Anna & Bel
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Fishtown
Vibe
Sunlight filters across sheltered verandas into quiet reading nooks and a convivial living-room lounge where guests play chess beside original fireplaces.
“Restored asylum refuge”
Terracotta walls, exposed beams, and a grand oak staircase wrap around a central heated courtyard pool.
An 18th-century complex and former women's asylum preserved with original fireplaces, brickwork, and historic grand staircases.
Fishtown-rooted touches include robes by local label Printfresh, independent neighborhood books, and curated local artworks.
In Fishtown at Susquehanna and Belgrade, steps from neighborhood cafes, galleries, and Frankford Avenue dining.
“The 50 rooms and suites are decorated in a style that’s both warm and minimalist, memorably mixing modern and antique elements.”
Rooms
White brick, warm wood, and vintage accents fill the rooms, many featuring French doors that open onto courtyard-facing balconies.
“Upon entering, the reception area establishes an immediate sense of style which pervades the hotel.”
Wellness
A heated outdoor courtyard pool is lined with sunloungers, complemented by a far-infrared sauna, treatment room, and open-air yoga deck.
“The 50-key property mixes historic bones with contemporary art, warm textures, and plant-filled spaces wrapped around a seasonal courtyard pool.”
Backstory
Originally founded in 1769 as the Mansion House, the complex later operated as a historic asylum for single women and widows.
Eat & drink
Set in the former chapel, Bastia crafts coastal Sardinian fare, while adjacent bar Caletta pours spritzes in a moody lounge.
The neighborhood
Set in creative Fishtown, the hotel sits an easy stroll from independent boutiques, riverside piers, and celebrated corner dining along Frankford Avenue.
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The app
This is one hotel. The app has every one we rate, in your pocket, for the whole trip.
Our shorthand
What makes a hotel special, how well they pull it off, and what it feels like outside the door.
How well they pull it off
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
They did this well. You’ll notice.
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Architecture and interiors lead. There’s a creative vision at work.
The guest is conspicuously well cared for. Requests met before they’re made.
Rooted in place. Local character runs through the whole stay.
Energy and scene. Where the city goes out, whether or not it’s sleeping here.
A building with history. The story of the place is part of the stay.
Built around feeling better. Rest, sweat, soak, spa.
A hotel the city grew up with. Same rituals, same regulars.
A world of its own. No reason to leave the property.
Scene — what’s outside the door
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
A place apart: the property is the destination.