In advance of Hollywood Awards Season (January) – of which I always watched growing up and am obsessed with movies, shows & storytelling in general – I thought it may be a good time to share a roundup of some of the most famous Old Hollywood Hotels in Los Angeles. This is a subject a know a lot about as I used to lead PR & Communications for the fabulous Beverly Wilshire Hotel (yes, the one from “Pretty Woman”), and still work regularly in luxury travel and hotel spaces (among other things). I am going to share more insight on places to stay, dine and explore this year, hope it is useful to some of you. Now onto the historic old Hollywood properties…
Beverly Hills Hotel, 1912 (Dorchester Collection). Known as the “Pink Palace,” this iconic property has been a haven for Hollywood royalty for over a century. Its signature pink facade and lush grounds have hosted countless celebrities, from Marilyn Monroe to Elizabeth Taylor. The Polo Lounge remains a favorite spot for power lunches and Hollywood deals, while the hotel’s bungalows have been the site of countless romantic getaways and creative inspiration.
Bel-Air Hotel, 1946 (Dorchester Collection). With its secluded setting and lush gardens, Hotel Bel-Air has been a retreat for the world’s elite. The hotel’s exclusivity and privacy have made it a favorite for celebrities, heads of state, and dignitaries. Grace Kelly famously stayed here, and its swan-filled pond and elegant architecture create an atmosphere of timeless romance.
Beverly Wilshire, 1928 (Four Seasons). Located at the intersection of Wilshire Boulevard and Rodeo Drive, the Beverly Wilshire is synonymous with Hollywood glamour. The hotel’s starring role in Pretty Woman solidified its place in pop culture, but its history extends far beyond the silver screen. It has welcomed countless stars, from Elvis Presley to Warren Beatty, and even featured in Charlie Chaplin’s City Lights.
The Beverly Hilton, 1955. While the Beverly Hilton might not have the same cachet it once did, it remains an integral part of Hollywood’s awards season as the longtime host of the Golden Globes. The hotel’s Aqua Star Pool and iconic signage evoke mid-century glamour, making it a nostalgic landmark for those who appreciate Hollywood’s heyday.
Chateau Marmont, 1929. The Chateau Marmont is legendary for its mystique and infamous stories. A favorite among actors and musicians, it has often served as both a hideaway and a residence for Hollywood’s elite. John Belushi tragically passed away here in 1982, cementing its reputation as a place of both glamour and intrigue. Today, the Chateau Marmont remains a favorite for those seeking discretion and old-school Hollywood charm.
Hollywood Roosevelt, 1927. Located in the heart of Hollywood, the Hollywood Roosevelt hosted the first Academy Awards in 1929. While its star has dimmed somewhat in recent years, its Spanish Colonial Revival architecture and historic connections make it a fascinating stop for film buffs. The iconic Tropicana Pool and the Marilyn Monroe Suite pay homage to its glamorous past.
Sunset Tower Hotel, 1931. This Art Deco gem on the Sunset Strip has seen its share of Hollywood history. Once home to stars like Marilyn Monroe and Frank Sinatra, it has been lovingly restored and now serves as one of the city’s most stylish spots for cocktails and celebrity sightings. Its Tower Bar is an intimate venue that oozes sophistication and old-school Hollywood allure.
Hotel Figueroa, 1926 (Hyatt). Originally opened as a safe haven for solo female travelers by the YWCA, Hotel Figueroa has a fascinating history. It was the largest commercial building funded by women at the time, and its mission was to provide a space for women who were prohibited from checking into most hotels without a male chaperone. Today, its Spanish Colonial Revival design and vibrant atmosphere make it a standout in Downtown LA.
The Biltmore, 1923 (Millennium Hotels). At its opening, the Biltmore was the largest hotel west of Chicago, and it remains a landmark of Downtown Los Angeles. Its ornate interiors have played host to countless Hollywood events, including several Academy Awards ceremonies. The hotel is also tied to the mystery of the Black Dahlia, as Elizabeth Short was reportedly last seen at the Biltmore before her disappearance.
Carrie x
