Philly’s Newest Boutique Hoteliers Show Us Around Old City

Staying in a thoughtfully designed and well-appointed space is hard to beat, which is why we're thrilled to introduce you to Lokal Hotel, the newest addition to Philadelphia's boutique hotel scene. With long- and short-term guests in mind, the Old City hotel features apartment-style suites designed by the always-on-point Jersey Ice Cream Co. team. We asked the husband-and-wife duo behind the hotel for a tour of the neighborhood.

PHILADELPHIA – We love to travel but are often disappointed by the beige walls and maroon paisley bedspread we encounter at many hotels. Lokal Hotel, our new design-driven project, was created because it's the kind of place we would love to stay. We wanted an environment that would allow our guests to experience the real Philadelphia as we know and love it, which is why we picked Old City for our first location. You can find some of the best shopping, restaurants, and galleries in the area. Here's a list of our go-to spots in Old City, one of Philadelphia's most exciting and historic neighborhoods.

Lokal Hotel
139 N. 3rd St.; +1-267-702-4345
The hotel is our baby and Philadelphia's first "invisible service" boutique hotel, combining the freedom and comfort of living in the city with the adventure of visiting. We like design. We like feeling at home. We like doing what locals do. We don't like to be bothered. But we do like curated, expert advice. We also like good coffee and nice robes, sheets, and furnishings. 

Cafe Ole
147 N. 3rd St.; +1-215-627-2140
If we made a Venn diagram of our favorite words and foods, the shakshuka from Cafe Ole would exist in all the circles. The owners know how to brew a great cup, blend a smoothie, and assemble a sandwich. They make you feel like a local with their pleasant but no-nonsense service. (There's an extensive collection of local fliers that are pretty great, too). 

A nice place to rest after a long day of exploring. Photo courtesy of Lokal Hotel.

An Instagram-worthy kitchen. Photo courtesy of Lokal Hotel.

United By Blue
144 N. 2nd St.; +1-215-278-7746
The quiet neighborhood shop features not only a fantastic pour-over cup of coffee, but lovely sandwiches and pastries as well. While dining, check out the cool campwear, homewear (featured in-room at Lokal), blankets, and clothing.

High Street on Market
308 Market St.; +1-215-625-0988
Some of our favorite food and people can be found in the rustic American eatery. Stop by for breakfast, lunch, or dinner and make sure you try the pasta and house-baked bread.

Petit Jardin en Ville
134 N. 3rd St.; +1-215-923-1600
The Parisian-inspired florist is across the street from Lokal Hotel and one of the most calming places in Old City. You can find the extremely friendly owners, Claudia and Vincent, watering their plants, making bouquets, or chatting with neighbors.

Race Street Pier
121 N. Columbus Blvd.; +1-215-922-2386
The one-of-a-kind park sits almost directly beneath the Ben Franklin Bridge. We recommend bringing a blanket and a picnic. The people-watching and waterfront views are great.

The Olde Bar
125 Walnut St.; +1-215-253-3777
If you go to chef Jose Garces’ seafood and raw bar restaurant, look for us at the end of the bar, requesting custom concoctions and home bartending tips.

Philadelphia in bloom. Photo courtesy of Petite Jardin en Ville.

Rustic American fare. Photo courtesy of High Street on Market.

Campos Deli
214 Market St., +1-215-923-1000
An outpost of the local Philly chain offers cheesesteaks and Italian hoagies.

Art In The Age
116 N. 3rd St., +1-215-922-2600
A unique shop selling handcrafted goods, liquors, and high-end men's fashion. It's one of our favorite spots in the city. It's the kind of place where you can pick up a bottle of root liquor and a pair of Warby Parker glasses.

Sugarcube
124 N. 3rd St.; +1-215-238-0825
The fashion boutique stocks classics by indie designers like Demylee and Williamsburg Garment Company, as well as the store's own label. Make sure to check out the hat selection while you're there.

Lost & Found
133 N. 3rd St.; +1-215-928-1311
The ladies that own this shop are wonderful. In addition to an incredible vintage section, the ladies source super on-trend clothes for men and women, shoes, jewelry, and bags.

Philadelphia Independents
35 N. 3rd St., +1-267-773-7316
Our favorite place for cool souvenirs, like independently crafted T-shirts, pillows, jewelry, and home goods — all with a Philly vintage vibe.

Charlie's Jeans
233 Market St.; +1-215-923-9681
Ask for Sebastian. He'll find you the best-fitting jeans in record time.

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