I have a long weekend in Philadelphia at the end of this month to attend a concert series at The Kimmel Center. For approximately the same rate, I have the option of a Deluxe Room at The Rittenhouse, a Club Level Room at The Ritz-Carlton and a Superior Room at The Four Seasons. I won't have a car with me so location is a factor. As with anything, I've heard pros and cons for all. Any feedback would be appreciated. Thanks!
You can walk to the Kimmel Cener from either The Rittenhouse Hotel or the Ritz. I much prefer the Ritenhouse, with it's plethora of restaurants along the Square. The 'newish' dining experience at the Ritz, Eric Lippert's 10 Arts has gotten mixed reviews. There is a new chef at the Rittenhouse Hotel, but the quality of Lacroix does not seem to be diminished.
The RH has had a special rate on many of it's rooms. Great deal if you don't insist on a special space. Great bargain, it's called the 'Rittenhouse Relief. It might be available. I live 14 blocks away and enjoy going there for little mini-vacations. No room service here at home.
A search on this Forum will find a discussion on the same question.
Thank you for the feedback and the links. I get the impression that there is no clear cut winner. Like with everything, all have their pros and cons.
I am leaning toward The Rittenhouse. I really like a large comfortable room with a seating area. I was able to secure a 600 sq ft deluxe room for around$300.00. I get the impression that, in order to get something comparable at the RC or Four Seasons, I would have to jump to a suite.
One other option, which I know is a step down but has the advantages of location and space is the Park Hyatt at the Bellvue. They are offering a Parlor Suite ar $250.00 with Continental Breakfast.
I guess the question is, is it worth $100.00 more to stay at The Rittenhouse?
IMO, the Ritz is the best location, but is a bit lacking and the rooms are fairly bland. Rittenhouse sounds like the best option for your circumstance.
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Quote:
Originally Posted by flyer0409
One other option, which I know is a step down but has the advantages of location and space is the Park Hyatt at the Bellvue. They are offering a Parlor Suite ar $250.00 with Continental Breakfast.
I guess the question is, is it worth $100.00 more to stay at The Rittenhouse?
If you're thinking about the PH, you might want to search the Hyatt thread on this. I recall some discussion, though I don't think it's been very recent.
I've stayed there a few times, but not in the last 3 years. The rooms can vary, with layouts probably not as convenient as the Rittenhouse's. They used to offer a glass of champagne on checkin, but I'm not sure whether they still do.
If you do decide to stay there, be sure to enroll in the current Hyatt Gold Passport bonus promotion, as you'll get some extra points for a stay of at least 2 nights.
Yes, the RH still offers champagne and cookies at check-in, starting about 3 PM, IIRC. I think it comes down to convenience and how insistent one is on a very posh room. The Hyatt sounds like a good deal for a weekend, with breakfast included. Their XIX Restaurant is very good, as is their Raw Bar. I found the Ritz more impersonal and their location no better than the RH. (Unless you want to go to Borders across the street.)
Scratch out Hyatt all together. VERY dated property. Stayed there in November. Also stayed in Ritz a few times and 4 Seasons, where the latter is a clear winner.
Thanks everyone. Location is a big reason why I'm passing on the Four Seasons, also room size. I'm going to give The Rittenhouse a try. I'll let you all know how it works out.
The Four Seasons is a long, dodgy walk to the Kimmel Center.
Long, yes. Dodgy? By Philly standards? I'm not so sure.
Quote:
Originally Posted by flyer0409
Thanks everyone. Location is a big reason why I'm passing on the Four Seasons, also room size. I'm going to give The Rittenhouse a try. I'll let you all know how it works out.
Just when you think you are all set... The Four Season has extended their stay two nights and get a third night free promotion to April 30 in Philadelphia. This would put the Four Seasons at about $265.00 a night, including all taxes. Tempting!
It is my understanding that all of the rooms at The Four Season (below the suites) -- Moderate, Superior and Deluxe -- are the same except for location and view. Is this true?
