Just as its name implies, the Los Angeles Athletic Club (LAAC) is a health club located in downtown Los Angeles. But in addition to 80-thousand square feet of athletic space, the top three floors of the club serve as a boutique hotel, so guests can get a rigorous workout and a restful night’s sleep all under one roof.
At check-in, guests receive a copy of the house rules that cover everything from cell phone use to appropriate attire, and gratuities. (Gratuities are not permitted. A service charge is included in your bill.) It also includes a floor directory that clearly outlines what facilities are located on the building’s 12 floors.
The LAAC was founded in 1880 and moved into its downtown LA location when the building was completed in 1912. Its design and décor embrace tradition and highlight its 100-plus year history. With dark wood and leather furnishings the property nails the masculine, private club feel to a tee.
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The 72 rooms and suites are located on the 10th, 11th and 12th floors. Similar in style to the building’s public spaces, rooms skew dark, but thanks to multiple windows, plenty of natural light was available in my Deluxe King room on the 12th floor. Furnishings were a bit worn, but functional. Most rooms feature king beds, but some double queens are available.
The bathroom had a single vanity; the toilet and shower/bathtub combination were separated by a door, allowing for multiple use while still offering some privacy.
A complimentary breakfast buffet is served daily at Famous Players restaurant, located on the third floor.
Athletic facilities are centered on the 6th through 9th floors. Along with an indoor running track, basketball court, yoga, pilates, and kickboxing studio, there are weights and assorted sports equipment.
The 25-yard indoor pool was the first built above ground level in the western United States. Over 100 Olympic medalists and professional athletes have trained at the gym facilities, and prominent past members include the likes of Arnold Schwarzenegger, Henry Huntington, and Charlie Chaplin. Hotel guests have full use of all of the athletic facilities.
Wi-Fi is complimentary. Covered self-parking is available for an additional $15 per day. Room rates start at $239 per night. You can book your stay at the LAAC website or compare rates and book through Hotels.com.
Review and photos by Dana Rebmann. Her stay was hosted by the Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board, but as always her thoughts and opinions are her own.
