The hype
Travelers adore the Art Deco vibes and central location but consistently groan about the elevator logistics.
Loews Philadelphia
$179-289/ night
Book this if You want to sleep inside America's first modern skyscraper with killer views and the Reading Terminal Market at your doorstep.
Why People Love It
- Historic PSFS Building architecture (Art Deco stunner)
- Floor-to-ceiling views from 'Grand' rooms on high floors
- Bank & Bourbon's barrel-aged cocktail program
Quick Take: A grand historic shell with unbeatable location, but the elevators are slow and the pool is gone forever.
Reviewed by @itskimberlyfisher: I stayed at Loews Philadelphia and the room felt huge for a city hotel. The view of the Jefferson building from my window was iconic, and the staff left the sweetest welcome treats. It felt like a true home base in the city.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
You might get a connecting room with thin walls even if you didn't ask for one—request a non-connecting room at booking.
- You are a history or architecture buff (it's the PSFS building)
- You are attending a convention (Convention Center is 1 block away)
- You are traveling with a dog (only $40/stay fee)
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.5
- Housekeeping: Generally reliable, though recent reviews mention delays in service (rooms not ready by 4pm).
- Bathroom hygiene: Mostly sparkling, but watch for 'hair from prior guests' which has popped up in recent complaints.
- Maintenance: Good condition for a historic building, though elevators are the main mechanical weak point.
- Linens & towels: Crisp and high quality, typical of the Loews brand.
- Odors & scents: Neutral to fresh; no lingering smoke smells reported recently.
Sleepability™
7.5SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Elevator mechanical noise (near the bank)
- Thin connecting doors
- City sirens on lower floors
Before you book
Good to know
- Destination fee is approx. $29/night and includes Wi-Fi and gym access
- Microwaves cost $30 extra per stay; fridges are included
- Check-in is 4:00 PM, and lines can get long on convention days
What to pack
- Earplugs for the hallway noise
- Walking shoes (you are central to everything)
- A portable steamer (irons are standard but sometimes leaky)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Grand Luxury King (Floors 25+) for the best skyline views
- Corner rooms for dual-aspect city vistas
Rooms to avoid
- Rooms near the elevator bank (noise + traffic)
- Connecting rooms if you are not traveling with a group (sound bleed)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am requesting a high-floor room (20+) away from the elevators. Please ensure it is NOT a connecting room as I am a light sleeper.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there really no pool?
Correct. The pool is permanently closed. The Joseph Anthony Spa offers water treatments (Turkish bath), but no swimming pool.
How much is parking?
Valet is ~$60.02/night including tax. There is no self-park on-site, but public garages nearby (like 12th & Filbert) are cheaper.
Is it pet friendly?
Yes, very. Loews charges a flat $40 fee per stay (limit 2 pets), which is much cheaper than most city hotels.
Does the hotel charge a resort fee?
Yes, a 'Destination Fee' of approximately $29/night is added to the bill.
Is breakfast included?
No. Breakfast at Bank & Bourbon costs ~$16-35 per person.
How close is the Convention Center?
It is directly across the street. You can't get closer.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The 'Visit Philly Overnight Hotel Package' often includes free parking if you book directly through the Visit Philly site.
- ✨
The 33rd floor offers the highest views, but the elevators take the longest to get there.
- ✨
Ask for the 'Kids Cozy Camping' tent package if traveling with little ones—it keeps them occupied.
5 things to know before you go
💡The elevators have a 'bank' system that can be confusing and slow during rush hour.
💡The 'concierge' is often just a text-message service, not a person at a desk.
💡The gym has Peloton bikes, which is a nice perk for a hotel of this age.
💡Room service ends early compared to other major city hotels (often 10pm or 11pm).
💡The HVAC units in older rooms can be loud and rattle.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Loews Philadelphia is located and what's nearby.