consider leaving early to navigate the parking lines; Downtown to the stadium is about 15–20 minutes without heavy traffic.
Universal Studios is north of the city, so West Hollywood is actually more convenient; consider moving after your sports events if your plan allows.
Parking fees in Downtown can be high, so check hotel packages that include parking to save money and avoid extra stress.

In conclusion, if minimizing driving for the sports events is a priority, Downtown LA is your best option for those nights. West Hollywood can still be used for family-friendly days around Universal and sightseeing. Alternating stays is a good compromise, ensuring convenience for both family activities and sporting events.