USC Hotel

Owned and run by the University of Southern California, the Radisson Los Angeles Midtown at USC shows plenty of school spirit, from the gift shop stocked with Tommy Trojan gear to the “USC” engraved elevator buttons to the artwork inspired by USC in the rooms and public areas. The vibe is relaxed and upbeat. The beige and brown lobby is welcoming and lovely, and smells of fresh-cut flowers, with islands of tan and patterned seating, recessed lighting, and floor-to-ceiling windows; coffee and tea are available too. Other seating areas of plush neutral-toned chairs are sprinkled throughout the hotel, which offers splendid views of Los Angeles and the USC campus. McKay’s Restaurant is modern and cozy, with wood floors, a large stone fireplace, and brown leather seating. Rosso Oro’s Pizzeria offers a 20-foot shuffleboard, flat-screen TVs (with USC TV), black chairs, and tray ceilings in a more casual atmosphere. The hotel caters to business travelers and families.

The Radisson Los Angeles Midtown at USC sits within University Park, across the street from the university. The Shrine Auditorium, the Galen Center, Natural History Museum, and California Science Center are all within walking distance, as are many restaurants. Nokia Theater, the Los Angeles Convention Center, and the Staples Center are about a five-minute drive from the hotel, while the Miracle Mile is about 15-minutes away by car. Los Angeles International Airport is an 18-minute drive away.

Beige rules the rooms, which are decorated in tan-patterned carpets and wallpaper, metallic headboards, and black-and-white architecture photos. Big windows let in lots of natural light, and, in some cases, traffic noise, but offer terrific views of the campus and the city. Movable reading lights sit above the Sleep Number beds. All rooms include flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, iPod docking stations, and coffeemakers. Business Class rooms include free breakfast, free drink vouchers, and free bottled water. Parlor Suites have full-size refrigerators, microwaves, sinks, large living rooms with dining tables, and trendy Eames-style chairs. Bathrooms feature dark granite countertops, tan tile, shower/tub combos, Rituals toiletries, plus extras such as loofahs, toothbrushes, and toothpaste. 

The hotel has two on-site restaurants. McKay’s has a cocktail lounge, and serves contemporary American cuisine -- steaks, seafood, and pastas -- while Rosso Oro’s Pizzeria has New York-style thin crust pizza and traditional Italian dishes such as lasagna. The outdoor pool and small hot tub, which area surrounded by loungers and tables with umbrellas, are set off by a privacy wall covered in ivy and shrubs. A 24-hour business center has two computers as well as copying and faxing services, and the 24-hour fitness center has both cardio equipment and free weights. Room service and concierge services are also available. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property, but guests have complained about spotty reception.