4 Best Hotels in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Akwaaba is a collective of five mid-Atlantic bed-and-breakfasts founded by Monique Greenwood, the former editor-in-chief of Essence, and her husband, Glenn Pogue; Philadelphia’s outpost occupies a circa-1880s porched residence on a leafy residential block just north of the main University City drag. The residence’s six rooms and suites—each with its own kitchenette, private bath, and modern amenities—are themed to honor Philly music history and feature historical decorative touches. Hearty breakfasts include dishes like challah French toast and shrimp and grits. If spending the weekend, consider booking a seat at their popular High Tea.

Built in 1889 by architect Willis Hale, this ornate mansion is a wonderful place for a B&B—the ground-floor parlor and entryway feature natural cherry and chestnut wood, and the guest rooms have oak floors with elaborate inlays of mahogany, ash, and cherry. In the dining room, guests are served a hot breakfast; the menu changes daily, and there are always muffins, cereal, coffee, and tea (complimentary wine and cookies, too). An idyllic wraparound porch is perfect for reading a Victorian novel. One room has a glass-enclosed sitting porch, and four have working fireplaces. The owners—who live in the building—are avid collectors of Victoriana, so if that's your thing, this is definitely your place. The property has free, on-premises parking.

A lovely bed-and-breakfast in leafy Society Hill, Morris House is within walking distance of historic Old City, the Pine Street shopping corridor, and Center City to the north, but it's away from other hotels and touristy spots, giving visitors an authentic neighborhood experience. The house itself is a historic treasure, built in 1787 in Colonial style, and maintains its original hardwood floors and a clock that is said to have bullet holes in it from the Revolutionary War. Ask the hotel staff for a fascinating little book detailing the building's history. Many rooms maintain a comfortable Colonial decor, but with 21st-century amenities like air-conditioning and TVs. The adjacent carriage house has several additional suites across a lovely courtyard. 

This bed-and-breakfast in the heart of Old City is great for travelers who want an authentic taste of historic Philadelphia—built in 1769 by a prominent local physician (an enormous family tree detailing his descendants hangs from a wall in a common living room), the four-story Georgian house has undergone a faithful, meticulous revival. Moulding, sconces, and woodwork have been restored to historical standards; nearly all the inn’s floors are original. Rooms have reproduction period furnishings, including four-poster beds, and two have marble gas fireplaces. In keeping with the Colonial theme, some rooms are a tad cold in winter. Continental breakfast is served weekdays; a full hot breakfast is served on weekends. Complimentary coffee, tea, and water are always on hand, and complimentary wine and cookies are served nightly. The hotel requires children to be 10 years or older.