CZ is spot on with his suggestion of California for hour building, I based myself in Bullhead city AZ on a recent trip there to avoid a storm system over LA. 4 star hotel with 2 queen beds overlooking the Colorado and the airport for less than 30 quid a night and dinner for around a fiver, breakfast 3 quid. Just ignore the gambling, that subsidises the room and food.
When the weather is good, the flying experience of LA is superb. Try the corridor over LAX running N/South down to the Queen Mary.
Chocks, check your PM's