Best Places to Stay in Philadelphia

It is always important to notice how a hotel makes you feel for the first time: the atmosphere, the ambiance, the design, the mood it sets, how the staff treat their guests, the ease of mobility, the experience when indulging in the amenities from dining to the spa, and if the prices align with the brand.

When formulating a list of the best places to stay in Philadelphia, or any location for that matter, it doesn't always need to be the big hotel brands or five-star rated that make the list, it’s about what is the best fit for you. That’s where the expertise of a travel advisor comes in. We love the big brands but we also love boutique hotels. The Center City District is great for the first visitor because it is steps away from the best landmarks, dining and shopping. Most of the hotels below are in or steps from the city center area with the exception of Lokal Hotel which is in the Old City area.

Kimpton Monaco Hotel

This hotel offers beautiful luxe decor and embellishments with an ideal location, just steps from the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. It should be noted that there is another Kimpton property, The Kimpton at Palomar, which is beautiful as well and holds true to the Kimpton Brand. Kimpton by IHG is a worldwide luxury brand that envelops what it means to be treated like a VIP. From the complimentary dog-walking services through their partnership with Wag to the plants that are placed in your room if requested, which we always do! The Kimpton Monaco and Palomar are often considered more boutique-style hotels and are great for events, solo travelers, couples and families.

The Rittenhouse

The Rittenhouse is the only Forbes Independent Five-Star hotel in Philly and offers impeccable dining with its AAA Four Diamond Award restaurant Lacroix with Executive Chef Eric Leveillee, which provides a modern take on French cuisine and ingredients. Sofitel Philadelphia at Rittenhouse Square is an Accor property and is where American style meets French elegance with its beautiful bold purples and pinks and art decor in the lobby, to the quaint sophistication decor in the rooms.

The Bellevue Hotel

This elegant, Hyatt-owned property is known as the 'Grand Dame' of the city with a perfect location in the heart of downtown. It has excellent dining on the 19th floor at the XIX Lounge, with its high-high ceilings and big windows and also recently underwent renovation. Bellevue is close to Center City and what is considered the historic heart of Philadelphia’s downtown scene, just steps from exquisite dining, close to the Pennsylvania Convention Center and a five-minute walk to the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts.

The Dwight D Hotel and Lokal Hotel Old City

Two of our favorite boutique hotels are Dwight D Hotel and Lokal Hotel Old City. Their luxe boutique feel and stylish unique charm make them very popular with guests.

Four Seasons Philadelphia and Ritz Carlton

The list wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the five-star Four Seasons Philadelphia at the Comcast Center and the four-star Ritz Carlton - the brands speak for themselves. If you are looking for luxury and the 'big city feel', these are great options, especially for families with small children and for meetings and events. The Four Seasons spa was recognized as Philadelphia’s first-and-only Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Spa.

In summary, a visitor looking for a great spa in Philadelphia will love The Rittenhouse and their Spa & Wellness Club that also includes a salon. Although the Four Seasons and The Ritz-Carlton are ultra-luxe destinations for weddings and events, the Bellevue Hotel is also a great option with its unique timeless, classy aesthetic. When considering the best places to stay in Philly, other options are: The Logan Philadelphia which is by Hilton’s Curio Collection and The Notary Hotel Philadelphia by Marriott’s Autograph Collection. Happy travels!

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Philadelphia. In need of further inspiration? Check out Hannah Corderman’s trip report, Best Places to Stay in Boston.