We're lucky that Philadelphia is just a short easy ride down the PA Turnpike, so it's a distance that we can all handle without going too crazy in the car.
When it came time to choose a hotel, I intentionally searched for a Doubletree. We've stayed in their hotels in New Jersey and Maryland, and they've always been a terrific fit for our family. The Doubletree by Hilton Hotel Philadelphia Center City - the ideal location for what we wanted to see - more than delivered on my expectations!
Let me highlight some of the best features of the hotel:
1. Location
The Doubletree Center City is on S. Broad Street, about three blocks from City Hall. There is easy access from both I-95 and I-76 that doesn't require difficult navigation through the city. It has a parking garage right next door which solved another common problem of visiting the city.
In addition to being easy to drive to, it's perfectly situated and within easy walking distance to theatres, restaurants and shops. We walked two blocks to the famous Max Brenner's for dinner, and the next morning about four blocks to Macy's for the holiday light show.
If you're traveling a little farther, the amazing staff at the hotel can help you catch a cab, or there are numerous SEPTA bus and train stops in the immediate area, too!
2. The Accommodations
We opted to stay in their Suites on 5, which is a tower adjacent to the main hotel building. Two queen beds with luxurious bedding, a gorgeous bathroom and a kitchenette area that also included a second flat screen TV and a pullout sofa bed. The kitchenette housed a sink, microwave and even a dishwasher!
It was nice to have a second area to relax since the kids went to bed early, so the adults could talk and watch TV without having to worry about waking them.
The entire hotel underwent a major renovation less than five years ago, and is entirely non-smoking.
3. The Amenities
We happened to be staying on the floor with their nice fitness center, indoor pool and access to a roof deck which offers beatiful views of the city.
The hotel also has two different dining options. Balcony, which sits on the mezzanine overlooking the beautiful lobby with its huge window views of the city, and Standing O, which is right in the lobby. The breakfast buffet at Balcony was delicious! Waffles, pancakes, fruit, eggs, cereal - anything my kids could imagine. It was an extremely convenient way to start the day without having to search for nearby breakfast options.
4. The Staff
Bellmen who say hello upon entrance. Housekeeping staff that smiles in the hallways. An amazing server who has great patience with kids. The front desk employee who checked us in and provided city maps and information on the Philly PHLASH and holiday sights easily upon request. That's who I encountered during our quick overnight stay. It's an easy way to make a tourist feel right at home!
Whether you're traveling with the kids, looking for an overnight getaway with your significant other, or traveling for business, give the Doubletree Center City a try!
Visit the Doubletree by Hilton Hotel Philadelphia Center City website or call them at 215-893-1600.
Disclosure: I received a discounted rate to facilitate this review. However, all opinions expressed are my own.
