Housed in the heart of downtown Culver City, The Culver Hotel is a historic boutique hotel that has reached the milestone of 100 years. Opened in 1924 by city founder Harry Culver, the six-story landmark was originally known as Hotel Hunt and quickly became a centerpiece of the growing film industry surrounding the nearby studios.
From its earliest days, the hotel was intertwined with Hollywood’s golden age. Movie stars lived here for extended periods, and legendary figures such as Charlie Chaplin and John Wayne were among its notable owners at different points in its history. Stories of poker games, celebrity residents, and long-term stays helped build the hotel’s reputation as a social hub for the film community.
Its proximity to major studios meant the hotel regularly hosted actors during production. Most famously, members of the cast of The Wizard of Oz stayed at the hotel while filming in the late 1930s, a connection that still shapes its identity and today. The outside windows of the hotel feature miniature figurines of Dorothy, the lion, scarecrow and tin man as well as a window with different glittering red shoes.
The property experienced periods of decline in the mid-20th century, facing the risk of demolition, before restoration efforts in the 1990s and a major redesign after 2007 revived it as a boutique destination while preserving its historic character.
Architecturally, the building reflects a blend of Renaissance Revival and Beaux-Arts/Classical influences, with decorative terra-cotta detailing, wrought-iron balconies, and a distinctive flatiron shape that gives it a European presence. Original elements such as terrazzo floors, stained glass, and ornate moldings remain intact, reinforcing its historic authenticity.
High ceilings, large windows, and preserved structural details create a sense of grandeur that feels cinematic and is a reminder that this hotel grew up alongside Hollywood itself.
Guest rooms are smaller than most modern hotels and lean into a vintage-inspired aesthetic rather than a standardized look. Each space is different, featuring curated antiques, rich textures, marble and wood finishes, and subtle French and European influences. The décor balances classic materials with contemporary touches, resulting in rooms that feel personal and unique.
Public spaces extend the same philosophy. The lobby functions like a living salon, filled with collected art, historic photographs, and design details that celebrate the building’s past. Live music, warm lighting, and ornate furnishings reinforce the feeling of stepping into a modern interpretation of 1920s glamour.
The hotel’s restaurant and bar are central to the experience, operating like a neighborhood gathering place. Guests can expect a refined but relaxed setting with classic cocktails, seasonal dishes, and a strong emphasis on ambiance.
At 100 years old, The Culver Hotel feels less like a standard hotel and more like a living archive of Hollywood culture. Its layered ownership history, ties to iconic figures, and connection to The Wizard of Oz give it narrative depth, while restoration ensures it remains relevant as a boutique luxury property.
The result is a stay defined by atmosphere and a place where architecture, storytelling, and design work together to preserve the romance of old Hollywood. The Culver Hotel is located at 9400 Culver Boulevard in Culver City. Reservations at https://www.culverhotel.com.
