Downtown Los Angeles isn't on any Top 5 "must see" types of travel lists, despite its proximity to a handful of very popular Southern California vacation destinations. In recent years, however, downtown Los Angeles has seen a genuine renaissance. One luxury hotel that perfectly reflects the history and modernity of downtown LA is the Millennium Biltmore Hotel.
Millennium Biltmore Hotel in Los Angeles Overview
The Millennium Biltmore is a historic hotel, having first opened its doors in 1923 (this is what counts as ancient history in Southern California). While it's a certified Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument, the interior was redesigned to bring a total of 1,500 guest rooms and suites down to 683. The rooms are now larger and completely modernized, with wireless internet, flat screen televisions, and the like.
Old-style glamour and grandeur is on full display here as well. From the frescoes, hand-painted murals and tapestries on the walls to the Moorish Revival ceilings and Spanish Baroque Revival bronze doorways, the Spanish architectural touches are meant to reflect on the Castillian history of Los Angeles, California. Spanish Renaissance themes are seen throughout as well; check out the chandeliers and fountains. Make no mistake; this is a gorgeous hotel, reminiscent of Old World architecture and interior design.
This luxury hotel used to host the Academy Awards, also known as the Oscars, in the early years of the ceremonies. Many US Presidents have stayed at the Millennium Biltmore, including Truman and John F Kennedy. In fact, JFK gave his acceptance speech as the Democratic National Convention's nominee at this hotel, and set up his campaign headquarters in the Lobby. Scenes from many, many movies and television shows (and commercials) were shot in the Millennium Biltmore in downtown Los Angeles, including Wedding Crashers, National Treasure, Dreamgirls, Iron Man, Grey's Anatomy, Private Practice, Mad Men, Chuck, Castle, and countless others.
Millennium Biltmore Hotel Location in Downtown Los Angeles
Downtown LA is finally becoming a great part of the city in which to walk around. The Millennium Biltmore is adjacent to several fantastic restaurants (ask the concierge for recommendations), and is within walking distance of many interesting tourism spots. The Staples Center, LA Live, the Walt Disney Concert Hall, Dodger Stadium, Ahmanson Theatre, and the Museum of Contemporary Art are an easy stroll from the hotel. It's a straight shot on the freeway to popular Los Angeles travel must-sees like Hollywood, Universal Studios Hollywood, and Disneyland – none should take more than 40 minutes to get to. The Santa Monica beach is also around 45 minutes away with light traffic.
Millennium Biltmore Guest Rooms,Suites, Restaurants and Bars
All rooms are classic in design, with high end amenities. The 683 guest rooms include 48 suites, ranging from one to three bedrooms. Club Level rooms offer exclusive access to the Club Lounge, with complimentary breakfast, afternoon treats, the floor's own concierge and a separate computer station.
Sai Sai is a Japanese restaurant with amazing, fresh, delicious sushi and sashimi. It's rated as one of the best restaurants in downtown LA (Yelp, Urban Spoon). La Bistecca Italian-style steakhouse puts a southern Italian flair on a traditional steakhouse menu, with entrees that are both hearty and environmentally friendly (i.e., organic ingredients are used when feasible).
For a comfortable, casual and relaxed dining experience, Smeraldi's Restaurant serves both Italian and Continental cuisine. Last, the Gallery Bar and Cognac Room are incredible. Adjoined, classy rooms are set up to maximize an elegant, truly adult experience that brings old-time Los Angeles – think the Rat Pack – to mind. In fact, the Cognac Room features original memorabilia from the opening of the Biltmore through to the Rat pack era. The Gallery Bar is considered one of the best bars in Los Angeles for those seeking to escape the loud, noxious "bar scene." Service is top-totch, and every guest is made to feel special and valued here. The Gallery Bar is a must-see for any adult traveling to Los Angeles who seeks a sense of history and nostalgia.
The Millennium Biltmore is more than a recommended luxury hotel in downtown Los Angeles. It's a vital, vibrant part of the city's history, and an integral part of modern Los Angeles as well.
Jennifer W. Miner - Jennifer has years of travel writing experience, spoken at several national conferences, and more. See Jendeavor.com for more details.
