Best Hotels in Universal Studios Area, Los Angeles

True to its North Hollywood location, this 7-acre boutique property embodies a retro-cool atmosphere that will transport you back to the glamour of 1970s L.A. Though the hotel completed a $20 million makeover in 2015, it didn't abandon its past: Rooms are a nod to the hotel's '70s roots with bright orange accents and vintage-inspired furniture, but they're also equipped with more modern amenities like flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi access and minifridges. When you're not in your room, take time to explore the rest of the property. The hotel offers complimentary activities for guests like its "Dive-In Move Night," where a classic film is screened poolside, plus a gift shop featuring locally sourced and California-inspired items (think California wines and specialty cookbooks). Even though you're within walking distance to a bevy of eateries, you'll want to stick around for at least one cocktail at the trendy Lobby Bar and a bite at The Front Yard, the hotel's on-site restaurant. When you want to explore off-property, The Garland's got you covered there, too: The hotel offers complimentary trolley service to Universal Studios and CityWalk, which made it a standout among its L.A. peers according to recent guests. Travelers also loved the laid-back ambiance of the property, with many saying it was an ideal honeymoon hideaway thanks to the comfortable rooms, unique public spaces and exceptional service.

The plusses of staying in Burbank – about 11 miles northwest of downtown Los Angeles – include the neighborhood's proximity to many of L.A.'s top things to do, as well as the chance to be in the vicinity of the true entertainment hub of California (this is where both "The Ellen DeGeneres Show" and "Conan" are filmed). And when staying in the Hotel Amarano Burbank specifically, the perks include the cozy rooms and suites (132 in total), all of which are outfitted with 42-inch plasma TVs, iPod docking stations, complimentary Wi-Fi access, Keurig coffee makers and Gilchrest & Soames toiletries. Outside your digs you'll find a saltwater pool and a courteous front desk staff ready to welcome you to the hotel with Parisian chocolates. (However, there are some complaints about noise in the evenings.) The Hotel Amarano Burbank also houses Privato, the on-site restaurant known for its unique take on fish, poultry and steak.

Across the street from Universal Studios Hollywood, the Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City has excellent access to the downtown Los Angeles and Hollywood areas, which makes it popular with business and leisure travelers alike. Most guests report that the hotel is a standard Hilton property with (thankfully) no surprises. Guest rooms are outfitted in neutral decor and come equipped with Hilton's signature Serenity beds, free wireless Internet access and minifridges. Still, some guests say that the rooms could use a facelift as they show some wear. This property also houses two pools, a fitness center and several eateries, and members of the Hilton HHonors loyalty programs can earn and redeem points here.

Courtyard by Marriott Los Angeles - Sherman Oaks is a 3.5 star hotel located at 15433 Ventura Blvd in Los Angeles. It has a 4.0 overall guest rating based on 345 reviews.

Sportsmen's Lodge is a 3.5 star hotel located at 12825 Ventura Blvd in Los Angeles. It has a 3.5 overall guest rating based on 1096 reviews.

Mikado Hotel is a 3 star hotel located at 12600 Riverside Dr in Los Angeles. It has a 3.5 overall guest rating based on 252 reviews.