For the second part of our article series on why Manhattanites should visit Philadelphia, we examine one of the biggest parts of any trip- where to stay? There is always the easy option of familiarity and stay at a well-known hotel that has multiple locations throughout the world, however it is always good as a consumer to think local, especially in the hotel world. Boutique hotels add an element of community to their properties, and tend to go the extra step when it comes to making their customers happy and above all, return for another trip. One particular hotel in Philadelphia that seems to have this down pat is the fantastic Independent Hotel, located in the heart of the gayborhood part of Philly on Locust Street, a mere 10 minute drive away from the Amtrak station. Here is why you should stay there the next time you are in Philly.
The Independent Hotel isn’t a large one, but size sometimes doesn’t really matter (yes, even in the gay sense), as long as they make up for it in other aspects. Here is a little of what they say via their website on what makes them so special– “Sophisticated yet down-to-earth, The Independent Hotel reflects the distinct charm of Philly, a diverse metropolitan city with a friendly soul. Our luxury hotel in Philadelphia occupies a fully restored Georgian Revival building in the heart of Midtown Village, just south of Center City. Our 24 spacious guestrooms are uniquely residential—some rooms have fireplaces, others have exposed brick walls, cathedral ceilings, or French walls.” The room that I stayed in on the third floor had fantastic colors adorned throughout, an amazing bathroom, bed and overall feel to it, with a great view of Philadelphia when you open your windows.
Location, location, location. The Independent Hotel has that angle on point as they are mere walking distances from fantastic restaurants such as Bud & Marilyn’s and Double Knot, as well as some fantastic gay bars to enjoy like Woody’s, The Bike Stop and U Bar to name a few. Other notable locations that are in close proximity include Independence Hall, Liberty Bell, Reading Terminal, and Academy of Music, and a 10-minute walk to the Pennsylvania Convention Center. Definitely killing two birds with one stone when it comes to not having to Uber/Subway it everytime you go out. Now that the warmer weather is here, location tends to be key when you are going through a major city, and The Independent Hotel aces that tenfold.
They have fabulous amenities at the hotel such as free Wifi and a delicious continental breakfast that is prepared for you at your liking the next morning. Bagels, pastries and more, it is another great reason to stay at this hotel. They also have complimentary access to the 12th Street Gym, only half a block from the location itself. So if you need to work off the calories from the night before, now you have that option. They also have great options to host you and your wedding party at, should you be looking for a location when the big day arrives. Overall, this is a great hotel and one that I definitely recommend staying at the next time you are in Philadelphia. For more information, check out their official site.