Stop to visit or to stay at the Westin Bonaventure Hotel in Downtown Los Angeles! Gorgeous views of the city from your hotel room or from the rotating bar at the top! A stellar experience!

I've grown up in the Los Angeles area and am just now discovering some of its gems. I definitely encourage people to stop and visit Spires 73 at the top of the Intercontinental Hotel in Downtown LA. You take the elevator to the 73rd floor of the hotel, and then you sip on cocktails and enjoy the breathtaking views of the city. This is definitely a stellar stop.

I have heard that they charge $25 to ride to the top on Friday and Saturday night, so it is good to keep this in mind if you are planning to do this over the weekend. Another option is going to the top of the Bonaventure hotel, which is free and has a revolving bar/lounge.

(*HINT: Take the metrolink or subway system downtown and enjoy a day in the city. Your metrolink ticket allows you to use the subway system for free!)

If you are visiting San Diego, treat yourself to a drive over the Coronado Bridge and park by the Hotel del Coronado while you go for a stroll along the beach. You don't have to be a guest at the hotel to walk on the beach or to purchase a beverage and enjoy the beach chairs. There is a lot of history in the hotel, so it is fun to walk through it and look at the pictures of famous actors and presidents who have visited the hotel.

This is an excellent hotel to stay at when visiting Orange County. I appreciate that parking, wifi, and a full breakfast are included in the hotel fee. Also, this is an ideal location for a girlfriend getaway because they have affordable packages that includes 60-minute massages. There is also a beautiful courtyard to enjoy your meals and drinks.