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All about the Extras
Though the hotel offers a comfortable stay that will meet most families' basic needs quite well, it does not go much out of its way to cater to children. The concierge can, however, arrange for childcare offsite or help with arrangements for any other activities. Plus, all the "extras" you need will probably be found at nearby Universal Studios, leaving all in your party, at day's end, to want nothing more than a quiet bed.
We found the staff in every part of the hotel to be friendly and helpful. Older children (and adults) may have use of the Link@Sheraton lounge, off of the lobby, where computers and couches are freely available. Laptops can be brought here for complimentary wireless high-speed Web access.
Laundry service is available daily except Sunday; items in by 9 a.m. are ready for you by late afternoon. An onsite gift shop (open 7 a.m.-11 p.m.), off the lobby, sells magazines and books, pain relievers, sunscreen, candy, and other items that you may need or want on short-notice.
The Art of Smart Timing
If you're looking for a deal at this hotel, consider the period between Thanksgiving and Christmas, as that's one of the property's quietest periods. Be warned that after Christmas gets very busy due to the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, as this is one of the hotels that gets booked up by Rose Bowl bands. Summer months here are filled with tourist and leisure travelers. From Labor Day onward, expect to rub shoulders with convention-goers.
Getting There
Your closest airport is Bob Hope Airport in Burbank (a.k.a. "Burbank Airport"), just five miles north of the hotel. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is 24 miles away. The hotel does not provide airport transportation. Private shuttles offering door-to-door service to/from both airports include SuperShuttle and Prime Time Shuttle. Public transportation information can be found on both airports' websites (lawa.org; burbankairport.com).
Onsite parking (in a multi-level structure) at the hotel is $18 per night for self-parking.
For Mom and Dad
On the hotel grounds, mom and dad might appreciate that the fitness center is open 24 hours.
The close proximity to a whole host of dining and entertainment options is ideal for moms and dads who can find a sitter and get out on a date night. The Gibson Ampitheatre at Universal CityWalk features concerts by top musical acts. Before or after a show, you can grab a bite and/or drink at a number of CityWalk restaurants. There's also an AMC cinema here.
Eateries, comedy clubs, theaters, and more can be accessed with just a short drive. Try Hollywood and West Hollywood for the nightlife. Plenty of wonderful dining can be had along Melrose Ave. in Hollywood and on West 3rd St. in Beverly Hills. Check local weekly newspaper L.A. Weekly for what's going on during your stay; lures might include art openings at lofts in and around downtown Los Angeles to special festivals. If going to a film is more your speed, you'll find cinemas everywhere, showing mainstream films, more indie numbers or even silent films.
One of my favorite outings in L.A. is the Hollywood Bowl, especially in summer, where one can have a picnic with wine under the stars while watching acts ranging from rock acts to classical orchestras.
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