Hotel Partner Interview: The Rittenhouse
The Rittenhouse
World Class Service. Unmatched Location.
The Address:
210 W. Rittenhouse Square, Philadelphia, PA 19103
The Story:
“The Rittenhouse’s home has had many incarnations. The square on which the hotel is located was named after celebrated Philadelphian David Rittenhouse, and its modern layout was completed in 1913 to the design of Beaux-Arts architect Paul Cret.
At the turn of the 20th century there was a mansion where this historic Philadelphia hotel now stands. Living there were A.J. and Lois Buchanan Cassatt. A.J. was president of the Pennsylvania Railroad and masterminded its extension through to New York City, including the construction of the once magnificent Penn Station. Lois was a strong presence in the city’s social scene.
A.J.’s sister Mary was a renowned painter and printmaker who travelled to France and had work selected and exhibited by the Paris Salon of 1868. In recognition of her remarkable story, Mary is the namesake of our lounge, now renowned the world over for its exceptional Afternoon Tea.
The Rittenhouse hotel history richened when the Cassatt family sold the property to the Episcopal Church of Pennsylvania, and the Church made its headquarters onsite. The Academy of Notre Dame was also established here.
In the late 1960s architect Donald Reiff drew up the design of the current building. He angled it to provide stunning views of the Square and the city for the maximum number of guests. Construction began in the early 1970s and the property eventually opened to guests in 1989, standing as one of the most historic hotels in Philadelphia. Some of the hotel’s original design is reflected in today’s layout, but there have been a few striking and important upgrades along the way.”
Style:
Classic elegance in a modern setting! Our location, staff and amenities make The Rittenhouse a unique destination. We are the only hotel directly on Rittenhouse Square, the only Forbes Four Star rated hotel and celebrating our 30th anniversary in 2019 and we offer a large variety of experiences at the hotel such Afternoon High Tea, a Diamond Brightening Treatment in our full service Spa and Salon and a 10 course tasting menu at our Chef's Table in Lacroix.
Location:
The Rittenhouse is located just off Rittenhouse Square, a quaint + charming residential area filled with outstanding dining options and shopping destinations, while not far from Philadelphia's top attractions.
Image courtesy of the The Rittenhouse
Attractions Nearby:
The closest attractions are Rittenhouse Square and museums such as The Barnes Foundation and the Mutter Museum. Guests do not need to wander far for excellent dining - The Rittenhouse is home to Lacroix, Scarpetta, The Mary Cassatt Tea Room, and the Library Bar.
Flying to town? Philadelphia International is approximately 9 miles from the hotel -about a 25 minute car ride (Philly is rideshare friendly and readily accessible at the airport)
Fun Facts:
“We specialize in celebrating memorable occasions. Whether its a wedding, an anniversary, couple's getaway weekend or a family reunion, The Rittenhouse has been a part of those milestones for 30 years.”
“Prior to The Rittenhouse, 210 W Rittenhouse Square was home to the Academy of Notre Dame which saw the likes of Ethel, John and Lionel Barrymore.”
“Philadelphia is the only US city in the World Heritage Organization due to the historic nature of the city. Most people assume it's New York City or Washington DC but it's where the country was founded, Philadelphia.”
Amenities:
Rittenhouse guests will enjoy complimentary high speed internet, a welcome drink of sparkling wine or cappuccino upon arrival, bottled water and Illy coffee in-room and access to The Rittenhouse Spa + Club which features an indoor heated pool, fitness center, sauna and steam room. We are also pet friendly!
From the Staff:
Favorite Part of The Job:
“Creating special memories with our guests then hearing about it in social media or years later when they come back.”
Favorite Part of Working with Pack Up + Go Travelers:
“The Rittenhouse continues the element of surprise within the trip. You find out you are going to Philadelphia, hop on a plane then arrive to the top rated hotel from TripAdvisor in the city.”
Where to Go:
“Philadelphia has amazing restaurants + museums. I always take visitors around the city starting with a museum then pop into a restaurant for a bite and a drink.“
Favorite Place To Visit in the US:
“New Orleans because of the food, music, history and the people.”
Favorite Guest Experience:
“Every holiday season we offer Teddy Bear Tea where we invite children to afternoon tea with their parents, grandparents, etc. The kids get dressed up, enjoy special tea sandwiches like PB+J then have a special Teddy Bear naming ceremony with our staff.”
Craziest Thing that Has Happened:
“Seeing a groomsmen from a wedding party sing with the band. Turns out he was the lead singer from The Chainsmokers.”
Best Photo Opp:
“Rittenhouse Square, which is like a mini Central Park, Elfreth's Alley, the oldest residential street in the country and Boathouse Row along the Schuylkill River.”
Image courtesy of the The Rittenhouse