Philadelphia is a history lover’s dream. One of the oldest cities in the United States, it is chock-full of historic sites, from the iconic Liberty Bell to Independence Hall and the Betsy Ross House (the birthplace of the American Flag). When visiting, your hotel, too, may just be a piece of history. Especially if you choose to stay in the Guild House Hotel, a national historic landmark that offers guests a unique window into the city’s history. The Italianate townhouse was once the headquarters of the New Century Guild, one of the country’s first organizations to support women in the labor force and women’s suffrage. The hotel is small but luxurious, offering just 12 rooms and suites, all meticulously decorated to complement the building’s historic character.
It’s located in the heart of Philadelphia’s historic Center City, which makes the hotel a good pick for enjoying the most walkable city in the country. If you’re flying in, the Guild House Hotel is about a 30-minute car ride from Philadelphia International Airport or around a 50-minute ride on public transport. The hotel is also next to the 12/13th & Locust Street subway station, which provides easy access to the PATCO Speedline. If you’re bringing your own car, make sure to arrange with the hotel ahead of time. There is parking next door, but it requires a fee and reservation.
Stay in rooms inspired by historical women of Philadelphia
Founded in 1882 by Eliza S. Turner, the New Century Guild was formed to advance the rights of working women. Its headquarters at 1307 Locust Street was a hive of activity by some of the most accomplished women of the time. Taking these women as its inspiration, the team at Rohe Creative researched the personal histories of 12 Guild members to find the right furnishings to match their stories. “Each room is completely different, but the common thread through all of them is celebrating the story of each woman,” explained Kate Rohrer of Rohe Creative to Philadelphia magazine. “Every furniture piece, table, piece of artwork and fabric ties back to that woman.”
The Eliza Suite, also known as The Founder’s Suite, reflects Eliza Turner’s love for the outdoors. It features shades of green and botanical prints in the room that was once the building’s library. The Edith Suite, named after Edith Brubaker, the then-president of New Century Guild, features a crystal chandelier and gold trimmings. The colors signify her bold march for women’s suffrage and the yellow-and-white armbands the women were known to wear. The Wilda Suite is dedicated to Wilda Love, the New Century Guild’s former housekeeper. Her work made the Guild a welcome refuge for women, including cooking Thursday night dinners. Her suite has the original fireplace to recreate the warm and homey feel she exuded. Prices range from about $270 a night for one of the smaller fourth-floor suites to around $600 for the Alice Suite, a two-bedroom split-level apartment with a kitchenette and living room.
Feel at home at the Guild House Hotel
