Need recommendations for area to stay near some attractions

Question

Hi all - I will be in LA from Thursday pm to Saturday am at the end of the month, before driving to Dana Point for meetings. We would like to visit Griffith Observatory and maybe do a lot tour at one of the studios or visit a set, if possible. Open to ideas. I’m struggling with where to book our hotel. I would love a neighborhood feel where we’re safe to walk to cafes etc. thanks for any advice!

Answer

For a short stay in Los Angeles with the goal of visiting Griffith Observatory and possibly doing a studio tour, choosing a neighborhood that combines safety, walkability, and proximity to attractions is key. LA is very spread out, so traffic can be significant; staying closer to the attractions you plan to visit will save you time.

Neighborhoods to consider for your stay:

Los Feliz: Very close to Griffith Observatory, Los Feliz offers a charming, walkable neighborhood feel with cafés, restaurants, and small shops. Safe for walking during the day and early evening. Ideal for visiting the observatory and enjoying a neighborhood atmosphere.
Hollywood Hills: Offers great proximity to Griffith Observatory and the Hollywood Bowl area. More residential, quiet, and scenic, with some boutique hotels or Airbnbs. You’ll be a short drive from studio tours and other Hollywood attractions.
West Hollywood (WeHo): Trendy area with nightlife, restaurants, and cafés. Very walkable and safe, though a bit farther from Griffith Observatory than Los Feliz (~15–20 min drive). Convenient if you plan to enjoy evening dining and entertainment.
Hollywood / Near Highland: Central to many studio tours and attractions such as TCL Chinese Theatre, Hollywood Walk of Fame, and Warner Bros. Studio. More tourist-heavy but offers several hotels and easy access to tours.

Additional tips:

If studio tours are a priority (Warner Bros., Paramount, or Universal), staying in Hollywood or Burbank can minimize drive times to the lots.
LA traffic can be heavy, especially during weekday mornings and late afternoons, so plan your morning departures accordingly.
Consider a hotel or Airbnb that offers easy parking or valet if you’ll have a car, as street parking can be limited in some areas.
Look for accommodations within walking distance of cafés and casual restaurants to get the neighborhood feel you want without relying entirely on your car.

Overall, for your described interests—Griffith Observatory, studio tours, and neighborhood charm—Los Feliz or Hollywood Hills are excellent choices. West Hollywood is a good alternative if you want a more vibrant area with cafes and nightlife, though slightly farther from the observatory.

Need recommendations for area to stay near some attractions

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