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Old City isn’t just a district—it’s Philly’s beating heart. Walk past centuries-old buildings, sip coffee from a hole-in-the-wall café, and let the scent of fresh bread and distant church bells wrap around you. It’s more than history; it’s life, lived slowly, beautifully, authentically.
Nestled in the heart of Philadelphia, this hotel seamlessly blends French elegance with modern luxury. Located between historic Rittenhouse Square and the French Quarter, the building once housed the Philadelphia Stock Exchange and now stands as a sophisticated retreat. The refined rooms and authentic French cuisine at Liberté Lounge invite you to experience the art of living. Whether for business or leisure, amenities like the meeting rooms, fitness center, and valet parking ensure a seamless stay.
Everything you need to know about Old City
The Franklin Hotel is a top choice, located in the heart of Philadelphia's Old City with a 5-minute walk to Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. The boutique hotel blends historic architecture with modern amenities, featuring vintage-inspired interiors and complimentary coffee and guided tour maps.
Guests can easily explore nearby attractions like Patriots' Plaza and the University of Pennsylvania within a 10-minute stroll, making it ideal for travelers seeking immersive access to American revolutionary history and urban charm.
Philadelphia's Old City is exceptionally well-connected via the SEPTA public transit system, with frequent buses and trolleys operating through the area. A 10-minute ride from the Old City Transit Hub gets you directly to Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and the National Constitution Center.
The Market-Frankford Line trolley runs through the neighborhood, providing quick access to other key attractions. For a scenic and active option, bike-sharing stations are available throughout Old City—rent a bike and follow the Delaware River Trail to enjoy views of the Philadelphia Museum of Art and Franklin Park, combining efficiency with a memorable urban adventure.
Don’t miss the "Declaration of Independence" Guided Tour at Independence Hall, led by expert historians who delve into the original chamber where the Declaration was debated and signed, including viewing a replica of the 1776 document.
At the Liberty Bell Center, interactive exhibits let visitors simulate voting, participate in role-playing scenarios, and experience the bell’s acoustics as they were in 1776, bringing colonial-era civic life to life. For a taste of modern Philly culture, join the Old City Food Market, savoring iconic Philadelphia cheesesteak and British meat pie, paired with local craft beer, offering a flavorful journey through the city’s evolving identity.
Yes, many hotels in Philadelphia’s Old City are family-friendly. Hotel Palomar Philadelphia offers family suites, children’s amenities like game rooms, complimentary breakfast, and kid-focused guided tours.
Located steps from Independence Hall, it provides easy access to The National Museum of American History and the Liberty Bell. Nearby, there are kid-friendly outdoor plazas and interactive science exhibits, blending education with fun. Some properties also offer stroller rentals and child safety seats, ensuring a comfortable and safe stay for families traveling with young children.
For couples, take a nighttime sightseeing boat cruise along the Delaware River, where illuminated views of Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell create a magical atmosphere—many boats offer champagne and live jazz music.
Dine at The Metropolitan Restaurant, whose rooftop terrace offers panoramic views of the Pennsylvania State Capitol glowing at night, paired with French cuisine and live jazz. For a quieter moment, wander through Old City alleys, discovering cozy cafes and hidden art galleries, perfect for intimate conversations and shared memories under the stars.
Yes, nearly all hotels in Philadelphia’s Old City provide complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, including Shangri-La Philadelphia and Marriott Philadelphia Old City, with full coverage across all floors and support for multiple devices.
Premium properties also feature dedicated workspaces and seamless meeting facilities, ideal for business travelers. Additionally, nearby cafes and museums offer free public Wi-Fi, allowing guests to stay connected while exploring historical landmarks, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted travel experience.
The Franklin Hotel is a top choice, located just a 5-minute walk from Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. This boutique property blends historic architecture with modern amenities, featuring rooms with antique furnishings and smart home technology. Some suites offer panoramic views of the National Constitution Center courtyard.
Another excellent option is Hotel Palms, situated near the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. It provides complimentary bicycle rentals, making it easy to explore the city’s historic districts on two wheels. Both hotels offer wheelchair-accessible facilities and 24-hour concierge service, ensuring a seamless travel experience for all visitors.
Yes, many hotels near Philadelphia’s Old City provide efficient transit shuttle services. For example, The Franklin Hotel operates a dedicated shuttle bus that runs every 30 minutes between Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) and downtown, connecting directly to the SEPTA Regional Rail station—ideal for visiting Independence Hall, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and other key attractions.
Additionally, Hotel Palms partners with the University of Pennsylvania Hospital to offer complimentary electric shuttles to major destinations, including 30th Street Station and Old City Harbor. These services save time and ensure stress-free travel, especially for first-time visitors unfamiliar with the city layout.
All hotels support mobile app HopeGoo and real-time tracking, enhancing convenience. Some also provide shared e-scooter rentals for short-distance exploration, reflecting the area’s smart mobility ecosystem.
Philadelphia’s Old City offers immersive historical experiences. Try the nighttime guided tour at Independence Hall, led by expert historians who delve into the drafting of the Declaration of Independence and 18th-century colonial politics—visitors can even touch replica manuscripts, enhancing interactivity.
The Liberty Bell Center hosts weekly ‘Voices of Freedom’ concerts, combining classical music with revolutionary-era poetry readings held outdoors in the plaza, creating a solemn yet inspiring atmosphere. For hands-on creativity, join a 1776-style pottery workshop at a local artisan studio, where you craft your own historical-inspired ceramic piece to take home.
Also recommended is the Historic Philadelphia Walking Tour, themed around "From Colony to Metropolis," following the Congress Street corridor past over a dozen significant buildings, weaving in true stories and hidden facts—perfect for families and history enthusiasts seeking deep cultural engagement.
Yes, most hotels in Philadelphia’s Old City are designed with family-friendly features ideal for parents traveling with children. The Franklin Hotel offers kids’ toiletry kits and pajamas, plus an indoor playroom, and is just a 10-minute walk from the Please Touch Museum. They also provide a Family History Explorer Package, including a scavenger hunt guide, map, and free admission tickets to Independence Hall.
Hotel Palms features family suites with extra beds and rollaway options, and offers free baby safety seats and high chairs. Their rooftop terrace includes a kid-friendly lounge with seasonal outdoor movie nights and interactive workshops like "Mini U.S. President Mock Debate", blending fun with learning.
All hotels allow advance HopeGoo of infant amenities, and nearby restaurants commonly provide children’s menus and booster seats, ensuring comfortable dining. The area is safe, well-lit, and stroller-friendly, making it an excellent destination for family vacations.
See what other travelers say about Old City
Staying near Rittenhouse Square was a great choice—lots of activity during the day made it easy to explore the area. Parking is valet-only, so I left my car with the concierge, which worked out perfectly. Breakfast options rotated between buffet and à la carte dining, and honestly, the buffet was the better option—fresh ingredients, wide variety, and delicious flavors. The hotel’s interior design is stunning, with elegant touches throughout the space. The beds were incredibly comfortable, making for a restful night's sleep. It’s clear the team pays attention to detail. A fantastic stay overall, and I’d definitely return.
Staying in the heart of Philadelphia doesn’t have to break the bank, and this hotel proves it. I was genuinely surprised by how affordable the rates were—better than any other option I found across the city. The location is perfect: within walking distance to major attractions, museums, and downtown hotspots. I didn’t expect such a spacious and well-designed room for the price, and it felt more like a luxury stay than a budget one. The staff were friendly, the bed was comfortable, and the overall vibe was welcoming. If you’re visiting Philly and want a great balance of value, convenience, and quality, this is the place to book. I’d absolutely stay here again.
Staying at this Holiday Inn was a fantastic experience from start to finish. The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from the airport and close to the stadium, making it super convenient for both business trips and travel. The hotel itself is quiet and well-maintained, with clean, spacious rooms that feel really comfortable. I especially appreciated the full breakfast spread—fresh, diverse, and delicious. Everything from the amenities to the staff service felt top-notch. If you're in Philly, this is definitely a go-to choice. I’ll be back without hesitation.
Staying at the Renaissance Philadelphia Downtown Hotel was a fantastic experience. The room was incredibly comfortable, with a plush bed that made for a restful night's sleep. Located just steps away from downtown attractions and public transit, getting around the city was super convenient. What stood out was the great value for money—excellent quality without the premium price tag. The staff were friendly and efficient throughout our stay. It’s clear this hotel offers top-notch service and comfort at a fair rate. I’d definitely return and highly recommend it to fellow travelers.
Staying at this hotel was a real highlight of my trip to Philadelphia! The location is fantastic—just a short walk from Rittenhouse Square and all the local charm. The staff were incredibly kind and attentive, making every interaction feel warm and personal. The room was clean, spacious, and beautifully designed with modern touches that made it feel like home. While I have to be honest—the wine at the Art Bar wasn’t my favorite (I’ll just say it’s not for me), it didn’t take away from the overall experience. Everything else—from the comfort of the bed to the thoughtful amenities—was top-notch. If you're looking for a stylish, welcoming stay in the heart of Philly, this place definitely delivers.
Staying at the Courtyard Philadelphia Downtown was an absolute pleasure. The hotel is spotless and well-maintained, with a clean, welcoming atmosphere from the moment you walk in. Its location couldn’t be better—right next to City Hall, making it incredibly convenient for exploring downtown Philly on foot. I was just steps away from major attractions, restaurants, and public transit. The room was spacious, modern, and comfortable, with a great bed that ensured a restful night’s sleep. Staff were friendly and efficient, making check-in and check-out smooth. With excellent value, top-notch cleanliness, and unbeatable convenience, this is definitely a hotel I’d stay at again.
Staying at Loews Philadelphia Hotel was an absolutely delightful experience. The room was spacious and beautifully designed, with a stunning view from the window—especially breathtaking at night when the city lights come alive. The rooftop area is fantastic: stylish, inviting, and well-maintained, with friendly staff who went out of their way to make us feel welcome. Their service was attentive without being intrusive, always ready to assist. Whether you're here for business or leisure, this hotel offers comfort, convenience, and excellent value. I’d definitely recommend it and plan to return.
Staying at Lokal Hotel Old City felt like living in a stylish, compact apartment right in the heart of Philadelphia’s historic district. The location is perfect—walking distance to major attractions and local gems. My room, Betsi (the first one up the stairs), had a great layout with a separate bedroom, cozy living area, mini kitchenette, dining space, and even a laundry corner—ideal for longer stays or those who prefer self-contained spaces. High ceilings and tasteful decor added charm and character throughout. Check-in was completely contactless via a simple code—no keys needed, which made everything seamless and convenient. I appreciated the modern, efficient touch. This isn’t just a hotel; it’s a homey retreat with city vibes. Highly recommend for travelers seeking authenticity, comfort, and smart design without the hassle.
Great stay overall! The hotel is incredibly convenient, just a short walk from the L train station, making it easy to explore downtown Philadelphia. One thing to note: the L train stops running around midnight, so plan your return accordingly. The room was clean, modern, and well-equipped with all the amenities you’d expect. Staff were friendly and helpful throughout our visit. Loved the vibe—perfect mix of comfort and urban style. Definitely planning to come back on our next trip to Philly.
The shared rooms were surprisingly comfortable even with multiple guests—beds were spaced just right, offering enough personal space without feeling cramped. I was impressed by how quiet the room remained at night, despite the shared environment. No noise disturbances whatsoever, making for a restful sleep. The hostel is well-designed and thoughtfully laid out, and being just a short ride from downtown Philadelphia makes it super convenient. It’s rare to find such a peaceful, affordable stay in a lively city like Philly. I’ll definitely be returning.
Absolutely stunning hotel in the heart of Philadelphia’s Rittenhouse Square—perfect location, just steps from great restaurants, shops, and attractions. From the moment you walk in, the staff greet you with warm smiles and genuine hospitality. One particular front desk attendant always opens the door with a cheerful welcome, making every arrival feel special. The room is actually a cozy studio apartment with a well-equipped kitchen and a spacious living area—ideal for both short stays and longer visits. Everything feels thoughtfully designed, and the attention to detail is impressive. It’s not just a place to sleep—it’s a home away from home with exceptional service and charm.
Staying right next to City Hall Plaza was an absolute highlight—the view of the building from my room was stunning. The space was clean, spacious, and well-designed with a cozy feel. I loved having a full kitchenette for simple meals, which made the stay much more convenient and affordable. The front desk staff were friendly and helpful throughout, making check-in smooth and stress-free. Being just steps away from downtown attractions and public transit made exploring Philly effortless. This place offers comfort, convenience, and great value—definitely my top pick for future visits to Philadelphia.
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