Originally known as Laurelwood, Studio City was named after a studio lot established in the area in 1927. Film producer Mack Sennett constructed a new studio on 20 donated acres of land. The area located around the studio was dubbed Studio City. The neighborhood was formerly part of a Mexican land grant known as Rancho Ex-Mission San Fernando. Studio City made news in 1955 when its fire department became the first racially integrated station in Los Angeles.
Today, Studio City is home to a number of notable people and places. The neighborhood contains the CBS Studio Center, Wilacre Park, the exterior of the Brady Bunch house, the Los Angeles River Greenway, the Studio City Recreation Center, and several buildings designed by architect Rudolph Michael Schindler.
Whatever your reason for visiting Studio City, you want to find the right accommodations that allow you to explore everything Los Angeles has to offer.
What time of the year should you go to Studio City, CA?
The best time to visit Studio City is in the spring and fall shoulder seasons. Both the tourist crowds and air pollution dissipate enough so that the city feels less oppressive, which is ideal for strolling around town and visiting outdoor attractions.
If you prefer a spring vacation, expect average daytime temperatures lingering in the low to mid-70s. Fall is slightly warmer, with temperatures in the high 70s and low 80s. Whether you visit in the spring or fall, you'll enjoy discounted hotel rates and airfare that makes visiting Studio City more affordable.
Peak visitation season runs from June through August, but heavy smog levels, sweltering temperatures, and higher hotel rates may make it difficult for some travelers to enjoy the city. Still, if you don't mind the downsides, you can't beat the Los Angeles summer event schedule. Check out LA Pride, the LA Film Festival, Outfest, the DTLA Film Festival, or Nisei Week Japanese Festival.
Unlike other vacation destinations, Studio City isn't plagued by frigid winters, so you can plan a holiday getaway with confidence. Online deals are widely available for hotels and flights from December through February, and average highs tend to stay in the upper 60s. Expect rainy days and pack accordingly, but don't rule out a Los Angeles trip during the down season. Key winter events include the LA Art Show, the Golden Globe Awards, Chinese New Year and Golden Dragon Parade, and the Academy Awards.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Studio City, CA:
Studio City by Star Rating
Below we've posted 3 graphs demonstrating mean nightly cost patterns by star rating class in Studio City, CA. You can use these charts to determine the best time period to make a reservation in Studio City for your upcoming travels.
What kind of luxury hotels are there near Studio City, CA?
4 Star Average Prices: $175.89
Upscale accommodations abound in Los Angeles. The Garland is located within walking distance of Studio City near Universal Studios Hollywood. This urban oasis features an open fireplace for socializing, artisanal cocktails, lawn games, Pilates, scheduled urban walks, and a variety of other activities. Dine in The Front Yard, order room service, or grab a drink in the lobby bar. Retro-inspired rooms feature single-cup coffeemakers, safes, mini-fridges, exclusive bathroom amenities, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen LCD TVs, and private balconies. You'll also love your room's sunny color palette.
Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City is a well-known property that never disappoints. Take advantage of the complimentary shuttle service to Universal Studios Hollywood, the large outdoor pool and whirlpool, 35,000 square feet of event space, a 24-hour fitness center, and the on-site Cafe Sierra, which offers both Chinese and Californian cuisine. Guest rooms include high-speed Wi-Fi access, 32-inch flat-screen TVs with premium channels, mini-fridges, coffeemakers, blackout shades, and 24-hour room service.
For a boutique experience, reserve a room at Hotel Amarano Burbank. This exclusive property features an on-site restaurant, library lounge, 24-hour room service, and poolside dining cabanas only 1 mile from Universal Studios. The Old Hollywood-inspired guest rooms feature a glamorous color palette, vintage pieces, and sleek accents that make anyone feel like a movie star. Amenities include fine Italian linens, feather-down duvets, floor-to-ceiling windows, wood accents, and marble bathrooms.
What are the most affordable hotel options near Studio City, California?
3 Star Average Prices: $144.14
Finding an affordable hotel in Studio City could be difficult depending on the time of year, but if you're willing to expand your search, you can reserve a room within your budget.
Located 17 miles from Studio City, Rodeway Inn in South Gate is an affordable option close enough to Los Angeles that you won't have any trouble visiting major attractions. The hotel offers free Wi-Fi internet access, an outdoor pool, ample parking, free coffee in the lobby, and copy and fax services. Guest rooms feature exterior entrances, traditional decor, flat-screen TVs, comfortable chairs, work spaces, and plenty of drawer space for your clothes.
If you're willing to pay a higher rate to stay closer to Studio City, explore Mini Mansion in Hollywood Hills. Situated on an attractive residential street, this accommodation offers an intimate experience ideal for a quick getaway. The property features many stairs, which is something to keep in mind if you're looking for accessible options, but the hosts provide everything you need to enjoy your stay. Breakfast includes unlimited coffee, eggs, yogurt, and waffles. Each guest room is individually decorated and has a homey feel.
Comfort Inn & Suites Near Universal - N. Hollywood - Burbank is affordable by Los Angeles standards, and you can't beat its location near Warner Brothers Studio and Universal Studios Hollywood. Enjoy a free hot breakfast each morning, relax by the outdoor pool, check your email on the lobby computer, and stay connected via the property-wide Wi-Fi. Guest rooms feature premium bedding, flat-panel TVs, ergonomic workstations, mini-refrigerators, and microwaves.