The Rittenhouse Hotel
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Rittenhouse Square
Vibe
Overlooking the historic square, this Center City fixture pairs Old World polish with a lively local social scene.
“Parkside luxury citadel”
Twice-daily housekeeping, a dedicated house car, marble bathrooms with Acqua di Parma amenities, and attentive square-side service.
A skylit indoor atrium pool and sun deck paired with customized body rituals and salon care by Paul Labrecque.
A 1989 square-side institution where generations gather for Sunday brunch at Lacroix and afternoon tea rituals.
Directly on Rittenhouse Square, surrounded by Center City dining, boutique shopping, and park life.
“this very modern 33-story high-rise gives away little about the luxurious small hotel that lies within.”
Rooms
Cantilevered window nooks frame tree-canopy views, complemented by generous layouts, dark wood furnishings, and plush dressing areas.
“inside, it feels fresh and intimate. Opened in 1989, the hotel got makeovers in summer 2013 and winter 2018 that unveiled a softer design palette...”
Wellness
A heated indoor atrium pool rests beneath skylights, alongside an expansive fitness center and full-service spa with customized body rituals.
“Each of the recently renovated guest rooms and suites is generously proportioned (from 450 to 600 square feet).”
Backstory
Standing where railroad tycoon A.J. Cassatt once kept a mansion, the hotel opened in 1989 after decades in architectural development.
Eat & drink
Fine French fare at Lacroix overlooks the trees, while rare spirits and live weekend jazz animate the intimate Library Bar.
The neighborhood
The property sits right on Rittenhouse Square, putting Center City boutiques, sidewalk dining, and historic walking routes right outside.
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“Sculptural glass beacon”
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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.