Century City holds a special place in my heart. It was here that I started my first “big girl” job as a receptionist, explored Beverly Hills for the first time, and reveled in the energy of being young in Los Angeles. Over a decade later, I returned to find the area transformed—some changes subtle, others dramatic. At the heart of this rediscovery was my stay at The Fairmont Century Plaza, a hotel that has undergone its own remarkable evolution and now feels perfectly in step with Century City’s reputation as a hub of reinvention.
An Evolving City
Returning to Century City after more than ten years, I was struck by how much has changed, yet how much remains the same. The twin towers, once a familiar sight where a friend’s father used to work, still loom large, but the surrounding area has grown and shifted in ways that feel quintessentially Los Angeles—constantly expanding, modernizing, and embracing the new.
The Westfield Century City, for instance, has become a destination in its own right. Vast and vibrant, it’s a magnet for celebrity sightings, movie premieres, and high-end shopping. It even houses a larger American Girl store, relocated from The Grove, much to the delight of visiting families. I spent several hours exploring its sleek Ralph Lauren boutique, enjoying the dining options, and even making an impromptu stop at the Apple Store for some emergency laptop repairs. Yet, despite its evolution, Century City remains, at its core, a business district—a place where corporate towers dominate the skyline and much of the activity revolves around work rather than play.
A Nostalgic Arrival
The Fairmont Century Plaza has also undergone significant changes since my last stay—back when it bore a different name altogether. Today, driving up to its semi-circular driveway feels like stepping back in time, to an era of Old Hollywood glamour. Valets dressed with precision are ready to greet you, and the understated elegance of the entrance sets the tone for what awaits inside.
The lobby is a masterpiece of design—welcoming, sophisticated, and steeped in a sense of occasion. A stunning central bar draws your attention immediately, its polished brass and sleek marble surfaces inviting you to linger over a cocktail (or one of their excellent mocktails). Surrounding it, thoughtfully arranged seating areas encourage socializing or quiet reflection. Just beyond the bar, an open-air courtyard seamlessly integrates the outdoors with the indoors—a quintessential Southern California touch. This indoor-outdoor connection is one of the hotel’s most impressive features, creating the feeling of stepping into the perfect SoCal backyard, even in the midst of a bustling city.
Dining at The Fairmont Century Plaza is versatile and delightfu
My Room: The Elegance of the Garden Terrace King
The hotel’s two wings extend from the lobby, and my room was located in the right wing: a Century Plaza One-Bedroom Suite. With its two balconies overlooking the main boulevard, the suite felt expansive yet serene. The interior design struck a perfect balance between modern luxury and timeless elegance, featuring generous living spaces and thoughtful touches throughout.
As someone who loves a well-appointed bathroom, I was particularly delighted by the suite’s marble full bath, which also featured an additional half-bath for convenience. The design was meticulous, with every detail considered to enhance the experience of relaxation. It’s not often that a bathroom becomes the standout feature of a suite, but in this case, it absolutely was.
Learn more in related article: The Fairmont Grand Del Mar: A Hidden Gem of Quiet Luxury in San Diego
Dining Experience to Remember
Dining at The Fairmont Century Plaza is versatile and delightful. The room service menu is available 24 hours a day, offering everything from classic comfort foods to California-inspired dishes. I started my mornings with avocado toast (of course—it’s California!) and indulged in pancakes with chicken sausage one leisurely morning in my suite. The service was prompt, and the food quality exceeded expectations, making it tempting to never leave the room.
The hotel’s proximity to the Westfield Century City also makes it a perfect home base for those who want to explore local dining. Whether it’s grabbing a quick bite or sitting down for a more elevated meal, the variety of options just steps away from the hotel ensures that you’re never far from something delicious.
Rooftop Views and Relaxation
The Fairmont’s pool area has undergone one of the most striking transformations. The original three ground-level pools have been replaced by a rooftop oasis that offers breathtaking views of the Los Angeles skyline. With a full-service bar and an intimate atmosphere, the rooftop feels like an exclusive retreat, perfect for soaking up the sun or unwinding after a busy day. While the weekdays come with a bit of road noise (this is LA, after all), the weekends are refreshingly calm, free of commuter traffic.
The Right Combination
The Fairmont Century Plaza is a standout choice for business travelers, thanks to its location in the heart of Century City. The hotel is within walking distance of major corporate offices, including the iconic twin towers and other notable business hubs. It’s part of the Leading Hotels of the World (LHW) group, so frequent travelers can enjoy loyalty perks. Practical touches like fast, reliable Wi-Fi and an ambiance conducive to productivity make it a seamless choice for those combining work with travel.
For me, this trip was as much about nostalgia as it was about discovery. Century City may have changed, but it still holds the same vibrant energy that made me fall in love with it years ago.
