ARRIVAL/CHECK-IN: After an early-morning departure from the East Coast followed by several flight delays and a long Uber transfer from LAX, I was quite happy to finally arrive at the circular driveway of Omni Los Angeles Hotel at California Plaza. Entering the glass doors into the light-filled lobby, I was immediately greeted by a pleasant aroma in the air and no line at the check- in desk. Check-in was speedy, and individually packaged baked goods and water awaited arriving guests.

GUEST QUARTERS: My club-level guestroom sat on the 17th floor of the hotel, near the recently renovated Club Lounge. I hope on a return visit to see the guestrooms refreshed to reflect the décor of the lounge space. My view overlooked the pool and parts of Downtown Los Angeles. I entered into a short hallway, with the bathroom to the right and a closet to the left before opening into the bedroom area. A king-sized bed with crisp white linens sat across from an armoire and TV. The accent wall behind the bed boasted a subtle beige and cream checkered design. Along the floor-to-ceiling windows sat a large desk and an armchair with an ottoman. The bathroom presents as a bit outdated, with a standard shower/tub and cloth shower curtain. The medium-sized vanity provided ample space underneath for storage. The provided amenities went above and beyond, though, offering Q-tips, cotton balls, shaving cream, a small comb, toothbrush, toothpaste and mouthwash in addition to the standard shampoo, conditioner and soap.

SERVICES/AMENITIES: Omni Los Angeles Hotel at California Plaza definitely caters to business and event travelers, offering an abundance of meeting and event space. During my stay I saw several different corporate events taking place. Its 22 meeting rooms total more than 20,000 square feet of space, and in 2023 the property introduced THE 4, four outdoor spaces to accommodate events from 25 to 3,000 persons. Weddings also provide big business for the hotel.

The on-site, full-service fitness center boasts state-of-the-art equipment, and the hotel also provides in-room fitness kits at the front desk for guests who prefer to work out in their guestroom. On the fourth floor, the outdoor heated lap pool is open year-round. I could view the pool from my guestroom; however, I didn’t see anyone utilizing it during my December visit. The surrounding lounge area offers firepits and the option to order from the in- room dining menu. One amenity I wish I’d had time to visit was The Spa at Omni!

In addition to my club-level access, I enjoyed breakfast at Grand Café, open daily for breakfast and lunch, with a special weekend brunch on Saturdays and Sundays. I grabbed a tasty chai tea latte at Stance Coffee Bar, also selling a selection of sundries. Noé Restaurant & Bar serves a menu of California cuisine, with windows and an outdoor patio showcasing views of the city.

TOP TAKEAWAYS:

• My Executive Club Floor- level accommodations gave me access to a sleek lounge, breakfast, and drinks and appetizers during happy hour.
• Conveniently located in Downtown Los Angeles, Omni Los Angeles Hotel at California Plaza is near many of the area’s top attractions.
• Throughout the day, a lobby courtesy bar offers coffee, tea and pastries in the morning, and water and snacks later.

OMNI LOS ANGELES HOTEL AT CALIFORNIA PLAZA
251 S. Olive St.
Los Angeles, CA 90012
tel 213 617 3300
omnihotels.com