The Academy Awards is a huge event that brings people to Los Angeles from all over the world, so if you plan to be in town and need accommodations, it’s worth it to do some research and book early. Hotels near the Kodak Theatre at Hollywood & Highland (such as the Renaissance Hollywood Hotel & Spa which is located at the north end of the shopping center) offer the best vantage points for watching the preparations and are your best bets for spotting celebrities. Keep in mind, however, that many offer a limited number of rooms to the public and book up quickly. If you’re very lucky, you might snag a room with a view at the Roosevelt Hotel, where you can soak up some Oscar history (the first Academy Awards ceremony was held here in 1929), or at the new W Hollywood which boasts its own red carpet. If you can’t find a room near the action, try posh properties such as Hotel Bel-Air or the Beverly Wilshire, where there’s a good chance of mingling with famous guests.
FIDM costume exhibit
Before the stars begin descending into the spotlight, you’ll need to find the best place to watch the show. If you missed your chance at one of the 300 bleacher seats along the red carpet (the Academy holds a lottery for the seats in September), don’t worry; there will be parties all over town where you won’t need VIP credentials. Check online or ask around for bars and restaurants holding public Oscar parties, which often show the ceremony on big-screen TVs and sometimes feature games where patrons guess category winners. If you prefer a more private Oscar experience, you can always curl up in your hotel robe (just pretend it’s a Valentino), order a decadent meal from room service and cheer on your favorite nominees with your friends and family. Just keep an eye out the window for any stretch limousines and paparazzi…you wouldn’t want to miss having your own brush with fame.
