The hype
Travelers love the 'City Hall View' rooms and the grand lobby, but mixed feelings on the destination fee value.
The Notary Hotel, Autograph Collection
$200-300/ night
Book this if You want to sleep inside a piece of history right next to City Hall without sacrificing modern Marriott reliability.
Why People Love It
- Unbeatable Center City location steps from Reading Terminal Market
- Historic 1920s architecture with high ceilings and 'Notary' themed decor
- Solid soundproofing on upper floors despite the busy intersection
Quick Take: A polished, historic hotel that nails the location but charges a steep valet fee for the privilege.
Reviewed by @itineranteelegance: I felt like a total main character staying here. The location right next to City Hall is unbeatable for meetings, and I loved unwinding in the lobby with that incredible book art. The room was the perfect mix of productive workspace and cozy retreat.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'internal courtyard' view rooms are notoriously dark and feel a bit claustrophobic compared to the city-facing ones.
- You're a history buff who appreciates 1920s limestone and bronze details
- You need to be at the Convention Center (it's a 5-minute walk)
- You want a 'grown-up' hotel vibe without the stuffiness of the Ritz
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9
- Housekeeping: Daily housekeeping is standard and generally praised for thoroughness.
- Bathroom hygiene: Bathrooms are modern and renovated; grout lines are typically clean.
- Maintenance: Historic building means occasional quirks (slow drains reported rarely), but generally well-kept.
- Linens & towels: Crisp, white Marriott-standard linens. No major complaints of wear.
- Odors & scents: Lobby smells of a signature white tea scent; rooms are generally fresh.
Sleepability™
7.5SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- City Hall traffic/sirens (lower floors)
- HVAC fan noise in some rooms
Before you book
Good to know
- The $35 destination fee includes a daily sangria for two and tickets to the Museum of the American Revolution — actually use them to get your money's worth.
- Breakfast at Sabroso+Sorbo is a la carte, not a buffet.
- Pet fee is a steep ~$117 per stay, so factor that in if bringing Fido.
What to pack
- Earplugs (just in case you get a low floor)
- Walking shoes (you are in the dead center of everything)
- A portable steamer (irons are standard, but the high ceilings make you want to look sharp)
Room Genie
Best picks
- City Hall View King (worth the upgrade for the iconic William Penn statue view)
- Corner Rooms (more light, less hallway noise)
Rooms to avoid
- Internal Courtyard View rooms (very little natural light)
- Rooms near the elevator bank (can be noisy during peak check-out)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would love a room on a high floor (10+) facing Juniper Street or City Hall. Please avoid the internal courtyard view if possible as I prioritize natural light.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there a pool?
No. Ignore any third-party listing that says otherwise. There is no pool.
How bad is the parking situation?
Valet is ~$77/night. Hack: Park at 'The Lift' garage at 101 S Juniper St (4 min walk) for half the price.
Is breakfast included?
Usually no, unless you have a specific package or high-tier Marriott status. Otherwise, expect to pay ~$16-25 pp.
Does the room have a fridge?
It's hit or miss. Suites usually do; standard rooms often have an empty cooler or nothing. Request one at booking if essential.
Is it loud?
It's a city center hotel. High floors are quiet; low floors will hear the city's heartbeat (and sirens).
What is the 'Notary' theme?
The building was the former City Hall Annex where documents were notarized. Expect stamp motifs and 1920s office chic.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Skip the hotel coffee and walk 5 minutes to Elixr Coffee on Sydenham St for one of the best roasts in the city.
- ✨
The 'destination fee' includes a $25 F&B credit — don't forget to use it at the bar before you check out.
- ✨
The walls are thick (historic building benefit), so you likely won't hear your neighbors, just the street.
5 things to know before you go
💡The elevators can be slow during the morning rush due to the building's age.
💡The 'courtyard' view is basically a view of a brick wall and HVAC units.
💡The lobby has a cool 'stamp' station where you can stamp your own postcards.
💡There is no dedicated concierge desk; the front desk handles everything.
💡The bathroom doors in some renovated rooms are sliding barn-style, which offers less privacy than a locking door.
Local Playbook
Map
See where The Notary Hotel, Autograph Collection is located and what's nearby.