You deserve a vacation.
But, with the effects of the pandemic still looming, a vacation might seem out of the question. You’re not totally out of luck, though. Philadelphia is a city full of opportunities for locals, but also for tourists… so why not be both?
Let’s paint a picture: It’s the weekend and you’re packing a suitcase, you have a full agenda ahead of you including a place to stay, reservations at some hot new bars and eateries, massage and beauty treatments peppered in there and also time set aside to check out the cultural opportunities that Philadelphia has to offer. It sounds fantastic, but it can be made a reality and it’s actually really easy to do with Marriot Bonvoy, who recently has been encouraging Philadelphians to “press play” on travel by staying in your own backyard.
There are a few spots to choose from around the city—The Notary Hotel takes a historic look at updated fixtures (especially with the new luxurious additions to The Autograph), the Philadelphia Marriott Downtown who recently just underwent renovations, the Element Philadelphia which offers a swanky and chic staycation experience at affordable rates, or the newly opened W Philadelphia, which is a whole new ballgame when it comes to hotels in the city.
Where you stay is important so a little research can go a long way. But with some venues located just a short walk/drive or even on top of each other (looking at you Element and The W), you can actually cater your services easily. Think of it as having a buffet of options from different spots all at your fingertips.
Perhaps the most notable to date of Marriott’s options is the newly opened W Hotel. Located on top and to the side of the Element on Chestnut Street right in the heart of Center City, both establishments offer views of some of the most notable Philly icons. But with The W, you get a unique deal with their mega suite having the only balcony in a hotel throughout the whole city.
But, if you’re balling on a budget, even the typical rooms have fixtures that were set with care. Being a W Hotel, each city serves as the inspiration for the buildings, and the touches of Philly have been spread throughout The W in an ultra chic way. You see it in the design, in the flare and even with the elements brought in from PAFA students and the Fabrics Museum. The experience’s nightcap is certainly its food and beverage as well: The Library located in the lobby of the hotel gives off a swanky and stylish approach to a lobby bar but even more so when you take in the small details. Then, there’s Dolce. Think Italian cuisine with handcrafted pastas, signature pizzas and gelatos galore… and the food only barely outshines the ambiance, which is as impressive as the hotel.
Over at the Element, the vibes are just as high but in more of a clean-cut, we really aren’t in Philadelphia any more kind of way—which is perfect when looking for a staycation. Maybe you’re in New York for a show, maybe you’re in LA for a movie premiere while here… the point is when you staycation it can be anything you make of it—until you get in your room of course. Once in your room, the views of the City of Brotherly Love are sweeping, so you’re right back to being the prideful Philadelphian that loves their city.
A little more homegrown and a little easier on the wallet is also fairly easy to achieve. The Sheraton Philadelphia Downtown has its own hat in the race when it comes to location. Being just a few steps from the Fairmount and Museum of Art district, reserving some activities through Marriott Bonvoy’s website is an easy accompaniment when staying here. The restaurant and cafe, both located in the lobby, also serve as having great food and drink options.
But, what’s a stop in Philadelphia without checking out Old City? It has always been a fan favorite for the mix of history, culture and dining. When it comes to the latter, the Franklin Social Kitchen & Bar at the Renaissance Philadelphia Downtown Hotel offers a dining experience full of flavor and culture. The space feels perfect for the locale with historic fixtures and a clean execution, while the food and drink serve as a wonderful vehicle to experience it all with. It’s upscale American cuisine with a seasonal and unique touch.
While in that area of the city through the website offered, you can type in your number and schedule activities—perhaps places you haven’t been before such as the Museum of the American Revolution (who recently just opened a brand new exhibit and will be celebrating Occupied Philadelphia soon) or even a sunset cruise through the Delaware River with Patriot Harbor Lines. The activities don’t just stop with Old City—those looking to take a tour of their own city can also head to the Magic Gardens, Museum of Art or dozens upon dozens of other options around the City of Brotherly Love.
To learn more, visit marriott.com
