It’s not often I have the opportunity to experience a large resort in my hometown – little reason obviously for staying in a resort 15 minutes from where you live.
But July 4 weekend, due business, we did end up staying in one of their rooms to enjoy Woodland Hills’ famous fireworks extravaganza.
The first thing I’ll note is it’s incredibly easy to access – quite a feat in a complex city, like Woodland Hills – and tho relatively unfamiliar with the geography of the city, had no problem finding the entrance, thanks in part to clear signage, as well as resort geography.
I was warned it would be overwhelmingly crowded, so I was bracing for chaos; instead, despite this resort being booked to capacity, the valet was so organized, I was safely out of my car in less than 60 seconds, greeted by a friendly captain, who held open the door for me, and even went so far as to find the appropriate liaison for my party.
I can’t remember the last time I had that experience at a hotel – particularly booked at capacity!
There were several police in the area, due to heightened security to keep the city safe during the fireworks, but they kept a low profile, respectful of guests and staff alike.
I was quickly checked into my room, as they had several agents for smooth check-in, and then was brought up to my room on the 11th floor. Man was I blown away.
The room was so inviting, crisp and warm, despite being contemporary in its design – didn’t have that “hotel room”, impersonal vibe at all – it was perfect.
I went downstairs to take in the dining area, lounges, and other common areas, including the pool patios… And again while this hotel is designed for large groups, conventions, and events – every area retained a warm, friendly, inviting atmosphere. In fact, the entire gigantic lobby retained a cheerful, airy, sunlit feeling due to beautiful architecture and tons of window space.
To protect guests, there was security stationed at the pool access doors; you needed a wristband to prove you were a hotel guest, which I thought was a nice touch to ensure no overcrowding, in the pool and recreation areas.
I wandered into the dining room, curious about pricing, since most hotels try to gouge. The lunch menu was out, and I was stunned to see the pricing was incredibly reasonable – you could get a full entrée for only $16! Especially on a holiday weekend, I found that generous and admirable.
Everything was fresh, though I know this particular hotel has been in existence since the late 80s, so they clearly do upgrades and remodels regularly as all good hotels should.
A couple of details that I think are worth noting: though the hotel was at capacity, it was very quiet on my floor. I also noticed some in room dining dishes had been cleared in the 15 minutes I had been downstairs – another phenomenal feat- some hotels, it’s two or three days before they send anybody up to clean hallways – clearly this hotel puts cleanliness and comfort at a priority.
Another interesting feature: I’d been told there’s a lot of soundproofing in the hotel – and what was extraordinary was while I was in the dining area, just adjacent to the outside pool area, it was completely quiet, but when you went outside to the pool area, it was blasting with a live DJ, a full on party atmosphere – they weren’t kidding! The hotel was soundproof! Inside my room, I could not hear anything outside, yet the moment I open my patio door, the entire city was alive with families getting ready for the fireworks –
At one point, I realized I’d left my charger in my car, and dreaded what I thought would be a half hour wait, But at the valet immediately retrieved my charger for me! I took all of five minutes.
Finally: as extra security, the elevator requires your room key before you can access any of the floors! Another security measure this hotel takes to ensure security and privacy. Wonderful!!
Special shout out to senior management, including Jordyn and Christopher, who at different points went out of their way to ensure swift assistance and...
Read more3/31/2025 - After checking in, I learned the M Club lounge was temporarily been moved to another location due to a plumbing urgent issue (see a video for your reference).
This Marriott hotel has been taking care of all Marriott Elite members year over year.
Tip: Its indoor pool and whirlpool (hot tub) attracts me to come back again & again. I met one couple with two kids at the Jacuzzi this morning and learned that they searched an indoor Jacuzzi under all Marriott brands in the entire Los Angeles but found this Marriott hotel is the only one that offers an indoor Jacuzzi - It looks like it is a landmark Marriott Signature hotel in the second largest city in the U.S. - otherwise, you must fly to an Asian nation to enjoy this extra complimentary luxurious perk.
1/20/2024 - The Warner Center Marriott (M Club Available) has the best Marriott Points Redemption Values among all Marriott Brand Name Hotels in Los Angeles, for example, it has 2.5 times better value than the Beverly Marriott (M Club Available) or Sheraton Universal Hotel’s (Neither M Club nor Concierge Lounge exists), respectively on 01/20/2024, in addition, any guest(s) can enjoy its heated indoor pool and hot tub, which is very valuable during a winter time.
I had a great experience during the checking time and was recognized as an Elite member. Thank Marianella and Rouman for your hospitality.
Thank Silvester for making a Sidecar cocktail for me even though it is not on the menu.
Thank the owner of the hotel and its leadership team for delivering one of the best M Club lounges in the U.S., especially by honoring Marriott's points value by charging the points in line with points guests have been buying from Marriott or earning from a variety of methods.
12/1/2023 Enjoyed a cup of cappuccino from this newly arrived coffee machine at the M Club. The taste is so good. Hopefully, it will last long with a proper maintenance. Thank you Marriott.
9/24/2023 Why I Have Been Keeping Staying at Marriott
First, only Marriott namesake hotels have a M Club or Concierge Lounge, but M Club is one step above Concierge Lounge.
Seconds, Marriott Elite Platinum or above members can enjoy a complimentary access 24x7 - see one breakfast video dated 9/23/2023 for your reference.
Click the beloe link to view the breakfast at the M Club dated 09/24/2023
Third, The M Club at many other hotels closes on Friday after breakfast & opens it beginning Happy Hours on Sunday. Any patrons on weekend will not be able to enjoy it, but this hotel's M Club opens 7 days w/ 24x7.
Fourth, This M Club provides a decent food & drinks w/ a quiet ambience environment.
1/22/2023 - The Chinese Lunar New Year (Spring Festival) falls on January 22, 2023. We choose to come to the Warner Center Marriott Woodland Hills for celebration of the first day of the Lunar New Year because it might be the best Marriott M Club in the U.S. For example, today's afternoon tea session beats The Ritz-Carlton or InterContinental in the U.S. locations.
1/15/2023 - How to Enjoy The Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge at 1/3 to 1/5 of the Price at this Marriott Hotel
This 17-floor 474-guestroom hotel owned by Evolution Hospitality just prior to the pandemic went through a renovation in 2018, and the Marriott M Club Lounge opens 7 days a week 24X7.
Below is a quick comparison between the M Club Lounge and The Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge in California:
This hotel has both indoor and outdoor pool while The Ritz-Carlton has only an outdoor pool.
This hotel has an indoor Hot Tub (SPA) while The Ritz-Carlton has either one or two outdoor Hot Tubs depending on the location. The indoor Hot Tub will be better in a winter time while enjoying with a relaxation.
This hotel opened a 3rd M Club Lounge in Calif., a few years ago, which gives a complimentary access to Marriott Elite members (Platinum and above) while The Ritz-Carlton Santa Monica or Laguna Niguel charges $400 or $250 for two guests (Only recently, the price dropped from $600 to $250) to access its Club Lounge,...
Warner Center Marriott Bonvoy – Woodland Hills
A beautiful, resort-style hotel nestled in a well-defined shopping and business district. It’s a place I might consider lodging again—though I remain a bit unsure. I’ve lodged in Marriott’s Bonvoy locations before: this particular one did not meet the standards I’ve become accustomed too from that brand.
It’s the kind of hotel that seems uncertain of its own identity, largely due to the number of hiccups I experienced throughout my stay.
My initial room overlooked an outdoor area where a lively party was taking place. Wanting rest, I requested a quieter space. To their credit, the resort staff accommodated me immediately and without hesitation. I was relocated to a more peaceful end of the property, allowing me to relax and sleep undisturbed.
The grounds are impeccably maintained, with lush landscaping and inviting outdoor seating near the pool and bar—perfect for lounging and soaking in the California air.
The staff, across the board, were courteous, helpful, and consistently welcoming.
That said, there were some missteps that diminished the experience. Housekeeping failed to service my room. When I inquired, I was told it had already been cleaned—only to return and find it untouched. After contacting the front desk, the issue was eventually resolved, but it took nearly three hours. Having been out all morning, I had looked forward to returning to a refreshed space. That delay was disappointing.
The hotel provided no shuttle services. Though we were within close proximity to a great deal of shopping, having shuttle services would’ve been convenient. The hotel has no shuttle services at all. You won’t find one if you’re in need of service to any of the city’s airports.
Additionally, the security locks on my door were changed without any prior notice. While resting in bed, I heard someone fiddling with the handle. When I opened the door, a staff member informed me that the lock had been changed and that I’d need a new key. I asked why no one had informed me beforehand—no clear explanation was offered. With four days remaining in my stay, the unannounced intrusion left me unsettled and frustrated.
Another downside was the cost of breakfast. Though the food was plentiful and well-prepared, the pricing felt excessive. Also worth noting: there are no retail shops inside the hotel, though it does house a spacious convention hall.
Strangely, I didn’t discover the hotel had a restaurant until the third day. It was under new management, but there was no signage or advertisement about its existence. For the first three days, the dining area had only been open for breakfast.
When I finally did eat there, I spoke with the gentleman managing it—pleasant, friendly, and clearly committed, but in over his head. He was singlehandedly taking orders and delivering food, with no wait staff present. Unfortunately, the meal was disappointing. The food was poorly prepared, the drink even worse, and I left feeling let down.
The major upside, however, is the location. Just steps away are a luxury mall, several shopping plazas, and a wide variety of restaurants. Whether you’re seeking a great meal, a cocktail, or a laid-back space to gather with friends, you’ll find no shortage of options—all within walking distance.
The hotel is non-smoking—bravo!—and ideally situated in one of the most convenient areas of Los Angeles. It truly serves as a one-stop destination for rest, relaxation, and ease. It’s perfect for the traveler who values comfort, variety, and proximity—without the burden of LA’s infamous traffic. For that, you can’t go wrong for lodging here. You’ll discover the better amenities outside of the hotel.
P.S. I so desperately wanted to rate this hotel higher, but in good conscience I couldn’t. By the way, there’s a Starbucks located right inside the hotel. And if you’re a fan, don’t worry—there are several more just a...
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