LA Trip Planning

Question

Hello,

I am planning a trip to LA to attend a show at the Saban Media Center, and getting overwhelmed trying to figure out where to stay. We would also like to do a few things like visit a beach, go to Universal Studios and check out Griffith observatory, but other than that it would be ideal to stay in a location where we can just leave the hotel and walk around and explore. It seems like LA is very spread out so I'm not sure if that's possible near any of the locations we want to visit. It will be me (44F) along with my 15 year-old son, so I'd like a more family oriented area and not concerned with nightlife. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated?

Also - would you recommend renting a car rather than ubering? I'm a little nervous about driving around in a big city that I'm not familiar with.

Answer

Planning a trip to Los Angeles can feel overwhelming because the city is extremely spread out, and many popular attractions are far from each other. But with the right base, you can make the trip comfortable, enjoyable, and easy to navigate — especially when traveling with a teenager and wanting a safe, walkable, family-friendly area.

Since you’re attending a show at the Saban Media Center (in North Hollywood), want walkability, and also plan to visit Universal Studios, Griffith Observatory, and a beach, there are a few excellent neighborhoods that balance convenience, safety, and access.

Best Areas to Stay for Your Itinerary

The following neighborhoods offer good walkability, family-friendly atmospheres, lots of restaurants, easy access to attractions, and reasonable driving/Uber distances:

Burbank (Media District) – Very safe, quiet, family-oriented, close to Saban Media Center and Universal.
Universal City / Studio City – Very convenient for Universal Studios and closer to Griffith Observatory.
Hollywood (near Hollywood & Highland) – Walkable and central, but busier; still good for tourists.
Santa Monica – The most walkable beach area in LA, very safe, lots of shops and restaurants.

1. Burbank – Most Convenient for Your Show + Very Family Friendly

Staying in Burbank is ideal since it’s close to the Saban Media Center, very safe, clean, and comfortable. It’s filled with families because of the studio industry. You can walk around many areas, especially near Magnolia Park or the Media District.

Driving distances from Burbank:

Universal Studios: 10–15 minutes
Griffith Observatory: 15–20 minutes
Santa Monica Beach: 35–45 minutes
Saban Media Center: 5 minutes

This is a great choice if you want easy logistics, little stress, and a comfortable environment.

2. Studio City – Good Walkability + Food Options

Studio City is another excellent option. Ventura Boulevard is full of restaurants, shops, cafés, and easy places to walk with your son. It’s also very close to Universal and has better walkability than most LA neighborhoods that aren’t near the coast.

Walkability: Very good along Ventura Blvd
Universal Studios: 5–10 minutes
Griffith Observatory: 20 minutes
Saban Media Center: 10 minutes

If walkability and convenience matter, this is a strong choice.

3. Hollywood – Central, Tourist-Friendly, and Good Transit

Hollywood gets mixed opinions, but the area around Hollywood & Highland or Hollywood Bowl is safe, busy, and great for tourists. You can walk to many restaurants, shops, and transit lines.

Universal Studios: 10 minutes by subway
Griffith Observatory: 15–20 minutes
Santa Monica Beach: 35–45 minutes by car
Saban Media Center: 15 minutes

If you want a lively, central base but still family-friendly, choose Hollywood in a reputable hotel.

4. Santa Monica – Best for Walkability + Beach

If being able to walk everywhere is your top priority, Santa Monica is unmatched. You can shop, eat, and walk straight to the beach with ease. It’s extremely safe and comfortable for families.

The trade-off: long drives to Universal and the Saban Media Center.

Universal Studios: 45–60 minutes
Griffith Observatory: 40–50 minutes
Saban Media Center: 45–55 minutes

Great for beach days, but less efficient for the rest of your plans unless you’re okay with long travel times.

Should You Rent a Car or Use Uber?

This depends on your comfort level, budget, and where you stay.

Rent a car if:
- You stay in Burbank, Studio City, or Hollywood (makes all attractions easy).
- You want flexibility for beaches, Griffith Observatory, or food runs.
- You’re comfortable with city driving.
Use Uber/Lyft only if:
- You stay in Santa Monica and only plan a couple of long-day excursions.
- You want to avoid driving freeways.
- You’re okay spending more on long Uber rides.

Summary Recommendations

Most Convenient Overall: Burbank or Studio City — close to everything you plan to visit.
Most Walkable + Best Beach Access: Santa Monica — if long commutes don’t bother you.
Best for Using Public Transit: Hollywood — Metro line connects to Universal.

Final Advice

Based on your goals — walkability, safety, family-friendly vibe, proximity to Saban Media Center, and easy access to Universal and Griffith Observatory — Burbank or Studio City are the best fits. They offer low stress, easy parking, safe neighborhoods, and close driving distances. Renting a car will make your trip much easier, but if you truly want to avoid driving, staying in Hollywood and using Uber + the Metro is a workable alternative.