The Rittenhouse hotel has long been recognized as one of the finest luxury hotels in Philadelphia. Standing proudly in the heart of the city’s Center City neighborhood since just after the turn of the 20th century, the Rittenhouse continues to raise the standard for elegant accommodation and gracious hospitality. During a recent stay, I was able to experience firsthand why the Rittenhouse remains such a beloved Philadelphia institution after all these years.
LOCATION
Located at 210 West Rittenhouse Square, one of Center City’s most refined addresses, places the Rittenhouse in the very epicenter of Philadelphia’s cultural and commercial core. Just steps from the beautiful Rittenhouse Square park itself, premier shopping along Walnut Street, top restaurants all around, and many of the city’s most famous attractions like the Philadelphia Museum of Art and Penn’s Landing are within easy walking distance. Public transportation is also abundantly accessible, with numerous subway and bus lines just minutes away. The central Midtown Village location affords easy access everywhere without too much reliance on cars or rideshares for getting around the compact city center.
ARRIVAL & FIRST IMPRESSIONS
Pulling up to the elegant limestone facade of the Rittenhouse, it’s clear this is no ordinary hotel. Uniformed doormen attending to arriving luxury vehicles and well-dressed hotel guests give the essence of an old world gentleman’s club. Stepping inside is like entering a bygone era, with gleaming marble floors, massive crystal chandeliers, and frescoed ceilings transporting visitors back to a more genteel time. A grand marble staircase sweeps up three floors under soaring arched windows.
ACCOMMODATIONS
There are 210 guest rooms and suites ranging from standard rooms to expansive two-bedroom penthouses. I stayed in a lovely king room overlooking the square and was struck by how spacious, bright and beautifully appointed it was. Rich jacquard fabrics, moldings and detailing give an air of distinction. Bathrooms feature polished marble with soaking tubs and luxe bath amenities. All rooms include high-speed Wi-Fi, mini fridges, flat screen TVs and complimentary bottled water. Many rooms offer balconies or sitting areas perfect for lingering with a cup of coffee or nightcap while admiring the picturesque scene below.
AMENITIES & SERVICE
During my stay I took full advantage of the Rittenhouse’s many superior amenities. An outdoor heated pool and cabanas on the fifth floor terrace were perfect for laps and relaxing with cocktails during summer months. The full-service spa features massage, body treatments, a eucalyptus steam room and sauna. Exercise classes and personal training are available in the 24-hour luxury fitness center. In-room dining is top-notch, from complimentary breakfast to multi-course room service fare. Perhaps most impressive was the warm yet unobtrusive service from every staff member I encountered during my visit. Bellhops, concierges, servers and housekeeping were consummately professional yet genuinely personable as well.
DINING
With a hotel of this caliber, exceptional cuisine is a given. I was able to sample a few of the Rittenhouse’s outstanding on-site dining options. Verb café offers Starbucks coffee and light fare for breakfast and lunch. Evening cocktails and small plates are perfect for stopping in after work or before a show. For an elegant splurge, Laurel is consistently ranked amongst Philadelphia’s top restaurants, boasting creative seasonal American fare and a spectacular patio setting overlooking the square. Room service catered perfectly to late nights in watching Netflix and didn’t skimp on quality or portion size either. Coffee shop and casual to fine dining, the hotel covers all dining needs without ever leaving the premises.
EVENTS & MEETINGS
In addition to being a top choice for leisure travelers, the Rittenhouse is extremely well equipped to host larger conferences, weddings and special events. Over 15,000 square feet of upscale meeting space can accommodate nearly any setup, from boardroom to cocktail reception. On-site event specialists expertly coordinate every detail from A-Z. I was fortunate to also catch a trade show being held where innovative technologies and concepts were on full display in the hotel’s grand ballroom.
VALUE
At an average nightly rate closer to $400 compared to under $300 at some other Center City luxury hotels, one might expect the Rittenhouse’s prices to reflect the highest bracket. However, for all the unparalleled luxury, hospitality excellence and prime location it provides, I found the rates to truly deliver excellent value. You’re effectively paying more for far superior comfort and service than just a standard room and generic amenities elsewhere. Viewed as an investment in truly memorable experiences in one of America’s great historic cities, a stay at this grand Rittenhouse institution is well worth the splurge.
OVERALL IMPRESSION
The Rittenhouse hotel clearly understands what discerning travelers seek in a luxury property - impeccable standards, attentive service, refined surroundings and attention to every comfort and detail. Having now experienced it firsthand, it’s easy to see why the Rittenhouse remains the preeminent address for both business and leisure visitors to Philadelphia after 115 years. Whether just passing through or a local resident, one feels a sense of privilege simply by stepping through its historic doors. A stay here is less about just having a nice hotel room and more about being part of heritage, hospitality and lifestyle few other properties can match. The Rittenhouse experience long outlasts any single visit and stays firmly etched in fond memories of time spent in one of America’s great cities. It's a true Philadelphia landmark worthy of continuous acclaim.
