BLVD Hotel and Studios Universal-Hollywood, an Ascend Collection Hotel

The location is the big draw, close to groceries, restaurants, Universal Studios, and the freeway. We might stay again if we were trying to save money on another Universal trip, though I’m not sure we’ll be back in this area. The rooms were nice, but the bathroom was dark and the toilet didn’t flush properly. The heater was noisy as it switched on and off, though it did work. Room service had to be requested, and we only realized after a while that we were out of towels and toilet paper and had full garbage cans. The pool sits in the parking garage and isn’t heated, but the kids swam anyway. Our key cards often didn’t work, and the elevator was out for half our stay. Being on the third floor with luggage and several children made that a struggle. I think the hotel could be great, but we came at a bad time.

Staff were quick and lovely, and I had no problem with them. They did have laundry service, which helped after we’d been driving for six days. There was no breakfast, the bartender couldn’t make a Bloody Mary, and the nearby restaurants weren’t worth more than about 20 per person. The shower controls took some figuring out. For over 400 for two nights, I wasn’t impressed and won’t be coming back.

It’s a useful spot for visiting Universal Studios Hollywood, about a 15-minute walk away. The room itself was disappointing, though. There was a lingering bad smell every time we came in, and the air conditioning didn’t get rid of it. We also found a small cockroach in the bathroom, which made me question the cleanliness. It works as a place to stay near the park, but it didn’t feel especially welcoming or cozy.

Matt made our visit. He’d only been on the job for about two weeks, but his energy, friendliness, and eagerness to learn were obvious. He didn’t know how to make a Michelada at first, so we figured it out together, and he got it just right. It was honestly the best Michelada I’ve had at any restaurant I go to. He paid attention and clearly cared about giving good service. Sit at the bar if you stop by, Matt will take great care of you.