With Philadelphia’s new sky-high Four Seasons Hotel making a splash, it’s a perfect time to explore some of the best high-profile offerings this World Heritage City has for travelers to experience.
Where to stay
Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia at Comcast Center - The 60-story Comcast Technology Center, now the tallest building in Philadelphia, has just opened its doors for a luxury occupant: Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia at Comcast Center. Guests take a high-speed elevator to the 219-room Four Seasons’ top-floor sky lobby, then ease into their stay with amenities like a spa, a fitness facility and an infinity pool on the 57th floor; restaurants by award-winning chefs Jean-Georges Vongerichten and Greg Vernick; and more than 15,000 square feet of meeting space, including two fifth-floor ballrooms.
AKA University City- These light-filled Philadelphia penthouse suites welcome guests with high ceilings, open kitchens and prime views of the city. Each of the three possible options—studio, one-bedroom suite or two-bedroom suite—is outfitted with a spa-like marble bath, king bed and Italian-inspired accents. Beyond the suite, guests can enjoy the property’s glassed-in, rooftop Olympic-size pool, 3D golf simulator, roof deck with fire pits and access to Cira Green, another rooftop space—this one, a 1.25-acre park. The acclaimed all-day Walnut Street Café resides on the ground floor.
The Rittenhouse Hotel- This frequent recipient of accolades from industry experts at AAA and Travel and Leisure recently added a 15,000-square-foot spa dedicated to beauty, wellness and dream-fulfilling relaxation. In The Rittenhouse property’s signature suite, the level of luxury only grows, thanks to prime views of the hotel’s namesake square, two-and-a-half marble bathrooms and full kitchen.
Where to eat
Zahav – Named outstanding restaurant by the 2019 James Beard Awards, chef Michael Solomonov’s Israeli culinary pioneer offers a shockingly reasonably priced tasting menu featuring his signature hummus and laffa. Reservations are required at this Old City establishment.
Stir at the Philadelphia Museum of Art- Outside of the Philadelphia Museum of Art you’ll find the impressive architecture of one of the largest art museums in the U.S. sits splendidly at the helm of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. Inside, vast collections of Renaissance, American and impressionist art fill the museum’s galleries. Stir is a stunning new restaurant concept designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry, offering locally-inspired dishes, seasonal ingredients, and hand-crafted cocktails. The crowning jewel of the dining experience is the restaurant’s “Nest” feature, a design which hangs on the ceiling above the dining room.
Barclay Prime At this handsome, India Mahdavi-designed steakhouse on Rittenhouse Square, plush velvet banquettes, crystal chandeliers and well-dressed diners provide a posh atmosphere. Barclay lives up to the buzz, with the finest cuts and delicious craft cocktails.
Where to play
Assembly Rooftop Lounge- Nine floors above street level, the Assembly Rooftop Lounge beckons bar-goers year-round with its modern luxe seating nests and firepits. As if picturesque views of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway weren’t enough, craft cocktails and shareable charcuterie and cheese plates add to the appeal.
Attico - Perfect for grabbing a drink or bite at before a show, Attico is the largest rooftop restaurant and bar on the Avenue of the Arts. Perched on the 16th floor, the stylish year-round outdoor balcony can accommodate large groups and offers unrivaled views of the city.
Harp & Crown – Chef and restaurateur Michael Schulson’s handsome venture feels convivial and timeless. It was even a favorite spot of Kendall Jenner during her summer romance with NBA star Ben Simmons. Featured here: charcuterie, small plates and seasonal fare—and a two-lane bowling alley hidden in the basement called Elbow Lane (reservations required for groups of nine or more; smaller parties can walk in and roll). 1525 Sansom Street, (215) 330-2800, harpcrown.com
