Located on the back lot of Universal Studios, this 436-room hotel has hosted many distinguished guests and has been called the “Hotel of the Stars.” Take the shuttle or walk to Universal Studios and CityWalk. Renovated guest rooms have Sweet Sleeper beds, Starbucks 1-cup coffeemaker, hair dryer, safe, bathrobes, and high-speed Internet access (free if you book through Starwood). Junior and executive suites available. Amenities include a restaurant, lounge, large outdoor pool, whirlpool, renovated fitness center by Core Performance, and gift shop. Conveniently located just minutes from downtown Los Angeles. Pets up to 80 lbs. allowed. 

Parking is $24. Check-in time: 3:00 pm; check-out time: 12:00 pm. Address: 333 Universal Hollywood Dr., Universal City, CA 91608. Phone: 818-980-1212. Web: http://www.sheratonuniversal.com/.

Situated at the very entrance to Universal Studios Hollywood and CityWalk, high on a hill above Los Angeles. Each of the 483 rooms features Hilton Serenity Beds, large closet, large bath and dressing area, safe, mini-fridge, coffeemaker, hairdryer, and a view of either the park, the Valley, or the Hollywood Hills. Amenities include a restaurant, lounge, heated outdoor pool, whirlpool spa, and fitness room. Internet access is $7.95/24-hour period. The Metro Red Line Subway is within walking distance. Pets up to 75 lbs. allowed ($50 fee).

Parking is $24. Check-in time: 3:00 pm; check-out time: 12:00 pm. Address: 555 Universal Hollywood Dr., Universal City, CA 91608. Phone: 818-506-2500. Web: http://www.hilton.com.

This hotel’s namesake and original owner was Hollywood actress Beverly Garland. Set on seven acres, this chic retro hotel's rooms feature private balconies, free wireless high-speed Internet access, refrigerator, coffeemaker, and hair dryer. Rooms with king beds and family suites also available. Hotel amenities include an on-site restaurant and lounge, room service, heated outdoor pool, lighted tennis courts, fitness center, gift shop, and even free tai chi yoga. 

Parking is $22. Check-in time: 3:00 pm; check-out time: 12:00 pm. Address: 4222 Vineland Ave., N. Hollywood, CA 91602. Phone: 818-980-8000 or 800-238-3759. Web: http://www.thegarland.com/.

The Lodge has been a quiet landmark since the original hotel opened in the 1800's adjacent to a trout-fishing lake where, over the years, celebrities such as Clark Gable came to catch and eat their own dinners. Today, this low-key, five-story hotel offers 190 spacious guest rooms with doubles, queens, or king-sized beds. Dine at River Rock or the Patio Cafe inside the hotel, or enjoy a cocktail at the pool bar. Hotel amenities include an Olympic-size outdoor pool, whirlpool spa, and fitness center. Pets allowed for $15/night fee. 

Parking is $14. Check-in time: 3:00 pm; check-out time: 12:00 pm. Address: 12825 Ventura Blvd., Studio City, CA 91604. Phone: (877) 806-2279. Web: http://www.sportsmenslodge.com/.