You've likely seen it. If you've ever flown into LAX and headed east toward the SoFi Stadium glow, you've passed 3951 W Century Blvd. It isn't a flashy skyscraper. It isn't a Michelin-starred destination. Honestly, it's a Motel 6. But in the weird, rapidly shifting ecosystem of Inglewood real estate, this specific address has become a fascinating case study in how "airport hotels" are surviving the massive gentrification of the Sports and Entertainment District.
Most people just want a bed.
They want a place that doesn't cost $400 a night when the Chargers are playing at home. Staying here puts you less than two miles from the tarmac. It’s gritty, functional, and surprisingly strategic.
The Reality of Staying at 3951 W Century Blvd
Let's be real for a second. You aren't booking 3951 W Century Blvd for the thread count of the linens. You're booking it because the Los Angeles International Airport is a logistical nightmare, and you need a "crash pad" that won't break the bank. This location specifically operates as the Motel 6 Los Angeles, CA - Los Angeles - LAX.
It’s a classic low-rise layout. You’ve got the exterior corridors, the bright orange accents, and the constant hum of the 105 freeway nearby. But here’s the thing: while the building itself feels like a relic of 90s travel, its value has actually skyrocketed because of what’s happened around it.
Think about it.
Ten years ago, this stretch of Century Boulevard was mostly just a place to park your car or grab a cheap burger before a flight. Now? You’re a stone's throw from the Intuit Dome and YouTube Theater. This shift has changed the clientele from just weary travelers to die-hard Clippers fans and concert-goers who realized they spent all their money on front-row seats and need a place to sleep that costs less than the Uber ride home.
Location Logistics and the LAX Factor
The proximity to the airport is the main draw, but it’s a double-edged sword. You get the convenience of being five minutes from the terminal, but you also get the "LAX symphony"—the sound of jet engines at 6:00 AM.
If you're a light sleeper, this address is a challenge.
✨ Don't miss: Historic Sears Building LA: What Really Happened to This Boyle Heights Icon
However, for the budget-conscious traveler, the trade-off is often worth it. Most hotels in this "airport strip" (the cluster of hotels along Century Blvd) charge "destination fees" or "airport surcharges." Because this is a Motel 6 property, those extra costs are usually stripped away. You’re paying for the square footage and a door that locks.
One thing people often miss is the shuttle situation. While many of the larger corporate towers like the Hilton or Marriott run massive, frequent buses, the smaller spots at 3951 W Century Blvd often rely on third-party services or rideshares. Pro tip: if you’re staying here, don't rely on a "scheduled" shuttle. Just budget the $12 for a Lyft. It saves the headache.
Navigating the Neighborhood Shifts
Inglewood is changing. Fast.
When you step out of 3951 W Century Blvd, you’re seeing a neighborhood in transition. To the east, you have the massive investment of Hollywood Park. To the west, you have the industrial edge of the airport. It feels a bit disjointed.
You’ll find a Jack in the Box right next door. It’s a staple for late-night arrivals. But if you walk a few blocks, you start seeing the "New Inglewood"—the coffee shops and the polished storefronts. It’s a weird contrast. You can go from a no-frills motel room to a billion-dollar stadium in a twenty-minute walk.
Safety and Expectation Management
Let's address the elephant in the room. Some travelers get nervous about this area.
Century Boulevard is a high-traffic, high-visibility corridor. It’s well-lit and busy at all hours. Is it the Beverly Hills Hotel? No. Is it a dangerous wasteland? Also no. It’s a functional urban environment. Like any city, you keep your wits about you.
The staff at this location are used to the "LAX rush." They see hundreds of people a day who are tired, stressed, and just want to check in. Because of that, the service is usually brisk. Don't expect a concierge to map out your day. Expect a key card and a pointer toward the elevator.
🔗 Read more: Why the Nutty Putty Cave Seal is Permanent: What Most People Get Wrong About the John Jones Site
Why the "Economy" Tier is Disappearing
There is a real concern that places like 3951 W Century Blvd won't exist in ten years. As land value in Inglewood continues to climb, these low-rise motels are prime targets for redevelopment into luxury condos or "boutique" hotels.
We’ve seen it happen in other parts of LA.
For now, this address represents one of the few remaining "valves" for affordable travel in the South Bay. If this property were to be demolished and replaced with a shiny glass tower, the average price of a room in the area would likely jump by $100 overnight. That's why, despite the lack of amenities, people keep coming back. It’s a protest against the $50-a-day parking fees found elsewhere.
Surprising Perks of the Spot
- Free Coffee: Usually available in the lobby during the morning rush. It's basic, but it's hot.
- Pet Policy: Motel 6 is famous for being pet-friendly. If you’re flying with a dog, this is often the only place that won't charge a $150 "cleaning fee."
- Modern Touches: Surprisingly, many rooms at this location have been renovated with "Phoenix" style interiors—laminate floors instead of old carpets. It’s much cleaner.
Expert Tips for Booking 3951 W Century Blvd
If you’ve decided that the cost savings are worth it, there are a few ways to make the stay better. First, ask for a room on the side of the building away from Century Blvd. The street noise can be louder than the planes.
Second, check your parking.
Parking at 3951 W Century Blvd is generally available, but it isn't always free. This is a common misconception. In the LAX zone, space is at a premium. Even the budget spots will often charge a daily rate, though it's significantly lower than the "Park 'N Fly" lots nearby.
Lastly, use the location as a base, not a destination.
You aren't here to hang out by a pool. You're here because you want to be at the Kia Forum by 7:30 PM without sitting in two hours of traffic from Santa Monica. You’re here because you have a 6:00 AM flight and want those extra 45 minutes of sleep.
💡 You might also like: Atlantic Puffin Fratercula Arctica: Why These Clown-Faced Birds Are Way Tougher Than They Look
Actionable Insights for Your Visit
To get the most out of a stay at 3951 W Century Blvd, follow these practical steps:
Confirm the Shuttle Status
Call the front desk directly (+1 310-671-8333) two hours before you land. Third-party booking sites often have outdated info on whether the airport shuttle is currently running or if they are partnering with a nearby lot.
Map Your Food Options
Don't just settle for fast food. You are actually very close to some of the best soul food and Ethiopian cuisine in Los Angeles. Check out the spots along West Blvd or Prairie Ave for a real taste of Inglewood rather than just another burger.
Download the Rideshare Apps
If you’re heading to SoFi Stadium, do not try to drive your own car. The parking fees at the stadium can literally cost more than your hotel room. Walk or take a short Uber to the designated drop-off zones to save yourself $80.
Check the "Event Calendar" Before Booking
If there is a major concert at the Forum or a game at SoFi, prices at 3951 W Century Blvd will spike. If you’re just a traveler looking for a cheap sleep, try to avoid dates that align with massive local events to ensure you're actually getting the "budget" price.
Inspect the Room Immediately
Like any high-turnover airport hotel, rooms see a lot of wear and tear. Do a quick check of the AC unit and the door lock as soon as you drop your bags. If something is off, tell the front desk right away; they are usually pretty quick to swap you to a different room if they aren't at 100% capacity.
Staying at 3951 W Century Blvd is about utility. It’s a tool for the savvy traveler who knows that a bed is just a place to close your eyes, and the real value of Los Angeles is what you do when you're awake.