Hristina Lozanovska 
Philadelphia, popularly known as Philly, is the birthplace of American independence, the former US capital, and one of the most historic destinations in North America. But even if you’re not a history buff, Philly will keep you entertained at all times – the city has plenty to offer! However, the first thing you need to do is decide where to stay in Philadelphia.
Philadelphia has been on my to-visit list for a long time now, so I’m well-prepared! I’ve compared all the areas of the city and identified the 7 best neighborhoods for a trip to Philly, each with its own unique vibe and atmosphere.
The best place to stay in Philadelphia is undoubtedly Old City, with its many important attractions, cobblestone streets, Colonial architecture, various eateries, and the best hotels in the city.
To help you speed up your decision-making process, I also looked through all the hotels in Philadelphia and handpicked the best ones for each of the recommended areas. And to make sure you find the perfect spot, I’ve also arranged them by price.
Take your pick and make a reservation as soon as possible – Philly is a popular destination, so good hotel deals will be gone if you wait too long!
Let’s see what awaits in Philly!
Quick Picks for Your Stay
Here’s a list of the top hotels in Philadelphia, all situated in Old City:
Contents
- Quick Picks for Your Stay
- 1. Old City – where to stay in Philadelphia for the first time
- 2. Center City – where to stay in Philadelphia for shopping
- 3. Rittenhouse Square – best for a luxury stay in Philadelphia
- 4. Parkway Museum District (Logan Square) – for a family stay
- 5. West Philadelphia & University City – for a local vibe
- 6. Fishtown/Northern Liberties – where to stay in Philadelphia for nightlife
- 7. South Philly – best for foodies
- BONUS: Best hotels near Philadelphia airport
- FAQs about where to stay in Philadelphia
- Conclusion
Watch my video, it will give you a visual explanation of all the areas:
Consult this map of the 7 best neighborhoods in Philadelphia to better understand the city:
- OLD CITY: for first-timers
- CENTER CITY: for shopping
- RITTENHOUSE SQUARE: for luxury
- PARKWAY MUSEUM DISTRICT: for families
- UNIVERSITY CITY & WEST PHILADELPHIA: for a local vibe
- FISHTOWN & NORTHERN LIBERTIES: for nightlife
- SOUTH PHILLY: for foodies
1. Old City – where to stay in Philadelphia for the first time
Philadelphia’s historic Old City is situated between the Delaware River to the East and the Center City neighborhood to the West. The area is steeped in history – it provides the unique opportunity to walk on the oldest streets in the country and visit some of the most significant tourist attractions in the US.
As soon as you settle into Old City, you need to go and see the Liberty Bell (map), the neighborhood’s (and the city’s) main attraction. The bell is situated outside Independence Hall within the Independence National Historical Park (map) and is a long-standing symbol of American independence.
I highly suggest you also tour Independence Hall, the verification site of the Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution, or, as people like to call it, the birthplace of America. However, there’s much more to learn about Philadelphia’s history – I recommend visiting the National Constitution Center and the Museum of the American Revolution.
If you’re a museum buff, you’ll be happy to learn that there are plenty of cool museums in Old City. There’s the Betsy Ross House, the place where the first American flag was created, the Independence Seaport Museum, dedicated to the city’s maritime history, and Elfreth’s Alley Museum.
FUN FACT: Elfreth’s Alley is one of the oldest continuously inhabited streets in America, recognizable for its cobblestones and brick buildings.
If you feel like doing something more relaxed, your next stops should be Walnut and Chestnut Streets, the city’s top destinations for shopping and dining.
This historic neighborhood is about 20 minutes away from Philadelphia International Airport by taxi or car and approximately twice that by public transport, traffic permitting. However, keep in mind that parking can be tricky (and expensive) to find, so I suggest you either travel to Philly without a car or find accommodation that guarantees a parking space.
Now, let’s take a look at the best hotels for your stay in Philadelphia Old City:
This is one of the best luxury hotels in the city, situated next to the Independence Hall. During your stay, you can enjoy the comfort of the quiet rooms and suites and take photos of the area from the rooftop lounge. You can also work out in the fitness center, and best of all, you can bring your pet along.
Other accommodation options in the Old City
Spend romantic time with your partner by securing a room with a fireplace in this boutique hotel
Budget-friendly rooms and dorms, entertainment options, and laundry services (extra charge) are some of the facilities offered at the hostel
Benefit from a fully functional home with a kitchen, workspace, and free parking during your stay
Things to do in the Old City
- Stop by the Liberty Bell in the Independence National Historical Park
- Take a tour of Independence Hall to see where the Declaration of Independence was signed
- Visit the National Constitution Center and the Museum of the American Revolution
- Plan a visit to the birthplace of the American flag, the Betsy Ross House
- Tour ships at Independence Seaport Museum
- Join a walking tour of the tree-lined streets of Old City
- Pay your respects at Christ Church (map), Ben Franklin’s final resting place
- Spend an afternoon shopping at Walnut and Chestnut Streets
- Stop by Carpenters’ Hall (map), the site of the First Continental Congress
2. Center City – where to stay in Philadelphia for shopping
The Philadelphia Center City neighborhood, named after one of five city squares, is another of the best neighborhoods to stay in Philadelphia. Situated between the Delaware and Schuylkill Rivers and West of Old City, this bustling area boasts a nice blend of modern buildings and modern architecture.
FUN FACT: Center City is the second most inhabited downtown area in the United States, after Midtown Manhattan. Even though it’s busy, thanks to the grid-street design introduced by William Penn, you’ll have no trouble getting around Center City.
The Center City area is renowned for shopping. Home to the Fashion District Philadelphia, a shopping complex spanning across 3 city blocks, you can easily spend your entire stay in Center City here.
The Fashion District encompasses several shopping malls and endless designer stores, boutique shops, restaurants, and even art museums. I advise you to make the most of your time here and buy as much as you can carry – all clothes and shoes purchased in Philly are tax-free! That’s such a bargain!
While we’re on the topic of shopping, one of the main tourist attractions in Center City is Reading Terminal Market (map), a historic indoor market where you can buy fresh produce and try the best street food the city has to offer.
When in Center City, you have to pay a visit to Philadelphia City Hall (map), America’s largest municipal building, topped by the statue of William Penn, the founder of Philly, and then move on to Franklin Square (map) and see the famous fountain.
Another important thing to keep in mind is that Center City is part of the larger Washington Square District, which is also home to some amazing neighborhoods like the Midtown Village, the Gayborhood, Penn’s Landing, and Society Hill.
During your stay in Center City, you’ll be just a short walk away from all of these cool spots. I highly suggest you stop by the historic Washington Square (map), dedicated to the first American president, and spend a few hours exploring the lively Gayborhood and grab a drink at McGillin’s Olde Ale House (map), the oldest tavern in Philadelphia.
Finally, I have to direct you toward Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens in the Bella Vista neighborhood, a quirky art museum renowned for its cool mosaics. And now, on to the best hotels in Center City!
The Notary stands out among luxury hotels because of its historical significance – it’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Even though it’s steeped in history, it offers contemporary rooms with modern comforts like Wi-Fi, iPod docking stations, and flat-screen TVs. During your stay, you can dine at the 2 on-site restaurants and sample delicious Spanish or American cuisine.
Other accommodation options in Center City
This quaint boutique hotel is a historic landmark, featuring the 18th-century style and some rooms with garden views
One of the best cheap hotels in Philly, the Sleep Inn offers air-conditioned rooms, cable TV, and complimentary buffet breakfast
Stay in a functional and clean apartment with a washer/dryer, workspace, and fully equipped kitchen
Things to do in Center City
- Go on a shopping spree at the Fashion District Philadelphia
- Try some delicious dishes from the food stalls at Reading Terminal Market
- Pay a visit to City Hall and The Union League of Philadelphia
- See the fountain at Franklin Square
- Learn about American History at the African American Museum in Philadelphia
- Venture out to Washington Square to see the monuments
- Have a beer at McGillin’s Olde Ale House
- Visit the vibrant Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens
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3. Rittenhouse Square – best for a luxury stay in Philadelphia
Located in the heart of downtown Philadelphia, West of Center City, Rittenhouse Square is the most upscale and unique place to stay in the city. The namesake park lends its name to the area, which teems with high-end hotels, stores selling luxury goods, nightclubs, speakeasy bars, and lounges.
If you enjoy being surrounded by green space, this is THE place for you. Head to the park at the eponymous Rittenhouse Square (map) and soak in the nature. Or, if you’re in the mood for some socializing, seek out some of the events and markets that often take place in the park.
If you’ve had enough of the park for the day, you’ll be happy to find that the shops on Rittenhouse Row (a portion of Walnut Street) are within a short walking distance. I’m sure you’ll fill at least a few hours going through the Row without having to worry about spending too much (it’s tax-free on clothes and shoes, remember?).
As I’ve already mentioned, this is the most upscale part of Philly (it’s also the safest place in the city), so you’ll have easy access to incredible restaurants like Parc (map), The Dandelion (map), and Cleavers (map), where you can try the delicious Philly trademark – the cheesesteak.
When you start feeling culturally inclined, head to The Rosenbach, a museum and a library that houses many historic documents and rare manuscripts, including Lewis Carroll’s copy of his famous children’s book Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. Then, you can stop by the heritage center at The Union League of Philadelphia, the No.1 social club in the country, or check the schedule at the esteemed Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts and attend a show there.
Pamper yourself at one of the best boutique hotels in Philly – relax at the hotel’s spa, dine in the restaurant, have specialty drinks, and sleep like a monarch. Friendly staff goes the extra mile to make you feel at home and assist with whatever you may need. To stay in good shape, have a session at the fitness center.
Other accommodation options in Rittenhouse Square
A 3-star hotel featuring a fitness center, a bar, and a restaurant, and offering a daily American breakfast
In a great location in downtown Philadelphia, this B&B has individually decorated rooms and an elegant dining room
This charming 1-bedroom apartment is newly renovated, so every piece of furniture is new, and there’s also a private courtyard!
Things to do in Rittenhouse Square
- Pack a picnic and spend an afternoon at the park in Rittenhouse Square
- Scour the shops on Rittenhouse Row
- Indulge in a Philly cheesesteak at Cleavers
- Admire some rare books at The Rosenbach
- Visit the heritage center of The Union League of Philadelphia
- Attend a performance at the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts
- See what’s on at the Academy of Music and the Miller Theater
- Admire the gorgeous architecture in Delancey Place
4. Parkway Museum District (Logan Square) – for a family stay
The Parkway Museum District, i.e., the area around Logan Square, is situated on the East Coast of the Schuylkill River and Northwest of Old City (a 15-min bus ride away). The area is more relaxed than most neighborhoods in downtown Philadelphia and offers an amazing range of museums, perfect if you’re traveling with kids and looking for cool activities.
The area has quite a lot to offer, so if you’re wondering where to start, I suggest you make Logan Square (map) your starting point. From here, you’ll be a short distance away from JFK Plaza (map), also known as Love Park, for the iconic ‘Love’ sculpture, which makes for a great photo op.
Moving on, you can check out Dilworth Park (map), then circle back to Logan Square and start your museum adventure. First up, The Academy of Natural Sciences, which features exhibits like dinosaur bones and a butterfly house – a great learning opportunity for the kids!
Then, if you’re staying here (and Philly in general), you cannot miss The Franklin Institute. This interactive science museum is fun for the whole family. Once you’re done here, move along the famous Benjamin Franklin Parkway, which was inspired by the Champs-Élysées in Paris.
Stop at the Barnes Foundation Art Museum and the Rodin Museum, which hosts an impressive selection of sculptures.
I highly suggest you keep following the Benjamin Franklin Parkway into the adjacent neighborhood of Fairmount, where you’ll discover the amazing Philadelphia Museum of Art. The museum itself attracts plenty of visitors, but people visit for something more than art – the steps leading up to the museum building.
FUN FACT: the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art were featured in the famous movie Rocky and have since become an iconic landmark. Right next to the steps, you’ll find a Rocky Statue dedicated to the fictional character from the movie, boxer Rocky Balboa.
While in Fairmount, you should also check out the Eastern State Penitentiary and maybe attend a concert at The Met Philadelphia.
When it comes to luxury hotels, it doesn’t get much better than the Four Seasons! In a central location at Comcast Center, the hotel boasts an indoor infinity pool, as many as 4 restaurants, and an amazing spa sanctuary. Guests can also use the gym, order room service, and get baby cots and extra beds at no additional charge.
Other accommodation options in the Parkway Museum District
This all-suite hotel offers spacious family suites with a fully equipped kitchen and access to a 24/7 gym
Although slightly lower-rated, the apartment complex is in a great location and offers accommodation at affordable prices
A cozy 1-bedroom near the Art Museum, offering fresh linens, free toiletries, and complimentary coffee, tea, and snacks
Things to do in the Parkway Museum District
- Snap a photo with the Love sculpture at JFK Plaza
- Take a leisurely walk in Dilworth Park
- See the cool exhibitions at The Academy of Natural Sciences
- Spend a fun family day at The Franklin Institute
- Explore the collections at the Barnes Foundation and the Rodin Museum
- Pay a visit to the Philadelphia Museum of Art
- Walk the Rocky Steps of the Museum of Art and take a photo with the Rocky Statue
- Go on a guided tour of the Eastern State Penitentiary
5. West Philadelphia & University City – for a local vibe
West Philadelphia, colloquially known as West Philly, is about a half-hour’s drive West of the City Center. It’s a large and dynamic district that consists of several smaller neighborhoods, including the well-known University City. If you’re in town for a few nights and want to experience the local vibe, there’s no better place for it than West Philly.
Since the area is so large and culturally diverse (and safe, too), there’s a lot you could explore during your stay here – bars, restaurants, art galleries, museums, and much, much more. I could go on about the tree-lined streets of West Philly all day, but I decided to limit myself to talking about the very, very best things you can do here.
The first thing to add to your itinerary is the Philadelphia Zoo, the first zoo in America that’s home to more than 1,700 animal species. If you’re traveling with kids, you cannot miss the Please Touch Museum, where you’re invited to interact with each of the exhibits.
If you want to relax and unwind, there’s Fairmount Park (map), with its tree-lined walking trails and Shofuso Japanese Cultural Center, surrounded by the most serene landscapes.
Heading to University City, the main attraction here is the campus of the University of Pennsylvania (map) – UPenn for short – an Ivy-league school recognizable for its Gothic-style building. The Penn Museum is part of the university and displays artifacts and antiquities from around the world.
The area is home to yet another higher education institution – Drexel University (map), a private research university known for its lively campus life.
Lastly, you need to check out Clark Park (map), a historic community park that hosts a Farmers Market every Saturday morning – if you can, I suggest you stop by on Saturday between 10 am to 2 pm.
Conveniently located near Drexel University and the University of Pennsylvania, this upscale hotel offers sophisticated rooms with a private bathroom, air conditioning, and a flat-screen TV. You can dine at the on-site restaurant, work out in the gym, and enjoy a delicious breakfast each morning.
Other accommodation options in West Philadelphia & University City
A recently renovated aparthotel where each of the units has a well-fitted kitchen, a private bathroom, and air conditioning
One of the top cheap hotels in the city, the Philly Inn offers clean rooms, free Wi-Fi, and private parking
The apartment features 2 spacious bedrooms with queen beds, a comfortable living room, a modern bathroom, and laundry facilities
Things to do in West Philadelphia
- Spend a fun day at the Philadelphia Zoo
- Take the kids to the Please Touch Museum
- Have a relaxing walk in Fairmount Park
- Pay a visit to the Shofuso Japanese Cultural Center
- Visit the campuses of the University of Pennsylvania and Drexel University
- Admire the collection at the Penn Museum
- Check out the Farmers Market at Clark Park
- Stop by the Fisher Fine Arts Library (map)
6. Fishtown/Northern Liberties – where to stay in Philadelphia for nightlife
The Fishtown and Northern Liberties neighborhoods, located in North Philadelphia and along the Delaware River, are very different from the city center. Both of these neighborhoods are former industrial areas within walking distance of downtown Philadelphia and are now renowned for their vibrant nightlife scene, cool street art, and art galleries.
FUN FACT: Philadelphia is known as the ‘City of Murals’ with more than 4,000 murals scattered throughout the city.
If you’re in town for a weekend and want to do some partying, this is the place to be. Check to see if there’s a concert at The Fillmore Philadelphia, try some of the brews at Yards Brewing Company (map), or, if you’re looking for something more laid-back, have dinner at the Suraya Restaurant (map).
In case you’re feeling adventurous, you can try your luck at the Rivers Casino Philadelphia (map), but if you’re not, you can go for something simpler, like bowling at the North Bowl (map).
No visit to North Philadelphia would be truly complete without a visit to the Edgar Allan Pоe National Historic Site (map), situated just outside the border of the Northern Liberties neighborhood. This house was the home of the reclusive author for 6 years – the most productive years of his career.
And if you want to explore more of the city, I suggest heading further North of the city center to Manayunk on the bank of the Schuylkill River or to Chestnut Hill, which houses the amazing Morris Arboretum & Gardens.
Located in Fishtown, this is one of the most unique boutique hotels in the city, offering only 4 rooms in a building that once housed a whiskey blending and bottling facility! Each of the rooms is individually decorated and has a private bathroom, and guests are also welcome to dine at the amazing restaurant, which specializes in wood-fired Italian cuisine.
Other accommodation options in Fishtown/Northern Liberties
Guests at the Lokal Hotel will enjoy their stay in comfortable and spacious rooms offering garden or street views
This guest room has a private entrance, a queen bed, and a private bathroom for complete privacy
A comfortable 1-bedroom set in a Victorian building, providing access to free street parking and many attractions
Things to do in Fishtown/Northern Liberties
- Attend a concert at The Fillmore Philadelphia
- Check out Yards Brewing Company and Suraya Restaurant
- Try your hand at the popular Rivers Casino Philadelphia
- Stop for coffee at La Colombe Coffee Roasters (map)
- Have a fun night bowling at North Bowl
- Pay a visit to the Edgar Allan Pоe National Historic Site
- See a show at Union Transfer
7. South Philly – best for foodies
If you wonder where to stay in Philadelphia for the best dining, South Philly is your answer! Located a 30-min bus ride from the city center, the area is more residential than downtown Philadelphia, so you’ll be staying in much quieter surroundings.
When you get here, just go to East Passyunk Avenue – it is the foodie hotspot! If you have to choose just one place to get food, then go for Geno’s Steaks (map). The restaurant exclusively serves Philly cheesesteaks and it’s open 24/7 – but there’s always a line, so get ready to wait!
Down the avenue, you’ll find Pat’s King of Steaks (map), a restaurant that claims to be the inventor of the cheesesteak – that’s worth a try, too! But if you’re a foodie who likes to sample a variety of foods, then you must visit the Italian Market on 9th Street (map), stretching over 10 city blocks and hosting a wide range of food vendors.
In terms of food, Broad Street is also worth checking out, and South Street in the Queen Village is also a great spot to visit if you have the time.
If you’re a sports fan, then South Philly is the place for you, too! This part of the city houses the South Philadelphia Sports Complex, which comprises of several stadiums – Citizens Bank Park (map), home of the Philadelphia Phillies, Lincoln Financial Field (map), home of the Philadelphia Eagles, and the Wells Fargo Center (map) hosts the 76ers and the Flyers.
In case you just want to relax and get away from everything, FDR Park (map) offers plenty of opportunities for that, with a golf course, many walkways, and a few fishing ponds.
With all that said, let’s take a look at the best hotels in South Philly:
A short walk away from the city’s main stadiums, the hotel features a restaurant and a state-of-the-art gym. The on-site restaurant, The Bistro, is open for breakfast and dinner, and the front desk is available 24/7 to assist you with anything you may need.
Other accommodation options in South Philly
The rooms at this hotel feature antique furnishings, and each room has a private bathroom with a spa tub
This 2-bedroom apartment can accommodate up to 6 people and also features a clean bath and a full kitchen
Set in a newly renovated building, the studio has a queen-sized bed, and guests get access to shared laundry facilities
Things to do in South Philly
- Explore the many eateries along East Passyunk Avenue
- Have a cheesesteak at Geno’s Steaks or Pat’s King of Steaks
- Sample street food at the Italian Market on 9th Street
- Explore Broad Street and South Street in the Queen Village
- Attend a sports game at one of the stadiums in the South Philadelphia Sports Complex
- Spend a relaxing afternoon in FDR Park
| 👑 Luxury price: | US$230 |
| 💵 Mid-range hotel: | US$160 |
| 🛏️ Budget: | US$110 |
| 📍 Best area: | Old City |
| 🛎️ Best luxury hotel: | Kimpton Hotel Monaco |
| 🧳 Best mid-range hotel: | Penn’s View Hotel |
| 👛 Best budget hotel: | Apple Hostel |
BONUS: Best hotels near Philadelphia airport
The Philadelphia International Airport is a quite frequent airport and a popular destination for layovers. If you have a Philly layover or just want to be close to the airport for your early/late flight, these are the best hotels near the airport, one for each price category:
- Philadelphia Airport Marriott ($$$) – this is one of the best hotels in the area, directly connected to the airport and providing a free airport shuttle to all guests. Facilities at the property include a gym, a business center, and a restaurant.
- Residence Inn by Marriott ($$) – offering studio rooms and suites, the Residence Inn also provides access to an indoor swimming pool and a gym. You can bring your pet along and commission the free shuttle to get to and from the airport.
- Philadelphia Suites at Airport ($) – even though it’s a bit lower-rated, this is one of the best cheap hotels near the airport, with an outdoor pool, a garden, and private parking. The property is non-smoking and has a 24-hour front desk.
FAQs about where to stay in Philadelphia
📍 What part of Philadelphia should I stay in?
The best place for your stay in Philadelphia is Old City, which boasts very significant tourist attractions and beautiful cobblestone streets. The best hotels in Old City are the Kimpton Hotel Monaco and Penn’s View Hotel.
📅 How many days should you stay in Philadelphia?
To fully experience Philadelphia and see some of the main attractions like City Hall, the Museum of the American Revolution, and Rittenhouse Square, you need to stay in the city for at least 4 days.
🚶🏽 Is Philadelphia a walkable city?
Yes, Philadelphia is a very walkable city! In fact, it was named ‘the most walkable city in the US’ for 2023, and I’m sure you’ll enjoy walking along the beautiful streets. However, if you’re in a bind, you can always turn to public transportation.
👨👩👦👦 Where to stay in Philadelphia for families with kids?
The best area for a family trip to Philly is the Parkway Museum District, which has numerous science and art museums that can entertain the whole family. The top family-friendly hotels here are the Four Seasons Hotel and The Windsor Suites.
💰 What are some good places to stay in Philadelphia on a budget?
The best places for a budget stay in Philly are Apple Hostels in Old City and the Philly Inn & Suites in West Philadelphia.
🚘 Can I get around Philadelphia without a car?
Yes, you can easily get around the city without a car, as it’s very walkable. In fact, I’d advise going without a car, seeing as parking can be difficult to find.
🍃 When is the best time to visit Philadelphia?
The best time to visit Philly is early spring, between March and May. The weather is warm enough for sightseeing, the crowds are not as big, and hotels in Philadelphia are available at reasonable prices.
Conclusion
We’ve reached the end of my comprehensive guide on where to stay in Philadelphia. Hopefully, you’ve made your decision and started planning your itinerary.
However, if you’re still on the fence, here are the 2 best hotels in Philadelphia’s Old City:
- Kimpton Hotel Monaco – a pet-friendly hotel with a rooftop lounge and room service
- Penn’s View Hotel – one of the best boutique hotels, with an on-site wine cellar and a la carte restaurant
Don’t forget to book early to get the best hotel deals and secure your spot at the best rate in the most sought-after hotels in Philadelphia.
I hope you enjoyed reading the article and found it useful for your Philadelphia experience. If you like this post, be sure to check out our posts on NYC and Washington DC, which are very close to Philly and great destinations to continue your trip.
Be sure to leave me a comment – I’ll be happy to answer any questions!
Have a great time in Philadelphia,
Hristina
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