18 Best Hotels in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Background Illustration for Hotels

Philadelphia has lodgings for every style of travel. Thanks to the Pennsylvania Convention Center and a hotel-building boom in the late 1990s, some mid-price chains have moved into town or have spruced up their accommodations. If you have greater expectations, you need look no further than the city's handful of swank hotels, each with its own gracious character.

Budget, moderate, and luxury properties are spread throughout the downtown area. The Historic Area, on the east side of downtown, centers on Independence Hall and extends to the Delaware River, and is a good base for sightseeing. Old City and Society Hill lodgings are also convenient for serious sightseeing; Society Hill is the quietest of the three areas. For business-oriented trips, Center City encompasses the heart of the downtown business district, centered around Broad and Market streets, and Rittenhouse Square hotels are also nearby.

If you prefer to keep your distance from the tourist throngs, check out the Benjamin Franklin Parkway–Museum Area along the parkway from 16th Street to the Philadelphia Museum of Art. There are also a couple of hotels in University City—just across the Schuylkill River in West Philadelphia and close to the University of Pennsylvania and Drexel University—a 5- to 10-minute drive or taxi ride from Center City.

Guild House Hotel

$$ | 1307 Locust St., Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA Fodor's Choice

Inside this National Historic Landmark building that once was the headquarters of the New Century Guild, a pro-women's-rights organization that formed in 1906, the Guild House Hotel is full of thoughtful, historic details and spacious suites that feature an eclectic mix of vintage and modern decor that speaks to the women who once roamed these halls. Each room is named for a former member of the Guild, and in-room treats and toiletries are sourced from local, women-owned companies; some have kitchenettes. The hotel uses an invisible service model, so guests let themselves in but can access concierge services via text or phone.

\n

Pros

  • Celebrates the legacy of one of the nation’s leading women’s empowerment organizations
  • Easily walkable to most Center City landmarks
  • Stocked kitchenettes and comfy living rooms in some suites

Cons

  • No elevator, if mobility is an issue
  • No on-site dining
  • No traditional hotel amenities like pool, gym, or on-site concierge
1307 Locust St., Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA
855-484--5333
Hotel Details
12 suites
No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $$

Something incorrect in this review?

Kimpton Hotel Palomar Philadelphia

$$ | 117 S. 17th St., Philadelphia, PA, 19103, USA Fodor's Choice

The Palomar marks the apex of Philadelphia's recent surge of hip hotels; three brightly colored busts of Ben Franklin greet you in this Kimpton property's chic lobby alongside a comfy fireside living room. Touches of purple enliven the bright guest rooms, which have stylish modern furnishings, and cool amenities abound including autosensor temperature controls and locally made products in the minibar. The hotel offers yoga mats in every room (virtual classes on-demand) and instructs guests how to run a 3-mile \"Rocky run\" to the Philadelphia Museum of Art steps. Kids get a free toy at check-in and \"cookie currency,\" which enables them to purchase cookies and milk from room service. Complimentary wine is served at 5 pm in the lobby. There is also a bar in Square 1682, the hotel's on-site restaurant that's known for its new American cuisine and happy-hour scene.

Pros

  • Superhip yet comfortable
  • Eco-friendly and LEED Gold certified
  • Good location near Rittenhouse Square restaurants

Cons

  • Allows pets, including barking dogs
  • Standard rooms are cleverly designed but a bit small
  • Main entrance is along a busy street
117 S. 17th St., Philadelphia, PA, 19103, USA
215-563–5006
Hotel Details
247 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $$

Something incorrect in this review?

AKA Rittenhouse Square

$$ | 135 S. 18th St., Philadelphia, PA, 19103, USA

Though steps away from the popular park and surrounding shopping, this former apartment building operates in a below-the-radar fashion favored by visiting actors and athletes; the property offers homey studios and one- and two-bedroom suites that have lots of closet space and full kitchens with dishes, glassware, and large stainless-steel refrigerators. Elegant marble-filled bathrooms feature large glass-enclosed showers. The hotel's restaurant, a.kitchen, offers European-inspired small plates in a refreshingly down-home bistro atmosphere that looks out on 18th Street; the adjoining a.bar, which faces out to Walnut Street, is one of Rittenhouse's best places for well-made cocktails and people-watching.

Pros

  • Large rooms
  • Homey amenities and atmosphere
  • Nice restaurant and bar

Cons

  • No parking
  • No room service
  • Some of the lower rooms have views of a brick wall
  • Gym lacks ample equipment
135 S. 18th St., Philadelphia, PA, 19103, USA
215-825–7000
Hotel Details
78 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $$

Something incorrect in this review?

Recommended Fodor's Video

Akwaaba Philadelphia

$$ | 3709 Baring St., Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA

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 suiteseach with its own kitchenette, private bath, and modern amenitiesare 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.

Pros

  • Charming historic setting
  • Hotel-style concierge service in a B&B
  • Unique experience for Philadelphia

Cons

  • Somewhat removed from sights
  • Street parking
  • Not for children under 12
3709 Baring St., Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
866-466–3855
Hotel Details
6 rooms
Free Breakfast

Quick Facts

  • $$

Something incorrect in this review?

Club Quarters Hotel in Philadelphia

$$ | 1628 Chestnut St., Philadelphia, PA, 19103, USA

Hoping to capture the look and feel of an old Scotch-and-cigar parlor, Philadelphia's Club Quarters, sometimes branded as \"CQ Hotel,\" has a little more style than the typical business-minded lodge. Companies that sign up for memberships earn their traveling employees a series of complimentary amenities, such as access to a private lounge and premium-speed Wi-Fi. All guests have access to the skylit lobby lounge area and the clean-lined, earth-toned guest rooms, equipped with modern workspaces. You can't get much more central than the hotel's primo Center City location, across Chestnut Street from Liberty Place.

Pros

  • Excellent location
  • Accommodations for both typical pleasure travelers and extended business travelers
  • "Sleep Better Kit" available to guests

Cons

  • Studio kitchens only have a microwave
  • No on-site parking
1628 Chestnut St., Philadelphia, PA, 19103, USA
215-282–5000
Hotel Details
275 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $$

Something incorrect in this review?

Courtyard Philadelphia South at The Navy Yard

$$ | 1001 Intrepid Ave., Philadelphia, PA, 19112, USA

A welcome alternative to cookie-cutter accommodations down by Philadelphia International Airport, this LEED-certified Courtyard takes up residence in the Navy Yard, a 1,200-acre business campus in deep South Philly that is home to companies like GlaxoSmithKline and Urban Outfitters. Clean and modern with a mild Jetsons vibe, both the lobby lounge and guest rooms are appointed with stylish furniture and fabrics; bathrooms feature roomy glass-enclosed shower stalls. An on-site bistro, a Starbucks location, and free Wi-Fi round out the standard features. In addition to air travelers, the hotel is particularly popular with sports fans, as it's located close to Philly's baseball, basketball, football, and hockey stadiums.

Pros

  • Close proximity to the sports stadiums
  • Quick ride to/from PHL Airport
  • Better design than hotels in vicinity

Cons

  • Far away from Center City
  • Few walkable dining options outside hotel
  • Isolated Navy Yard feels more like a college campus than a city
1001 Intrepid Ave., Philadelphia, PA, 19112, USA
215-644–9200
Hotel Details
212 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $$

Something incorrect in this review?

The Gables

$$ | 4520 Chester Ave., Philadelphia, PA, 19143, USA

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.

Pros

  • Off the beaten path
  • A dream for lovers of Victorian style
  • Free parking

Cons

  • Removed from central areas, attractions
  • Victorian style can be overwhelming for some
  • No children under 10
4520 Chester Ave., Philadelphia, PA, 19143, USA
215-662–1918
Hotel Details
10 rooms
Free Breakfast

Quick Facts

  • $$

Something incorrect in this review?

Hilton Philadelphia City Avenue

$$ | 4200 City Ave., Philadelphia, PA, 19131, USA

Though not in Center City proper, this hotel remains one of the city's most popular spots for weddings, charity events, and bar mitzvahs, greeting guests with an elegant marble lobby and grand chandeliers. Guest rooms have one king or two double beds. A 2015 renovation converted all concierge-level accommodations into standard rooms, but luxury can still be achieved via the hotel's on-site dining options—the Polo Lounge, a tony fireplace-d space for lunch, dinner, or cocktails; and Delmonico's, a high-end steak house serving aged prime beef and hundreds of wines.

Pros

  • Beautiful common areas
  • Great steak house
  • Good location if visiting nearby St. Joseph's University

Cons

  • Can be dominated by groups for large events
  • Far from Center City
4200 City Ave., Philadelphia, PA, 19131, USA
215-879–4000
Hotel Details
Credit cards accepted
215 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $$

Something incorrect in this review?

Holiday Inn Express by IHG Penn's Landing

$$ | 100 N. Columbus Blvd., Philadelphia, PA, 19106, USA

Situated on a busy corner, the 10-story location can be noisy, but the affordable rates are the main attraction; if you have a room on an upper floor facing the Delaware River you can enjoy excellent views of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge. Standard in design but clean and well equipped, rooms feature work setups for business travelers and modern decor. A full hot breakfast is included in the stay. Old City is a bit of a walk, but the courtesy shuttle service is a nice plus. The hotel is a good location and value if you're attending an event near the waterfront.

Pros

  • Cheaper alternative to staying in Old City
  • Nice views of the river and Benjamin Franklin Bridge
  • Free shuttle to Center City

Cons

  • Isolated from Center City
  • Immediate area can be desolate
  • Traffic noisy due to highway proximity
100 N. Columbus Blvd., Philadelphia, PA, 19106, USA
215-627–7900
Hotel Details
184 rooms
Free Breakfast

Quick Facts

  • $$

Something incorrect in this review?

Holiday Inn Express Midtown

$$ | 1305 Walnut St., Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA

What this hotel lacks in frills it more than makes up for with its central location; on-site, 24-hour fitness center; and complimentary breakfast bar. Rooms are surprisingly spacious, with contemporary furnishings, large work desks, and separate vanity areas. The location is excellent: one block from the Broad Street subway, near the theater and shopping district, and three blocks from the Pennsylvania Convention Center. During busy hours, be prepared to wait in line in a small lobby with lots of kids and groups.

Pros

  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Big rooms
  • Outdoor seasonal pool

Cons

  • Small lobby can get cramped with groups
  • Funky smells in common areas
  • Lots of congested traffic during daylight hours
1305 Walnut St., Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA
215-735–9300
Hotel Details
168 rooms
Free Breakfast

Quick Facts

  • $$

Something incorrect in this review?

Homewood Suites Philadelphia City Avenue

$$ | 4200 City Ave., Philadelphia, PA, 19131, USA

For an extended business trip, this hotel might be your best bet. Built adjacent to the Hilton Philadelphia City Avenue, this all-suites hotel shares its neighbor's restaurant and bar but stands apart with its in-room comforts, including fully stocked kitchens with marble countertops. Too busy to go shopping? Give the staff a shopping list and they'll deliver your order to your room. A complimentary hot breakfast is served Monday through Thursday, and the hotel also runs "social hours," featuring complimentary beer and wine and light appetizers, on the same days. Rooms get ample natural light and most offer a tranquil view of the Philadelphia skyline 5 miles away.

Pros

  • Fresh, new feel
  • Nice option for an extended stay
  • Free breakfast and dinner and other novel amenities
  • Nice view of the city skyline

Cons

  • Like other City Ave. properties, it'll take a cab ride to reach downtown attractions
  • Interesting amenities such as grocery shopping might not be necessary for the casual traveler
4200 City Ave., Philadelphia, PA, 19131, USA
215-966–3000
Hotel Details
Credit cards accepted
122 suites
Free Breakfast

Quick Facts

  • $$

Something incorrect in this review?

Loews Philadelphia Hotel

$$ | 1200 Market St., Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA

Topped by the red neon letters PSFS (for the former tenant, Pennsylvania Saving Fund Society), this 1930s building was the country's first skyscraper in the ultramodern international style. Updated in 2019, the chic guest rooms are done up in clean, calming shades, equipped with chaise lounges, ergonomic workspaces, and flat-screen televisions; bathrooms, adorned with porcelain mosaic tile, feature stand-up showers or low-profile tubs. Complimentary toys and games are available for children. There are three levels of concierge rooms with a private library and lounge. For drinking and dining, guests can hang in the lobby lounge or in Bank & Bourbon, a ground-floor bar and restaurant that stocks 220-plus whiskies. A 15,000-square-foot fitness center features state-of-the-art machines, while a new spa and salon offers a Turkish bath and a wide variety of services.

Pros

  • Architectural gem
  • Cool style throughout
  • Amazing views
  • Special amenities for kids

Cons

  • Some guests have complained about the smell of smoke in rooms
  • You might need a cab to get to nightlife destinations
  • Pricey parking
1200 Market St., Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA
215-627–1200
Hotel Details
593 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $$

Something incorrect in this review?

The Maj Hotel

$$ | 2225 Spring Garden St., Philadelphia, PA, 19130, USA

At this appealing modern, tech-forward boutique option a short stroll from the Philadelphia Art Museum, the cool industrial vibe (think concrete floors, exposed brick) is warmed up by plant-draped common areas, colorful art, and thoughtful design choices and finishes throughout. Most rooms aren't large, but they use space efficiently and have good-size bathrooms with smart mirrors; bedside lighting is controlled by smartphone (or a walk to a light switch). In season, there's seating outside the building, and the comfortable seating in the lobby and lots of tables by the coffee station create attractive spaces for relaxing or working year-round. The leafy streets of Fairmount and restaurants are a short walk from the hotel. A concierge screen is helpful, but someone is at the front desk to assist. The hotel has a fitness room, and public parking lots are nearby. 

Pros

  • Superb location for those interested in museums and Fairmount Park
  • Good range of room types, and some have a patio or kitchenette
  • Modern building with effective soundproofing

Cons

  • Not best choice for the tech-averse
  • No full-service restaurant and no coffeemaker in many rooms
  • Coffee and snacks in café, but fuller breakfast just three days a week (restaurants are nearby)
2225 Spring Garden St., Philadelphia, PA, 19130, USA
215-789--5885
Hotel Details
26 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $$

Something incorrect in this review?

The Notary Hotel

$$ | 21 N. Juniper St., Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA

Its location in the historic City Hall Annex provides easy access to the Pennsylvania Convention Center, City Hall, Dilworth Park, and Reading Terminal Market, and the original 1926 details—brass, copper, and bronze fixtures, as well as the lobby’s ceiling and chandelier—connect guests to the history of the place. The comfortable guest rooms have complimentary Internet access, refrigerators, iHome radios, and business-friendly amenities like full-size desks. All west-facing rooms have excellent views of City Hall's elaborate architecture. The new fitness center gets plenty of natural light and features machines equipped with flat-screen televisions. Sabroso+Sorbo, the Notary’s all-day restaurant, serves Spanish-inspired cuisine in a buzzy atmosphere.

Pros

  • Centrally located
  • Architecturally beautiful
  • Good service

Cons

  • Central location can make for difficulty in picking up and dropping off car
  • No complimentary breakfast
  • Old elevators are slow
21 N. Juniper St., Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA
215-496–3200
Hotel Details
499 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $$

Something incorrect in this review?

Philadelphia Marriott Downtown

$$ | 1201 Market St., Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA

This bustling convention hotel fills an entire city block, and for an intrinsically impersonal type of place, the Marriott tries hard to meet special needs; it also offers some of the lowest rates in its price category. The softly lit lobby has comfortable seating areas with a sushi bar and a Starbucks steps away. The more than 1,300 guest rooms are brightly decorated, and at no additional cost, you can request one of the hotel’s \"rooms that work,\" with adjustable desks and extra lighting and outlets. The on-site restaurants, Circ Bar and THIRTEEN, serve contemporary American food. If you're driving, you may want to park in a public parking lot, as the hotel charges upwards of $56 a night.

Pros

  • Centrally located
  • Clean rooms
  • Good for traveling families or businesspeople

Cons

  • Crowds, crowds, and more crowds
  • Parking is a whopping $56 or more a night
  • The sheer size can be impersonal
1201 Market St., Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA
215-625–2900
Hotel Details
1,408 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $$

Something incorrect in this review?

Thomas Bond House

$$ | 129 S. 2nd St., Philadelphia, PA, 19106, USA

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.

Pros

  • Historic home
  • Good service
  • Complimentary wine and snacks

Cons

  • Some guests complain of noise when nearby bars let out at 2 am
  • Rooms are small
  • No elevator
129 S. 2nd St., Philadelphia, PA, 19106, USA
215-923–8523
Hotel Details
12 rooms
Free Breakfast

Quick Facts

  • $$

Something incorrect in this review?

The Windsor Suites

$$ | 1700 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy., Philadelphia, PA, 19103, USA

This modern, 24-story all-suites hotel close to the Parkway museums and Center City's restaurants, shopping, and nightlife caters to corporate business travelers (some on extended stays) as well as vacationing families, and features both studio and good-size one-bedroom spaces. A tiered lobby has some elements evoking Benjamin Franklin, such as quotes from him on a wall. Guest rooms are characterized by their muted neutral color scheme, plus bells and whistles like a kitchen area equipped with a Keurig coffeemaker; some have balconies. The rooftop Skydeck has a firepit and small infinity pool, and Skyline Club Level suites offer upgraded amenities like a 65-inch smart TV. Downstairs are Con Murphy's, an Irish-themed pub with multiple seating areas and a well-rounded menu, and Asia on the Parkway, serving Asian fusion fare. The pub's breakfast hours aren't great for guests who want to buy an early breakfast. One thing to be aware of: regular (permanent) apartment tenants occupy more than 100 additional apartments in the building. 

Pros

  • Small seasonal rooftop infinity pool and terrace
  • Some good city views from rooms
  • Rooftop fitness studio with Peloton bikes

Cons

  • At busy intersection, so you may hear street noise
  • Guests share building with full-time apartment tenants
  • Not all rooms have balconies
1700 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy., Philadelphia, PA, 19103, USA
215-981–5678
Hotel Details
199 suites
No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $$

Something incorrect in this review?

Wyndham Philadelphia Historic District

$$ | 400 Arch St., Philadelphia, PA, 19106, USA

This eight-story hotel sits within what is billed as the country's \"most historic square mile,\" and it's a block and a half from Old City's major historical attractions, including the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. It's also an easy walk to many restaurants, bars, and shops. The front desk staff is known to be friendly, but rooms are basic and showing some wear and tear. The outdoor rooftop pool, open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, is a lovely place to relax and escape the summer heat. Popular with big groups, it's not unusual to see a tour bus parked outside. 

Pros

  • Convenient and walkable location
  • 24-hour gym
  • Rooftop swimming pool in summer

Cons

  • Lots of tourists and large groups
  • Rates very high in busy seasons
  • Noisy part of town
400 Arch St., Philadelphia, PA, 19106, USA
215-923–8660
Hotel Details
371 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $$

Something incorrect in this review?