The Perfect Weekend in Philadelphia

25.08.2023 - 20:21 / cntraveler.com / Art

Philadelphia is the ever-evolving City of Brotherly Love. While it will forever be the “birthplace” of the United States—and that is a great attraction—we've come a long way from the Liberty Bell. The vibrant feel of this historical city is undeniable, legendary, and on the rise.

From museums to murals and markets to speakeasies—there’s always a new happening in a new scene. From one colorful buzzy neighborhood to the next, stories of artists, chefs, entrepreneurs, and long-time community residents unfold in every turn. The walkable city’s streets teem for good company, creative ventures and mouth-watering menus. While it’s impossible to cover all of Philly’s bases in just a few days, a weekend is a great start to check out hot new hubs and old rare gems.

AKA Rittenhouse Square sits right across from the entrance of Rittenhouse Square. 

Canopy by Hilton is the perfect urban-chic base located at the heart of the City Center and Midtown Village. The 3-year-old hotel is a renovated 19th-century Stephen Girard building– a microcosm for the city’s rich history and creative re-imagination. While there’s much to do outside of the lifestyle hotel, take a second to admire the first floor’s decor, decked out in modern yet edgy art from local artists—all paying homage to the city’s colorful history and lively urban art. Each of the 236 rooms feel effortlessly chic and cosmopolitan, with a rich, sophisticated palette of various shades of blue. Even the hotel bathrooms, especially those in the 24-hour fitness center, have sleek-styled black and white checkered shower walls with gold-plated accents.

The hotel is just the right amount tucked away on cobblestone Ludlow Street, only two blocks from the Reading Terminal Market and just a half-mile away from Independence Hall. Use the complementary Canopy bikes to take advantage of the hotel’s proximity to each and every hip corner—but on the way out, quench your thirst for both sweet and savory delights at Philly’s iconic Federal Donuts. The BBQ fried chicken and donut chain is located in the hotel, right of the lobby check-in desk.

If you want a bit more sprucely, The Wayward is a hip brasserie on the opposite end of the lobby. Like much of the city, the menu offers all delicious selections of a cultural fusion—here, smaller American dishes inspired by the allure of a French bistro. They serve breakfast, lunch and dinner– and offer favorable gin-focused cocktails and a wide selection of local beers. The space is a definite hub for the city’s travelers, but also for those who admire the feel of a trendy, sleek, and snazzy establishment.

Right across from the entrance of Rittenhouse Square's park is luxury hotel AKA Rittenhouse Square. In the heart of Philly’s bustling