On my most recent trip to Los Angeles, I took the time to seek out budget-friendly hotels that didn’t compromise on comfort or style. In a city known for its glitz and glamour, I was pleasantly surprised to find several hidden gems that offered all the essentials at reasonable prices. In this post, I’ll share my personal experience at one hotel I stayed at, followed by a few other budget-friendly options in LA that are perfect for travelers looking for great value.
My Stay at The Orange Drive Hostel: Affordable Comfort in the Heart of Hollywood
During my visit, I opted to stay at The Orange Drive Hostel, which is located right in the heart of Hollywood. The hostel is just a few steps away from the famous Hollywood Walk of Fame and the TCL Chinese Theatre, making it a fantastic option if you want to be close to the iconic tourist attractions without paying the premium prices of luxury hotels in the area.
Location and Booking
I found Orange Drive Hostel through an online booking site after reading several positive reviews from fellow budget-conscious travelers. The location couldn’t have been more convenient—it’s tucked away on a quiet residential street, just a short walk from bustling Hollywood Boulevard. It’s close enough to the action that I could easily visit popular sites like the Hollywood Museum, but far enough away that I could retreat to a peaceful setting at the end of the day.
Booking was straightforward; I used a popular booking platform that offered competitive rates and customer reviews. I secured a private room for just over $80 a night, which is a steal considering the central location in Hollywood. There were also shared dormitory-style rooms available for even cheaper, which makes this place a great option for backpackers or solo travelers on a tighter budget.
How to Get There
Getting to the hostel was easy. From Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), I took the FlyAway bus to Hollywood, which dropped me off just a few blocks away from the hostel. The public transport system in LA isn’t the best, but for travelers who are comfortable using buses and the metro, it’s a viable and cost-effective option. If you’re renting a car, Orange Drive Hostel also offers parking, though I chose not to drive since the hostel’s central location allowed me to explore on foot or via rideshare services.
Environment and Facilities
Upon arriving, I was pleasantly surprised by the charming, historic feel of the building. The hostel is housed in an old Hollywood mansion, and the exterior has a classic California feel, complete with palm trees and a sunny courtyard where guests can relax.
The inside was just as cozy. The common areas were well-maintained, with a welcoming lounge and a kitchen that was available for guests to use. What I appreciated most was how quiet and clean everything was. Even though it’s a hostel, it didn’t have the chaotic, crowded feel that some budget accommodations have.
The staff were friendly and helpful, providing me with recommendations on where to eat and what to see during my stay. They also offered free breakfast—nothing fancy, just coffee, toast, and fruit—but it was a nice touch that helped me save a little extra on food costs.
Room and Stay Experience
My private room was simple but comfortable. It had a full-sized bed, clean linens, a small desk, and a closet space for my belongings. The room didn’t have air conditioning, but the ceiling fan kept things cool enough, and there was plenty of natural light streaming in from the large windows.
The bathroom facilities were shared, but they were kept immaculately clean. There were several showers and toilets available, so I never had to wait long to use them, even during the busier times in the morning.
The best part about my stay was the peaceful environment. Even though I was so close to Hollywood’s tourist hotspots, I never felt overwhelmed by noise or crowds when I returned to the hostel. The hostel’s atmosphere was calm and relaxing—perfect for unwinding after a long day of exploring.
Overall, I would give The Orange Drive Hostel a solid 9/10 for value. It provided everything I needed: a convenient location, a clean and comfortable space, and a reasonable price point. For budget travelers who want to stay close to Hollywood’s attractions without breaking the bank, it’s an excellent choice.
Other Budget-Friendly Hotels in Los Angeles
While I only stayed at The Orange Drive Hostel during this trip, I did plenty of research on other budget accommodations in Los Angeles. Here are a few more options that offer great value for the price and come highly recommended.
1. The Mayfair Hotel
Located in downtown Los Angeles, The Mayfair Hotel is a stylish, budget-friendly option for travelers who want to be near LA’s cultural hotspots. This historic hotel has recently been renovated, blending modern decor with vintage charm. Rooms are comfortable, with flat-screen TVs, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi, making it a great choice for both leisure and business travelers.
One of the biggest perks of The Mayfair Hotel is its proximity to popular attractions like the LA Live entertainment complex, the Staples Center, and the Grammy Museum. Plus, it’s close to public transportation options, which makes exploring the city easy. Rates often start around $100 to $120 per night, depending on the season, making it a steal for downtown LA.
2. Hotel Normandie
For those looking to stay in Koreatown, Hotel Normandie offers boutique-style accommodations at an affordable price. This historic hotel, built in the 1920s, retains much of its old-world charm with its original architecture and vintage decor, while also offering modern amenities like free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and comfortable beds.
Koreatown is a great area to stay if you’re interested in LA’s vibrant food scene. The hotel is close to an array of Korean BBQ restaurants, trendy cafes, and cool bars, and it’s also a short drive or metro ride away from downtown LA. Prices typically range from $120 to $150 per night, but the service and unique character of the hotel make it well worth the cost.
3. Freehand Los Angeles
If you’re a fan of hip, artsy accommodations, Freehand Los Angeles in downtown LA is a great option. This hotel/hostel hybrid offers a mix of private rooms and shared accommodations, making it a versatile choice for both solo travelers and larger groups.
The hotel has a trendy, modern design with communal spaces like a rooftop pool, cocktail bar, and a lively lobby lounge. Freehand is also home to the award-winning restaurant The Exchange, which serves delicious Mediterranean-inspired cuisine.
In terms of location, Freehand is in the heart of downtown LA, near some of the city’s best attractions, including The Broad Museum and Walt Disney Concert Hall. Shared dormitory beds start as low as $50 per night, while private rooms can range from $100 to $150. It’s an ideal spot for travelers who want a budget-friendly option without sacrificing style or comfort.
4. The Beverly Laurel Hotel
If you want to be near West Hollywood and Beverly Hills, but don’t want to pay the high prices typical of that area, The Beverly Laurel Hotel is a great budget option. This retro-style hotel is conveniently located near The Grove, a popular shopping and entertainment complex, as well as attractions like the LA County Museum of Art (LACMA) and the famous Farmer’s Market.
The rooms at The Beverly Laurel are spacious and feature vintage-inspired decor with modern touches like flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, and free Wi-Fi. The hotel also has an outdoor pool, perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing.
One of the highlights of this hotel is Swingers Diner, a beloved 24-hour diner located on-site that serves classic American fare at reasonable prices. Room rates at The Beverly Laurel typically start at around $120 per night, making it a great value for the area.
Los Angeles may be known for its luxury hotels and glamorous lifestyle, but that doesn’t mean budget travelers have to miss out on comfort or convenience. From cozy hostels like Orange Drive Hostel to boutique gems like Hotel Normandie and stylish spots like Freehand Los Angeles, there are plenty of options that offer great value for money. Whether you’re exploring Hollywood, Koreatown, or downtown LA, these budget-friendly accommodations provide the perfect balance of affordability and quality, allowing you to enjoy the best of LA without overspending.
