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- WHERE TO STAY in Philadelphia [December 2024!]
WHERE TO STAY in Philadelphia [December 2024!]
Philadelphia is a city with a rich and diverse history. It is home to vibrant arts, culture, and culinary scenes, and is the only place you can truly experience a Philly Cheese Steak. But, Philadelphia is a large city and not all of the neighbourhoods have a lot on offer to visitors. So, to help, we put together this awesome guide for where to stay in Philadelphia! Written by our travel experts, this no-stress guide is designed to do one thing – help you find a neighbourhood that suits your travel style. With the help of this guide, you’ll be able to quickly find an awesome neighbourhood, and travel to Philadelphia with confidence. These are the coolest areas in Philadelphia, some of them will definitely surprise you…
Table of Contents
- Where to Stay in Philadelphia
- Philadelphia’s 5 Best Neighbourhoods to Stay in
- Neighborhood #1 - Logan Square
- (Where to stay in Philadelphia first time)
- Things to Do in Logan Square
- Where to Stay in Logan Square
- Neighborhood #2 - Chinatown
- (Where to stay in Philadelphia on a budget)
- Things to Do in Chinatown
- Where to Stay in Chinatown
- Neighborhood #3 - Rittenhouse Square
- (Best area to stay in Philadelphia for nightlife)
- Things to Do in Rittenhouse Square
- Where to Stay in Rittenhouse Square
- Neighborhood #4 - Center City
- (Coolest place to stay in Philadelphia)
- Things to do in Center City
- Where to Stay in Center City
- Neighborhood #5 - Old City
- (Best neighbourhood in Philadelphia for families)
- Things to do in Old City
- Where to Stay in Old City
- Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Philadelphia
Quick Tips – Where to Stay in Philadelphia
At A Glance: Where To Stay In PHILADELPHIA
Where to Stay in Philadelphia
Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Philadelphia.
| WHERE TO STAY IN PHILADELPHIA | |||
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BEST Air BnBBEST Air BnBAlina & Fanny’s BnB |
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Book on Air BnB → |
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BEST Budget HotelBEST Budget HotelApple Hostels of Philadelphia |
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Book on Booking.com → |
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BEST Mid-RangeBEST Mid-RangeThe Windsor Suites |
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Book on Booking.com → |
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BEST Luxury HotelBEST Luxury HotelThe Ritz-Carlton Philadelphia |
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Book on Booking.com → |
Best Air BnB in Philadelphia – Alina & Fanny’s BnB
Alina & Fanny’s BnB is the best Air BnB in Philadelphia
Putting you in a piece of local history, this old-age style building will have you immersed in old Philadelphia! The apartment itself is teeming with character with its modern furnishings mixed with the original vintage wood the flat was built with. blending both new and old, you will get a one of a kind experience at this BnB!
Best Budget Hotel in Philadelphia – Apple Hostels of Philadelphia
Apple Hostels of Philadelphia is the best budget hotel in Philadelphia
If you are in Philadelphia on a tight budget, Apple Hostels is the best place to stay. Offering super affordable dorms and some private rooms too, this place ticks all the boxes. With a wonderful social vibe and a great team of staff, you will find a home from home at Apple Hostels.
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Philadelphia – The Windsor Suites
The Windsor Suites is the best mid-range hotel in Philadelphia
The Windsor Suites is a fantastic mid-range hotel in Philadelphia, tucked away in Center City. Some of the rooms offer impressive views of the city skyline and there is great WiFi throughout the property. There is a great swimming pool and a well-equipped fitness centre too.
Best Luxury Hotel in Philadelphia – The Ritz-Carlton Philadelphia
The Ritz-Carlton Philadelphia is the best luxury hotel in Philadelphia
Luxury doesn’t get much more luxurious than the Ritz-Carlton and their Philadelphia property is no exception. With deluxe rooms and lavish suites available, there is something to suit everyone. As this is a 5-star hotel you can be guaranteed that the level of service and attention to detail is out of this world.
Philadelphia Neighbourhoods Guide
Philadelphia Neighbourhoods Guide
Philadelphia has some amazing neighborhoods for visitors to stay
Philadelphia is an exciting and vibrant city to explore. Around every corner there is a something new to discover, be it a brewpub or cutting edge art gallery.
There are almost too many neighbourhoods to keep a track of in Philadelphia. There is such a community feel in each district that each resembles an inner-city village more than a metropolitan suburb.
The Center City neighbourhood is regarded as the largest neighbourhood of all. Locals, however, sub-divide the town into their own villages, like Logan Square and Rittenhouse Square.
Even visitors can feel the difference from one street to the next. It is very easy for visitors to find their way around Philadelphia. This is a city well geared up for tourists and the tourism board has done a fantastic job at ensuring the signage is as helpful as it can be.
Hotel Jules Insider Tip
Philadelphia tops the charts as one of the most walkable cities in the United States of America. With this in mind get your GoogleMaps at the ready and head out and explore. If you don’t fancy the scenic route from A to B you can make use of Philadelphia’s efficient public transport system.If you want to keep active you can hire one of the 1300+ city bicycles from one of the 140 stations across the city centre. There are bicycle lanes along the whole of the tourist trail and beyond. It’s wonderfully safe. Alternatively, rest those weary legs and hop on the PHLASH Bus.
Are you planning on seeing New York? If so, you’ll need to check out the ultimate day trips from New York, our NYC neighborhood guide, the ultimate best hotels and top things to do in the Big Apple),
Philadelphia’s 5 Best Neighbourhoods to Stay in
Now let’s take a look, in greater detail, at the best neighbourhoods to stay in Philadelphia. Each is a little different to the last so be sure to check out which is right for you!
Neighborhood #1 - Logan Square
Neighborhood #1 - Logan Square
(Where to stay in Philadelphia first time)
Logan Square is our pick for where to stay in Philadelphia for your first time
For first time travellers to Philadelphia, a great neighbourhood to base yourself in is Logan Square. Sitting to the north-west of the heart of the city, Logan Square is a tourist-friendly neighbourhood.
Not confining itself to a single style of traveller there is something in the Logan Square area for one and for all.
The focal point of Logan Square is, of course, City Hall. This magnificent building stands proudly in the heart of the neighbourhood and plays such a vital role in the day to day lives of local Philadelphians.
If you are a traveller with an insatiable thirst for knowledge Logan Square is an ideal neighbourhood to stay in Philadelphia. There is a museum covering just about every subject within this district.
You can learn about the ancient world and biology at the Academy of Natural Sciences. You can learn about the life and works of French master artists Rodin, at the Rodin Museum. Kids can get hands-on and interactive with their learning at the Franklin Institute.
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Things to Do in Logan Square
- Marvel at the amazing architecture of City Hall
- Get hands-on with early years learning at The Franklin Institute
- Challenge your biological intellect at The Academy of Natural Science of Dextrel University
- Take a leisurely stroll and snap a selfie at the most Instagrammable spot in Logan Square, at Love Park
- Observe everything Native American textiles and even the works of Picasso at the Barnes Foundation
- Refresh with a fancy brew at the City Tap House
Haven’t found what you’re looking for? Try our hotel guide for downtown Philadelphia!
Where to Stay in Logan Square
Best Air BnB in Logan Square – Michael’s BnB
Michael’s BnB is the best Air BnB in Logan Square
With all of the best bars, restaurants, and tourist spots right outside your door, you couldn’t ask for a better place to call home in Philadelphia! Michael’s BnB is a unique apartment with an Egyptian twist. With its sunny rooms, modern style, and comfort to match even that of a 5-star hotel, you are sure to fall in love!
Best Budget Hotel in Logan Square – Sheraton Philadelphia Downtown Hotel
Sheraton Philadelphia Downtown Hotel is the best budget hotel in Logan Square
As Logan Square is one of the more affluent neighbourhoods in Philadephia, the hotels are that bit pricier. The best budget hotel in Logan Square is, surprisingly, the Sheraton Philadelphia. Offering both rooms and lavish suites there is something for everyone here. There is an indoor pool and fitness centre.
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Logan Square – The Windsor Suites
The Windsor Suites is the best mid-range hotel in Logan Square
The Windsor Suites is a wonderful 3-star hotel that offers an amazing rooftop swimming pool. Guests are welcome to dine at the in-house restaurant or enjoy a cocktail at the bar. The rooms are comfortable and cosy, all offer pretty impressive city views. Complimentary mineral water is supplied daily.
Best Luxury Hotel in Logan Square – The Logan Philadelphia Curio Collection by Hilton
The Logan Philadelphia Curio Collection by Hilton is the best luxury hotel in Logan Square
The best luxury hotel in Logan Square is The Logan Philadelphia. Located just a few minute’s walk from 22nd Street SEPTA Trolley Station, you can connect to the rest of the city with ease. The rooms have classic furnishings with modern and bright finishing touches. A great breakfast buffet is included.
Planning a trip to Pennsylvania? Have a look at the top places to visit for inspiration!
Neighborhood #2 - Chinatown
Neighborhood #2 - Chinatown
(Where to stay in Philadelphia on a budget)
Chinatown is our pick for where to stay in Philadelphia on a budget
Philadelphia is a fabulously multicultural city and this is displayed perfectly in the Chinatown neighbourhood. Perfect for travellers on a budget or those who want to experience Philly like a local, Chinatown is a little gem.
Naturally, it is the foodie travellers who will have their sights firmly set on staying in Chinatown while in Philadelphia but this bright and bustling enclave certainly has mass appeal. For families Chinatown is a great place to stay; there is something new and exciting to marvel at around every corner. Incredibly safe too, Chinatown ticks all the right boxes for all kinds of travellers.
The restaurants, street stalls, and hole-in-the-wall homecooked diners steal the show in Chinatown. Be sure to spend an afternoon hopping from one eatery to the next, perhaps even pushing your spice tolerance to the limit!
Snuggled between Old City and Logan Square, Chinatown is a great neighbourhood for travellers who want to enjoy Philadelphia on foot. There is no need to use public transport when you are in the heart of the action.
Things to Do in Chinatown
- Take a self-guided photo tour of the neighbourhood, snapping all the neon signs and more
- Hop from eatery to eatery, having more than your fill of chow mein and dumplings
- Catch a burlesque show at the Trocadero Theatre
- Learn all about the art of textile production at The Fabric Workshop and Museum
- Have a giggle at the Good Good Comedy Theatre
- Snap a selfie or two with your buddies at the Chinatown Friendship Arch
Where to Stay in Chinatown
Best Air BnB in Chinatown – Edmond’s BnB
Edmond’s BnB is the best Air BnB in Chinatown
Putting you a few minutes from sites such as the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, Edmond’s BnB is the perfect place to base yourself out of in Chinatown. This warm stay will make you feel as if you are staying with friends rather than at just another BnB, with its thoughtful touches and cozy atmosphere, you will feel just like a local!
Best Budget Hotel in Chinatown – Four Points Philadelphia City Center
Four Points Philadelphia City Center is the best budget hotel in Chinatown
Four Points is a cheap and cheerful hotel in the heart of Chinatown, opposite the Convention Centre. Guests have access to the fitness centre and are welcome to relax and unwind in the hotel bar. The rooms all have private ensuite bathrooms, a work desk, and a flat-screen TV.
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Chinatown – Sleep Inn Philadelphia
Sleep Inn Philadelphia is the best mid-range hotel in Chinatown
This is a fantastically located hotel in Chinatown, just a matter of steps from the Convention Centre. Sleep Inn offers all the amenities you could wish for and then some, including an in-house restaurant. There is free WiFi throughout the property and parking is available.
Best Luxury Hotel in Chinatown – Days Inn Philadelphia Convention Center
Days Inn Philadelphia Convention Center is the best luxury hotel in Chinatown
Many of the hotels in Chinatown are rather uniform but Days Inn is the best of the bunch. Offering great service and attention to detail there are no complaints here. There is an airport shuttle service, do enquire at the 24-hour front desk for prices. Breakfast is included.
Neighborhood #3 - Rittenhouse Square
Neighborhood #3 - Rittenhouse Square
(Best area to stay in Philadelphia for nightlife)
Rittenhouse Square is our pick for best area to stay in Philadelphia for nightlife
Rittenhouse Square is a Philadelphian neighbourhood loved by visitors as much as it is by locals. If you want to get to grips with local living in Philadelphia the Rittenhouse Square is a great shout. It is the nightlife around Rittenhouse Square that is its biggest draw.
From little live music venues to big pumping nightclubs there is something to suit every breed of night owl around here. It must be said that this a more upmarket area of Philadelphia. One does not simply ‘go out on the lash’ here. It is somewhat more refined. With al fresco dining and open front cafes flanking the tree-lined streets, Rittenhouse Square is a cut above the rest.
Bibliophiles will fall head over heels in love with The Rosenbach. This library-come-museum on 2008 Delancy Place is home to over 30,000 rare books. This is in addition to the 270,000 documents it holds. Drop in to explore this literary underworld and find out what live performances are scheduled during your stay in Rittenhouse Square.
Things to Do in Rittenhouse Square
- Get lost in the labyrinth of bookshelves at The Rosenbach Museum
- Take a stroll around Rittenhouse Square Park, find a shady spot and watch the world go by
- Visit the beautiful Temple Beth Zion-Beth Synagogue on 18th Street
- Watch some of the country’s best comics stage the stage at Helium Comedy Club
- Sip cocktails and dance the night away at upmarket Rumor bar and nightclub
- Test your patience at Escape Room Philly
Where to Stay in Rittenhouse Square
Best Air BnB in Rittenhouse Square – Michael’s BnB
Michael’s BnB is the best Air BnB in Rittenhouse Square
If the vintage style and high ceilings didn’t already have you convinced to book yourself into this BnB, allow the awards to speak for themselves! The antique furnishings and hardwood floors are in step with the rest of this historic BnB. With a mix of old-world charm and modern decor, this is a BnB that will ruin the rest for you!
Best Budget Hotel in Rittenhouse Square – The Warwick Hotel
The Warwick Hotel is the best budget hotel in Rittenhouse Square
The Warwick is an excellent hotel in the heart of the Rittenhouse Square district. The staff are diligent and caring, they can help with travel arrangements and give you tips on how to spend your days in Philadelphia. There is free and unlimited WiFi throughout the property.
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Rittenhouse Square – AKA Rittenhouse Square
AKA Rittenhouse Square is the best mid-range hotel in Rittenhouse Square
This 4-star hotel offers spacious hotel rooms with fantastic city views. All rooms offer a basic kitchenette that features a mini-fridge, microwave, and kettle for hot drinks. There is a concierge service and the front reception is manned 24-hours a day should you need assistance.
Best Luxury Hotel in Rittenhouse Square – The Rittenhouse Hotel
The Rittenhouse Hotel is the best luxury hotel in Rittenhouse Square
Easily the most luxurious hotel in Rittenhouse Square is The Rittenhouse Hotel. Sitting right at the entrance to the park, The Rittenhouse offers outstanding eves of service and an incredibly welcoming environment. Guests can enjoy coffee and lite bites in the sun trapped courtyard.
Neighborhood #4 - Center City
Neighborhood #4 - Center City
(Coolest place to stay in Philadelphia)
Center City is our pick for coolest place to stay in Philadelphia
Center City is a vast neighbourhood that in some guidebooks even includes areas as far away as Logan Square. The centre of Center City can be found on Chestnut Street, due north of Washington Square West. Staying in Center City is ideal for travellers who want to stay at the heart of the action in Philadelphia and not miss a beat.
Within a short walk of Center City, you can reach Logan Square, Rittenhouse Square and even Old City. Sitting just beneath Chinatown means that you’ll likely be lured northward with the tempting wafts of dim sum and hoisin duck.
What makes Center City the coolest neighbourhood in Philadelphia is that you can experience the best of the city all in one place. You can brush shoulders with locals going about their day to day business. You can cheer on the Eagles or the 79ers during their away games at one of the many sports bars. With so much to experience in Center City, you should think about extending your stay already!
Things to do in Center City
- Try a craft brew or two at Strangelove’s Bar on 11th Street South
- Visit the birthplace of American political economist Henry George
- Catch a play at the nation’s oldest theatre, Walnut Street Theatre
- See who is performing at the ornate Forrest Theatre
- Pay your respects at the Gay Pioneers Historical Marker
- Bask in the sun at Washington Square
Where to Stay in Center City
Best Air BnB in Center City – Alex’s BnB
Alex’s BnB is the best Air BnB in Center City
What more could you ask for than a stunning spacious apartment located right in the heart of Philadelphia’s Center City? This enormous apartment will give you all the comfort of a hotel with the charm of a BnB. With its inviting living room, cozy beds, and modern style, you will never be wanting to check out!
Best Budget Hotel in Center City – Rodeway Inn Center City
Rodeway Inn Center City is the best budget hotel in Center City
Rodeway Inn is a cute and cosy hotel in the heart of Center City. There are just 36-rooms in the hotel so the staff gives everyone a personal welcome. An airport shuttle service is available, for more details inquire at the main reception. Liberty Bell and Independence Hall are within a short walking distance.
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Center City – Morris House Hotel
Morris House Hotel is the best mid-range hotel in Center City
Set in a charming heritage building Morris House Hotel is a beautiful boutique hotel on 8th Street South. Guests are welcome to browse the library or relax on the BBQ terrace. The rooms and suites offer all the amenities you could ask for and have warm, homely tones and decor.
Best Luxury Hotel in Center City – The Ritz-Carlton Philadelphia
The Ritz-Carlton Philadelphia is the best luxury hotel in Center City
The Ritz-Carlton Philadelphia is the most luxurious hotel in all of Philadelphia, not just Center City. They have an incredible selection of rooms available and some lavish suites as well. Guests are welcome to make use of the hotel’s swimming pool and an impressive fitness centre.
Neighborhood #5 - Old City
Neighborhood #5 - Old City
(Best neighbourhood in Philadelphia for families)
Old City is the best neighbourhood in Philadelphia for families
As the name suggests, Old City is the oldest neighbourhood in Philadephia. There is a wealth of history and culture to explore along these streets. Being away from the bustling business centre of Philadelphia makes Old City a great place for families to base themselves during their Philly adventures.
The most iconic landmark in Old City is Liberty Bell. It is within close proximity to this spot that the Founding Fathers of the United States of America declared, well, liberty. Within a short walk of Liberty Bell, you can visit Independence Hall where the constitution was signed. A whole heap of history to take in!
If you are travelling with children let them run free in Franklin Park after a long day of museum hopping!
Away from the landmarks and historical gems, there is a great food and drink scene to explore in Old City. Overlooking the Delaware River, across to New Jersey, you can relax on riverside dining decks. Morgan’s Pier bar has over 40 brews on offer. What a selection!
Things to do in Old City
- Stand in the footsteps of the Founding Fathers at Liberty Bell
- Relive the signing of the constitution at Independence Hall
- Cross over Benjamin Franklin Bridge and tap your toe in New Jersey state
- Learn about the history of Judaism in the United States at the National Museum of American Jewish History
- Visit the humble home of Besty Ross, the woman who sewed the first American flag in 1776
- Sample a brew or two, or maybe more, at Morgans Pier bar
Where to Stay in Old City
Best Air BnB in Old City – Patrick’s BnB
Patrick’s BnB is the best Air BnB in Old City
If you are wanting your trip to Philadelphia to truly be out of this world, staying in a BnB located in a historic wine cellar is sure to have you talking about your vacation for years to come. This boutique and vintage stay will have you calling home a piece of local history your home! Both modern and antique, you could not ask for a better place to experience Philadelphia!
Best Budget Hotel in Old City – Apple Hostels of Philadelphia
Apple Hostels of Philadelphia is the best budget hotel in Old City
Apple Hostels is the best place for budget travellers to stay in all of Philadelphia, not just Old City. Offering a great selection of simple private rooms and cosy dorms, Apples Hostels have something for everyone. Guests can relax in the shared lounge and get planning their Philly adventures together.
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Old City – Hilton Philadelphia at Penn’s Landing
Hilton Philadelphia at Penn’s Landing is the best mid-range hotel in Old City
The Hilton at Penn’s Landing boats a pretty impressive indoor swimming pool and a great fitness centre. The rooms are modern and bright, many offer a great view of the city. The staff are very accommodating and will go out of their way to help if they can. A continental breakfast buffet is included.
Best Luxury Hotel in Old City – Lokal Hotel Philadelphia
Lokal Hotel Philadelphia is the best luxury hotel in Old City
Lokal Hotel offers gorgeous apartment rentals in the heart of Old City. The loft style apartments are modern and minimalist, particularly great for long-term travellers seeking a home from home in Philadelphia. There are 6-apartments available but they get booked out long in advance!
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Philadelphia
Philadelphia is a lively and bustling city with something new to explore around every corner. Often overlooked in favour of New York or Boston, Philadelphia has plenty to offer travellers of all ages. From historic landmarks to hipster brewpubs, there’s something for everyone on every budget. If you’re looking for things to do, written by travelers, our insider guide to the top 15 things to do in Philadelphia will show you the must-sees and the hidden gems in Philly!
To recap our travel guide; the City Centre is our top choice for the coolest neighbourhood to stay in with the most to see, do, eat and explore, and our choice for the best hotel is Morris House Hotel.
Our best recommendation for where to stay in Philadelphia is The Windsor Suites thanks to its fantastic views and an amazing central location. You can also check out our guide to the best hotels in Philadelphia.
If you’re visiting Seattle, check out our hidden gems and insider tips on where to stay, the absolute best hotels and the top things to do. If you’re in Denver, the ultimate neighborhood guide, our favourite hotels and the top things to do in Denver will save you time and money! Miami has a host of things to see, so check out our insider tips on top things to do where to stay and the best hotels.
Plus, it’s well worth checking out our top 55 things do do in the USA!
Have we missed anything? Let us know in the comments below. Have a great stay in the City of Brotherly Love.
*** Some of the links on Hotel Jules are affiliate links, which means if you do make a purchase, we may make a small commission (at no extra cost to you.) Thank you for using our links! Your support keeps the site going 🙂 ***
About the Author Nicola Smart
Gin lover. Coffee addict. Nicola has traveled the world for 7 years and is a staff writer for Hotel Jules. Born in London, Nicola first got the taste of travel studying abroad in Barcelona. Since then she's been hooked - traveling the world non-stop. Passionate about green travel and vegan lifestyle, Nicola spends more of her free time staring at maps wondering where she will head to next!