I <3 Philly- if you don’t, you soon will! Philadelphia is one of my favorite big cities because of its walkable Downtown area, history-drenched streets, and yummy food.
From the history that literally made America to the original cheesesteak, the city of brotherly love is the place to be.
Staying in Downtown Philadelphia is the best way to be near icons like the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and Rittenhouse Square.
Whether you want to sleep in the former city notary or melt into a unique blend of FranceXPhilly, you’ll find the stay you’re looking for on this list.
From budget to luxury, these are the top hotels in Downtown Philadelphia-
Budget Hotels in Downtown Philadelphia
Alexander Inn
The Alexander Inn is the perfect budget hotel in Downtown Philadelphia, only 6 blocks from the historic district of Independence Hall.
Originally called Hotel Flanders, the property was first opened in 1900. The intimate lobby has wood touches, stained glass, art deco pieces, and a familiar-feeling fireplace.
Although the rooms are no-frill, many have massive bay windows, and those in the Northwest section face the lively 12th and Spruce Street intersection.
The Windsor Suites
Blending history and comfort, The Windsor proves that budget travel doesn’t mean sacrificing style or location.
Each room is a spacious, airy suite with skyline views and a full kitchen, allowing you to cook your own meals and save more $$$ on eats. The rooftop pool is trendy and cute, with vine-covered walls and lovely views of Downtown Philly.
Conveniently located near the Franklin Institute, Independence Hall is roughly a 27-minute walk from the hotel.
Around the corner is Con Murphy’s Irish Pub, home of the famous Short Rib Gravy Fries (the Shepard’s Pie is also incredible) and endless pints of Guinness.
Holiday Inn Express Philadelphia
The Holiday Inn Express Philadelphia is an inexpensive yet comfy hotel right in the middle of Downtown, with over 40 restaurants and bars within walking distance!
The location is excellent: one block from the Broad Street subway, near the theater and shopping district, three blocks from the Pennsylvania Convention Center, a 15-minute walk from Independence Hall, and surrounded by food options.
However, thin walls and a dense neighborhood bursting with bars and eateries make for light nights’ sleep, so bring your earplugs.
A two-minute walk away is McGillin’s Olde Ale House, the oldest continuously operating bar in Philly, known for 50-cent wing night, yummy cheesesteaks, and lively crowds.
Pro Tip: For the best views, go for a Southern-facing room that overlooks Walnut Street- otherwise, you’ll likely be staring at an alley.
Mid-range Hotels in Downtown Philadelphia
The Notary Hotel
The Notary is completely unlike any other hotel in the world, built in the former City Hall Annex where Philadelphians would go to have their official documents notarized. Think of how many marriages, businesses, and amazing moments have happened right here!
Although it is now just a hotel, you can enjoy walking through history as you step on the marble floors of the lobby, underneath dazzling chandeliers and opulent bronze molding.
Another cool thing- The Notary is, well, notarization-themed. The hotel’s signature is ‘The Stamp of Approval,’ from the custom seal stamped onto guests’ card sleeves to locally sourced products in the gift shop.
The Notary is ideally located in the heart of Downtown Philadelphia — just one block from the Convention Center, across from City Hall.
Philadelphia Marriott Downtown
The Philadelphia Marriott Downtown is so massive it fills an entire city block. With a convenient sky bridge taking you directly to the Convention Center, this hotel is an excellent choice for the busy professional on the move.
The massive lobby has Las Vegas casino vibes with brass doors, minimalist chandeliers, marble floors, and stylish red and yellow couches.
With everything you could want on site, from a business center, restaurant, heated indoor pool, Kinko’s, Fedex, and even a Starbucks, you won’t need actually need to leave.
When you do want to venture out, you’re smack dab in the middle of Philly with food, drinks, and historical sites close by, Independence Hall only a 15-minute walk away, and the Jefferson Train Station is just around the corner.
Club Quarters Hotel Philadelphia
Located directly in Philadelphia’s Business District, The Club Quarters Hotel is an excellent choice if you’re traveling for that purpose.
Chic and modern, the lobby’s ceiling is taken up by a large skylight, and the attached lounge has a distinct ‘library speakeasy’ feel.
Club Quarters is a 6-minute walk from Rittenhouse Square and a 14-minute walk from the famed Reading Terminal Market, with its neon glow and collection of local goods and incredible food.
You don’t have to go that far for good food, however- authentic, family-owned foods are around the block:
Hit up Abe Fisher for real Philadelphia Jewish food or Dan Dan for Taiwanese-style noodles.
Luxury Hotels in Downtown Philadelphia
The Logan Philadelphia
By far, the best part of The Logan is the exceptional views of Downtown Philadelphia from every room.
The lobby is massive and more industrial-looking than you’d imagine, with lots of references to James Logan, the hotel’s namesake, and historical Philly. The chandelier is made up of hundreds of images celebrating famous Philadelphians through time, a truly unique piece worth snapping a pic of.
There is an indoor, heated saltwater pool and the Assembly Rooftop Lounge, the hotel’s classy bar with sweeping city views of Philadelphia. The absolute best time to go is sunset, followed by evening when the firepits are blazing along with the glow of the city.
Le Meridien Philadelphia
If you can’t choose between French luxury or Philly history, choose Le Meridien.
Situated in a YMCA built in 1908, the building has charming vintage touches like the original wood archways and walls.
The lobby of Le Meridien Philadelphia is a shadowplay of rich woodwork and towering ceilings, with two dazzling art deco chandeliers adding a feminine glow.
Some of the rooms on the upper floors only have views of the 75-foot atrium in the center of the hotel; South-facing rooms sometimes have views of city hall. Le Meridien is only a 6-minute walk to the Convention Center and 23 minutes to Independence Hall.
FAQ
What part of Philly is considered Downtown?
The core of downtown Philadelphia is also called Center City, and it has some of Philly’s busiest, most iconic neighborhoods and sights. Rittenhouse Square, Washington Square, Society Hill, Chinatown, and Old City are all a part of downtown Philly.
Geographically speaking, the part of Philly considered Downtown is Schuylkill River to the west, the Delaware River to the east, Vine Street to the north, and South Street to the South.
Is Downtown Philadelphia walkable?
Downtown Philadelphia is highly walkable- that’s one of the things I love most about this city!
Almost all of Philly’s major attractions, landmarks, restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues are Downtown. One thing that makes Downtown Philadelphia walkable is its compact layout that keeps most attractions within walking distance of each other. The streets follow a grid pattern, which makes navigation even easier.
Is it safe to walk in downtown Philadelphia?
Overall, downtown Philadelphia is safe to walk around, and millions of residents and tourists do just that.
However, as with any major city, the safety of walking in downtown Philadelphia varies depending on the time of day, specific neighborhood, and individual circumstances.
Which Downtown Philadelphia hotels have Free Parking?
Finding parking in any big city is challenging, especially in a pedestrian-friendly place like Philly. This list of hotels has free parking included.
Which Downtown hotels in Philadelphia are romantic?
The Sofitel Philadelphia at Rittenhouse Square is my pick for the most romantic hotel in the city. The Sofitel is a love story in the making between the views, the scrumptious French food, and the oversized rooms.
What are the best boutique hotels in Downtown Philadelphia?
The best boutique hotels in Downtown Philadelphia are the Sofitel at Rittenhouse Square and Independence Park Hotel. Both options have the local flair and small touches you’re looking for in a boutique hotel.
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