Known by many as the City of Brotherly Love, Philadelphia is Pennsylvania’s largest city. It successfully draws thousands of travelers every year, and we understand why. Housing the Liberty Bell and Philadelphia Museum of Art, this compact and walkable city has a lot to offer. We’re sure you’ll love exploring its local culture and history. Moreover, it’s an excellent destination for travelers looking for a city that offers a lot without breaking their bank. If you’re looking for cheap hotels in Philadelphia Downtown, you’re at the right place! To ease the planning process for your next vacation, we’ve picked some of the best cheap hotels in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Without further ado, let us show you our picks!
Table of contents
- Residence Inn by Marriott Philadelphia Center City
- DoubleTree by Hilton Philadelphia Center City
- Sheraton Philadelphia University City Hotel
- Alexander Inn
- Wyndham Philadelphia Historic District
- Warwick Hotel Rittenhouse Square
- Club Quarters Hotel Rittenhouse Square
- Sonder The Arco
- Morris House Hotel
- Home2 Suites by Hilton Philadelphia Convention Center
- Penn’s View Hotel Philadelphia
- Top Affordable Bars in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Top Affordable Restaurants in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Free Things To Do in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Residence Inn by Marriott Philadelphia Center City
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Book a room at Residence Inn by Marriott Philadelphia Center City and have a blast in the heart of the city! This cheap hotel in Philadelphia center city is set next to City Hall. This means most rooms on the property offer fantastic views out to the historic center! On top of that, the rooms at this affordable hotel are fitted with a fully-equipped kitchen. This is a big plus, especially for families.
Speaking of which, we’re sure you’ll also enjoy the complimentary hot breakfast! Better yet, that’s not the only freebies! Considered one of the best cheap hotels in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, this hotel also offers free grocery delivery service and weekday evening social with snacks! Other notable amenities include an on-site bar, a fitness center, and a business center.
DoubleTree by Hilton Philadelphia Center City
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Another cheap hotel in Philadelphia center city worth your attention is the DoubleTree by Hilton Philadelphia Center City. As a popular hotel, this property sure knows how to spoil its guests. The hotel will welcome you with a chocolate chip cookie upon your arrival. Some of the city’s best restaurants are only blocks away from the hotel if it isn’t enough. When you’re too lazy to head out, enjoy your meal in the on-site restaurant overlooking the Academy of Music! Sounds awesome, right?
Like other cheap hotels in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the guestrooms are impressive! Each offers panoramic views of the city skyline, a work desk, and high-speed Wi-Fi. The mini-fridge will always be handy when you need to keep your drinks cold. Speaking of drinks, you should also check out Standing O, the in-house bistro that offers a wide array of drinks.
Sheraton Philadelphia University City Hotel
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Perfect for campus visits, this hotel is only steps away from the University of Penn, Drexel University, and the University of the Sciences. Named one of the best cheap hotels in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the Sheraton Philadelphia University City Hotel has plenty of great amenities. Active travelers can keep their bodies healthy by working out in the fitness center or swimming in the seasonal outdoor pool. On top of that, there’s also massive meeting space and an Asian restaurant.
When it comes to the guestrooms, you can expect bright and modern accommodations that are fitted with everything you need. There’s free WI-Fi, a flat-screen TV, a coffee maker, and a work desk. If you have an extra budget, you can upgrade your room and enjoy access to the hotel’s lounge with complimentary continental breakfast, all-day snacks, and afternoon appetizers.
Alexander Inn
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Set in a red brick building dating to 1901, Alexander Inn is considered one of the best cheap hotels in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. As with other hotels on this list, the location of this hotel is loved by travelers. The Pennsylvania Convention Center, Liberty Bell, and more are less than a mile away by staying here. On top of that, this boutique hotel is surrounded by tons of shops and restaurants, so you’ll have plenty of places to visit.
The stylish rooms at this gay-friendly Philadelphia hotel come with free Wi-Fi, a huge, spotless bathroom, a flat-screen TV, and other standard amenities. Some rooms also have bay windows and seating areas. Like other cheap hotels in Philadelphia Downtown, this hotel offers many freebies, including a complimentary breakfast buffet and an all-day snack bar.
Wyndham Philadelphia Historic District
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Travelers searching for the best cheap hotels in Philadelphia Downtown should look at Wyndham Philadelphia Historic District. As the name suggests, it’s set in the Historic Old City, making it the perfect place to stop for sightseeing travelers. Some major sites like the Independence Hall, National Constitution Center, and Betsy Ross House are mere minutes away!
Furthermore, this cheap hotel in Philadelphia center city is also one of the best hotels with a rooftop pool in Philadelphia! It’s the best spot at the hotel for a dip with a view of the skyline. Apart from the pool, you can also take advantage of other amenities like the fitness center and free Wi-Fi. Meanwhile, each modern room has a flat-screen TV with premium channels and a coffee maker. You can also upgrade your room to have a mini-fridge or microwave.
Warwick Hotel Rittenhouse Square
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Only a stone’s throw away from Rittenhouse Square, the Warwick Hotel Rittenhouse Square is an iconic hotel with a significant history. Ranked one of the best cheap hotels in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, this hotel’s rooms have hosted many important figures since 1928. Each of the 301 rooms is spacious and modern. Free Wi-Fi, a 32-inch flat-screen TV, a large work desk, a coffee maker, and air conditioning are all standards.
If you have nothing to do in your room, you can pamper by scheduling an in-room spa service or head down to the on-site hair salon. Or, you can also explore the nearby shopping centers and restaurants. Some of the area’s top attractions include the Art Institute of Philadelphia, the Library Company of Philadelphia, and Gallery 339. Oh, and bring your pup too, as the hotel is pet-friendly.
Club Quarters Hotel Rittenhouse Square
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Only seven minutes from the City Hall subway station on foot is Club Quarters Hotel Rittenhouse Square, one of the best cheap hotels in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. As you can see from its name, this hotel is situated in Rittenhouse Square, one of the city’s most elegant districts. Spending your days here means you’ll be a stone’s throw away from places like Fairmount Park, Walnut Street, The Historical Society of Pennsylvania, Rosenbach Museum and Library, and many more.
The guestrooms at this hotel range from cheap and compact options to huge suites. Those on a budget don’t have to worry; the smaller rooms are as nice as, the larger ones! Though compact, there’s still a flat-screen TV, a desk, and an iPod docking station. A microwave and refrigerator are also available upon request. Meanwhile, the on-site fitness center features modern cardio equipment and weights. Even better, this hotel welcomes pets for no additional fee. Being an affordable option and super close to downtown easily makes it the top cheap hotel in Philadelphia center city.
Sonder The Arco
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Sonder The Arco is considered one of the best cheap hotels in Philadelphia Downtown. This boutique hotel is close enough to all the activities of downtown Philadelphia minus all the congestion. It’s conveniently located amidst some of the area’s best restaurants, making it an ideal pick for foodies. As one of the top cheap hotels in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, you can expect many freebies, including free Wi-Fi and breakfast.
There are only 24 guestrooms on the property, but each apartment-style room is spacious and bright. They feature hardwood floors and dark wood furniture, making them look modern. Some in-room amenities include air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, a coffee maker, ironing facilities, and free toiletries. You won’t regret spending your days at this amazing hotel with everything it offers!
Morris House Hotel
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Dating back to 1787, this beautiful boutique hotel is considered one of the best cheap hotels in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Staying at Morris House Hotel will make you feel like you’re back in the Colonial era. Besides the clean and charming guestrooms, you’ll also fancy the on-site garden. Apart from that, you can also enjoy your afternoon cookies and tea beside the fireplace in the dining room. Don’t forget to connect your phone to the hotel’s free Wi-Fi, as every corner of this hotel is worth a post on your Instagram.
Like other cheap hotels in Philadelphia Downtown, this hotel’s convenient location is also one of its biggest selling points. It’s only a block away from Washington Square Park and the 1753 Georgian Independence Hall. Want to fill your stomach? Relax, as there are countless restaurants and cafes around the hotel too. After enjoying your meal, you can admire the Delaware River, which is around a mile from the hotel.
Home2 Suites by Hilton Philadelphia Convention Center
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Look no further than Home2 Suites by Hilton Philadelphia Convention Center, a cheap hotel in Philadelphia center city for a real home away from home. As the name implies, this hotel is set directly across from the Philadelphia Convention Center. Apart from that, there are also many other attractions in the vicinity. The Reading Terminal Market, Fairmount Park, African American Museum, Hard Rock Cafe, Walnut Street Theater, and more are less than a mile away.
As one of the best cheap hotels in Philadelphia Downtown, it offers a complimentary hot breakfast every morning. That way, you can save your money for something else. Apart from that, the Wi-Fi is also free! Meanwhile, each sophisticated guestroom has everything you need to eat, sleep, and entertain. When you’re bored, feel free to work out in the fitness center or have fun in the indoor saltwater pool. Other notable amenities include vending machines, an on-site convenience store, an on-site ATM, and express check-in and check-out.
Penn’s View Hotel Philadelphia
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Vintage glamor and warmly furnished guestrooms await you at Penn’s View Hotel Philadelphia, one of the best cheap hotels in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Overlooking Market Street, this affordable riverside hotel is only minutes away from all the best things to do in Philadelphia. Places like the Christ Church, Liberty Bell, Arden Theater Company, Welcome Park, Museum of the American Revolution, and more are within easy reach. Meanwhile, those looking for a casual dining experience will be happy to know that there’re tons of great restaurants within walking distance!
Though named the best cheap hotel in Philadelphia center city, this hotel still has plenty of awesome amenities. Once you arrive at this hotel, connect your phone to the Wi-Fi so you can always update your socials. Then, get a bite at the on-site Italian restaurant, and don’t forget to marvel at the wine cellar. After a long and fun day, rest in the well-decorated guestroom. Each of them is spacious and has a private balcony, allowing you to enjoy your morning coffee while admiring the city view.
Top Affordable Bars in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- El Bar – Open Tuesday to Sunday; this is a fun dive bar with live music and karaoke. The bartenders are great, and the drinks are cheap. There’s also a great outdoor area.
- Locust Bar / Club – This is another affordable bar that you should pay a visit to. It features sports on TV and a menu of wings, fries, nachos, and sandwiches. The craft beers are cheap, and there’s a pinball machine too.
- Oscar’s Tavern – Set in the heart of the city, this old-school bar offers pub grub and cocktails. The people there are friendly, and there are burgers and fries.
Top Affordable Restaurants in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Dalessandro’s Steaks & Hoagies – For a cheesesteak that doesn’t break your wallet, this is the place to be. Its sandwiches are juicy and big, and they come with onions, mushrooms, and Whiz for under 15 USD.
- Love & Honey Fried Chicken – This place is known for serving delicious, ridiculously cheap food. For 10 USD, you can enjoy seven buttermilk fried chicken tenders! You can order the food online too.
- Siddiq’s Real Fruit Water Ice – When the weather is hot, you should go to this place and devour its refreshing water ice. Flavors like mango lemonade, white grape, and cantaloupe are made with real fruits, each of which costs only 5 USD.
Free Things To Do in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Liberty Bell Center – Located at 526 Market Street, it’s one of the world’s most famous symbols of freedom. Of course, you can visit this place for free, open daily. The bell also creates an awesome photo opportunity, with the Independence Hall in the background behind glass-windowed walls.
- The Rocky Statue and the Rocky Steps – Located at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, these are two of the most attractions in the city. Snapping a photo with the Rocky statue and running up the Rocky Steps is free!
- LOVE Sculpture – Take your camera and take lots of pictures with the iconic LOVE Sculpture, which is in the John F. Kennedy Plaza. It was restored and repainted in 2018, and the park was redesigned to add more green areas.