LuxeGetaways Magazine – Fall 2016 | Although not immediately obvious to many travelers, the glitz and glamour of Beverly Hills can be easily enjoyed with kids in tow. Located between downtown Los Angeles and the beach, it is actually an extraordinarily convenient base for a sun-filled Southern California family holiday with the most popular attractions, world-class restaurants, and shopping all within a short radius. White glove service — if desired — extends to all ages, so keep in mind that the sky can actually be the limit when it comes to possibilities in the 90210 zip code.

Where to Stay

While there is no shortage of luxury hotels in Beverly Hills, these properties go the extra mile when it comes to creating truly unique family offerings that keep all ages happy.

The Beverly Wilshire, Beverly Hills (A Four Seasons Hotel) has welcomed a long roster of stars and dignitaries since 1928, but this local icon also rolls out the red carpet for families (including pets) too. Elegant, yet comfortable accommodations include a wide range of suite options, which can often include kid-friendly amenities such as sweet S’mores Rice Krispie Treats, or even a Red Carpet Kit (arranged with guest services in advance) modeled after a favorite television show. Splashing around the Mediterranean-style pool provides a perfect break from sightseeing, as do the robust spa menus. Yes, even kids spa here (think mini facials, massages and nail treatments). Beverly Wilshire anchors Rodeo Drive, so plan to shop on your own, or through VIP appointments arranged via the concierge (Pretty Woman was filmed here, after all).

Retreat to the old Hollywood elegance of Montage Beverly Hills, located in the heart of the city’s best shopping and dining known as the Golden Triangle, for another unique Beverly Hills experience. This hotel has lovely urban gardens and a rooftop pool with private cabanas for soaking up year-round sunshine. The biggest draw for families is no doubt the exclusive, activities-based kid’s club called Paintbox, which entertains ages 5 to 12 with arts and crafts, games and other fun activities throughout the property, enabling parents to enjoy a romantic night out, or a blissful treatment in Beverly Hills’ only Forbes Five-Star spa. The traditional weekend afternoon tea also delights with sweet and savory treats, in addition to a Ruinart Champagne add-on for extra parental bliss.

Nestled on the border of Beverly Hills and West Hollywood, The Orlando Hotel is only a short walk to The Grove, Beverly Center and Museum Row. Families love the recently renovated boutique hotel’s saltwater rooftop pool, making this hotel a fantastic value for luxury. The West 3rd Street Suites have a separate bedroom and living area, but larger families can extend the space by reserving adjoining rooms too. It is well known for an American Girl package catering to doll enthusiasts who might be vacationing in the area specifically to visit Southern California’s most glorious American Girl store and café nearby at The Grove shopping and entertainment complex.


Things to Do

When it comes to exclusive experiences, leave the work to dialed-in concierges who can arrange anything from VIP backlot tours at Warner Brothers or Universal Studios, to meet-and-greets with today’s hottest pop stars and famous actors. To give you an idea, Beverly Wilshire’s Chef Concierge, Jeanne Mills, recently arranged for a young fan to meet Ed Sheeran after his show.

For nearly every visitor to Los Angeles, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) is a must-see, and is only a few short minutes from Beverly Hills. Let kids burn off steam in the sculpture garden, featuring some of the area’s most photographed spots including Urban Light, a series of restored street lanterns and Levitated Mass, a giant monolith suspended over an outdoor walkway. Inside, admire over 120,000 works of art, but take a creativity break by freestyle painting in the Boone’s Children Gallery. Stop by the La Brea Tar Pits & Museum next door to view the remaining tar pits — still working excavation sites — sprinkled throughout the garden and learn what life was like during the Ice Age. The Petersen Car Museum and Craft & Folk Art Museum are other great Museum Row options.

Beachgoers head to Santa Monica, which is about nine miles from Beverly Hills, though this adventure requires a bit of careful planning to avoid rush hour traffic. The beach can be a bit crowded at times, but the soothing sand beaches beneath your feet along with the sounds of the surf here convey the quintessential SoCal experience. The Santa Monica Pier is an entertainment area in its own right with a classic carousel, aquarium, arcade and even a trapeze school.

Further afield, it is not uncommon for Beverly Hills visitors to take day trips to theme parks like Magic Mountain, Disneyland and LEGOLAND. Families with children ages 10 and older can even helicopter out to Catalina Island for a change of pace, beach time and scenic zip lining. Remember, nothing is off-limits in Beverly Hills!


Family-Friendly Restaurants

Beverly Hills dining runs the gamut from casual dessert shops like the famous Sprinkles Cupcakes to Michelin-starred Spago. Which you choose depends on how epicurean the younger members of your brood are feeling at the moment, though rest assured that plenty of outstanding restaurants create a win-win situation for parents and kids.

Settle into a comfortable booth after a day of sightseeing at South Beverly Grill, a modern American grill popular with families known for excellent burgers, classic salads like Shrimp Louis and even sushi, all made with peak fresh ingredients. It’s a favorite family recommendation of Montage Beverly Hills Chef Concierge Joyce Louie who adds, “The house made veggie burger is fantastic.”

The Farm of Beverly Hills is popular with locals for its al fresco patio, a perfect spot for people watching, and breakfasts of chorizo skillets, huevos rancheros and dishes reminiscent of family recipes in a relaxed atmosphere. Later in the day, farm fresh salads and comfort foods pair nicely with wine from a seasonal list. Save room for their famous daily-baked, moist brownies sprinkled with a hint of powdered sugar.

As the name implies, pasta is the main dish at Il Pastaio, helmed by Chef Giacomino Drago for the last two decades. Osso bucco, a variety of perfectly cooked risottos and other homemade Italian favorites grace the lengthy menu.

If there is room to spare, satisfy a sweet tooth by decorating cupcakes at Duff’s Cakemix, created by “Ace of Cakes” star Duff Goldman. Drop-in, or reserve expert help – though the latter is recommended for this popular activity.


Plan Your Own Getaway

Beverly Hills Tourism
9400 S. Santa Monica Boulevard – Suite 102
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
T: (800) 345-2210
W: www.lovebeverlyhills.com

Beverly Wilshire, Beverly Hills (A Four Seasons Hotel)
9500 Wilshire Boulevard
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
T: (310) 275-5200
W: www.fourseasons.com/beverlywilshire
Be sure to inquire about the Family Affair Package, which provides a 50% discount on the adjoining room for the kids with age-appropriate amenities.

Montage Beverly Hills
225 North Canon Drive
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
T: (888) 860-0788
W: www.montagehotels.com/beverlyhills
In addition to family options, the Suite Escape Package allows for a $500 hotel credit when booking one of their amazing suites for three consecutive nights.

The Orlando Hotel
8384 W 3rd Street
Los Angeles, CA 90048
T: (323) 658-6600
W: www.theorlando.com
The American Girl Package is always a favorite option here, as is the Bow Wow Package if also traveling with the family dog.

LuxeGetaways_Montage Beverly Hills



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