Guild House Hotel

The Gabrielle suite had everything I needed, from a mini fridge and microwave to a sink, and the bed was really comfortable. The shower was a highlight, with great pressure and temperature. Guild House was also a convenient base for the Philly marathon, with plenty of nearby parking and food within easy walking distance. There was a lot of street noise from loud cars. That may feel normal if you're used to city sounds, but I can see it bothering some people. They thoughtfully provide earplugs and a white noise machine. The lack of on-site staff wasn't an issue for me, and the housekeeping staff I met were lovely. After the marathon, they saw me struggling to walk and helped with my luggage. I'd stay here again when I'm in Philly.

The room had great adjustable lighting, and even though I was disappointed at first that it had no window, I came to appreciate it since the area is noisy, especially with car horns and the metro. The hotel is right by the metro exit, less than 50 feet away, so expect the foot traffic and noise that comes with that, though it makes getting around the city easy. Guests in the hall were loud, particularly on the first floor near the entrance and lounge. The heat and A/C only reach the bathroom if you leave its door open. On the plus side, the decor is gorgeous, the owners share a lot of the building's history, and there are thoughtful details you don't get at a big chain. Check-in and checkout were simple, management responded to texts or calls, and the water, ice, and coffee service were wonderful. There's no staff on site.

The Mathilde room had so many useful little touches, including water taps, luggage storage, and a kitchenette with coffee, tea, and cookies. We also loved the fluffy towels, soft robes, and divine bed. My daughter and I stayed one night, and check-in and checkout were easy. Parking caused no problems. Guild House is beautiful, central, and felt safe. We walked all over Old City and the theater district, from Reading Market to Kimmel Center and Independence Hall. I've already decided it'll be our go-to hotel for future trips to Philadelphia.

The Alice suite worked perfectly for our family of four. It was spacious and beautifully decorated, with a large seating area, dining table, kitchen area with a fridge, microwave, coffee pot, electric kettle, dishes, silverware, cups, and a big sink. There were two bedrooms and two bathrooms, and the shower and bath were wonderful. My kid called it a secret hotel because entering felt like finding a hidden destination. It was quiet and felt more like a comfortable historic home than a hotel. We also appreciated the sparkling and still water on tap in two common areas, plus cookies, chocolate, and upscale coffee and tea in the room. It's easy to get to popular spots in Philly from here. Just know there are several steps and no elevator, so getting around could be difficult for someone with limited mobility. And if you expect hands-on luggage help or dining on site, it may not be the right fit. We loved our stay. The Guild House Hotel is a unique place for anyone who enjoys history and comfort.