We are headed to Disneyland in Jan. We will be arriving at LAX on Jan. 1st, but won't check in to the Disneyland Resort until Jan. 3rd (start of military discount). We would like to do some other things in the LA area on the 1st and 2nd, and are looking for suggestions on a decent, clean hotel at an affordable price. Any areas we should avoid? Any hotels that offer a military rate would be great. Any and all suggestions welcomed! Thanks!

Editing to add: We will be renting a car. Any suggestions on car rental companies to use (or avoid)?