If proximity to Beverly Hills and the beach is your preference, you'd be better off at the Beverly Hilton. If Hollywood, Olvera Street, downtown walking tours & Universal studios are your preference, stay at Checkers. Note: Most of the Star Tours (tours of the stars' homes) depart from Hollywood Boulevard, which is in walking distance from the Hollywood & Vine subway stop. But definitely take SkiAdcock's advice and work out as much as you can in advance with the help of the hotel concierges.