Last Updated on November 30, 2024 by Katrina

Photo credit: Morris House Hotel

In the bustling heart of Philadelphia, skyscrapers share space with historic sites like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. The hotel options in this neighborhood are equally compelling. Think quaint historic places, sleek city hotels, as well as urbane boutique hotels. Here are five of the best hotels in Philadelphia’s Center City, each with its own take on the city.

The Logan Philadelphia (1 Logan Sq.; 215-963-1500) Logan Square

Part of Hilton’s Curio Collection, the Logan houses 1,800 works of art that tell the story of Philadelphia. Moreover, it’s a nice nod to its neighbors, the Philadelphia Museum of Art and The Franklin Institute. Condé Nast Traveler gives it props for a sumptuous lobby “laid out like a living room, with a cozy library,” in addition to its scenic rooftop bar. Sure, a few Yelp reviewers complain about the relative lack of nearby restaurants. But one reviewer says she loved eating in:  “The Urban Farmer has amazing food and a great bar, including great breakfast sandwiches.”   >> Book this hotel for less

The Rittenhouse (210 W. Rittenhouse Sq.; 215-546-9000), Rittenhouse Square

Placing it among the Mid-Atlantic’s top 10 hotels, Condé Nast Traveler says “The Rittenhouse is to Philadelphia what the Plaza is to New York City. It has an illustrious history, delivers on personalized service, and views of Philadelphia’s landmark public square and park.” Inside, the warm-golden decor exudes elegance, and the staff mirrors that tone. “When we had an issue with a room, the staff went above and beyond to ensure the rest of our stay was perfect,” says one TripAdvisor reviewer. “You really get a measure of a place when they are responding to an undesirable situation.”   >> Book this hotel for less

Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia at Comcast Center (1 N. 19th St.; 215-419-5000) Logan Square

Even within the realm of Four Seasons’ excellence, this hotel stands out, says Conde Nast Traveler. That’s in part thanks to the dream team associated with it—architect Norman Foster and chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten. But there’s also “expansive skyline views from every vantage point.” One Google reviewer was wowed by the “luxurious bedding and impeccable customer service” after arriving early on a redeye. Check out the infinity pool and sky bar, too.   >> Book this hotel for less

Morris House Hotel (225 S. 8th St.; 215-922-2446) Old City

Staying in this 1787 National Historic Landmark may be the closest you get to a time machine in Center City. The place has been in the same family for centuries. One Google reviewer says the hotel “breathes history.” Others rave of niceties like “complimentary wine at the fireplace in the evening and continental breakfast in the library.” A TripAdvisor user notes the helpful staffers who are as savvy as docents, but also offered one 21st century tip: “Our room was on the third floor, and no elevator, so be advised that there may be many stairs to get to your room.”   >> Book this hotel for less

Kimpton Hotel Monaco Philadelphia (433 Chestnut St.; 215-925-2111) Old City

You can’t get much closer to the Liberty Bell than this 268-room Kimpton hotel. The place offers the bold colors and cheeky ambience one expects from this boutique hotel in Philadelphia’s Center City. One TripAdvisor user who stays here regularly for business loves the “great stylish design” along with the staff. “They know me by first name, and are authentically nice. The food is incredible and the bar and roof deck are awesome.” One Yelp user gives props for its “superb” location. “We were lucky to have a room up on the 8th floor overlooking Independence Hall.” His only beef: the hotel could use a free continental breakfast.   >> Book this hotel for less

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