If you’ve got a little bit more cash, you’ll find more lodging options in Hollywood. One good spot is the Hollywood Hills Hotel (1999 N. Sycamore Ave., 323/874-5089, www.hollywoodhillshotel.com, $175–275, parking $8/day), not to be confused with the Best Western Hollywood Hills. The Hollywood Hills Hotel offers truth in advertising, set up in the Hollywood Hills offering lovely views of the L.A. skyline on rare smog-free days. The view of the resort itself can be almost as grand, with its Chinese stylings and attractive greenery.

All rooms here, even the studios, have fully equipped kitchens for travelers seeking to save money on meals. These suites land somewhere between a standard motel and a more upscale resort in their style. You’ll find floral comforters, warm-toned painted walls, and attractive if sparse artistic touches.

Best of all, the rooms facing out over the city of Los Angeles have huge windows to help you enjoy the view from the comfort of your bed. On-site, you’ll find a cool Chinese pagoda, a prettily landscaped swimming pool, and a grand California-Asian restaurant, Yamashiro.

Named for the world renowned magic club next door, the Magic Castle Hotel (7025 Franklin Ave., 323/851-0800, www.magiccastlehotel.com, $180–350) boasts the best customer service of any L.A. area hostelry. You’ll have to make that judgment for yourself, but if one of your goals for your visit to the area is to find a way into the exclusive Magic Castle Club (www.magiccastle.com), their ancillary hotel has your ticket waiting at the desk.

If you’re just looking for a nice place to relax between days filled with touring, you’ll definitely get that here. Sparkling light rooms with cushy white comforters and spare, clean decor offer a haven of tranquility.

A courtyard pool invites lounging day and night, and you can even enjoy a midnight swim here without breaking the hotel rules (so long as you don’t wake the other guests). Many rooms at the Magic Castle have their own kitchens. But be sure to enjoy the little luxurious touches, such as high-end coffee, baked goodies in the free continental breakfast, plushy robes, and nightly turn-down service.