Loews Philadelphia is located in a landmark building in downtown Philly. You may get the initial feel of walking into an official building as this used to be the headquarters of the PSFS (Philadelphia Savings Fund Society) the first savings bank in the United States. Today it has been transformed to an upscale hotel that is convenient for business as well as pleasure travelers.
What works for families:
The friendly service of the staff was a highlight from the moment we entered the hotel. One of the staff at the front desk escorted me from the lobby to the street entrance to help my husband with directions for valet parking. The garage was just around the corner and he could have easily just explained where it was. Every staff member we encountered made it a point to acknowledge our two year old and make conversation with him.
Loews Philly is part of the Loews Loves Kids program to help families with special treatment when traveling with little ones. Upon seeing the information online I called the hotel to let them know about the age of my child and expressed interest in the free services offered. Though the staff will know about the presence of kids through the room reservation, I believe a phone call or a message at the front desk can ensure your little ones are treated to some fun amenities.
As part of the program, we received an item from the Loews Philly Kids Closet.My son was delighted to have a surprise gift waiting for him in the hotel room after a long car ride. The gift was a toy lawn mower, an age appropriate gift that was nicely packaged. We also received a list of nearby attractions and information for child friendly activities, restaurants, medical services and baby sitting referrals through the Kids Koncierge service.
As a part of the Loews Loves Kids program you can also request cribs, stroller and child proof kits. I recommend calling ahead to ensure availability.
The Hotel:
The PSFS building was constructed during the Great Depression at an astronomical sum. As the second sky scraper in the world to have central air conditioning and one the most modern buildings in the 20th century, it is listed as a National Historic Landmark.
Banking stopped in the late 1970s but the building was returned to its former glory after the becoming a part of the Loews Hotel group in the late 1990s. The hotel has preserved several historic features such as the marble flooring and bank safes.
In keeping with its remarkable history being architectural marvel in financial epicenter of the 20th century, Loews Philly is an integral part of the downtown hotel and restaurant scene. The 33rd floor of the building is one of the best places to get sweeping views of the Philadelphia skyline.
With modern décor and spacious living space on the first floor, I felt like I had stepped into an oasis after the hustle and bustle of downtown.
The Room:
Our Club level room on the 30th floor had an expansive view of the city’s skyline. It was a great way to admire the juxtaposition of historic buildings and modern sky scrapers in the city.
With contemporary paintings and furniture, our room with two queen sized beds was stylish and comfortable. Our son had enough floor space to spread out his toys. The clock radio with bed time music proved quite useful when trying to get our toddler to sleep. We enjoyed relaxing by the window while our son napped and getting a feel for the city.
The rate for a double room varies between $169 – $299.
Amenities:
Free wifi, access to the pool and fitness center are available with the room.
Valet parking can get expensive at $40 per night. But you don’t need a car for sightseeing round the city as the hotel is centrally located within walking distance to several attractions such as LOVE Park, City Hall and Reading Terminal Market.
If you bring a car valet parking will be the most convenient but you could look around to see if any public parking can offer better rates. With bus stops located right in front of the hotel you can easily use public transportation or get a ride in a taxi.
Dining:
Don’t let the name Bank and Bourbon think that the in house restaurant is approved for adults only. Though the atmosphere during happy hour and dinner tend to be more grown up friendly with the emphasis on aged liquors, it is also a great spot for brunch before you head out sightseeing.
The restaurant should be known for its pancakes as much as it is known for its cocktails. They offered a children’s menu but there were several kid friendly items on the main menu as well. The pancakes and French toast kept us full enough that we ended up having a late lunch.
The Lobby Lounge offers a great space for families to gather for a quick bite. There are comfy sofas as well as tables equipped with charging stations and a large flat screen TV.
There are many restaurant options both high end and affordable located within walking distance from the hotel. Stopping at Reading Terminal Market and sampling a variety of local goodies was one of our favorite activities during the trip.
Loews Philly offered us a chic weekend getaway with our son and the “hotel with the lawn mower” has been a topic of conversation for many weeks since.
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