Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel

The Beverly Wilshire, a Four Seasons Hotel, has been the Grande Dame of Beverly Hills since its debut in 1928. An exclusive, black wrought-iron-gated entry drive separates The Wilshire Wing — the original 10-story Renaissance Revival building that faces famed Rodeo Drive — from the newer, 14-story Beverly Wing, with its many balconied rooms overlooking the pool complex. The large Mediterranean-styled pool is modeled after Sophia Loren’s 16^th-century Roman villa and surrounded by chaise lounges … and, a colorful array of pool toys. There’s also a two-story Cardio Center fitness pavilion (with private trainers) and a casual Pool Bar & Café, which serves salads, wraps and kid-friendly items.

The Forbes Five Star-rated hotel is perfectly located on Wilshire Boulevard within the small, exclusive Golden Triangle, where families can easily walk to its multitude of shops, restaurants, parks and museums. Plus, the doorman can arrange for a complimentary Mercedes S Class vehicle on a first-come, first-serve basis, if it is available; the luxury house car transports guests to venues within a local radius. (Chauffeur services and valet parking are also available for a fee and there are nine charging stations.)

Photo: Michael Gordon | Dreamstime.com

Though better known as the backdrop for the long-loved film Pretty Woman than as a family destination, indeed, it does welcome families in grand style, with packages and special amenities. The Children’s Welcome Program includes age-appropriate, in-room amenities, such as a child-sized robe and slippers; teddy bears for the little ones; and yummy VIP delights, such as S’mores on a Stick (a chocolate-covered marshmallow topped with crushed Rice Krispies) or an ice cream cone topped with sprinkles.

The concierge can arrange suitable, age-appropriate activities; one among them is an exclusive baking class with Angela Tong, executive pastry chef, CUT by Wolfgang Puck, the hotel’s signature restaurant. Kids of all ages enjoy the all-day restaurant THE Blvd, where they can watch the world go by on Wilshire. And, starting at age 12, tweens and teens can experience the elegant spa, which received the Forbes Five-Star award for three consecutive years. Located near the pool, the spa encompasses a Changing Room — with a star-ceiling-lighted steam room, an experiential shower and personal showers — and an adjacent lounge furnished with six chaise lounges. Services for young people include the 20-minute The Princess Mini-Facial, The Rock Star Massage on neck and shoulders and The Pop Star Polish; there’s also a 45-minute manicure/pedicure that includes a foot massage.

There are 137 suites among the 258 luxe and graciously sized lodgings, and oversized marble bathrooms, fitted with both tub and a stall shower. When the rooms are booked at the same time and in the same category, the Family Affair package offers 50 percent off a second room booked for children under 18 years of age traveling with their parents.