This October, the iconic Biltmore Los Angeles celebrates 102 years of history, legacy, and timeless elegance. Since its grand opening in 1923, the Biltmore has stood as the heartbeat of downtown Los Angeles — a place where Hollywood, politics, and culture have intersected for over a century.

A Grand Beginning

The Biltmore opened its doors on October 1, 1923, designed by the celebrated New York architectural firm Schultze & Weaver. With its Italian Renaissance Revival style, hand-painted ceilings, bronze fixtures imported from Italy, and grand frescoes, the Biltmore was unlike anything Los Angeles had ever seen. At its opening gala, thousands of guests filled its ballrooms, including Hollywood icons like Mary Pickford, Douglas Fairbanks, and Cecil B. DeMille.

Hollywood & History

From the 1920s through the 1940s, the Biltmore became the epicenter of Hollywood glamour. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences was founded there, and the early Academy Awards ceremonies were held in its dazzling Crystal Ballroom. Legend has it that the design of the Oscar statuette itself was sketched on a Biltmore linen napkin.

But the hotel’s story goes beyond Hollywood. The Biltmore played host to royalty, world leaders, and U.S. presidents, including John F. Kennedy during the 1960 Democratic National Convention.

Through Change, Into Heritage

The Biltmore endured the Great Depression, Prohibition-era intrigue, shifting ownership, and fluctuations in downtown L.A.’s fortunes. In 1969, it was designated a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument, formally recognizing its architectural and cultural significance.

In modern times, the hotel has been revitalized and rebranded multiple times. In 2024, it was relaunched as The Biltmore Los Angeles, stepping out from the Millennium brand to chart a new chapter for itself.

A New Era: Leadership & Vision

In late 2024, Matthias Kaiser was appointed General Manager of The Biltmore Los Angeles. Kaiser brings over two decades of global luxury-hotel experience, including leadership roles at InterContinental properties and international hospitality brands.

In an interview with DTLA Weekly, Kaiser shared his vision for the property:

“I look forward to guiding The Biltmore into its next chapter, honoring its storied legacy while embracing innovation and elevated guest experience.” (DTLA Weekly, October 2024)

His commitment to blending heritage and excellence positions him well to lead the Biltmore into its next century.

102 Years in Milestones

1923 – Grand opening on October 1, designed by Schultze & Weaver in Italian Renaissance Revival style.
1927 – Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences founded at the Biltmore.
1929–1931 – Early Academy Awards ceremonies held in the Crystal Ballroom.
1933 – Baron Long acquires the hotel, adding the famed Biltmore Bowl nightclub.
1960 – John F. Kennedy nominated for president during the Democratic National Convention.
1969 – Designated a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument.
1999–2001 – Rebranded as the Millennium Biltmore Hotel.
2023 – Celebrates its 100th Anniversary.
2024 – Relaunched as The Biltmore Los Angeles; Matthias Kaiser appointed GM.
2025 – October marks its 102rd Anniversary as a living monument of Los Angeles history.

Rendezvous Court: A Must for Your Calistaycation

No weekend at the Biltmore is complete without time spent in the Rendezvous Court. Once the hotel’s original lobby, this breathtaking space features carved wood ceilings, Moorish-style arches, Italian travertine, and a marble fountain at its center. Today, it’s home to the Biltmore’s beloved Afternoon Tea service, where guests enjoy fine teas, pastries, and savory bites while surrounded by old-world elegance. On select days, live music fills the court, creating an atmosphere that feels both timeless and intimate. It’s the perfect setting to slow down, savor the moment, and experience the kind of extraordinary charm that makes the Biltmore the ultimate calistaycation getaway in Los Angeles.

At 102, a Living Monument & the Perfect Escape

One hundred and three years in, the Biltmore is more than just a hotel — it is a living monument to Los Angeles. A place where the city’s cinematic past and vibrant present meet.

And yet, beyond its historic grandeur, the Biltmore remains an extraordinary choice for today’s traveler. Guests can enjoy its indoor Roman-style pool, elegant dining options, historic ballrooms, and world-class service — all within the heart of downtown. Whether you’re a local looking for a weekend calistaycation or a visitor seeking a luxury getaway steeped in history, the Biltmore offers an experience that is both timeless and unforgettable.

Whether you’re a local looking for a weekend calistaycation or a visitor seeking a luxury getaway steeped in history, the Biltmore offers an experience that is both timeless and unforgettable.

Now adding to the experience, the hotel’s new ground-floor coffee shop, Dalian’s Café, invites guests to unwind with a morning espresso or a relaxed afternoon coffee — a cozy complement to the Biltmore’s grand surroundings.

Here’s to 102 years of the Biltmore Los Angeles — where history, culture, and the perfect weekend escape all come together.