The Andaz West Hollywood

Stepping into the Andaz Hotel in West Hollywood is like taking a page from the book of rock and roll history. Led Zeppelin used to rent out multiple floors at a time for their crew and entourage, where drummer John Bonham famously drove a motorcycle through the hallways. It’s the site where Robert Plant supposedly cried out, “ I am a Golden God!” while overlooking the Sunset Strip, inspiring that scene in Almost Famous (scenes from that movie along with This is Spinal Tap were also filmed on site). Keith Richards reportedly dropped a TV out of a window in room 1015, and Jim Morrison lived there until management gave him the boot for dangling over the pavement by this fingertips.

The hotel’s rich history, of course, is only a small part of what makes the property so amazing. Like we’ve come to expect with our experience at Andaz properties, walking into the West Hollywood location feels like home. The atmosphere is vibrant and bustling but also is just as relaxed as if you were staying with a friend. You’re greeted with a welcome glass of wine upon check-in, so no precious downtime is wasted without a buzz. While you’re waiting for your room – or later when you’re waiting for a cab – check out the second-floor gallery. We were lucky enough to experience some never-before-seen photos of legends like John Lennon and Jimi Hendrix.

Max Schwartz

The rooms are everything you could want from a sleek hotel on Sunset Boulevard. In addition to excellent amenities you would expect like a super comfy bed and beautiful marble bathroom with 360 rotating shower head that offers four different settings (this may have been our favorite feature, by the way), Andaz always goes the extra mile to make your stay extra special. The mini bar is stocked with free snacks and non-alcoholic beverages (and booze, of course, if you want it) and all the tech necessities like flat screen TVs, iHome stereos and Wi-Fi. Try to snag yourself a view room, designed with a separate sitting area with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Sunset Strip and LA skyline.

Riot House takes care of your eating and drinking needs if you don’t feel like venturing out, serving local farm-to-table cuisine in the restaurant, room service and on the hotel’s rooftop sundeck. Up there, you’ll also find a gorgeous swimming pool where you can relax and soak up the California sun. The gym is open 24-hours so you can get your blood pumping whenever the mood strikes.

To learn more about the Andaz and to book your stay, check out their website. Trust us, you won’t be disappointed.