The hype
Travelers love the rooftop vibe and friendly staff but consistently note the rooms feel small and worn for the price.
Kimpton Hotel Wilshire
$225-350/ night
Book this if You want a rooftop pool scene in the middle of Miracle Mile and plan to spend more time at LACMA than in your room.
Why People Love It
- Rooftop pool deck with direct views of the Hollywood Sign
- Walking distance to LACMA, Academy Museum, and Petersen Automotive Museum
- Hosted evening wine hour (5-6pm) and free morning coffee
Quick Take: A glorified motel with a killer rooftop and a prime location for museum-hopping, but don't expect luxury polish in the rooms.
Reviewed by @TotalApril: I stayed here with friends and honestly, the rooftop pool deck made the whole trip. The suite was huge, and having two beds plus a massive sofa meant we weren't stepping on each other. Perfect LA home base.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
Multiple recent reviews mention dust in vents, stained furniture, and a 'motel-like' feel in the hallways and rooms.
- You are traveling with a dog (no fees, very pet-friendly)
- You prioritize a rooftop bar scene over room square footage
- You are in LA specifically for the museums on Miracle Mile
Cleanliness & Maintenance
6.8
- Housekeeping: Inconsistent. Daily service is standard, but deep cleaning (vents, corners) is frequently missed.
- Bathroom hygiene: Generally functional, but reports of stained grout, peeling paint, and low water pressure are common.
- Maintenance: Showing its age. Expect scuffs on furniture, worn carpets, and occasional AC issues.
- Linens & towels: Frette linens are a highlight—crisp and high quality, usually the cleanest part of the room.
- Odors & scents: Lobby smells fresh (Kimpton signature scent), but some rooms have lingering musty or 'old hotel' smells.
Sleepability™
7.5SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Rooftop bar bass thumping on upper floors (especially weekends)
- Wilshire Boulevard traffic noise on lower floors
- Thin walls between connecting rooms
Before you book
Good to know
- Guest Amenity Fee is ~$37/night and includes Wi-Fi and gym pass
- Morning coffee is Groundwork Coffee (local roaster) served 6:30-10am
- Rooftop pool is open 8am-5pm; bar stays open later
What to pack
- Swimsuit for the rooftop scene (even if you just dip your toes)
- Earplugs if you're a light sleeper on a weekend
- Walking shoes for the museum mile
Room Genie
Best picks
- Hollywood Hills View King (worth the upgrade to avoid the wall view)
- Top floor rooms (away from the elevator) for best light
Rooms to avoid
- Rooms facing the parking structure/office building (often dark)
- Rooms directly below the rooftop pool deck if you sleep early
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I'd love a room on a high floor facing North (Hollywood Hills view) to avoid the parking structure wall. Please ensure it's not directly under the pool deck to minimize noise.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there a gym on site?
No. You get a pass to a nearby gym (typically LA Fitness), but you have to leave the hotel to work out.
Is the pool heated?
Yes, but it's small and shallow (3ft deep)—think 'cocktail lounge with water' rather than 'swimming pool'.
How much is parking?
Valet only, approximately $60/night plus tax. There is no self-parking on-site.
Is breakfast included?
No. You can buy breakfast at Videre on the roof (approx. $18 for a standard breakfast plate), but free coffee/tea is available in the lobby lounge.
Are pets allowed?
Yes! Kimpton is famous for this. No fees, no size limits, and they get treats/bowls.
What is the 'Guest Amenities Fee'?
A mandatory daily fee (~$37) covering Wi-Fi, coffee, gym pass, and bike rentals.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The 'Forgot It? We've Got It!' program is real—ask for a razor, straightener, or even a humidifier at the front desk.
- ✨
Join the 'Social Hour' from 5-6pm in the living room for free wine; it's a great way to start the evening before heading up to the roof.
- ✨
Ask for a 'Mini Me' milk fridge if you're nursing; they will deliver one to your room for free.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'pool' is essentially a large, lukewarm bathtub—don't expect to swim laps.
💡You have to take a separate elevator to get to the rooftop bar, which can be annoying.
💡The 'Essential' rooms are very compact (approx. 300 sq ft) and can feel tight with two people.
💡Ventilation in bathrooms is a common complaint; check for dust buildup immediately.
💡The 'pass to local gym' usually means a walk or drive to LA Fitness, not a luxury private club.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Kimpton Hotel Wilshire is located and what's nearby.