Hello incoming Hawk fans. I live in SoCal, and would be happy to share my thoughts, for what they are worth. Traditionally, it seems the Big Ten schools have clustered around Century City hotels -- most notably what is now the Hyatt Century Plaza hotel. I'm not sure where they are doing the "official" Big Ten party, but it used to be there. The only reason to stay in Century City is if you want to be close to that event. Otherwise, where you stay depends largely on what you want to get out of your time here. If you want to get in some time close to the ocean, consider Santa Monica (you will see bazillions of Hawks there). I would not recommend Hollywood. It's very touristy and frankly a bit gritty. Downtown is fine with a real up and coming bar and restaurant scene. Look into the J.W. Marriott near Staples Center and L.A. Live. There will be plenty going on there. None of these places are very close to the Rose Bowl. Pasadena has all you could want except proximity to the ocean, but it will be hard to get a room there. Other places that are relatively close to the Rose Bowl, if that is what you are most interested in, are Glendale, Burbank, Arcadia, and North Hollywood. I am hearing that the Rose Bowl parking lots are opening at 4 a.m. on the day of the game. Get there early. There will be no traffic early, but by 10 or 11 that day, it will be tough. If you have any specific questions, I'd be happy to answer them.