Renovation programs are currently underway, and for the next few years visitors will run into pockets of construction as the area gets a face lift. Lodging also runs the gamut. Further east are the Bohemian areas of Los Feliz and Silver Lake. They are great places for dropping in to sample local color. Plus, you can find reasonable motels.
Downtown is both a center of commerce and a meld of ethnic neighborhoods.
Chinatown, Koreatown, Little Tokyo and the old Mexican Pueblo rub elbows with the financial, garment and jewelry districts. Many hotels here are geared toward the needs of business travelers. Yet tourists interested in Los Angeles history, museums and classical music will also enjoy downtown. The adventurous can check out the fringe art and theater scenes in the converted warehouse district. The area also has magnificent art museums, and the famous Rose Bowl.