There’s nothing better than staying in a hotel room that feels about the same size as your own apartment, especially when you’re living in the heart of a bustling city like Philadelphia. In particular, if you’ve always wanted to stay at the W Philadelphia, you’re in for a treat, especially if you choose to upgrade to one of the stylish hotel’s eight suite types with sky-high views of downtown Philadelphia.
Filled with moody lighting, eclectic art, and 70s-style maximalist décor, the W Hotel Philadelphia feels like a retro nightclub in the form of a hotel. I recently had the opportunity to stay at the hotel and test out an 800 square foot studio suite, which I was completely blown away by (it’s just one of the more standard suite types – so it only gets better from here).
If you’re wondering how to make your stay at one of Philly’s best hotels even sweeter, here are a few reasons why we think booking a suite or nightly upgrade award at the W Philadelphia is well worth the money—if for no other reason than to have the space to enjoy your favorite Philly cheesesteak with friends in the City of Brotherly Love.
RELATED: 2 Nights of Highlights: W Philadelphia Review
Nightly upgrade rewards offer great savings to Marriott Bonvoy members
If you’re a Marriott Bonvoy member and have nightly upgrade awards (or maybe some) available, W Philadelphia offers this upgrade option for select suite types (like studios and premium suites), which we can check with a quick search of the hotel’s availability.
You must apply for a Nightly Upgrade Award for each night of your stay. For example, if you stay three nights, you must use three upgrade award certificates per night.
To do this, you’ll first need to make a standard reservation at W Philadelphia, and then you’ll have the option to use your award (but remember, you won’t know if your upgrade has been confirmed until five days after check-in).
Marriott Bonvoy members with elite status, specifically Platinum Elite and above, are eligible for free room upgrades, including suites (subject to availability and hotel availability).
TPG Tips: Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card Offers cardholders free Platinum Elite status.
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Additionally, select Marriott hotels allow elite members to upgrade a standard reservation to a suite using points or cash. We understand that W Philadelphia does not currently have a points upgrade option for suites, but it is best to call the hotel to check. If you go this route at other Marriott properties, though, keep in mind that when you book, you’ll likely be presented with several options – either book an upgrade by paying the extra cash price, or upgrade by redeeming extra points.
RELATED: Guide to Using Marriott’s Nightly Upgrade Rewards
Enjoy floor-to-ceiling views of Philadelphia from your private outdoor space
No city hotel can guarantee a great view, so taking in some of Philadelphia’s most beautiful panoramas from the comfort of your suite will make your stay extra special. Add to this the fact that the windows are floor to ceiling and some even have corner positioning and/or doors leading to private patios with seating, and you’re looking at some of the most prime real estate in town.
If you want access to the highly sought-after private outdoor space, you’ll need to book one of the W Suites, Supreme Suites or Penthouse Suites.
Have a drink in your own 70s style bar
You’ll find a 1970s vibe around every corner at the atmospheric W Philadelphia, but perhaps the best ode to this storied decade is the free-standing round bar found in various suites.
Paired with the space’s mixed-material décor, like patent leather ottomans, velvet in pops of color, and gauze curtains, this bar will transport you back to the hippest decade. Not only is it an eye-catching centerpiece in the suite’s living room, but it also provides the perfect excuse to enjoy happy hour before hitting the town (or head to Dolce Restaurant inside the W Philadelphia, which serves delicious regional Italian cuisine in a 1960s Roman-style atmosphere).
The space feels like your own apartment
For those who want to spread out over their stay, a suite at the W Philadelphia is the perfect choice. Most suites are generously sized at 800 square feet and offer relaxing space with comfortable L-shaped sofas, chic ottomans, large flat-screen TVs, and even desk space or table with chairs overlooking the city views. While the Art Deco style gives it a vibrant and well-designed feel, the suite’s design also gives it a residential and comfortable feel – the ideal home away from home.
If you’re looking for the ultimate stay, look no further than the epic penthouse suite, which features 2,300 square feet of space, including two separate bedrooms, a private balcony with city views, an in-room DJ booth, foosball table, soaking tub, two full bathrooms, and even a pantry-style kitchen.
bottom line
When you’re staying in a vibrant city like Philadelphia, choosing a hotel can be difficult, and deciding on a room type can be even harder. Whether you’re a Marriott Bonvoy loyalist, have some nightly upgrade rewards, or are just looking to splurge on accommodations that rival a luxury apartment, you can’t go wrong by staying in one of the eight spacious suite types available at W Philadelphia. We promise – the vibe won’t disappoint.
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