<p>Ok, I figured the SC parents that have kids that go there or are alums would know more about this, so does anyone know some info about more hotels besides the Raddison nearby campus and some of the shuttles to places like BBB etc. I've seen the old threads but I just want to know if theres any other new info my mom should have in order to help us plan out this move in and probably future weekends like parents week.</p>
<p>The Raddisson fills up months in advance for the predictably busy times, like move-in day, parents' weekend, graduation, home football games. The rest of the time it is mostly empty. It is the place to stay when staying the night before or after a football game. The key there is not having to drive to or from the stadium in traffic.</p>
<p>The only other place that is nice enough within walking distance is the Vagabond Inn on Figueroa. Anything else is a drive, so you can suit yourself. Some people like the downtown skyscraper hotels, some like the beachy places in Santa Monica, others like cute places in Hollywood or Culver City. Anything that involves a drive is a pain in SoCal, so that is just a feature to plan around.</p>
<p>I suggested before to go to either hotwire.com or priceline.com to get a lower rate. We only aim for 4 star hotels (but that is individual preference). My husband got the Bonaventure for a low price for the move in day time in August. He stayed at the Intercontinental Century City for orientation. It was a drive to USC, but the hotel sounded beautiful. Keep in mind that renting a car can be expensive. Try hotwire.com for car rentals. Also, expedia.com now how has a wonderful special offering gas cards promotions. You can see the pictures of these hotels on expedia.com and you might find a better rate there. Every web site is a little different.</p>