THE RITZ-CARLTON, PHILADELPHIA

Start your stay in historic Philadelphia in a hotel with an interesting past. The building that today houses, The Ritz-Carlton, Philadelphia, is the former home of The Girard Trust Company, which dates to 1908. The property retains many of the bank’s original architectural features. In addition, the hotel’s location along Avenue of the Arts and right across from City Hall makes it an ideal base for exploring all that makes Philadelphia great. It is within walking distance of many of the city’s key attractions and has significant shopping and dining choices.

GLORIOUS ARCHITECTURE
The Ritz-Carlton’s history as a bank began with its original construction as a reproduction of the Pantheon. It still retains that majestic exterior entry with its grand pillars. Once inside, the lobby boasts soaring ceilings, some nine thousand tons of Georgia marble, and the original architecture of an imposing 101-foot dome. Don’t miss also checking out the original Oculus, which was once used to pull the money through the center from the vault directly below.

Today, it is covered by a glass wall and surrounded by a high-top bar. Beyond the bar, the lobby offers small, comfortable seating areas, making it ideal for a pre- or post-dinner drink while you enjoy the beautiful architecture. For those who want to jumpstart their epicurean exploration of Philadelphia at The Ritz-Carlton, hotel restaurant Aqimero is located to the side of the lobby and serves Latin-American cuisine crafted by Chef Richard Sandoval. 

A CLUB LEVEL EXPERIENCE
Upgrade to the Club Level at The Ritz-Carlton to get more out of your stay with exceptional amenities and services. The most important of these extras is access to the beautiful Club Lounge on the 30th floor, boasting incredible city views. From here, you can see City Hall in its glory and even the Delaware and Schuylkill Rivers. The space, once the bank’s board room, features the original wood paneling made of French walnut with high ceilings, comfortable seating for dining and simply relaxing, and oversized windows to take in the views.

When not exploring the city, this will be your home away from home with food and beverage presentations throughout the day and anytime grab-and-go snacks and drinks. Start your day off with the indulgent breakfast featuring an omelet station with a chef ready to create your personalized meal before tasting the other offered treats. Skip dessert at whatever restaurant you dine in and return for the evening dessert and chocolate offerings paired with a nightcap. The concierges at the Club Lounge warmly welcome you and provide superior service. They can help with whatever you need during your stay.

Those impressive views can also be seen in many of The Ritz-Carlton’s rooms and suites. The comfortable rooms and suites feature large windows, and marble bathrooms with separate tubs, stall showers, and doored commodes. If you seek more space and amenities, the selection of luxury suites provides residential-style amenities.

SPA & FITNESS
Escape for true “me time” at the on-site holistic Richel D’ambra Spa + Salon. Choose from various treatments, including massage, body scrub, body wrap, facials, and more. Try one of the spa’s energy works treatments, such as Chakra Balancing. You will also find a salon for hair and makeup if you plan a big night out enjoying the city. The complimentary fitness center is open 24 hours a day/seven days a week, to get in a workout on its assortment of cardiovascular and strength equipment.

For more information on The Ritz-Carlton, Philadelphia, visit ritzcarlton.com/Philadelphia

SOME BROTHERLY LOVE
Head off on foot or in a quick ride share to discover some of Philadelphia’s top sights, conveniently located close to The Ritz-Carlton. A must-see is visiting Liberty Bell Center to view the famed symbol of freedom. Steps from it is UNESCO World Heritage Site Independence Hall, where in 1776 the Declaration of Independence was signed, and later, the United States Constitution was signed in 1787.

Take a photo next to the Rocky statue before creating your iconic movie moment by running up the 72 steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Then, take a few more steps right in the museum’s door to explore some of its 240,000 works, including an outdoor sculpture garden and paintings by Renoir, van Gogh, and Picasso. Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens on South Street is the indoor and outdoor mosaic work of artist Isaiah Zagar. Reading Terminal Market offers quick bites. Plan a night enjoying music, dance, or theater at the stunning Kimmel Center for The Performing Arts.
Info: visitphilly.com