Penn's View Hotel, Philadelphia

I travel regularly on business and often stay at business level 3 to 3 1/2 star hotels such as Hampton Inn, Holiday Inn Express, Hilton Garden Inn, Hotel Indigo, etc., but unfortunately found Penn's View to have noticeably lesser quality mattresses and sacky-type pillows which detract from all of the hotel's other really good qualities. I politely complained and they eagerly upgraded me to a nicer room where though the bed was a little better (still not on par with most chain hotels), the pillows were even worse. If their rates were comparable to 3 1/2 star that would be one thing, but the rates are between $175-200 per room per night. If quaintness overides all then do stay here, you can walk to practically any place in the Olde City district and wonderful galleries & restaurants are a block or two away, but get the best value and inquire through their own reservation desk about their special packages which include wine tasting, gourmet dinner credits, etc. that are not mentioned on the hotel's own website or Expedia and other discount travel sites. The room rates are about the same, but include free dollars in food and wine (easily worth a bonus $100 or more!) The Italian restaurant and wine bar are second to none in the area--especially when part of their value packages. Nevertheless, the staff is more personable and attentive than most mid level hotels--so that makes staying there a trade off. My impression is that the bedding is not quite up to par because the hotel is independently owned, but maybe it just needs to be replaced and maybe the owner will read this comment?

Location: An easy walk to the historical sights and plenty of cafes and restaurants. Accomodations: Small yet quaint rooms but the unbelievable breakfast and wine bars make up for it. Access from I-95 is a breeze and the SEPTA station is right there. Personnel were very helpful and accomodating. There will be no searching for another stay next time, this is it.

Penns View is found easily coming from the airport. Located right in the historical district. No car needed now! Hotel very clean,comfortable and quiet. Breakfast (included) was simple but worth it when you are up early and ready to see the sites. Besides you really want to leave room for the local food. We arrived late night and were told by the staff of a few restaurants still open. We stumbled upon Swanky Bubbles just around the corner. Sushi & Champange bar. We like sushi, so we ate there. Really nice people and good food. You gotta have the rice! You just don't know. Night staff also told us of the Information Center..glad she did. You have to have a ticket(FREE) to go inside INDEPENDENCE HALL, YOU WOULDN'T WANT TO MISS GOING INSIDE. A few small blocks to catch a ride on the double decker narrated tour. You can ride all day for your 1 ticket. They will pick you up where ever they let you off. Well worth it! CAMPOS is a great restaurnat located on MARKET street. You just have to go there. Also located across the street is SHANE'S candy store. They make all their own candy. It is the oldest Candy store in America! We should have stayed 2 or 3 days. We just couldn't see everything. I would definitely stay at Penns View.

If you plan on visiting Old City or are looking for a romantic getaway, this is the place to stay! The rooms are beautiful and luxurious with a touch of "home". Definately not your cookie cutter hotel room. Historic Old City, Penn's Landing, South St all within walking distance. Extremely polite and helpful staff. A little on the pricier side but well worth every penny. Looking forward to my next visit!

from the easy, convenient parking; GREAT wine list - even a couple of novices could enjoy some good wines; to the quirky room. My whole family loved penn's view

When I am staying at Penn's View Inn, I feel as though I am at home with the luxury and comfort of a beautiful surrounding, but the location and accommodating staff makes it a true 'getaway.'

Winter, spring, summer or fall. This is the place to stay. I live in the city & Penns View is where I go to relax and just get away from HOME... The view of the river is divine. If you dont get that view you are able to have a small patio, that is quiet and private. The rooms are done in victorian style with hottubs and fireplaces. The Restuarant down stairs offers a great wine selection. Therefore, if you dont make it out to old city, stay in enjoy the view, the person your with and the wine you drink.

The Penns View is a small, beautifully decorated hotel. The rooms are small but immaculate. The bed was comfortable and the bathroom well-equipped. We were very near Penns Landing, Headhouse Square, South Street, and Old City. Service was extremely efficient and polite. A very full continental breakfast was included in the reasonable price, and a trip to the wine bar is a must! I won't stay anywhere else in Phila now that I know the Penns View!

Every time we stay here we vow to return and we will. It's perfect in every way. From the breakfast that is spectacular to the homemade gnocchi in the restaurant - to die for. Don't miss this GEM!