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Philly’s University City neighborhood occupies the easternmost section of West Philadelphia directly across the Schuylkill River from Center City’s Fitler Square and Logan Square neighborhoods.
True to its name, University City is known as home to the University of Pennsylvania (aka Penn) and Drexel University (as well as a few other smaller higher education institutions). But it’s also a center of commerce as the city’s up-and-coming “second downtown,” surrounding the Cira Centre area, the under-construction Schuylkill Yards campus and William H. Gray III 30th Street Station.
So whether in town for campus activities (a college visit, dorm move-in day, or a game at Franklin Field or The Palestra) or on business, there are plenty of great amenity-filled hotel rooms and luxurious suites available in University City.
Co-mingling with some of Philly’s best apartment residences, the ultra-luxury studio, one-bedroom, two-bedroom and penthouse hotel suites of AKA University City (on the upper floors of Cira Centre South) offer high ceilings, spa-like marble baths, open kitchens and prime views of the city. But the real magic happens on the amenity-filled private floor housing the Level28 lifestyle club, which offers a 72-foot “pool in the sky,” a state-of-the-art Technogym wellness center, a private lounge, a 3D golf simulator and more. Bonus: Guests get direct access to the stunning 12-story-high Cira Green urban park on the adjoining rooftop.
Where: AKA University City, 2929 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA
Situated northwest of the University of Pennsylvania campus near a swath of off-campus housing, dining and retail, the Homewood Suites by Hilton University City is an all-suite West Philly hotel offering fully equipped kitchens with a refrigerator and two televisions. Whether during college move-in, visitation or anytime, guests can enjoy amenities like a lobby fireplace, a 24-hour fitness center, a relaxing hot tub and an indoor heated pool. Start the day with a free daily breakfast and cap off your day with a complimentary evening social (Mondays through Thursdays).
Where: Homewood Suites by Hilton University City, 4109 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA
Across the street from world famous Penn Live Arts (formerly The Annenberg Center) and attached to the University of Pennsylvania bookstore, the Inn at Penn — a AAA Four-Diamond Award-winner every year since 2002 — offers beautifully appointed rooms with complementary iPads and luxurious bath products, and amenities like a 24-hour fitness center and two fireplaces. But definitely come for the food. Located on-site are farm-to-table breakfast spot The University Club, small-bite and premium cocktail lounge Living Room, stylish French-inspired bistro Louie Louie and upscale Japanese cuisine at Pod from iconic Philly restaurateur Stephen Starr.
Where: The Inn at Penn, a Hilton Hotel, 3600 Sansom Street, Philadelphia, PA
Located directly north of \University of Pennsylvania sites like the Van Pelt-Dietrich Library, the Houston Hall student union, the Perelman Quadrangle and the Blanche P. Levy Park, the pooch-friendly Sheraton Philadelphia University City Hotel is central to everything Penn. The property’s 300 spacious guest rooms and suites feature signature beds and modern amenities, along with a 24-hour high-tech fitness center and an outdoor seasonal pool and deck. And when it’s time for a bite, visit the on-site Sang Kee Noodle House, an area favorite and casually chic Chinese bistro and bar serving Asian cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Where: Sheraton Philadelphia University City Hotel, 3549 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA
The Study brand specializes in hotels adjacent to campuses, so expect a collegiate-tailored experience when visiting The Study at University City, situated between the campuses of the University of Penn and Drexel University. Enjoy 200 lavish naturally lit guest rooms with feather-topped beds, imported linens, window-facing desks and a 50-inch television. Amenities at the minimalist luxury hotel include a fitness center (with studio classes), the lobby “living room” with a cafe and comfy seating, and an on-site art gallery featuring local and student artists. Lastly, enjoy dining at the urban farm-to-table CO-OP Restaurant and Bar.
Where: The Study at University City, 20 S. 33rd Street, Philadelphia, PA
While technically not located in University City, the luxurious private live-work-play Fitler Club is just a five-minute walk across the Schuylkill River from the West Philly neighborhood. Inside, the 14 boutique suites of The Rooms at Fitler Club are open to non-members, featuring contemporary furnishings and lavish bathrooms. Guests also have access to the same superb amenities as members, including a game room with bowling lanes, a 75-foot lap pool, a gym with Peloton bikes, a luxury salon spa and more, plus three eateries: seasonal American cuisine in The Dining Room, all-day Bar + Lounge and the speakeasy-style Back Bar.
Where: The Rooms at Fitler Club, 24 S. 24th Street, Philadelphia, PA
The only way to fully experience Philly? Stay over.
Book the Visit Philly Overnight Package and get free hotel parking and priceless peace of mind.