The Los Angeles Athletic Club (LAAC) isn’t just a fitness facility; it’s a carefully preserved piece of history that has seamlessly evolved into a high-end hotel experience. Founded over a century ago, the club maintains its original grandeur while offering modern amenities to athletes, sports fans, and discerning travelers. Stepping inside feels like entering another era—a sanctuary where the city’s noise fades, replaced by a quiet elegance rarely found in urban hotels.
A Legacy of Excellence
LAAC’s walls are lined with black-and-white photographs of sporting legends, serving as silent guardians of its athletic heritage. The interior design, with dark wood furnishings and amber lighting, creates a refined atmosphere that is both inspiring and calming. This isn’t merely a place to work out; it’s a meticulously curated environment designed to enhance wellness and productivity. The structure itself is vertically integrated, with athletic facilities, restaurants, lounges, and guest rooms stacked within a single tower, ensuring quiet separation between spaces.
Amenities for Every Athlete and Traveler
The club boasts an Olympic-sized swimming pool, a full basketball court, and diverse fitness classes, making it ideal for serious athletes. Beyond the physical facilities, LAAC features three on-site restaurants, coworking spaces, and weekly events ranging from jazz nights to wellness workshops. Both members and hotel guests have full access, creating an exceptional experience for short-term visitors or long-term residents.
Room rates range from $250 to $400 per night, with upgrades such as breakfast credits or spa treatments available. The rooms themselves reflect the club’s aesthetic, with dark wood furnishings and subtle nods to its athletic past. Guests receive a high-quality duffel bag embroidered with the club’s logo, a thoughtful touch that sets LAAC apart from standard hotels.
More Than Just a Gym: An Active Ecosystem
LAAC operates as a private social and athletic club, though hotel guests enjoy full access. This exclusivity creates a boutique wellness environment rather than a public gym, attracting members and travelers who value quality fitness options. The space is consistently active, with people working out, socializing, or taking calls while moving through the multi-level structure.
The aquatic level features a stunning Olympic-sized pool and hosts classes like Aquatic Zumba, while the basketball court provides a lively atmosphere with an indoor track. The locker rooms and spa areas maintain immaculate conditions, with plush seating, spotless showers, and well-maintained jacuzzis and saunas.
Dining and Social Spaces
LAAC offers three distinct dining spaces: Invention, Duke’s, and Famous Players. Invention is a sophisticated bar with a menu that balances refinement with comfort, transforming into a cozy jazz lounge on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Duke’s provides a rugged, old-school vibe with vintage arcade games and hearty bar food, fostering camaraderie among members. Famous Players serves as a bright, casual bistro for quick breakfasts or midday coffee breaks.
Accessibility and Location
Located in the heart of downtown Los Angeles, LAAC is easily accessible by car, metro, or rideshare. Its central location allows visitors to explore nearby cultural institutions, including The Broad, the Walt Disney Concert Hall, and Crypto.com Arena.
In conclusion, the Los Angeles Athletic Club is a unique blend of luxury, legacy, and wellness. Whether you’re an athlete, a sports enthusiast, or a traveler seeking an elevated experience, LAAC delivers an environment that prioritizes both physical well-being and refined comfort. It’s more than a hotel or a gym; it’s a destination where history meets high-end hospitality.
