Best Philadelphia Luxury Hotels

Philadelphia is an easy weekend jaunt from New York and DC, and a city getaway here caters to a variety of interests, from history buffs to foodies to art lovers. Don't miss the Philadelphia Museum of Art, with its spectacular and extensive collection ranging from the Middle Ages to Modern times–of American art museums, it's arguably second only to the Met in New York. The Philadelphia Museum of Art also operates some lovely historic houses in the Fairmont Park area and the Rodin museum. For some outdoor fun, try viewing the city by bike from spring through autumn, or wander the lush Morris Arboretum. And when it comes to where to stay, we of course have some top picks ready:

Four Seasons Philadelphia

The Four Seasons Philadelphia is our first choice for Philadelphia, exuding classic elegance. When we were there, a string quartet was playing in the lobby, a rarity these days even for luxury hotels. Service is top-notch and anticipates your requests. Superior Rooms are the largest in Philadelphia, at 500 square feet, and offer views of the courtyard or Academy of Science. If you can, try to book or upgrade to the Fountain View Room, with its lovely views of Swann Fountain and Logan Circle. Don't miss dining at the award winning The Fountain, either for the sumptuous Sunday brunch or a splurge lunch or dinner. The Four Seasons is also incredibly kid-friendly: our son got to choose a stuffed animal as his welcome amenity, there are child bath amenities and bathrobes, and sometimes even Four Seasons balloons at the restaurants. The hotel is also one of the few in central Philadelphia with a swimming pool.

Best Philadelphia Luxury Hotels - Four Seasons Philadelphia

Palomar Philadelphia

Located in a historic art deco building that was the former home to the American Architects Association, the Palomar Philadelphia is the perfect choice if you want a hip boutique hotel with character. Service here, as in most Kimpton hotels, is fantastic, from a friendly staff who have great recommendations to make the most of your stay. Try to splurge on the King Spa Room, if not a suite, since entry level Queen Deluxe Rooms are rather compact at 260 square feet. We love the Frette linens, Free WiFi after joining Kimpton In Touch, Etro bath amenities and the nightly wine reception in the lobby, where there's a cozy fireplace and plush seating.

Sofitel Philadelphia

The Sofitel Philadelphia has a rather bland exterior, but once inside, you're in for a treat. You enter to an elegant lobby with a striking floral centerpiece. Even entry-level Superior Rooms are 350 square feet, a good size for the hotel's convenient central location, and are appointed with signature plush Sofitel beds, Bose sound systems, bathrobes and slippers, and even sewing kits. Bottled water is provided for turndown service. Enjoy the atmospheric and romantic lounge lighting in the evenings, and savor drinks, small bites or dinner and great people watching in lovely Liberte. Free WiFi is a nice plus, and the hotel is also pet-friendly. Don't expect to be pampered the way you would be at the Four Seasons, but the Sofitel remains a great and convenient upscale choice.