AMERICAN HOTEL, Los Angeles

American Hotel - Historic Arts District landmark with movie filming location and artist murals

Located in Downtown's Arts District, this historic Los Angeles hotel has operated for over 100 years since 1905. The 2-star American Hotel features seven exterior murals, including works by Kent Twichell, Augustine Kofie, and El Mac, plus interior pieces by Ed Rusha and Andy Warhol. The four-story property offers single rooms, doubles with bunk beds, suites, and family rooms, each equipped with flat-screen TVs, air conditioning, and safety deposit boxes. Shared bathrooms on each floor include walk-in showers and hairdryers. The building's facade on Hewitt Street regularly serves as a filming location for Hollywood productions due to its New York City aesthetic. The Pie Hole restaurant on the ground floor serves fresh-baked pies, breakfast items, and espresso drinks.

Pros

Ground floor access to multiple local businesses and restaurants

Located within walking distance to Little Tokyo and Arts District galleries

Front desk staff provides detailed art tours of the hotel's murals

Metro bike station positioned directly outside the building

Cons

Four-story walk-up building with no elevator

All bathrooms are shared facilities