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The Independent Hotel
Category: Event Planning & Services Hotels Hotels & Travel Hotels Hotels [Edit]
1234 Locust StPhiladelphia, PA 19107
Neighborhood: Washington Square West
(215) 772-1440
- Price Range:
-
$$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- Free
28 reviews for The Independent Hotel
Review Highlights
"Wine and cheese in the lobby."
(in 5 reviews)
"Continental breakfast was great - they have a great spread..."
(in 3 reviews)
"Lots of interesting restaurants within walking distance."
(in 3 reviews)
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28 reviews in English
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Review from Jessica P.
Phoenix, AZ
12/29/2011
I am native to the Philadelphia area but have relocated to Phoenix, AZ. On my last trip home to PA, I decided to spend one night in the city for old time's sake. After combing through a long list of hotels (I'm from the area, so I'm pretty picky!), I chose The Independent Hotel. I am so glad I did! Here are the top reasons why I loved my stay:
1. The hotel is a quaint historic B & B in central Philadelphia. I was very excited to stay in a historic hotel but slightly nervous that I wouldn't have the modern conveniences that I'm used to having in larger chains. This was not the case at all. The hotel had a cozy lobby stocked with wine and coffee. My room was large, spacious and clean. I had a big comfortable bed with huge pillows. There was a big flat-screen TV, coffee maker, microwave and empty mini-fridge (I could actually use it to store some of the goodies I'd brought). The bathroom was large, bright, and spotless. It was stocked with toiletries and had a nice hair dryer.The only thing I was bummed about was the lack of bath tub! On one of the floors is a business center with two computers, a fax and a scanner. There is also free Wi-Fi available. :) I had the perfect blend of quaint historic charm and modern convenience!
2. Location: The hotel has an amazing location. At 12th and Locust, it is in a residential area with cobble stone streets and little alleyways filled with cozy restaurants and bars. I am a walker, so I loved its central location: easy walks to the historic areas, convention centers, Chestnut/Walnut St. shopping, etc. I took several walks throughout my short stay and used the hotel as my mid-point home base. At the end of the night, I topped off my stay with a drink at one of the local bars located right around the corner.
3. Value: My room was $115 with tax - a price that I thought was a sweet deal considering it was Philadelphia during holiday season. The hotel offered complimentary wine and cheese tastings for all guests in the evening. There is also a coffee bar set up in the lobby- hot coffee and cocoa all day and night long! Breakfast was also included in the price of the room. It wasn't a hot buffet, but I had orange juice, a Kashi granola bar, an apple and a Greek yogurt delivered to my room in the morning. Not a bad way to start my day! So, $115 for a hotel room, unlimited coffee, breakfast and complimentary happy hour? Done!
If you want a fun Philadelphia experience and an excellent value hotel, stay here :) I'm definitely going to come back again on my next trip home. -
Review from Stacy Y.
12/10/2011
The Independent is such a lovely little hotel!
The most impressive thing about this place is the feeling of home. While hanging out in our hotel room, I felt like I was just lounging at a friend's home. I did not feel like I was at a hotel and that sure is a nice a little perk.
The room and GIANT bed were very comfortable. The bathroom was a nice size (shower stall was a little awkward, but hey, it's an old building!). The staff was extremely friendly and helpful.
My favorite little perk was the breakfast delivery. You choose what you'd like (fruit, packaged muffins, cereal, etc.) and they drop it off as a little care package each morning.
If I find myself in Philly again, I would definitely come back to The Independent.
Chicago Comparison: Ray's Bucktown Bed & Breakfast if it were located in Boystown (and not Bucktown).Listed in: Philly...Through the eyes of a…
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Review from Madi B.
Bronx, NY
11/27/2011 1 Check-in Here
1.Location, so...so. Subway is close, and its almost in the middle of downtown.
2.Room. It was very clean. There were two windows in our room, which I was happy about cuz the lighting in the room is very dark, but as soon as I opened the windows, its windows facing another windows of an old abandoned building... so the room remained dark with unsightly view. The bathroom is huge, but no bathtub? kinda weird lay out.
No double lock. I don't feel safe enough, no safe where I can hide valuables. Closet is very tiny.
Breakfast is provided, which I think is cool, its a room delivery.
Would I come back? Maybe. Would I recommend this place to my friends? Maybe. -
Review from Tony L.
4/15/2011 3 Check-ins Here
I came here with my girlfriend for a one-night stay in Philly. And I have to say, the Independent Hotel is pretty cool. It's conveniently located to restaurants and sites. And from the damask wallpaper to the three-story mural at the front desk, you know this place has a little edge as soon as you step into the lobby.
Our room was spacious, the recessed lighting gave the a spa-like glow, and extras like DIRECTV access, free coffee and tea in the lobby, and free breakfast menus scored major points.
Sure, there were a few imperfections. Like the light in the bathroom that breathed on and off, or the headboard that gave a little squeak every time you jumped in bed. Every now and then you'd spot a splash of paint along the tiles or the crown molding that suggested a hasty makeover. Sure--I'm nitpicking a little--but for a hotel focused on aesthetic detail, it stands out.
Overall the Independent definitely lives up to its name--it's distinctive charm and quirky personality make it a unique choice for travelers. -
Review from Laura S.
This is a small boutique hotel that exceeded my expectations. We stayed in a room on the second floor (the first floor is the entrance with an elevator to the second floor where the lobby and reception are), and it was actually quite spacious. In fact, the queen sized bed seemed to look small in the room.
The staff were always friendly and hospitable, the bed was comfy, the bathroom was nice with a lot of counter space, and there's a wine and cheese reception nightly. Breakfast was included in our stay. You check off a list of things you want from a sheet and place it outside your door. They leave your items at your requested time in a little basket, which was a nice touch.
Since we were facing the street and on a low floor, we did have some noise disturbance at night but it wasn't unbearable and I ended up sleeping well regardless...though I am a bit hesitant to say that it wouldn't bother people, as I was experiencing severe jet lag, having just arrived back in the US from a month-long trip to Asia, and would crash just about anywhere anyway. Also, ladies, be forewarned that they don't have conditioner in their toiletries. A slight annoyance, but I should have brought some from home I suppose. -
Review from Gina T.
Sterling, VA
10/20/2010
We made reservations a month ago. Arrived at approx 9pm to the thump, thump, thump of the bass. There is a nightclub below the hotel.
We go up to the second floor reception area where we are greeted by a staff member who checked us in. We noted while in the reception area that the "house music" could still be heard. Then we noted that our room was on the second floor. We asked if the sound could be heard in the room and was told that it could - but the hotel was full and it was only room left. He went on to say that there was nothing they could do about as it was a 'lease issue'.
Really?
While the room is decorated nicely and the hotel has a cool vibe to it - I don't understand the practice of selling a space to sleep for several hundred dollars that is surrounded by a street corner, nightclub and elevator. We were unable to go to sleep until after 2am (on a Tuesday evening) when the DJ and his musical skills ended - at which point we then were able to hear the street (and the hookers on the corner) as well as the ice maker and elevator in the hall.
At check in we were told the business center was on the fourth floor - I was tempted to take my pillow and blanket and head there for some sleep. I am sure it would be more quiet. Perhaps management could consider turning room 201 into the business center instead of charging people for such a disasasterous night's sleep. And by sleep, I mean tossing and turning and praying you can ignore the "last call" from below.....
Never again. And seriously, unless you can confirm that you won't get stuck on the 2nd floor I wouldn't want to gamble on this place. A reservation weeks in advance is obviously not enough. -
Review from Jane S.
Denver, CO
10/10/2010 5 Check-ins Here
After a completely miserable travel experience, I walked into my hotel room at the Independent....and let out a sigh of relief.
Have you ever walked into a hotel room and just kind of felt blah? Or "ugh"? Well not here. Yes, the rooms are small and cozy, but they have a terrific feeling to them. I was so happy staying here and if I come back, I would never stay anywhere else.
First, I got a great deal on this hotel through Expeda; so if you can, check there first for a discount.
Second, the staff were all incredibly nice. Because there are not many rooms, they know who everyone is and will usually greet you by name. There is no restaurant in the hotel but it doesn't matter because there are a ton of places to eat.
Here is my list of plusses:
-Great location. Near train stops and in a great part of town that feels safe
-Tons of restaurants within a 5 minute walk
-Down the street from Thomas Jefferson University and Medical Center
-Free continental breakfast that includes yogurt, fruit, cereal/muffin/granola bar that is perfect to take with you for a snack as you explore the city
-SUPREMELY comfy beds
-Great iron with full ironing board and hairdryer
-DirecTV with a ton of channels
-Good in-room climate control
-Wine and cheese in the lobby
The only minus for me was that the shower was really small. The water pressure was fantastic and the temperature was spot on, but it was a little hard to shave my legs; I felt like i was on a cruise ship. But knowing that in advance, I will be mentally prepared next time.
I would stay here again in a heartbeat. -
Review from Victor C.
3/31/2009
** Bookmarking my FTR -- which is acceptable, because I am staying here now (4-night stay), and will be writing my final review upon check out.
Intro (draft): The Sofitel used to comfortably sit at the top of my list of "Best Philly Hotels to Stay At". However, the Sofitel very well may be facing some stiff competition.
-------------------
Post-Stay Update:
As the First to Review, I will try to be as thorough as possible.
Located on the corner of 13th/Locust, this 24 room boutique hotel was quite a find. I believe it recently opened (early/mid 2008), hence the lack of Yelp reviews. The entrance consists of a simple elevator in a simply decorated "lobby" area. The registration/lounge area is located on the 2nd floor. Floor 3-5 require a key to access at all time (front door after 10pm), which is a nice safety feature.
My room (queen bed) located on the 3rd floor was nicely appointed. The bed was very comfortable, wired/wireless internet is available in the room, and a ~32" LCD TV with Direct TV (WITH A DVR) were some of the amenities in the room. The bathroom was quite spacious; although the shower stall was a bit smaller, it did have dual shower heads (similar to what you'd find at a Westin). The only thing I would've liked was an option to brighten up the room a bit more, to help me keep my shirts wrinkle-free).
Everything Else: Complimentary continental breakfast (bagels, pastries, cereal, OJ, Apple Juice, Coffee, and milk). Evening: Wine and cheese. CHEAP downtown parking ($15/day at EZ Park) half a block away.
Conclusion: I'd definitely come back again. -
Review from Ann L.
New York, NY
1/26/2010
I stayed here during an overnight visit to Philly, and really enjoyed my time there. It is conveniently located and really charming - I think it may be family owned, but whatever it is, the service we got from Jason there was superb and heart-warmingly friendly. Refreshing after leaving NY for a weekend away.
You have to take the elevator up to the 2nd floor, but all the rest of the floors are key-operated for the guests' safety. Nice. They've got a warm fireplace going with comfy chairs, free coffee, hot chocolate, tea, and fruits for guests to enjoy around the lobby area. And right where you check in, there is this AMAZING piece of art that spans the 2nd floor to the 4th or 5th floor, especially designed for the hotel and that depicts the hotel's logo. So beautiful! The place is really recently opened; it used to be a hotel and before that, a printing press, so Jason explained that every room is really different in character because of it.
Our space was really nice, spacious bathroom and all the normal amenities, including free wifi. The only downsides - you can tell (maybe because its a 3-star hotel) that the sheets were worn and thin, as were the pillows. The night time person was also somewhat unhelpful when we couldn't get our pay-per-view movie to work, but *shrug* it was okay.
They also have a hang-on-the-door card that you mark to indicate your breakfast choices - its all packaged stuff (juice, blueberry muffin, piece of fruit, and yogurt or nature valley bar), but the gesture was nice nonetheless and Jason was the one who actually delivered it.
Would definitely stay there again and highly recommended. -
Review from Lou P.
4/6/2010
Discreet location
Avoid Broad Street, come stay here
Comfy, compact rooms
The Independent is great, especially because it costs less than the huge hotels a block away. It offers more of a city feel too, entering right from the street. It feels like you're walking into an apartment building and not a hotel. The building itself has a small footprint, just an awning and a small, unassuming facade. It's almost like an excuse me didn't see you there sort of experience if you don't know what you're looking for.
Once inside, there is nothing save for a mirror and elevator. The lobby on second floor opens up to all floors, displaying a huge mural of city hall covered in sunlight from the windows above. The interior of the hotel at times can feel cramped, but the lobby area is very welcoming and open (as oen as a city building can be.) The staff was very friendly on check in, and we had no problems throughout the weekend.
The rooms themselves are small, but make great use of the space with high ceilings and indirect lighting. Even in the smallest studio rooms, there is a huge mirror (like 7 feet high), dresser, closet, nightstand and desk.
The bathroom is huge, with a stone floor and glass stall. Of course, the water pressure was excellent, which is always a bonus.
As far as other amenities, there is parking available as part of a weekend package, otherwise you're on your own. It's a city, so there are plenty of lots nearby, just expect to pay a bundle if you don't have that pass. -
Review from Angel W.
6/18/2010
The main reason I am giving this hotel 4 stars is the location! You cannot go wrong with this part of town. It is central to everything and there are tons of amazing restaurants within one block in every direction.
As for the hotel, it's a nice place. It's not a full service hotel. For instance there is no room service which is sometimes needed if you are on business travel but there are nearby places to eat. They usually have one person manning the desk so if that person is away you will need to wait. They don't have maid service if you are staying there multiple days. It has the feel of staying at a friends home, but a nice home at that. The staff is very friendly and knowledgeable.
The rooms are nice. They are definitely decorated in a more masculine tone than a feminine one (lots of brown). The room was a tad dark and a little loud b/c of the neighboring bars. The temperature was nice. The shower is small but has a great showerhead with strong water pressure.
I am not so used to city living so it was a little bit of an adjustment to walk around with people hanging out on the streets. I was guaranteed that this area is super safe even though at times it felt a bit intimidating.
Driving can be difficult b/c of the one way streets in this area. The hotel has an arrangement with a nearby parking lot for $15 per night with in/out privileges. If you turn on Locust Street, it's not the covered garage but the parking lot that says "Park" that is directly after the covered garage. It's not the lot directly across from the hotel (it's before you reach the hotel). This is important to know bc there are so many one way streets and if you miss it you will have to keep driving in circles and people dart in and out of the road so quickly, making for a dangerous drive at night, so it's best to figure this out the first time. Also do not let the stinky parking attendant park your car. He was in my car for 5 seconds flat and my car smelled for hours.
Anyways, I would recommend this hotel. I had a nice stay and thoroughly enjoyed the area. -
Review from Chris M.
Norwalk, CT
6/15/2011
So, the good on the Independent is that the rooms are huge compared to most hotels and the high ceilings add to their large feel. The bed is incredibly comfortable. Amenities are good, including speedy free wifi and the hardwood floors lend a really nice touch (and cut down on athlete's foot!).
The breakfast was a little bit of a letdown after reading other reviews: a piece of fruit, juice, cereal, granola bar or oatmeal, and a shrink-wrapped muffin (Otis Spunkmyer). There were a few other drawbacks: threadbare towels in the bathroom, a few minor housekeeping issues (wipe the drip tray on the shower door with bleach, please!), and the aforementioned nightclub downstairs. Also, the TV in my room was uncomfortably perched on top of a tall dresser with a DirecTV box dangled in front of everything - it all seemed a little jury-rigged.
For the rate, however, The Independent was good enough - about three-stars worth. -
Review from Kurt S.
Chicago, IL
1/22/2010
We really liked this hotel.
It is located within stumbling distance of Monk's Cafe. Breakfast is included and left at your door at the specified time in a cute little basket - so none of that awkward "room service entering your room while you're in the robe and not leaving until they are tipped" nonsense.
The decor was simple but upscale - rich wood floors, lovely curtains, a delightful bed. The bathroom was large and well equipped.
This is another hotel that provides free bottled water (this time two mini bottles waiting in the fridge).
The staff were polite and competent for the brief interactions we had with them.
Don't be put off by the odd elevator lobby and reception being on the second floor. A little oasis in the heart of Philly awaits you. -
Review from Kim P.
Pasadena, CA
6/30/2009
Only spent one night here, but this place made me happy. I had to be in Philly for a conference at the convention center, but I hate staying in the McChain type of hotels. The neighborhood was great -- local and funky, but within walking distance of the convention center and Redding Market. I got one of those half price Travelzoo deals and felt lucky.
Beautiful room, plenty of space, fabulous bathroom, top floor. Nice shampoo! Even with the windows closed, there was some bar noise drifting up the back wall after hours, but hey -- it was a lovely summer Saturday night, and the lead up to Gay Pride week, which seemed to be a highly relevant celebration in the neighborhood.
I found the staff to be professional and courteous. The desk clerk gamely spent at least 15 minutes searching for an appropriate dinner spot for my party of 5 vegetarian colleagues. (We were hoping for something - anything - that had more than 1 vegetarian entree on the menu. No luck of course, but that is a subject for another review.)
This would have been five stars, but for the breakfast. You order from a list the night before and they bring it to your door at the hour you decide. Sounds great! I was excited, until it arrived -- General Foods artificially flavored, pre-sweetened microwave "oatmeal," inedible "light and fit" yogurt full of chemicals, and sorry, we're all out of apples and bananas. Ick!
For a hotel of this caliber, I would like to see some food with style that is to the taste of the sort of person who drops big bucks on this stuff. At the very least, how about a "real" microwaveable oatmeal packet containing just oatmeal, and some raw sugar packets, and maybe a little pitcher of cream? I realize the issue may be packaging -- perhaps the hotel doesn't have a kitchen or something and therefore can't wash dishes. But we really found it insulting.
Anyway, The Independent is a terrific bet. -
Review from Joe L.
Arlington, VA
7/12/2009
We paid $200/night for a room on a weekend, which is probably a decent if not spectacular price for this a pretty nice hotel in a pretty nice part of Philly. Our room was quite large, and had a king size bed; but our friends, who paid exactly the same, had a very small room with a queen size bed. What's up with that? The rooms are pretty cool...nice furniture, beds, etc.
Good central location (especially if you're gay, which I'm not, not that there's anything wrong with that). Lots of interesting restaurants within walking distance.
There is not much of a lobby...to get to the lobby you go in the 1st floor, and take the elevator to the 2nd floor, which feels strange. They're pretty tight on security, which is probably a good idea, given the neighborhood. The lady behind the desk when we checked in was very not helpful--another desk clerk was much better.
The "free" breakfast is just some packaged stuff. I guess they have wine on weekdays, but not on weekends (the 1st desk clerk told us they had wine on weekdays...even though she knew we were just there for the weekend).
I don't think we'll be going back. Not because it was really "bad"...I just have a feeling we can do better next time. If I was on a business trip, and wasn't paying, and this was near where I needed to be...I might go. -
Review from greg j.
Brooklyn, NY
4/7/2009
Pricey but definately worth the price... one word.. location.. second word.. location.. third word... well you get where I'm going with this right?
a stone's throw from a great restaurant and antique district.. park your car and hoof it my friends... you'll discover a neat little spot somewhere..
its for the adults who want to play dress up.. the vibe is both classic with some moderinism touches... the staff were responsive..and easy breezy.. check in and check out were no problem..
the bed comy..... ipod dock to next to the bed.. flat screens with HD t.v.... bathrooms with dual shower heads... and HUGE... I was comfy.. and relaxed... and with a touch of elegant.... with that boutique appeal...
Play dress up.... and enjoy a nice weekend at the Independent.. you'll thank me later... -
Review from jillian t.
Hancock Park, CA
4/10/2009
I *heart* this hotel. I picked up a Travelzoo special (a $119 plus-tax room) and booked myself for a night at the Independent a couple days ago. I found out I had an extra night in Philadelphia earlier this week, and figured, why not? The price was solid, the neighborhood has lots to do within walking distance, and the hotel website showed photos of a charming, revitalized building.
I'm so glad I chose this place to stay. It's rare that I get to stay in a non-chain hotel - I travel for business a lot, and only last night. I was in a Holiday Inn in the Atlanta suburbs. Ugh. Now, I'm sitting in a small, tasteful hotel room, with soft gold walls and rich-looking wood furniture. All the furniture (including the secretary-style desk) is either stained cherry or dark brown, the curtains are made of classically patterned raised damask, and the beautiful hardwood floors are perfectly restored. It's a classic room, with high ceilings and a bathroom complete with soft gold towels and robes.
Oh, and did I mention the amenities? There's a fridge and microwave in here - hiding in a corner, of course. There's FREE WI-FI. There will be breakfast in the morning. The hotel also gives out passes to the 12th St Gym around the corner. Oh, and also: parking here is $15 at the lot a half block away.
I've actually been spending most of today in my room catching up on work, so having a beautiful environment to work in has been a godsend. But twice today, I've ventured out: once to get caffeine at Brew-Ha-Ha, once to get a fresh load of fiction paperbacks at Borders by City Hall. And both times I've loved going outside to walk, because there are so many people enjoying themselves in this neighborhood! This whole area is full of twenty and thirty-somethings, all hanging out in bars and restaurants and generally having a fine time.
I totally intend to stay here again the next time I come through Philadelphia. I would still gush about this hotel at a higher price point. It's just that nice a place to stay. -
Review from S D.
Manhattan, NY
9/17/2011
Stayed here over New Year's 2010 and had such an amazing time that I'm looking forward to returning! Staff was helpful and kind, room was spacious, modern and comfortable. They even hosted wine & cheese happy hour for their guests. Simple hotel with big city comforts!
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Review from Sue H.
Boulder, CO
1/1/2010
I absolutely loved my short stay at the Independent. I've traveled broadly, stayed at a zillion lux and not-so-lux spots, and worked in the hospitality industry. I haven't had such a wonderful surprise in a long, long time. Not that I expected something bad...just that I'd never heard of this place despite frequent trips to Philly.
In short...get there. It's warm, elegant, cool (alarm clock controls your thermostat!), easy (120 channels of Direct TV and free wireless and great coffee in the morning, and granny smith apples), central, and hip.
Rooms are neat, beds are luxurious, wonderful stories-high mural worth seeing no matter what.
Price more than fair for what you get there. You would think this would be a $400/night spot, and it's not.
Stay here. It's wonderfully 'independent' and on par with the highest standards of everything you'd want for business or leisure travel. -
Review from Matt C.
San Francisco, CA
5/31/2009
The room was nice and the neighborhood was good. For the money though, I would have to complain about a few things:
- The front desk guy when we got there (5-30-09 at about noon) was kind of a jerk. He seemed put out by being asked if we could check in early. I understand if that's not possible. That is not the problem, but to be borderline rude about things is just not OK with me when I am spending $300+ on a room after taxes etc.
- Maybe I am spoiled being from CA, but when I think of a breakfast being included, I don't think of microwave-yourself oatmeal, plastic bottles of OJ, and such exotic fruits as apples.
- The room we stayed in had apparently been trashed by someone before who stole the iPod docking station and broke one of the lamps and the handle to the closet by the front door.
I would recommend this place to people that are (for lack of a better term) "Old Money/Country Club" types and who are used to people that work the front desk who haven't seen their own feet in years because their nose is stuck so high in the air. Seriously, I have never been treated so badly by someone holding an entry level position in my life. If this isn't your cup of tea, do what I'm going to do next time I'm in Philly and stay a few blocks to the East in a hotel that is closer to Washington Sq park. I hear the neighborhood is slightly less snooty there. It could hardly get any worse. -
Review from Jessie B.
Joppa, MD
3/20/2010
The Independent Hotel was the best experience that I've ever had in a hotel. The staff was incredibly helpful and welcoming from the time I made the reservation to the time we checked out and asked for recommendations for brunch!
We stayed there two weeks ago and have already booked our next trip to Philly. Of course we will be staying at The Independent Hotel again! -
Review from Laura B.
Philadelphia, PA
11/30/2009
First of all, the room I stayed in was nothing like the pictures that are posted. It was dark and awkwardly arranged. The lighting really is terrible, and the one tiny window in the room was high up and very small. The bathroom light would randomly turn itself on and then flicker between off and on.
The music from the club below is not comforting.
Also, the bed was very, very uncomfortable. Cheap linens, hard mattress, and hard pillows. The music plus the uncomfortable bed meant I didn't get much sleep the two nights I was there.
I wouldn't stay here again. -
Review from Jeffrey C.
Philadelphia, PA
10/6/2009
What a great property! I highly recommend this hotel for a weekend guest who is looking to stay in a more neighborhood setting. The rooms are fantastic. It's not a Ritz-Carlton nor a Holiday Inn. This is a unique property with very friendly staff. The location is in the center of the city - walkable to just about every part of downtown Philadelphia; the location is ideal for those visiting who are looking to stay in the gay friendly part of the city. Fantastic places to eat just steps away. I recommend checking this hotel out!
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Review from Jayn S.
Perkasie, PA
8/1/2009 2 photos
Beautiful, classy hotel. In our room, hardwood floors, iPod docking station, Direct TV w/DVR, free wireless if you have a laptop. If you don't, there is a small business center on the 4th floor with free internet access and free printing. Parking for $15 half a block away. Convenient location to Center City. There is a neat painting of Independence Hall that stretches from the open 2nd floor lobby all the way up to the fifth floor. 24 Hour Front Desk was thorough and helpful in explaining parking, hotel security, and free breakfast options. We got this room for $139 at http://booking.com.
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Review from linda p.
San Francisco, CA
10/4/2009
This is a great hotel: clean, elegant, great location and friendly staff. I stayed there during a biz trip to Philly. My room and bathroom were spacious and comfortable. The wood floors and amenities made it feel homey and upscale. What made it memorable was how accommodating they were. I asked if they could print a preso for me and they said no problem, no charge. Then, I asked if they had any snacks and they offered me an apple and banana, no charge. No nickel and dime-ing. The only con is that they don't offer room service, but they do offer free wine and cheese in the evening and continental-style breakfast in the morning. I'd definitely go back!
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Review from S. D.
Hyannis Port, MA
1/9/2011
We rented 5 rooms in this boutique hotel for a family gathering. The concierge was pleasant, but that's about the only good thing I can say! In two of the rooms, the shower was so moldy that those family members were afraid to use it! Cleaning was minimal. In another of our rooms the shower had NO DOOR! Lighting throughout the hotel is completely inadequate. They have one verrrrry slow elevator that kept taking us to the wrong floor -- once to the basement -- this was so bad that the younger members of our party ended up just taking the emergency staircase. WORST OF ALL...this hotel is right above a nightclub, so if you are on the first two floors all you'll hear is THUMP, THUMP, THUMP of nightclub sounds till the wee morning, so forget sleeping. Breakfast "included" is a joke: all prepackaged stuff you could buy in a convenience store.
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Review from Megan K.
10/4/2009
its gorgeous. went to its opening party and a out of town friend stayed there, i got caught in a rain storm and the threw my clothes in the dryer!!!! so nice. its like no hotel ive ever stayed in. the decor is outstanding. the staff is super accommodating and friendly. its like they actually like their job. the artwork is breath taking. pop in and check it out. nothing like it in the city.
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Review from Dawn O.
Gardena, CA
5/22/2009
Stayed at the Independent with 3 friends and were extremely satisfied! Got in for a great price, the room was more than enough space, and the bathroom was just as spacious. Continental breakfast was great - they have a great spread in the lobby! Walking distance to a lot of major sites. I would definitely recommend this hotel to friends and anyone looking for a boutique hotel in Philly.
