Hotel
Hotel Bel-Air
A Dorchester Collection hotel set in twelve acres of gardens in Bel Air, opened in 1946 and reached across a footbridge over its famous Swan Lake.
The Hollywood Roosevelt
Opened in 1927 on Hollywood Boulevard, the Roosevelt hosted the first Academy Awards in 1929 and is known for its Tropicana Pool painted by David Hockney.
At a glance
- Type
- Historic Hollywood hotel
- Area
- Hollywood, Los Angeles, United States
- Price
- $$$ · Upscale
- Official site
- thehollywoodroosevelt.com
Good to know
- Tropicana Pool with David Hockney mural
- Several bars
- Restaurant
- Live entertainment
Why we recommend it
The Hollywood Roosevelt opened in 1927 on Hollywood Boulevard, opposite the TCL Chinese Theatre, and it has been tied to the film industry from the start. On 16 May 1929 its Blossom Ballroom hosted the very first Academy Awards ceremony, attended by 270 guests, at which Wings won Best Picture. The lobby and ballroom still evoke that era.
The hotel's other claim to fame is the Tropicana Pool, whose floor was painted by artist David Hockney in 1988 with a pattern of blues and whites. The pool area, with its own bar and café, is one of the city's best-known places to see and be seen, and it can be lively on summer weekends, so light sleepers may prefer rooms away from the pool.
Food and drink are part of the appeal. Gable and Shirley is the hotel's restaurant, and its bars include the Lobby Bar, the Library Bar and the Spare Room, a cocktail lounge with two vintage bowling lanes. The Cinegrill Theater hosts live entertainment, so there is often something going on in the evening without leaving the building.
The Roosevelt suits travellers who want to be in the heart of Hollywood, film fans who enjoy staying somewhere with history, and couples or friends planning nights out. It is less suited to those looking for peace and quiet, as the boulevard outside is busy late into the night. Rates sit at the upper end of the mid-range for Hollywood.
Location is the main practical advantage. The Walk of Fame runs past the front door, the Dolby Theatre and the Ovation Hollywood complex are a block away, and the Hollywood/Highland station on the Metro B Line is a short walk, with direct trains to Universal City and Downtown. Musso and Frank Grill is a couple of blocks east. The hotel's long history means it has many stories attached to it, and guests interested in film history will enjoy exploring the public spaces, from the mezzanine to the ballroom where the first Oscars were presented. Its bars attract a local crowd at weekends, so you do not have to go far for a night out.
Book well ahead for weekends and major events, such as awards season, when demand in Hollywood spikes. Check the hotel's website for current room types and any resort or facility fees before you book, as these vary between hotels in the area.
The Hollywood Roosevelt FAQs
When did The Hollywood Roosevelt open?
In 1927.
Were the first Oscars held here?
Yes. The first Academy Awards took place in the Blossom Ballroom on 16 May 1929.
Who painted the pool?
David Hockney painted the floor of the Tropicana Pool in 1988.
What bars does the hotel have?
The Lobby Bar, the Library Bar, the Spare Room with its bowling lanes, and a pool bar.
Is there a restaurant?
Yes. Gable and Shirley is the hotel's restaurant.
Is it near the Walk of Fame?
Yes. The Walk of Fame runs right past the hotel, opposite the TCL Chinese Theatre.
What is the nearest Metro station?
Hollywood/Highland on the B Line, a short walk away.
Is it a quiet hotel?
Not especially; the pool and boulevard can be lively, so ask for a quieter room if needed.