Where to Stay in Los Angeles
Family-friendly areas, safe neighborhoods, and activities for all ages
Top 3 Areas to Stay in Los Angeles
Family-friendly neighbourhoods that are safe and practical
Santa Monica
A vibrant beach city with a lively pier and upscale shopping.
Our top picks in Santa Monica
Luxurious beachfront hotel with a sophisticated, Hamptons-like feel.
Book NowArt Deco-inspired hotel with a popular rooftop bar overlooking the ocean.
Book NowChic boutique hotel with a cozy, residential feel and a lovely courtyard.
Book Now
Downtown Los Angeles (DTLA)
A rapidly evolving urban core with historic architecture, modern skyscrapers, and diverse cultural offerings.
Our top picks in Downtown Los Angeles (DTLA)
Iconic hotel with a rooftop pool and bar offering stunning city views.
Book NowHoused in a historic theater, known for its stylish design and vibrant lobby scene.
Book NowTrendy hotel with a rooftop pool, offering both private rooms and shared accommodations.
Book Now
Koreatown
A bustling, diverse neighborhood renowned for its incredible food scene and 24/7 energy.
Our top picks in Koreatown
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Neighbourhood Comparison for Families
| Neighbourhood | Budget | Vibe | Best For | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|---|
#1Santa Monica | Luxury | A vibrant beach city with a lively pier and upscale shopping. | familiescouples | Generally very safe during the day with ... |
Downtown Los Angeles (DTLA) | Mid-range | A rapidly evolving urban core with historic architecture, modern skyscrapers, and diverse cultural offerings. | culturefoodies | Daytime is generally safe in business an... |
West Hollywood | Luxury | The epicenter of LA's nightlife, arts, and LGBTQ+ scene. | nightlifecouples | Generally safe, especially on main stree... |
Koreatown | Budget | A bustling, diverse neighborhood renowned for its incredible food scene and 24/7 energy. | foodiesbudget | Generally safe during the day and early ... |
Find family-friendly hotels in Los Angeles
Hotels with family rooms and kid-friendly amenities
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Tips for Families in Los Angeles
Plan Around Nap Times
Schedule big attractions for the morning when energy is highest. Keep afternoons flexible for downtime or playground visits.
Pack Snacks
Having familiar snacks on hand prevents meltdowns. Local supermarkets are cheaper than tourist-area shops for stocking up.
Consider Apartments
An apartment with a kitchen and washing machine can be more practical than a hotel in Los Angeles, especially for stays over 3 nights.
Keep Distances Short
Young children tire quickly. Choose accommodation near your top 2 to 3 must-see attractions rather than in the geographical centre.
Book a family activity in Los Angeles
Kid-friendly tours and fun experiences
Best Neighborhoods for Families
Ranked by relevance for families visiting Los Angeles
Santa Monica
LuxuryA vibrant beach city with a lively pier and upscale shopping.
- +Direct beach access and ocean views
- +Excellent walkability and many amenities
- +Good public transport connections (Expo Line)
- -Can be very crowded, especially on weekends
- -Higher cost of living and accommodation
🛡️ Generally very safe during the day with a visible police presence; evenings are also safe in well-lit tourist areas, but be aware of your surroundings.
Downtown Los Angeles (DTLA)
Mid-rangeA rapidly evolving urban core with historic architecture, modern skyscrapers, and diverse cultural offerings.
- +Excellent public transport hub
- +Wide range of dining and cultural attractions
- +Revitalized areas with impressive architecture
- -Can feel desolate in certain areas at night
- -Visible homelessness is a significant issue
🛡️ Daytime is generally safe in business and tourist districts. Nighttime requires caution; stick to well-lit main streets and avoid deserted areas. Homeless encampments are common.
West Hollywood
LuxuryThe epicenter of LA's nightlife, arts, and LGBTQ+ scene.
- +Incredible dining and entertainment options
- +Stylish and trendy atmosphere
- +Central location for exploring other parts of LA
- -Can be noisy due to nightlife
- -Parking can be challenging and expensive
🛡️ Generally safe, especially on main streets with active nightlife. Be mindful of your belongings and avoid poorly lit side streets late at night.
Koreatown
BudgetA bustling, diverse neighborhood renowned for its incredible food scene and 24/7 energy.
- +Unbeatable and affordable food options
- +Vibrant nightlife and entertainment
- +Good access to public transportation (Metro Red/Purple Lines)
- -Can be noisy and crowded
- -Street parking is very difficult
- -Less aesthetically polished than some other areas
🛡️ Generally safe during the day and early evening, especially around main thoroughfares. Be aware of your surroundings at night, as some areas can be dimly lit or have increased foot traffic.
Daily Budget (Mid-Range)
USD 250/day
Hidden Gems in Los Angeles
Lesser-known spots the locals love
The Last Bookstore
This iconic independent bookstore is a labyrinth of new and used books, with a famous art gallery and a unique Instagrammable tunnel of books.
Elysian Park
FREELos Angeles' oldest park offers stunning panoramic views of the city, Dodger Stadium, and the Hollywood sign, perfect for a peaceful escape.
Echo Park Lake
Rent a swan pedal boat on this picturesque lake, surrounded by palm trees and offering beautiful views of the downtown skyline.
Museum of Jurassic Technology
An eccentric and enigmatic museum that blurs the lines between art, science, and fiction, filled with bizarre and fascinating exhibits.
Safety in Los Angeles
ModerateSolo Female Travel
Exercise caution, especially at night. Stick to well-lit, populated areas. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid displaying valuables. Public transport can be less safe late at night.
At Night
Varies significantly by neighborhood. Tourist hubs like Santa Monica Pier and parts of West Hollywood are generally safe. DTLA and certain parts of Hollywood require more vigilance. Avoid walking alone in deserted or poorly lit areas.
Emergency
911
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Fake petitions/charity collectors in tourist areas.
- 2Overly friendly strangers offering 'free' tours or help, leading to requests for money.
- 3Street vendors selling counterfeit goods.
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Los Angeles
Hand-picked guided experiences you can book in advance on GetYourGuide.
Los Angeles Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Los Angeles on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
View Tour Details
Los Angeles Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Los Angeles with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
View Tour Details
Best of Los Angeles: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Los Angeles's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
View Tour Details
Day Trip from Los Angeles: Scenic Excursion
Escape Los Angeles for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
View Tour Details
Los Angeles Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Los Angeles's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
View Tour DetailsWe earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
2 areas to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Los Angeles
Families in Los Angeles: FAQ
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