Moxy Downtown Los Angeles and AC Hotel Downtown Los Angeles are like-minded siblings that live under the same roof. One side of the property is a bit more sophisticated and optimized for remote work; the other is slightly more rambunctious. Guests have access to both.
The property is a shoe-in for business travelers thanks to its stone’s throw location from the Los Angeles Convention Center, but rest assured that modern design and an impressive suite of on-site restaurants and clubs set this apart from the “it’s convenient” properties you’ve booked before. It’s a sleek spot suitable for both business and pleasure.
The AC and Moxy offer an impressive amount of collective rooms and suites, which means your space will likely err on the small side — but consider this proof of the power of design. The rooms are cleverly organized to give a spacious feel, inclusive of oversized windows, open- concept layouts, and functional furniture that’s comfortable without feeling bulky. An excess of natural lighting makes a world of difference.
You’re likely thinking, what’s the difference between both properties? While they’re very similar, consider The AC the sophisticated older sibling and the Moxy a slightly younger one. The Moxy has more playful touches (like alien wallpaper lining the hallways or neon signs peppering the lobby bar) as well as a direct connection to Level 8, with the AC drawing a slightly more relaxed crowd that can still easily access the Moxy’s fun vibe by crossing the elevator bank they’re up for it.
We know, we know. PTO is (unfortunately) scarce. So, if you’re scheduling a Cali trip that requires laptop time, the Moxy has a fantastic coworking space and lounge clad with oversized couches, long tables—with multiple outlets, phew—and a sprawling view of LA. It’s an excellent sunset spot. Rooms are also equipped with comfortable workstations that make Zoom meetings feel slightly less dreadful.
Level 8 is a clubhouse that combines Michelin-starred chefs with entertainment, creating a party atmosphere that doesn’t skimp on food or cocktail quality. Take the elevator to the 8th floor of the Moxy and enter a dark hallway full of bars and restaurants — enjoy hot pot and synth-pop at Lucky Mizu, indulge in teppanyaki and magic at Maison Kasai, escape to the Caribbean (i.e. the rooftop Golden Hour) for rum cocktails and fire dancers, or take in a luchador wrestling show at Sinners y Santos. The options are wildly impressive and worth a trip for non-hotel guests, too. Here’s our entire Level 8 review.
Top Takeaways
Location: Los Angeles, California
Star-Rating: Four-star
The Vibe: The definition of corporate chic with modern lighting and furniture. The AC tends to draw a more sophisticated business crowd, while The Moxy skews younger. The rooms are blissfully soundproofed, but if you’re looking to experience nightlife without hailing an Uber, this is the spot.
Food + Drink: An entire floor of the Moxy is dedicated to Level 8, a smorgasbord of restaurants and watering holes containing Michelin chef-helmed food made better by entertainment. Indulge in hot pot and synth-pop at Lucky Mizu; order a cocktail and catch a luchador match at the church-themed Sinners y Santos.
Amenities: Wi-Fi, complimentary coffee and happy hours, 100% Egyptian cotton linens, streaming apps, a garment steamer, a fireplace-clad library, and a super comprehensive gym. Pups are welcome. There’s also a Copacabana-inspired pool deck.
Our Favorite Thing About the Hotel? Los Angeles is a sprawling city, and that makes it difficult (and costly) to get from one spot to the next. Thankfully, the eighth floor of this dual property provides all the entertainment you need—and it’s just an elevator ride away. The Moxy is also a fab property if you need to clock in some work hours, thanks to a co-working space off to the corner at reception. The sunset views of LA from the floor-to-ceiling windows are unreal.
What’s Nearby? The AC and Moxy DTLA are directly across the street from the Los Angeles Convention Center, making it an ideal location for business travelers who want convenience without compromising tourist time. You’re roughly a 20-minute drive from the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Griffith Observatory, Universal Studios, and Runyon Canyon.
Any Neighborhood Recs? Head to Firefly in Studio City for a restaurant space that some would mistake for a library; the mushroom pappardelle and fried eggplant drizzled with date syrup are made better by a gorgeous atmosphere, with flickering candles set inside wall carve-outs, thick velvet curtains that offer privacy for booths, and floor-to-ceiling books.
And of course, it wouldn’t be a trip to LA without supporting the local music scene. Good Times at Davey Wayne’s is a 70’s inspired speakeasy (open the fridge door to get inside) and while it may be steps from the Hollywood Walk of Fame, but it’s a dive-y establishment known for attracting up-and-coming bands and established musicians alike for an off-the-beaten-path feel. It’s a 70s speak
Rooms: Guest rooms and suites at both properties are compact but cleverly designed, providing the perfect amount of space for travelers who intend on spending the bulk of their trip exploring. Though, to be clear, modern lighting and amenities coupled with oversized windows give these spaces a more sprawling feel.
Pricing: Rates vary but start at $150/night
Closest Airport: LAX
