When planning a trip to Philadelphia, one of the most crucial decisions you’ll make is where to stay. The City of Brotherly Love offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxurious hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts, but not all of them are created equal. Choosing the right neighborhood and type of accommodation can make all the difference in your travel experience. In this article, we’ll explore the best places to stay near Philadelphia, highlighting the top areas to consider, what to expect, and some of the best hotels and accommodations in each neighborhood.
Why Location Matters
Philadelphia is a city with a rich history, vibrant culture, and plenty of things to see and do. However, its neighborhoods can vary greatly in terms of safety, accessibility, and amenities. Staying in the right area can ensure that you’re close to the attractions you want to visit, have access to public transportation, and can enjoy a comfortable and relaxing stay. On the other hand, staying in the wrong area can lead to a frustrating and exhausting experience.
Top Areas to Consider
In this article, we’ll delve into the top areas to stay near Philadelphia, including Center City, University City, Fishtown, and more. We’ll explore the unique character of each neighborhood, its proximity to popular attractions, and the types of accommodations you can expect to find. Whether you’re looking for luxury, budget-friendliness, or something in between, we’ve got you covered.
What to Expect
From boutique hotels to budget-friendly hostels, Philadelphia has a wide range of accommodations to suit every taste and budget. In this article, we’ll provide an overview of what to expect from each neighborhood, including the types of amenities you can expect, the local atmosphere, and the best ways to get around. We’ll also highlight some of the top hotels and accommodations in each area, so you can make an informed decision about where to stay.
Best Places to Stay Near Philadelphia
Philadelphia, the City of Brotherly Love, is a popular tourist destination known for its rich history, vibrant cultural scene, and world-class attractions. However, with so many options available, choosing the right place to stay can be overwhelming. In this article, we’ll explore the best places to stay near Philadelphia, taking into account factors such as proximity, amenities, and budget.
Neighborhoods in Philadelphia
Before we dive into the surrounding areas, let’s take a look at some of the top neighborhoods to stay in within Philadelphia itself:
- Rittenhouse Square: Known for its upscale boutiques, trendy restaurants, and vibrant nightlife, Rittenhouse Square is a popular area to stay for those who want to be in the heart of the action.
- Old City: This historic neighborhood is home to many of Philadelphia’s iconic landmarks, including Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. It’s a great area to stay for history buffs and those who want to be close to the city’s main attractions.
- Fishtown: A trendy neighborhood with a thriving arts scene, Fishtown is a great area to stay for those who want to experience the city’s hipster vibe.
- University City: Home to the University of Pennsylvania and Drexel University, University City is a great area to stay for students, academics, and those who want to be close to the city’s educational institutions.
Suburbs and Surrounding Areas
While staying in Philadelphia itself has its advantages, there are many excellent options in the surrounding suburbs and areas that offer a more laid-back atmosphere, lower prices, and easy access to the city. Here are some of the best places to stay near Philadelphia:
Delaware County
Located just southwest of Philadelphia, Delaware County offers a range of options for those who want to stay outside of the city:
- Media: Known as “America’s Hometown,” Media is a charming suburb with a small-town feel. It’s home to a variety of boutique hotels, B&Bs, and restaurants.
- Upper Darby: A diverse suburb with a mix of urban and suburban areas, Upper Darby offers a range of accommodation options, including budget-friendly hotels and apartments.
- Radnor: An affluent suburb with a strong sense of community, Radnor is home to several high-end hotels and B&Bs, as well as the prestigious Villanova University.
Montgomery County
Located northwest of Philadelphia, Montgomery County offers a range of options for those who want to stay outside of the city: (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Phu Quoc)
- King of Prussia: A bustling suburb with a range of shopping and dining options, King of Prussia is home to several high-end hotels, including the luxurious Valley Forge Casino Resort.
- Conshohocken: A charming suburb with a small-town feel, Conshohocken is home to several boutique hotels and B&Bs, as well as a thriving arts scene.
- Plymouth Meeting: A suburban area with a mix of residential and commercial areas, Plymouth Meeting is home to several budget-friendly hotels and apartments.
New Jersey
Located just across the Delaware River from Philadelphia, New Jersey offers a range of options for those who want to stay outside of the city:
- Camden: A city with a rich history and cultural attractions, Camden is home to several budget-friendly hotels and apartments, as well as the famous Adventure Aquarium.
- Cherry Hill: A suburban area with a mix of residential and commercial areas, Cherry Hill is home to several high-end hotels, including the luxurious Crowne Plaza Philadelphia-Cherry Hill.
- Mount Laurel: A suburban area with a range of accommodation options, Mount Laurel is home to several budget-friendly hotels and apartments, as well as the popular Laurel Acres Park.
Other Options
In addition to the suburbs and surrounding areas mentioned above, there are several other options to consider when looking for a place to stay near Philadelphia:
- Valley Forge: A historic area with a range of accommodation options, Valley Forge is home to several high-end hotels, including the luxurious Valley Forge Casino Resort.
- Lancaster: A charming town with a strong Amish community, Lancaster is a great option for those who want to experience rural Pennsylvania.
- New Hope: A charming town with a thriving arts scene, New Hope is a great option for those who want to experience small-town Pennsylvania.
Accommodation Options
When it comes to accommodation options, there’s something for everyone near Philadelphia:
Hotels
From budget-friendly options like the Red Roof Inn to luxury hotels like the Rittenhouse Hotel, there’s a wide range of hotels to choose from in and around Philadelphia.
B&Bs and Inns
For a more personalized experience, consider staying at a B&B or inn, such as the Thomas Bond House Bed and Breakfast in Philadelphia or the General Warren Inne in Malvern.
Apartment Rentals
For longer stays or for those who want more space, consider renting an apartment through services like Airbnb or VRBO.
Camping
For those who want to get back to nature, consider camping at one of the many campsites in the area, such as the Philadelphia/West Chester KOA. (See Also: Best Places To Stay Chiang Mai)
Getting Around
Getting around Philadelphia and its surrounding areas is relatively easy, with several options available:
Public Transportation
The SEPTA (Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority) system provides bus, trolley, and subway service throughout the city and surrounding areas.
Taxis and Ride-Sharing
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available in Philadelphia and its surrounding areas.
Car Rental
For those who want to explore the surrounding areas, car rental services like Enterprise and Hertz are available at the Philadelphia International Airport and throughout the city.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are many excellent options for places to stay near Philadelphia, each with its own unique character and advantages. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious hotel, a budget-friendly B&B, or a spacious apartment, there’s something for everyone in and around the City of Brotherly Love.
Recap
In this article, we explored the best places to stay near Philadelphia, including neighborhoods within the city, suburbs, and surrounding areas. We also discussed accommodation options, including hotels, B&Bs, apartment rentals, and camping, as well as ways to get around the area. Whether you’re visiting Philadelphia for business or pleasure, we hope this guide has been helpful in planning your trip.
Remember to consider factors such as proximity, amenities, and budget when choosing the right place to stay for your needs. And don’t forget to explore the many attractions and activities that Philadelphia and its surrounding areas have to offer!
Frequently Asked Questions: Best Places to Stay Near Philadelphia
What are the best neighborhoods to stay in near Philadelphia?
Some of the best neighborhoods to stay in near Philadelphia include Fishtown, Northern Liberties, and University City. These neighborhoods offer a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hotels to luxury apartments, and are within close proximity to the city center and major attractions. (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Ireland)
Are there any good options for families with kids?
Yes, there are many family-friendly options near Philadelphia. Consider staying in the suburbs of King of Prussia or Valley Forge, which offer a range of hotels and resorts with amenities such as pools and game rooms. You can also look into vacation rentals in neighborhoods like Fairmount or Art Museum, which offer more space and amenities for families.
What are some budget-friendly options for staying near Philadelphia?
If you’re on a tight budget, consider staying in nearby cities like Camden, NJ, or Wilmington, DE. These cities offer more affordable accommodation options, including hostels and budget hotels, and are within easy commuting distance to Philadelphia. You can also look into staying in a neighborhood like South Philly, which offers more affordable options than the city center.
Can I stay in a nearby town and still easily access Philadelphia?
Absolutely! Many nearby towns, such as West Chester, PA, and Media, PA, offer easy access to Philadelphia via public transportation or car. These towns often have more affordable accommodation options and a charming small-town atmosphere, making them a great alternative to staying in the city center.
What are some unique accommodation options near Philadelphia?
If you’re looking for something more than a standard hotel room, consider staying in a boutique hotel, such as the Alexander Inn in Fishtown, or a bed and breakfast, like the Thomas Bond House in Old City. You can also look into vacation rentals, such as a converted warehouse loft or a historic row home, for a more unique and immersive experience.