Gay Philadelphia Philadelphia City Guide

Curation by Jamie McGhee, words by Ian Packham

One of the oldest cities in the United States – founded in 1682 by William Penn – Philadelphia marries a rich history with a charm usually reserved for small towns. Its attractive streets of red brick townhouses bore witness to the Declaration of Independence and First Continental Congress, and are now enveloped in more than 2,000 spectacular murals that bring art from the museums to the streets. The ‘City of Brotherly Love’ also has equality embedded into its very DNA. As one of the birthplaces of the gay rights movement, Philly was among the first US cities to actively promote pink tourism, making the Pennsylvania city a relaxed and open destination for gay visitors seeking to experience Philadelphia points to interest for themselves.

The Best Hotels in Philadelphia

Centrally located in the Rittenhouse Square area of the city, the five-star Dwight D Boutique Hotel is situated in a brownstone building that lends a historic ambience to each of its eight spacious rooms. Elegantly decorated with period furniture, it offers a tranquil base from which to explore all the things to do in Philadelphia. The nearby Rittenhouse Hotel is a slightly grander affair with interior décor which firmly places it within the jazz age. Art deco masterpieces abound in both the guest rooms and public spaces, which include a large indoor swimming pool, fitness centre, and outdoor terrace. Also close by is The Deacon, a vacation stay with a difference. Its minimalist design highlights the arched windows and vaulted ceilings of this converted church, which features eight rooms in addition to a large shared lounge and kitchen area perfect for making new friends.

On the western side of the city, close to Fairmount Park and the Philadelphia Museum of Art, The Study Hotel at University City sports a clear contemporary edge in its design, taking advantage of clean Scandinavian lines and lightly-hued woods to create an airy and welcoming space. By contrast, the three-star Cornerstone Bed and Breakfast is a family-owned option with the unique kerbside appeal of a fully-restored mid-Victorian edifice. The interior is thorough of the period, without lacking modern creature comforts. Just a few hundred metres from Philadelphia City Hall and the popular Reading Terminal Market, Aloft Philadelphia Downtown is ideally situated for many of the most acclaimed Philadelphia things to do. Boasting an incredibly artful interior, Aloft is one of Philly’s quirkier stays, combining a great look and fantastic guest amenities that include a fitness centre and terrace.