Hotel Aventura offers streamlined accommodations, friendly service and unparalleled access to the best of Koreatown to travelers looking for hip, laid-back digs in a lively neighborhood.
Inside the Hotel Aventura’s unfussy exterior, you’ll find a spacious lobby with artsy details like architectural light fixtures and contemporary paintings on the walls; the rooms themselves are equally modernly appointed, boasting comfy bedding, high def TVs and mini work stations in a neutral palette of grays and creams. The hotel skips some luxury amenities—you won’t find a pool here—but the Aventura’s arguably sparse offerings check off all the important boxes: free wifi and, miraculously, free parking. (One tour through K-Town’s notoriously crowded streets, which rival New York in terms of parking access, and you’ll see what we mean.) After a day of sightseeing, take to the hotel’s spacious atrium to relax in the grass. There’s also a business center and a gym, but travelers don’t exactly flock to Hotel Aventura for work—thanks to its central location and nightlife scene, Koreatown rivals Downtown for the title of L.A.’s next It neighborhood. Visitors may not find the Aventura’s vibes restorative (though if you’re looking to rejuvenate, there’s a slew of top-notch bath houses in the neighborhood), but we recommend you lean into the urban setting and take advantage of the area’s many lauded late- night bars and restaurants during your stay.
Location: Whether you’re looking for an intimate space to sip craft cocktails or a crusty karaoke bar, Koreatown is one of L.A.’s best neighborhoods for nightlife. The ‘hood is also eminently walkable, with easy access to bars, boutiques, and dining. If you’re looking to explore the rest of the city, Wilshire Boulevard is dotted with metro stations.
Nearby:
Wi Spa: For a locals-only experience that’s still something truly different, check out this multi-level, 24-hour Korean bathhouse. The Wi Spa features soaking tubs, saunas, a cafe and a co-ed relaxation floor.
Terra Cotta: Terra Cotta chef Danny Ye mixes some serious experience—he’s worked at the likes of Nobu in NYC—with K-Town’s fun-loving, clubby atmosphere for a delightful fusion experience. Terra Cotta serves up Vegas-style flare (think blue lights and EDM) alongside exquisite modern takes on traditional Asian seafood.
The Normandie Club: Nestled beneath the Hotel Normandie is this speakeasy-esque cocktail bar, where expertly trained mixologists sling classic and updated cocktails in a low-lit, intimate space.
California Donuts: Whether you’re looking to satisfy a late-night craving or nurse a next-morning hangover, 24-hour California donuts offers sugary, flakey treats in all the standard flavors, as well as a slew of highly Instagrammable options, like dainty jam-filled panda bears and fruit-loop crusted crullers.
Good for: Koreatown’s high noise level, bustling atmosphere and abundance of late-night establishments make it a perfect spot for millennial travelers. Families may feel overwhelmed by the neighborhood, but if you’re willing to lean into the rumpus, the hotel’s mellow and warm service is certainly kid-friendly.
Amenities: Free wifi, gym, concierge
Time Out tip: Don’t be afraid to consult the front desk on Koreatown’s intimidating number of low-key local eateries. There’s a heated debate as to which Korean barbecue joint is the best (we happen to like Park’s), and the Aventura’s front desk is known for being familiar with most of them.