Whether your budget is large or small, there are excellent options in Philly's three most popular areas for tourists and visitors. Here's a breakdown of what you get and what you give up when you splurge or save in these Philly nabes.
Rittenhouse:
Splurge: Rittenhouse 1715
What you get: Turn down service, afternoon tea, a nightly wine reception (known as "intermission"), a service philosophy called "five heart service", and a concierge staff at the ready.
What you give up: Affordability.
Save: La Reserve B&B
What you get: Room rates as low as $90 per night, some rooms equipped with kitchenettes, boardgames in the parlor, and cookies in the afternoon.
What you give up: An elevator, a bellhop (the website says that guests must transport any luggage weighing more than 25 lbs), overnight staff, and cable TV in some rooms.
Old City:
Splurge: Hotel Monaco
What you get: An opulently decorated hotel in a historic building, outfitted with modern amenities. Pet-friendly accomodations, a yoga mat in every room, bikes available for guest use, an evening wine hour, 24 hour room service, and a full fitness center.
What you give up: Affordability.
Save: Penn's View Hotel
What you get: Rooms starting at $145 per night, views of the Delaware River, free wi-fi, and a small fitness center.
What you give up: Room service and opulence.
Center City:
Splurge: Ritz Carlton Philadelphia
What you get: A historic bank building, a complimentary glass of champagne upon arrival, a bath menu and "bath butler services", a full fitness center, complimentary overnight shoeshines, and 24 room service.
What you give up; Free wi-fi, reasonably priced parking, and affordability in general.
Save: Alexander Inn
What you get: Center City prices starting at $119 for rooms with one (yes, one), single bed, room rates that don't change depending upon demand, a complimentary breakfast buffet, and a complimentary all day snack bar.
What you give up: Room service, turndown service, amenities other than the basics.