The hype
Guests love the modern design, central location, and stunning views, but frequently complain about the noise and service inconsistencies.
W Philadelphia
$200-350/ night
Book this if Book this if you want a trendy, high-energy luxury stay with panoramic city views and a rooftop pool right in the heart of Center City.
Why People Love It
- Floor-to-ceiling windows with incredible skyline views
- Year-round heated rooftop pool and WET Deck
- Extremely comfortable, plush signature beds
Quick Take: It's a gorgeous, Instagram-worthy property, but the weekend nightclub vibe and thin walls can easily ruin a good night's sleep.
Reviewed by @selinagissele: My stay at the W Philadelphia was the ultimate urban escape. The moody lighting and premium Davines bath products made it feel so exclusive, but watching the sunset over the skyline right from my bed was the absolute highlight. Worth every penny for a romantic getaway.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The hotel prioritizes a party atmosphere over relaxation, making it a poor choice for light sleepers or those seeking a quiet retreat.
- You want to be steps away from City Hall and Rittenhouse Square
- You enjoy a lively, social hotel bar scene
- You love modern, maximalist decor
Cleanliness & Maintenance
7
- Housekeeping: Inconsistent. Some guests report spotless rooms, while others complain about delayed check-ins due to slow turnover and missed spots.
- Bathroom hygiene: Generally clean with modern walk-in showers, though a few isolated reports mention cracked sinks or slow drains.
- Maintenance: Mostly excellent as it's a newer property, but some complaints of broken room phones and malfunctioning outlets.
- Linens & towels: High-quality, plush bedding and heavy covers that guests rave about, though occasional stains are reported.
- Odors & scents: Usually fresh, but some guests have noted illicit smoke smells drifting through the hallways on weekends.
Sleepability™
5.5MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Weekend DJs at the Living Room and WET Deck
- Street noise and sirens on lower floors
- Hallway noise due to thin doors
Before you book
Good to know
- The $73.50/day valet is the only on-site parking option.
- Cabanas and the cold plunge pool require advance reservations and extra fees.
- There are no in-room microwaves or stocked mini-fridges.
What to pack
- Earplugs or a white noise machine to drown out the weekend DJs and street noise.
- A swimsuit for the year-round heated rooftop pool.
Room Genie
Best picks
- Cool Corner King on floor 33+ for dual-aspect views and natural light
- Fabulous Suite for extra space and deep soaking tubs
- South-facing rooms for unobstructed skyline views
Rooms to avoid
- Odd-numbered north side rooms facing the Ritz-Carlton Residences (blocked views)
- Lower floor rooms near the street (excessive traffic noise)
- Rooms directly across from the elevators
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“Hi team, I'm very excited for my upcoming stay. If possible, could I please request a high-floor, south-facing room away from the elevators to ensure a quiet night and a great view? Thank you!”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the rooftop pool open year-round?
Yes, the WET Deck features a heated outdoor pool that remains open 365 days a year.
Does the hotel have parking?
Yes, but it is valet-only and costs a hefty $73.50 per day with in/out privileges.
Is the W Philadelphia pet-friendly?
Yes, pets are allowed, but be prepared for a steep non-refundable pet fee of around $250 to $290 per stay.
Are there any hidden fees?
Watch out for the $12.95/night WiFi fee if you aren't a Marriott Bonvoy member, and extra costs for pool cabanas.
How is the noise level?
It can be very loud on weekends due to live DJs in the lobby and pool area, plus street noise on lower floors.
What time is check-in and check-out?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM and check-out is at 11:00 AM.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Head to the Secret Garden on the 7th floor for a quiet sanctuary with a fire pit away from the crowds.
- ✨
Join the free Marriott Bonvoy program before you arrive to waive the $12.95 daily WiFi fee.
- ✨
Ask the bartender in the Living Room about the custom ceramic skulls inspired by the Mutter Museum.
5 things to know before you go
💡The shower pressure is intentionally gentle, designed to feel like a 'peaceful rain' rather than a power wash.
💡The in-room safe is hidden in a drawer beneath the closet.
💡The odd-numbered north-facing rooms look directly into the condos of the Ritz-Carlton Residences.
💡The hotel shares a building with the Element hotel, which occupies the lower floors.
💡The AWAY Spa offers a $25 day pass for hotel guests to use the sauna and cold plunge without booking a full treatment.
Local Playbook
Map
See where W Philadelphia is located and what's nearby.