Best Philadelphia Hotels

When you stay at the Loews, you’re staying in a piece of history—the art deco-style hotel is housed in the former PSFS building, recognized as the world’s first modern skyscraper. Inside, the black marble lobby is dotted with Cartier clocks, and the minimal elegance continues upstairs, where substantial contemporary furniture decorates the rooms. Ask for a higher floor to get a bird's eye view of the city, or splurge on one of their specialty suites for stunning views of the Philadelphia skyline.

The only hotel situated directly on Philadelphia’s poshest square, The Rittenhouse Hotel attracts sophisticated travelers. The rooms are some of the largest in the city, covering 450-600 square feet, and are outfitted with traditional furnishings with a European flair that imparts an almost regal feel. Large windows face in one of two directions, either west, or (preferably) the park which lies in the east. And while this neighborhood has no shortage of stellar restaurants, the hotel boasts one of the best, Lacroix at The Rittenhouse, which has been a destination for foodies and gourmets for years.

In the heart of Center City, steps away from the business district and around the block from City Hall, sits Club Quarters, a small hotel that caters to business travelers, as well as those without an expense account. Hotel staff can be a bit brusque and rooms here are nothing fancy—small rooms with smaller bathrooms that are a little worn around the edges—but it offers a place that’s close to the action, clean and won’t break the bank.

A stone’s throw from the city’s historic attractions—The Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, Betsy Ross House—the Holiday Inn Historic District primarily attracts families looking for value accommodations. But there are other reasons to stay here, including proximity to art galleries, boutique shops and noteworthy bars, as well as their rooftop pool, which is the perfect way to cool off on sweltering summer days while taking in some city views. If you're visiting the city for the arts and plan on trekking through Old City throughout your stay, the Holiday Inn Historic is one of the best Philadelphia hotels. There’s a free gym if you feel the need to stay fit, but you will pay for Internet access.

While it may be a bit of a trek from Center City, the scenery alone is worth it. Occupying a country manor built in 1802 and situated on picturesque grounds overlooking the Schuylkill River, Chamounix Mansion is a clean, safe alternative for those on a limited budget. The grounds are beautiful and the bathrooms were recently updated, but make no mistake, this is a hostel: The mattresses are thin and a curfew does apply. Guests should also know that the hostel shuts down between 11AM and 4:30PM, so don’t forget your Phillies tickets in your room. If you’re looking for leisure, grab a complimentary bike to explore the surrounding areas, or play tennis at a nearby court. If you’ll be visiting Center City bring a car—it’s only a 15-minute drive, but the area lacks convenient public transportation.

Finding a hotel for under $100 a night in upscale Rittenhouse sounds too good to be true. But tucked away just blocks from the square sit two beautiful, four-story townhouses dating back to the 1850s. While the executive suites and studios may break the budget threshold, there are still a few double-digit options to choose from. All of the rooms are elegantly appointed—we love the Chateau room, decked out in French elegance with blue and white toile wallpaper—and even the cheapest option (at $80 a night), the cottage-style Heritage Room, has charming amenities like a decorative fireplace.