When you pull up to the Sheraton Universal, nicknamed Hotel of the Stars, there’s a lovely fountain at the entrance, beautiful chandeliers, and lots of individual seating areas around the updated property. The upbeat atmosphere flows throughout the hotel, with photos of Hollywood celebrities decorating the hallways. The lobby features open space and colored lighting while In the Mix bar has modern bar stools and a large flat-screen TV. On-site restaurant Californias offers white tablecloths in addition to white leather chairs, lots of green plants, and large windows. Outdoor wicker seating and wood floors adorn a deck area off the restaurant. With floor-to-ceiling windows, blue and cream armchairs, and coffered ceilings, the Club Lounge has a contemporary feel, but is only available to guests who’ve booked Club Level rooms.

Sheraton Universal Hotel is in a commercial area with Universal Studios Hollywood, Universal City Walk, restaurants, and shops within easy walking distance. The Hollywood Bowl and Hollywood Walk of Fame are a 10- to 15-minute drive southeast from the hotel while the TCL Chinese Theatre and Staples Center are 15 to 20 minutes in the same general direction, barring traffic. Bob Hope Airport is 15 to 20 minutes north by car while Los Angeles International Airport is 45 minutes to an hour south.

The Sheraton Universal’s large, updated guest units include gray patterned carpeting, cream leather headboards, and brown armchairs in addition to bright floor-to-ceiling windows. Dark wood furnishings are adorned with 32-inch flat-screen TVs and coffeemakers with Starbucks java. Sheraton Sweet Sleeper beds receive excellent reviews and some rooms have balconies with seating in addition to gorgeous mountain and city views. Upgraded rooms offer access to iPod docking stations and the Club Lounge, with breakfast and Wi-Fi access also included. Because the hotel is pet-friendly, Sheraton Sweet Sleeper dog beds are offered as well. Bathrooms have marble countertops and dark wood vanities in addition to tan striped wallpaper. Shower/tub combos feature white tile work with Shine by Bliss toiletries on hand. Travelers will appreciate the amenities, but keep in mind that noise from other rooms can often be heard. 

The beautiful outdoor pool and hot tub is a major plus for visitors, with the general space providing ample white lounge seating and large cabanas with white couches. The Baja Beach Club poolside lounge offers snacks and drinks as well. Californias restaurant serves contemporary regional cuisine while In the Mix bar provides cocktails, small plates, and coffee. 

A 24/7, on-site fitness center is large and updated with lots of treadmills, bikes, ellipticals, and free weights. Link@Sheraton, the huge on-site business center, is also open 24/7 and is a bonus for company guests with free Wi-Fi, printing, faxing, and newspapers. The Club Lounge has business services in addition to free bottled water, evening hors d’oeuvres, and a cash bar. Room and concierge services are also available, and the hotel is pet-friendly with a pet sitting service that costs extra.

Wi-Fi is free for SPG members only. All other guests must pay an expensive daily fee per device. Daily fees for parking, both self-service and valet, are pricey as well.