Los Angeles on a Budget: Boutique Stays Starting Under $250 a Night
Los Angeles may be home to legendary five-star hotels, but its wide-ranging boutique hotel scene proves that style doesn’t have to come with an astronomical price tag. Tucked into historic buildings, beachy enclaves, and buzz-worthy neighborhoods, these properties offer unique character, thoughtful design, and genuine hospitality—all without breaking the bank. Whether you’re after vintage Hollywood glamour, breezy Venice vibes, or a hidden gem in the Valley, these boutique hotels deliver authentic L.A. experiences for under $250 per night.
Hollywood Hotel
Hollywood Hotel offers one of the best values in Los Angeles, combining a resort-like atmosphere with wallet-friendly rates. Lounge under the palm trees by the outdoor pool or relax in the hidden courtyard garden. The hotel also features a fitness center, sauna, café, and ample parking. The rooms are pet-friendly and spacious, with a mix of contemporary furnishings and old Hollywood glamour. Some of the rooms also offer beautifully tiled baths with rainfall showerheads and cozy robes. Near the legendary Route 66, the hotel’s East Hollywood location provides quick access to Griffith Park, the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and the hip neighborhoods of Los Feliz and Silver Lake.
The Sojourn
Newly remodeled with a fun, nostalgic vibe, The Sojourn is a classic 1950s roadside motel that has welcomed road-trippers for over 60 years. The updated rooms are simple but exude mid-century charm with retro-modern décor, playful pop of color, and vintage-inspired telephones and mini-fridges. Hotel perks include a sparkling pool, free breakfast, and free WiFi. The hotel’s location along the palm-lined Ventura Boulevard makes it a convenient launch pad for exploring the San Fernando Valley’s hidden gems and the city at large. With easy freeway access, Universal Studios Hollywood, Griffith Park, and the Getty Center are all just a short drive away.
Hotel Normandie
Few hotels in Los Angeles can claim the cultural pedigree of Hotel Normandie. Opened in 1926, this Koreatown landmark blends Spanish Colonial and Renaissance Revival architecture with vintage Hollywood charm. Lovingly restored, the hotel showcases the elegance of Hollywood’s golden age while providing the contemporary comforts and perks of a boutique hotel. Delightful touches include rubber duckies for the bathtubs and a daily wine reception in the lobby. The ground floor of the hotel is home to the Normandie Club cocktail lounge, the Michelin-starred Le Comptoir, and the classic diner fare of Cassell’s Hamburgers. Just steps away, Koreatown is among L.A.’s most diverse and dynamic neighborhoods, brimming with karaoke bars, late-night barbecue joints, and hidden speakeasies. From the hotel, it’s an easy hop to downtown or Hollywood.
Hotel Mariposa
Nestled in the San Fernando Valley, Hotel Mariposa is a stylish, budget-friendly option that feels like a breath of fresh air compared to cookie-cutter chains. The spacious, contemporary rooms feature vibrant, nature-inspired décor and upscale amenities. You’ll find plush pillowtop mattresses, rain showerheads, and cozy robes in every room. The inviting garden courtyard features a soothing waterfall, fireplace, and hot tub. The hotel also offers a 24-hour fitness center, convenient on-site parking with EV charging stations, and a host of eco-friendly features. From the hotel, follow Coldwater Canyon Avenue south to discover Ventura Boulevard’s buzz-worthy dining scene. With easy access to the Ventura Freeway, it’s also a quick drive to Universal Studios Hollywood and Griffith Park.
The Kinney Venice Beach
Playful and vibrant, The Kinney captures Venice Beach’s eccentric, creative spirit in boutique hotel form. Its art-splashed courtyard and retro-inspired rooms channel a distinctive Southern California vibe. Beneath the colorful courtyard murals, you can mix and mingle around the bar, play a game of ping pong, take a dip in the heated pool, or chill out by the fire pit. The stylish rooms and suites blend bold pop art décor with modern comforts like luxurious bedding and 55″ HDTVs. Take a spin on one of the hotel’s cruiser bikes to explore Venice Beach and its famous boardwalk. The Venice Canals, Marina del Rey, and Abbot Kinney Boulevard’s eclectic mix of boutiques, bars, and restaurants are just a short stroll away.
Olivia Hotel
Opened in May 2025, Olivia Hotel is a sleek newcomer bringing polished boutique flair to West Los Angeles. Its understated design leans modern but warm, with thoughtful touches like ergonomic workspaces and curated minibars. The lobby café puts an elevated spin on the standard continental breakfast with a menu of yogurt parfaits, gourmet quiche, and avocado toast. In the evenings, you can relax around the fire pit in the hotel’s tranquil outdoor courtyard. Each afternoon, the hotel hosts a social hour in the courtyard featuring fine wines and craft beers paired with small bites. Located along the original Route 66 near Westwood Village and UCLA, the hotel is also a quick drive to Century City, Beverly Hills, and Santa Monica.
Los Angeles Athletic Club Hotel
Booking a stay at the historic Los Angeles Athletic Club provides entrée into an exquisite private club with state-of-the-art athletic facilities, fitness classes, a spa, and an array of swanky lounges, restaurants, and bars. Originally founded in 1880, the club has long been a hub for L.A.’s movers and shakers, from Olympians to Hollywood legends. Set on the upper floors of the iconic Beaux-Arts building, the club’s boutique hotel rooms blend rich, timeless décor with luxurious amenities. Hotel guests receive access to the club’s private athletic facilities, including its five-lane swimming pool, weight room, basketball court, yoga studio, and more. The hotel’s location in the Historic Core places guests within walking distance of the theater district, Grand Central Market, and The Broad Museum.