The 14 best cheap hotels in Philadelphia

The hotel's historical building is one of the country's first modern skyscrapers, so it's cool to be immersed in Philadelphia's history on your stay. The Loews, a centrally-located hotel, is close to both Reading Terminal and the Philadelphia Convention Center, and boasts a great on-site restaurant called Bank and Bourbon. 

How much per night? About $200 per night

Where is it? On Market Street, in a prime City Center location. 

What room? Consider asking for a room on a high floor for breathtaking views of the city skyline. 

Time Out tip: Once you book your trip to Philly, secure a spot in this hotel. The rooms sell out quickly due to its location and reputation. 

Located on Avenue of the Arts and within walking distance of the Academy of Music, the Miller Theater (formerly the Merriam Theatre), the Kimmel Center and the Wilma Theater, this is the best (and best priced) hotel for visitors coming into town to take in some stage performances.

Theater buffs can enjoy a drink at the the DoubleTree by Hilton Philadelphia City's in-house bistro, Standing O, or take breakfast on the balcony. Transportation to must-see spots is easy by way of the subway and bus stop right outside. Enjoy the picturesque street views of City Hall (perfect for Instagram).

How much per night? About $137 per night.

Where is it? S. Broad Street, just a few blocks south of City Hall.

Which room? Breathe easy in a Pure Wellness room. Not only do they have better views of the city, but they come with a Pure air filter, as well as special mattress and pillow covers that reduce allergens, resist molds, spores and dust mites.

Time Out tip: You'll be staying on Philly's Avenue of the Arts, so make the most of it. There's something for everyone here, from Broadway shows (Miller Theater) to cinema (Philadelphia Film Society Center) to art (the Morton Contemporary Gallery) to war history (Union League of Philadelphia).

Its location in Historic Old City makes this Wyndham property the perfect place to stay for sightseeing travelers. Major historic sites like Independence Hall, the National Constitution Center, and Betsy Ross House are mere minutes away.

The chic lobby offers a cool bar, while the rooftop pool is ideal for a dip with a skyline view. This pick hits all the marks for families of those on business who want the standard features like a gym, in-room desks, free Wi-Fi, a restaurant, and modern decor.

How much per night? About $127 per night

Where is it? Arch Street in Philly's Old City, just steps from Revolutionary-era landmarks.

Which room? Each of the 364 rooms are kitted out to a similar standard, so you'll be just as happy in the Deluxe as you would in the Premium.

Time Out tip: Give your brain a workout at one of Philly's coolest newest experiences, the Museum of Illusions. This fun factory opened last year and has so many mind-bending attractions, you'll likely run out battery 'Gramming them all.

Across the street from the Pennsylvania Convention Center, this hotel is the place for those on business to recharge while also being conveniently close to Chinatown and Center City. Featuring all the standard amenities like free Wi-Fi, a fitness room, and an in-house bar and restaurant, you'll have everything you need here. Plus, you get the added perk of being able to hop over to Dilworth Park or grab some food in Chinatown. 

How much per night? About $177 per night.

Which room? Take your pick—they're all equal at Four Points. 

Time Out tip: You're in luck if you like escape rooms, because this hotel is within walking distance of four. Try the Gotham Escape Room, where the decor is as thrilling as the brain-bending puzzles. 

Old-school glamour with modern touches await at Penn's View Hotel, an affordable riverside hotel that is decked out in classic earthy tones.  Rooms come with free Wi-Fi, TVs, and sizeable beds. Elsewhere you'll find an in-house Italian restaurant, plus a wonderous wine cellar, and a modest fitness center.

When you’re not enjoying the hotel, there’s plenty to do around the area (it's practically within spitting distance of the Liberty Bell). You can also easily explore Spruce Street Harbor Park and the skate rinks (ice and roller, depending on the time of year) at Penn’s Landing.

How much per night? About $118 per night

Where is it? North Front Street, overlooking the Delaware River.

Which room? Book the King Patio room for views of the Delaware River and Ben Franklin Bridge from your own private patio. Then head indoors to enjoy the gas fireplace and spa bathtub.

Time Out tip: You'd be remiss to stay here and not tick off all the Independence attractions: the Hall, National Park, Visitor Center, Seaport Museum and Blue Cross RiverRink, all of which are within ten-minutes' walk of the hotel.

For a real home away from home, consider Hilton’s Home2 Suites near the Pennsylvania Convention Center. These spacious studios are done up in contemporary décor and calming shades, and include everything you need to cook, clean, eat, entertain and sleep. The kitchenettes are equipped with helpful appliances like fridges, microwaves, dishwashers, coffee makers, toasters and more. There are separate work spaces, a flat screen TV in the living area, and pets are allowed for an extra fee. Elsewhere in the building you’ll find a pool, gym and daily hot breakfast.

How much per night? About $99 per night. 

Where is it? Arch Street, right in the heart of the city.

Which room? Each room here is just as well-equipped as the next, so if you only need to sleep two—or are happy to share up to four—book the Queen Bed Studio. Not only is this the cheapest room, but both the bed and the sofa bed are queens.

Time Out tip: For a treat for all the senese head over to Reading Terminal Market, one of the oldest and largest urban markets in the country that's been operating since 1893.

Exhibiting a contemporary and metropolitan edge, the four-star Club Quarters Rittenhouse Square is the epitome of a downtown experience. Standard rooms are equipped with a desk, while bigger rooms feature kitchenettes. The large lobby, which has a vaulted ceiling, and club living room are great for both business and casual hangs.

Pets stay for free and features like water bowls placed around the hotel make the space dog-friendly rather than just dog-tolerant (there's also unlimited bottled water for humans, too). A fitness center with Peleton bikes and a roof terrace with amazing city views sweeten the deal.

How much per night? About $118 per night

Where is it? Chestnut Street, slap bang between Rittenhouse Square and City Hall.

Which room? If you need a longer stay, Club Quarters has you covered with their Studio Apartments. These spaces come with fully equipped kitchens and flexible work space, plus complimentary tea, coffee, printing, and housekeeping services.

Time Out tip: It couldn't be easier to enjoy the splendors of Center City eats and nightlife from this convenient spot.

Pairing modernity with classic architecture, the Warwick Hotel epitomizes the elegant Rittenhouse vibe. Here you combine the ease and customer service of a major chain (Marriott) with all the homey touches of a boutique lodging; each of the 301 rooms feature a Philly-themed headboard, mini fridge and espresso machine.

If you want continued convenience without leaving the confines of the building, treat your tastebuds at one of the three restaurants, get your steps in at the gym, and keep on top of things in the 24/7 business center. If you do decide to leave, there is ample shopping and dining nearby. Bring your pup, too—the hotel is pet-friendly.

How much per night? About $147 per night.

Where is it? S 17th St, on the eastside of Rittenhouse Square.

Which room? The Junior Suite costs slightly more than the Signature rooms, but the extra cost is justified if you value more space. These rooms come with a separate seating area, which also opens into extra queen-size sleeping space.

Time Out tip: Get your STEM on at The Franklin Institute, which is an easy 15-minute walk from the hotel. There's something for all ages here, including immersive exhibits about space and the human brain. Also not to be missed is a chance to walk through a giant human heart.

This former nightclub features male, female, and co-ed dorms and eight private rooms; options include queen-sized beds and bunk beds with private living areas, which is great for traveling families or friend groups. Apple Hostels' Philly outpost also has two kitchens, a pool table, musical instruments and a library for guests to use.

Even better? You couldn’t get much closer to Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. As such, this place is strictly for the traveling set: to stay, you’ll have to present either a foreign passport or a government-issued ID showing you live outside of a 75-mile radius of Philly.

How much per night? About $75 per night

Where is it? Bank Street, mere minutes from the attractions along the waterfront.

Which room? The cheapest lodging on this list, the price of shared rooms at Apple Hostels is very wallet-friendly. This oe one offers more private options than others, but remember to reserve early for to snag them.

Time Out tip: Staying in the summer? From May to September, the River Link Ferry runs passengers to New Jersey in 15 minutes, where you'll find the attractions of Camden Waterfront, including Adventure Aquarium, and regular live performances on the Wiggins Waterfront Park.

It’s the little things at The Alexander Inn—the red brick facade, oak wood mouldings, stained glass windows, and fireplaces—that add to its appeal. The larger things, like its centralized location between the historic attractions in Old City and the fine dining and nightlife establishments in Washington Square West, add to the old-school cozy comfort.

Hotel amenities include complementary wine and snack evenings (Mon-Wed, 5-7pm) and discounted parking. An added perk? Close proximity to A-plus eateries, including Vetri Cucina, Vedge and Greenstreet Coffee Company.

How much per night? About $141 per night

Where is it? South 12th Street, near the lovely little tree-lined Kahn Park.

Which room? Traveling solo? The Alexander Inn offers affordable single rooms, so you don't have to pay for extra space you won't use.

Time Out tip: In less than ten minutes you can immerse yourself in Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens, a funky non-profit art museum and gallery known since the 1960s for its burst of colors in concrete.

Perfect for campus visits, this hotel neighbors nearby University of Pennsylvania, Drexel University, and University of the Sciences. Take a dip in the heated outdoor pool when weather permits, and be sure to grab a bite in the hotel’s ground-floor Chinese restaurant, Sang Kee Noodle House. Getting to and from Center City (and beyond) from this Sheraton location is a breeze thanks to its proximity to both 34th Street SEPTA station and 30th Street Station. Expect all the usual amenities, like free Wi-Fi and a fitness center, done well.

How much per night? About $200 per night

Where is it? Chestnut Street, actually on the University of Pennsylvania campus.

Which room? Plump for Club Lounge access, then you're guaranteed a higher floor (and a better view), as well as free breakfast, snacks, drinks and wifi.

Time Out tip: University City is home to four universities and colleges, but don't let that convince you there's nothing for foodies here. The area is absolutely packed with excellent dining options including New Deck Tavern, White Dog Cafe, and Pod.

The official hotel of Temple University provides convenient accommodation to those visiting the school or nearby Temple University Hospital, thus offering access to less-visited neighborhoods like Northern Liberties and Fairmount. The guest rooms at The Conwell Inn are outfitted with quaint furnishings and the hotel has on-site parking, but make sure to reserve a spot ahead of time. Grab a bite from campus food trucks to get the full collegiate experience.

How much per night? About $130 per night.

Where is it? Polett Walk on the campus of Temple University.

Which room? Families should book the Deluxe Suite. The main bedroom is separate from the seating area (where you'll find the double sofa bed), which allows a smidge of privacy.

Time Out tip: The Conwell Inn really rolls out the welcome mat for canine guests; the hotel provides food and water bowls, specific treats, and a 'Wipe Your Paws' welcome mat.

This well-appointed hotel is a perfect home base for a Philly visit because it's just steps from buzzing Rittenhouse Square. This is a great home base for a museum lover because art is integrated into the hotel's design and amenities; the lobby hosts a rotating gallery of works by local artists, and ArtBar, the hotel's bar, serves art-inspired cocktails. There's also a convenient on-site restaurant and seasonal rooftop. The Sonesta Philadelphia Rittenhouse Square's location allows easy access to historic sites, too.

How much per night? About $164 per night.

Where is it? On Market Street, steps from lively Rittenhouse Square.

Which room? Opt for a corner king suite, which features a sofa bed, if you want more space or are traveling with a family.

Founded as a gift shop in 2016, YOWIE now operates a hotel, cafe, and boutique on one site—this is a unique property that fans of the arts will particularly enjoy. The rooms feature works by local artists, and the on-site shop and cafe are convenient and edgy. The vibrant furnishings and outstanding service elevate stays here. The modern and playful shop is packed with ceramics, clothes, housewares, zines, candles, and jewelry from young designers.

How much per night? About $209 per night

Where is it? South Street, a cool locale that's a short walk from Old City. 

Which room? There's no bad room here, as each includes art produced by local artists. 

Time Out tip: South Street is a popular walking spot in the city and the shops are great to browse. Enjoy the vibe and views during warmer months by people watching outside.