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hotel monaco philadelphia
Photograph: Kimpton Hotel Monaco

The 13 best boutique hotels in Philadelphia for a trendy Philly stay

If you like your time spent in a hotel to be just that little bit special, try these boutique hotels in Philadelphia

Written by
Allie Volpe
Contributors
Rosemary Waugh
,
Alex Floyd-Douglass
&
Jennifer Banful
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The average holiday-maker or business traveler is spoilt for choice when it comes to accommodation options in Philadelphia. But not all hotels were created equal and some, like the ones on this list, are more than a little bit special.

From on-trend interiors that will make your Insta followers green with envy to the very best in service and facilities, these are the boutique hotels to up the luxe rating of your stay away from home. So whether you’re in town to see the city’s best attractions and museums, or have other things to do on your mind, you sure won’t regret making a room reservation at any of these.

RECOMMENDED:
🏨See our full guide to the best hotels in Philadelphia
🥪Check out the best things to do while you're in Philly
🛏How about a stay in one of Philly's coolest Airbnbs?

Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in every hotel featured below, we've based our list on top reviews and amenities to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines

Best Philadelphia Boutique Hotels

  • Hotels
  • Boutique hotels
  • Elfreth's Alley
  • price 3 of 4

You'll find this gem of an apartment tucked away in Old City – And as the name suggests, Lokal is all about the neighbourhood vibes – no staff – just what they call 'invisible service' accompanied by trendy interiors that will make Philly feel like your home away from home. Inside it's effortlessly cool – an open-plan layout with panelled walls, shabby rugs, large sun-drenched windows, distressed wooden furniture and the odd artwork. When you're not soaking in the tub or lounging in your Lokal robe, you can head down to the National Liberty Museum, just a few steps away. 

The mood? The hip, indie crowd-pleaser.
Location perks? Enjoy the effortless self-check-in and check-out service, free toiletries and the smell of locally roasted coffee in the morning. 
Budget range? An affordable, chill weekend for two. 

  • Hotels
  • Boutique hotels
  • Fishtown
  • price 3 of 4

Before it became an excellent boutique hotel, this building was used as a whiskey-blending and bottling facility. It’s now also home to a wood-fired Italian restaurant (the hotel sits above it). And, since it’s in the middle of Fishtown, you’ll find plenty of other excellent bars, coffee shops, and restaurants super close by. Inside, the hotel is attractively decorated with exposed brickwork, wooden furnishings, and one-off wallpaper prints. Practicalities-wise, each room has a full-sized kitchen, laundry facilities, and Apple TV.

The mood? Industrial-urban chic. 
Location perks? This moody apart-hotel hits the spot for those looking for something homey, vintage and understated. Failing that, the wafting smell of fresh dough is sure to get you in the door.
Budget range? A luxury stay worth every Penne, we mean penny. 

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  • Hotels
  • Boutique hotels
  • Old City
  • price 2 of 4

This is a more large-scale affair than most of the boutique hotels on this list (there are 268 guest rooms here), but everything about Hotel Monaco is unique, eclectic, and colorful. The guest rooms and specialty suites feature deep blue and purple hues with funky geometric wallpaper designs. and mirrored end tables offer a chic retro feel. The hotel also has a fitness center, complimentary bike rental, and is pet-friendly. Make sure to take a trip up to the Stratus Rooftop Lounge – one of the best rooftop bars Philadelphia has to offer – to relax after sunset with an aperitif under the twinkling night sky.

The mood? Luxurious and ambient. 
Location perks? Like we said, the rooftop is where it's at. 
Budget range? A budget-friendly weekender. 

  • Hotels
  • Boutique hotels
  • Rittenhouse
  • price 3 of 4

Planning a long-term stay in Philadelphia? Consider crashing at the sophisticated AKA Rittenhouse which stands 12 stories tall and boasts 78 studio and one- and two-bedroom suites that are equipped with full kitchens. The elegance of the building’s beaux-arts facade extends indoors with sleek and modern furniture and appliances. Other perks include a gym, a business center with Macs, and a private resident entrance to the on-site restaurant, a.kitchen, and its accompanying a.bar. The location also puts you just around the corner from Rittenhouse Row, one of Philly’s top shopping destinations with high-end stores like Michael Kors, Barneys Co-Op, and Vince.

The mood? Modern, cool-toned, flashy.
Location perks? You're a 25-minute stroll from Independence National Park and just a 10-minute car ride from Victorian Philadelphia Zoo.
Budget range? Moderately priced for a trendy upmarket stay.

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  • Hotels
  • Boutique hotels
  • Rittenhouse
  • price 3 of 4

Location-wise, Kimpton Hotel Palomar is on the jackpot. It puts you right in the heart of the city and just moments away from Rittenhouse Square – a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. As for the rooms, they can be summarised in one word: chic. But in case you need us to elaborate ... elegant art deco interiors with heaps of natural light with many of the rooms offering incredible views of the city's swankiest high-rise apartments, while the trees in the square below offer a calming pocket of greenery. De-stress in the fitness center, with in-room spa treatments, or at the on-site restaurant Square 1682.

The mood? Cozy luxury. 
Location perks? Explore on foot, or take the scenic route by hopping on one of the hotel's Kimpton bikes. We highly recommend taking the Schuylkill Bank trail. 
Budget range? Fair prices for couples and families. 

ROOST East Market
Image courtesy of ROOST East Market/booking.com

6. ROOST East Market

The latest addition to the ROOST portfolio in the city, the company’s East Market venue is a cross between a boutique hotel and a set of rentable apartments. The idea is to give you the best bits of hotel-ness amenities-wise, while also granting guests that extra bit of space and privacy. This place is great to book if you’re going to be staying in town a little longer than normal, especially on a work trip. Highlights to write home about include a huge rooftop pool, a yoga and barre studio, a kids’ playroom, outdoor Viking grills and a community vegetable garden. You might as well just move in permanently, eh?

 The mood? Soft-edged city living.
Location perks? Sample the best indie restaurants and shops without a big journey home.
Budget range? Fab prices for generously sized spaces.

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  • Hotels
  • Boutique hotels
  • Rittenhouse
  • price 3 of 4

For those looking for low-cost luxury, Sofitel Philadelphia is your best bet. Centrally located, this pet-friendly hotel sits between the French Quarter and Rittenhouse Square, meaning you'll have front-row seats to some of the city's best attractions, entertainment, shops and restaurants. The rooms here are elegantly furnished with spacious (for when size really does matter), modern interiors in soft brown and cream, accompanied by contemporary artworks. Enjoy a soak in the separate bathtub, squeeze in a quick cardio session at the fitness centre, or simply enjoy a toast to the good times at Liberte, the on-site restaurant lounge – the choice is yours. 

The mood? Boujee at its best. 
Location perks? For those who want to make their breakfast-in-bed dreams a reality, there's in-room dining. 
Budget range? An affordable romantic break for two. 

  • Hotels
  • Boutique hotels
  • Parkway Museums
  • price 3 of 4

The Logan is all about bringing you the best of Philly all under one roof. And We'd say they've nailed it with their on-site spa, indoor pool, movie nights and Drag High Tea, among other goodies. In terms of the vibe here, it combines the city's lively spirit with sophistication. All  391 rooms are spacious,  pet-friendly, and feature stylish artistic touches to give you a real flavour of Philly. 

The mood? Ambient and sophisticated.
Location perks? They've thought of absolutely everything in-room phone chargers included. 
Budget range? It's a cheap and cheerful option, regardless of whether you're flying solo or visiting with family. 

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  • Hotels
  • Boutique hotels
  • Rittenhouse
  • price 3 of 4

One thing we love about The Franklin is the huge helping of unapologetic style enclosed behind its iconic red door. In each of their 20 rooms, you'll find an artistic nod to notable historical moments, humans and places for a luxurious and transportive experience. On top of their eye for style and storytelling, The Franklin offers guests an exceptional stay along with the coolest hangout spots overlooking the city. The on-site Urban Farmer steakhouse restaurant, Speakeasy, and rooftop bar are a MUST visit. 

The mood? Modern, aristocratic. 
Location perks? You'll find this spot in the Fashionable Rittenhouse Square, putting you in good steed when it comes to exploring all the best restaurants, nightlife and culture – get your hands on a Philly cheesesteak. 
Budget range? An affordable and luxurious city break.

  • Hotels
  • Boutique hotels
  • Rittenhouse
  • price 2 of 4

Housed in a historic building, The Warwick Hotel Rittenhouse Square is emblematic of both the old age and the new age. Inside each room, you'll find sleek, modern interiors complete with snazzy extras like a mini fridge, large flat screens and cool wall art. And, of course, it's worth shouting about how close you are to everything. 

The mood? Urban chic. 
Location perks? For starters, there's a fitness centre, three on-site restaurants and dog-friendly rooms (at a little extra cost). 
Budget range? An economic short break. 

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  • Hotels
  • Greater Philadelphia
  • price 2 of 4

If you're really looking for an authentic local experience, then it's worth shacking up in Trendy Midtown Villiage, particularly  popular among LGBTQ+ and younger crowds for its bars and eateries. And if you're going to stay anywhere, then its has to be The Arco – it's the perfect spot for getting in on the action. Featuring bright, vintage-style, minimalist interiors so the space feels homey and inviting. Along with a private bathroom, there's also a trusty coffee maker and TV when you're in need of a little downtime before heading out. Just a block away, you'll find South Broad Street, lined with galleries, theaters and lots to eat.  

The mood? Cozy, historic. 
Location perks? An ultra-calming spot, ideal for those who want a laid-back stay, while dabbling in city's the art scene and nightlife. 
Budget range? Super affordable.

  • Hotels
  • Gayborhood
  • price 2 of 4

Just a few steps away from the Pennsylvania Convention Centre, The Alexander Inn offers guests something a little more traditional. While the rooms might feel a little dated at first glance, this place is sure to win you over with its old-timey charm, all of which is owed to its copper-toned interiors, dark oak wood panelling, glossy leather chairs and stunning fireplace. Rooms here also boast a heap of natural light and fantastic city views. 

The mood? Vintage flair. 
Location perks? This quaint abode puts you close to many historical attractions, including Liberty Bell and the National Liberty Museum. For the thrifters, you'll also find Philly's Antique Row one block away. 
Budget range? Great low prices. 

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  • Hotels
  • Elfreth's Alley
  • price 2 of 4

Want to stay in one of Philadelphia's most Romantic Hotels? Consider it a done deal with Penn's View Hotel. Situated in the gorgeous tree-lined neighbourhood of Old City, just off the Delaware River, you'll enjoy canoodling in one of these period-decor style rooms. Addorned with patterned rugs, quilted bedding, and vintage table lamps, with some even offering a private patio and Jacuzzi. Wisk yourselves away to Italy for a an evening at the on-site restaurant, where you can enjoy trattoria-style dining accompanied by a glass of red – if the food allows, maybe you'll even share a strand of spaghetti. 

The mood? The old-world romantic. 
Location perks? Expect non-stop carnivalesque, fun and games with Independence Blue Cross RiveRink's Summerfest and Winterfest, with spectacular views overlooking the Delaware River.
Budget range? As cheap as buttons. 

Looking for an even more personal stay?

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