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Small properties with a personal touch can make your Philly stay eclectic, fun and easy.
Philly is a city with a lot of history and a lot of modern innovation — which is why it’s flush with both classic bed and breakfasts in ornate, century-old properties and sleek, tech-forward “invisible service” stays. We’ve pretty much got it all, along with eggs and coffee, too.
Below, find a smattering of quaint, cozy, hip and happening Philadelphia bed and breakfasts located in a variety of neighborhoods to set as your homebase while exploring the City of Brother Love, plus tips on attractions, restaurants and parks to explore nearby each spot.
Read on to discover which bed and breakfast you’ll be staying at next in Philly.
The sixth of Monique Greenwood’s bed and breakfasts furthers the hotelier’s focus on African American history and guests. “Akwaaba” — which means “welcome” in Ghana, West Africa — welcomes guests to six suites in an 1879 Victorian mansion in West Philadelphia’s tree-lined Powelton Village neighborhood. Each glamorously appointed suite has a Philly musician or musical legacy as its theme, including “Itchi Gitchi Ya Ya” for Patti LaBelle’s Lady Marmalade; “Like It’s Golden” for Jill Scott’s classic tune; “Blue Note” to honor Harold Melvin’s Philly band, and “The Roots Retreat,” an homage to the pioneering hip-hop group. Within walking distance: restaurants on and near Market Street (Han Dynasty) and Chestnut Street (White Dog Cafe).
Where: Akwaaba Philadelphia, 3709 Baring Street
A true Victorian gem, this University City bed and breakfast in a historic property offers six rooms and suites, highlighted by gorgeous stained glass and preserved fixtures. Think cozy-meets-elegant decor, a wraparound porch for lounging and delicious breakfast sourced from local farmers served alongside La Colombe coffee. A deep roster of packages and specials encourages repeat stays. Bonus: Drexel University and the University of Pennsylvania are just a few blocks away for those in town for business or college visits.
Where: Cornerstone Bed and Breakfast, 3300 Baring Street
Originally designed by Philadelphia architect Willis Hale, The Gables is a jewel-toned, century-old University City home in the Victorian and Edwardian style. With gorgeous oak floors, antique furniture, a lush garden and a wrap-around porch, there are plenty of spaces to kick back. Most rooms have private baths, and some have gas fireplaces. Bonus: This beauty is within walking distance of Clark Park, The Woodlands and diverse restaurants on Baltimore Avenue.
Where: The Gables Bed and Breakfast, 4520 Chester Avenue
Location, location, location (and privacy) draws guests to this well-appointed, modern, self-service bed and breakfast in the heart of the Gayborhood. Set in a colonial building atop watering hole UBar, the six-room inn offers mid-century-inspired furnishings and W Hotel mattresses and bedding. Guests stay close to shopping, nightlife and restaurants, including nearby Tavern on Camac (a rollicking 1920s-era piano bar). Guests must be at least 21 years old to stay.
Where: Inn on Camac, 1220 Locust Street
Eager to soak in the natural beauty of Northwest Philly’s Wissahickon Valley Park? Look no further than this intimate, 200-year-old historic building in Germantown, located less than a mile from the closest entrance to “the Wiss.” On-site, find four rooms, a fire pit and indoor fireplace — plus an outdoor hot tub, open year-round to accomodate all of your relaxation needs.
Where: James Matthews Guest House, 107 W. School House Lane
Conveniently located three blocks from picturesque Rittenhouse Square in Center City, this antique-filled inn promises a European-influenced stay, which might make you think you’ve left the continent. Made up of two 1850s four-story townhomes, La Reserve offers rooms and suites with transportative names like “Le Chateau” and “Grand Dame Deluxe” — and the inn itself is named after a hotel in Geneva, Switzerland.
Where: La Reserve Center City Bed & Breakfast, 1804 Pine Street
You’ll find this eclectic renovated Victorian townhouse right off Manayunk’s Main Street, filled with restaurants, coffee shops and retail stores. Take in the history during your stay — the house was built in 1877 for members of a church clergy. When you’re done exploring vibrant Manayunk, you can get to Center City in just 20 minutes via car or SEPTA.
Where: Manayunk Chambers Guest House, 168 Gay Street
A bright and artsy row home from the 1860s, this inn includes an array of antiques, original oil paintings and luxe rooms with amenities like a jet spa tub. Outside you’ll find easy access to shops and restaurants in Bella Vista, baked goods and produce from the famed Italian Market, and historic sites and shopping in Center City and Old City.
Where: Philadelphia Hotel Bella Vista, 758 S. 10th Street
This renovated Georgian-style historic home was built all the way back in 1769 by Philadelphia surgeon Dr. Thomas Bond, who, with Benjamin Franklin, founded Pennsylvania Hospital, the first public hospital in the U.S. Located in Old City, the inn offers cozy seating by a historic Rumford fireplace and 12 guest rooms decorated with traditional period furniture. With easy access to popular attractions such as the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, guests stay in the middle of history (literally!). Plus, the house is a short walk to the year-round fun offered at Penn’s Landing.
Where: Thomas Bond House, 129 S. 2nd Street
Are you ready to celebrate magic in Philadelphia?
This spring and summer, treat yourself — and your fellow Wizarding World fans — to the Visit Philly Overnight Hotel Package, which includes free hotel parking, two untimed tickets to the world premiere of Harry Potter: The Exhibition and overnight hotel accommodations (while supplies last).
Small properties with big personalities offer stylish stays...