Fodor's Expert Review The Independent

The Independent is a boutique alternative to Philadelphia's big convention hotels. This property features 24 well-appointed, hip rooms that are all uniquely furnished, but share a warm butterscotch and ochre palette with funky accents, such as leopard-print rugs, exposed brick walls, and copper-tiled ceilings. The hotel's corridors ring a skylighted four-story atrium adorned with local art. Complimentary wine and cheese is served Monday through Thursday in the cozy lobby, while Continental breakfast is offered daily. Little Nonna's, and Bud and Marilyn's, two eateries from prolific Philly restaurateurs Marcie Turney and Valerie Safran, occupy the ground floor of the hotel. The Independent prefers guests to be 21 or older.

Wine and cheese reception Monday – Thursday.

room

Queen Deluxe features a queen-sized Serta Congressional mattress with custom bedding. Natural hardwood floors and New Zealand wool area rugs, as well as unique window treatments complete the room. Microwave ovens, phone, 32″ flat-screen HDTV television with cable, Keurig coffeemaker, microwave ovens and refrigerators in every guestroom. Temperature is controlled in the room.

YOU SHOULD KNOW Rooms differ, TV sizes differ as well, some have black-out curtains but not all do.

bathroom

Many of the guest bathrooms at The Independent Hotel offer exposed brick walls that abut the newly-installed wallpaper. Each bath offers brand new luxury tile that features a cool, Carrera-marble aesthetic, complementing the original wood molding. L'Occitane amenities are a plus.

lobby

The Independent’s design reflects a charming sophistication that is consistent with the building’s architecture and the local area of Midtown Village. From the residential comforts of this fully restored Georgian Revival building, hints of modernity can be found amid classic details including dark wood furniture, exposed brick walls, French doors and original tin ceilings. Our Philadelphia hotel lobby features a local artist’s stunning 30-foot watercolor painting, accented by a crystal chandelier.

gym

Complimentary access to a local gym – the Optimal Sport Health Club which has 30 pieces of cardiovascular equipment, free weights, weight training equipment, bumper plates, squat cages, kettlebells, TRX's and a variety of fitness classes.

dining

The hotel provides a continental breakfast delivered to your door at your requested time. There are two restaurants that partner with the hotel:Little Nonna's a Philly-made Italian-American experience where you can eat in the garden or at the chef's counter overlooking the open kitchen and Bud & Marilyn's, a stylish retro diner that has the best-fried chicken in town that also has beer, wine, and cocktails.

drinking

Enjoy some spirits at either of the cute and stylish partner restaurants but there is no in-hotel bar.