The hype
Travelers adore the friendly staff and the 'perfect' Old City location, but the noise levels and valet costs are frequent sore spots.
Kimpton Hotel Monaco Philadelphia
$155-280/ night
Book this if You want to sleep across the street from the Liberty Bell in a hotel that feels like a whimsical, history-obsessed Wes Anderson set.
Why People Love It
- Unbeatable location directly opposite Independence Hall
- Stratus Rooftop Lounge is a legitimate city hotspot, not just a hotel bar
- Zero pet fees and no size restrictions (a Kimpton signature)
Quick Take: A stylish, high-energy tourist basecamp that trades quiet nights for prime location and rooftop bass.
Reviewed by @willianaashley: I was obsessed with the design here! The lobby art is a total conversation starter, and having a DJ downstairs meant I didn't even have to leave for a good time. Felt like such a VIP stay right in the heart of Philly.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
You are paying for the address and the vibe; the rooms are stylish but showing wear on carpets and baseboards.
- You are traveling with a dog (literally any dog)
- You want to walk to every major historic site in 5 minutes
- You appreciate a free glass of wine in the lobby at 5pm
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.5
- Housekeeping: Generally reliable daily service, though recent reviews mention occasional missed days or rushed bed-making.
- Bathroom hygiene: Bathrooms are clean but can feel small; grout and tile are usually well-maintained.
- Maintenance: Some visible wear on carpets and baseboards in high-traffic areas; 'shabby chic' is leaning towards shabby in some hallways.
- Linens & towels: Frette linens are a highlight—crisp and high quality.
- Odors & scents: Lobby is heavily perfumed (signature scent); rooms are generally fresh but older carpets can hold a faint musty smell.
Sleepability™
6.5MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Stratus Rooftop Lounge (bass thumping on upper floors)
- Chestnut Street traffic and sirens
- Thin walls between connecting rooms
Before you book
Good to know
- There is NO mandatory destination/resort fee, which is rare for this tier.
- The 'Morning Kick Start' is just coffee/tea in the lobby, not a full breakfast.
- Bikes are free to borrow but first-come, first-served.
What to pack
- Earplugs or a white noise machine (essential)
- Walking shoes (Old City cobblestones are unforgiving)
- Dressy casual outfit if you plan to hit Stratus Rooftop (they enforce a dress code)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Park View King (unobstructed views of Independence Hall)
- Corner King (more light, slightly more buffer from hallway noise)
Rooms to avoid
- 10th Floor rooms (directly under the rooftop bar)
- Interior Courtyard rooms (very little natural light)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would love a quiet room on a lower floor (3-8) facing the park if possible. Please avoid the 10th floor due to noise sensitivity.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is parking really that expensive?
Yes. Valet is ~$59 + tax (approx $72 total). Use the SpotHero app to find a garage nearby for half the price.
Is it actually pet friendly?
Yes, genuinely. No fees, no weight limits, and they provide bowls and beds upon request.
Can I hear the Liberty Bell from my room?
You can see it from 'Park View' rooms, but you won't hear it (it doesn't ring, it's cracked).
Is breakfast included?
No. Red Owl Tavern offers breakfast a la carte ($18-22 entrees), or grab free coffee in the lobby.
How bad is the rooftop noise?
On Friday and Saturday nights, it is significant for the top two floors. Request a room on floor 8 or below.
Is there a pool?
No pool. Just a fitness center and the rooftop lounge (which is for drinking, not swimming).
Insider Tips
- ✨
Ask for a 'Goldfish' companion for your room if you're lonely (subject to availability, but a classic Kimpton quirk).
- ✨
The 'Secret Password' at check-in (check Kimpton's social media before you go) can sometimes get you a free upgrade or drink voucher.
- ✨
The 5pm Wine Hour often includes a local snack like soft pretzels—get there at 5:00 sharp.
5 things to know before you go
💡The elevators are original to the 1906 building and can be slow/small.
💡The 'One Bedroom Suite' often has a soaking tub with a view of the Liberty Bell.
💡Housekeeping can be hit-or-miss with dusting high surfaces (top of headboards).
💡The lobby scent is distinct—some love the perfume, others find it overpowering.
💡You can order Red Owl Tavern food directly to the rooftop bar if you can't get a table downstairs.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Kimpton Hotel Monaco Philadelphia is located and what's nearby.