Where to Stay for a Philadelphia Convention

If you’re coming to the City of Brotherly Love for some kind of conference, where should you stay near the Philadelphia convention center? Which are the best hotels?

That was a question that delegates at a past Democratic Party convention in the U.S. had to ask when it was time to gather and Philadelphia has hosted a lot of big conventions since. The choice is, stay near the Philadelphia Convention Center or stay near where other events may be happening.

The big Wells Fargo Center arena is in a sports complex area that’s home to more parking than attractions and hotels. Since the Flyers and 76ers play in that building and the Phillies and Eagles are in different structures nearby, this is normally a dead zone when it’s not game day. The convention center area is more lively, bordered by plenty to do and see.

If the Wells Fargo Center doesn’t sound familiar, it may be because it has gone through more names than Sean Combs has tried on. It was Spectrum II prior to construction, then the CoreStates Center, First Union Center, and Wachovia Center. (Hint to corporations: there’s often a curse that comes when you take over naming rights of a sports facility. The latest being FTX in Miami…)

Here’s where you may be bedding down in Philly.

Philadelphia Hotels Near the Wells Fargo Center

Philly sports fans aren’t known as the most refined bunch, so the options for those who want to walk instead of coming in a taxi or bus are routine mid-range places.

Holiday Inn Philadelphia Stadium – A (usually) reasonably priced and comfortable option steps away from the action.

Courtyard Philadelphia South at the Navy Yard – Just next to the sports stadiums, this option is easy walking distance to the Wells Fargo Center.

There’s also a Ramada-affiliated Penrose Hotel Philadelphia a mile away, but since “31% of guests recommend” on Expedia, you might want to skip that and go another exit or two toward the airport.

Philadelphia Airport Area Hotels

The Philadelphia Airport is actually a short hop by car from the sports stadiums complex, so many visitors end up taking advantage of the wide assortment of hotels there. This is important to keep in mind if you’re even in town for a game: you can be at your hotel a few minutes after getting your luggage but be close to the action. Many are suite hotels or budget options. Here are some of the full-facility options:

Aloft Philadelphia Airport – The most stylish option in the area, Hyatt’s answer to W has a hopping bar and lounge area.

Doubletree by Hilton Philadelphia Airport – This biz traveler favorite that’s part of Hilton has plush rooms and a business floor. And who doesn’t like a chocolate chip cookie at check-in?

Philadelphia Airport Marriott – This 15-story, 419-room convention hotel is everything you’d expect in a predictable Marriott and will likely be buzzing with red state liberals in July.

Philadelphia Convention Center and Historic Philly

If you’ve got a hefty expense account or you can manage to cash in some points, you can take things upscale in the city center and find a higher level of rooms and service. You’ll not only be in the heart of the city action, but you’ll also be close to the convention center. 

Kimpton Hotel Palomar and Hotel Monaco Philadelphia – Although Kimpton is now owned by the IHG International hotel group, they’ve managed to keep you feeling like a VIP with style. Both of these top-rated hotels are known for superlative service that makes them ready for picky VIPs.

Sofitel Philadelphia – This elegant outlet of the French Accor group is impeccable and well-located near Rittenhouse Square.

Warwick Hotel Rittenhouse Square – Located in a historic building a short stroll from the Liberty Bell, this place will make the Washington insiders feel right at home.

The Rittenhouse Hotel – This legendary property is considered the top 5-star hotel in the city and has been a AAA 5-diamond hotel for 30+ years. The top suite goes for four grand a night and the presidential suite is so much it’s unlisted, so I’d put my money on the first family being there come convention time.

Round-up by editor Tim Leffel, photos courtesy of the individual hotels.