Hotels in Kensington

Kensington: Where Nature Meets Adventure and Community Thrives

Kensington, Philadelphia, is a vibrant neighborhood brimming with eclectic charm and rich history. Once an industrial hub, it now thrives with artistic murals, local markets, and a burgeoning food scene. Explore the lush greens of Fishtown's parks or catch a game at the nearby sports facilities. Kensington offers a unique blend of urban culture and community spirit, inviting visitors to enjoy its diverse attractions and lively atmosphere. Whether you’re wandering through its historic streets or immersing yourself in local events, Kensington promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of Philadelphia. For the best hotel rates in Kensington, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in Kensington

Kensington, Philadelphia, offers great attractions like Rittenhouse Square, known for its lush park and vibrant atmosphere; the Philadelphia Museum of Art, showcasing world-class art; and the Liberty Bell Center, a symbol of American independence. For accommodations, you'll find a range of options from cozy transient quarters to quality inns, many with wheelchair access. Rittenhouse Square is particularly ideal for first-time visitors due to its central location and lively surroundings, providing easy access to key attractions. Here are some of the best hotels in Kensington that our travelers love:

1. Near Rittenhouse SquareOpens in a new window: This vibrant area is perfect for travelers looking for a mix of city life and culture. Rittenhouse Square is known for its elegant parks, upscale dining, and shopping options, making it a top choice for both leisure and business travelers. For accommodation, consider The Rittenhouse PhiladelphiaOpens in a new window, a luxurious 5.0-star hotel with excellent business amenities and family-friendly services. Hotel AKA Rittenhouse SquareOpens in a new window is another great option; it's a 4.0-star hotel that welcomes pets and offers a business center and multiple meeting rooms. Lastly, The Franklin on Rittenhouse, A Boutique HotelOpens in a new window features unique decor and pet-friendly amenities, making it a charming boutique choice.
2. Near Philadelphia Museum of ArtOpens in a new window: This culturally rich area is ideal for art enthusiasts and those seeking a deeper understanding of Philadelphia's history. The Philadelphia Museum of Art is a must-visit, offering an impressive collection of art and beautiful architecture. Holiday Inn Express Exton, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window is a budget-friendly 2.5-star hotel that provides essential business amenities, while Lambertville HouseOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star boutique hotel, features unique decor and excellent conference facilities, perfect for both leisure and business travelers.
3. Near Liberty Bell CenterOpens in a new window: A historic location that draws visitors interested in American history and culture, the Liberty Bell Center is a major landmark in Philadelphia. This area also offers a variety of dining and shopping options. Candlewood Suites Bordentown-Trenton, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window is a 2.5-star hotel suitable for business travelers and pet owners, providing essential amenities like a 24-hour business center. Hampton Inn BordentownOpens in a new window focuses on pet-friendly accommodations, while Best Western Bordentown InnOpens in a new window is another budget-friendly 2.5-star option with business amenities, ensuring a convenient stay in this historic area.

What to do in Kensington

Kensington offers a perfect three-day getaway for travelers seeking a mix of natural beauty and vibrant activities. Enjoy sun-soaked beach days, scenic walking tours, and family-friendly parks, along with cultural experiences like live music and local arts. The area’s diverse landscapes set the stage for unforgettable adventures. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Kensington:

• Day 1: Start your Philadelphia adventure at Rittenhouse Square, a beautiful park surrounded by shops and cafes, perfect for a morning stroll. After soaking in the local atmosphere, make your way to Love Park, famous for its iconic LOVE sculpture and vibrant public space. It's a great spot for photos and relaxation. In the afternoon, visit The Barnes Foundation, where you can explore an impressive collection of art, including works by Renoir and Cézanne, all housed in a stunning building.
• Day 2: Begin your exploration at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, where you can admire both the stunning architecture and the extensive art collections. Don’t forget to run up the Rocky Steps for that iconic photo op! Next, head to the Eastern State Penitentiary, a hauntingly beautiful historic site that offers a glimpse into the past of prison architecture and reform. Finally, take a leisurely stroll down Benjamin Franklin Parkway, a scenic boulevard lined with museums, art, and culture.
• Day 3: Your day starts at the Liberty Bell Center, where you can see the symbol of American independence. Afterward, take a short walk to the Delaware River waterfront for picturesque views and perhaps some riverside dining. Finish your trip with a walk down Walnut Street, known for its vibrant shopping scene and diverse dining options, making it the perfect place to grab a meal and reflect on your Philadelphia experience.

5 tips to find a great Kensington hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Kensington is during January, February, and December when hotel prices are more affordable. To fully enjoy the main attractions, it's recommended to stay for at least 2-3 days. Key highlights in Kensington include a sports facility stadium, picturesque parks, and family-friendly beaches, making it a great value for money destination for travelers on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for great last-minute deals to Kensington, check out the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com. You could find discounted rates on accommodations as your travel date approaches. To stay in the loop on flash sales and exclusive last-minute offers, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, ensuring you’re more likely to snag a fantastic deal.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, if you’re flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Kensington.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your vacation, think about your location. Staying near major attractions or city centers can offer convenience, but these options usually tend to be more expensive. For more affordable rates, consider hotels in less central areas or neighborhoods, balancing your budget with the accessibility of the sites you want to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next reservation in Kensington and be a part of Hotels.com's free One Key program, which enables members to take advantage of reward points for hotel bookings. Progress through the tiers of Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum to unlock advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Start earning reward points now.

What to eat in Kensington

Here are some famous dishes in Kensington, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America:

• Cheesesteak: A Philadelphia classic, the cheesesteak features thinly sliced steak, often ribeye, grilled to perfection and topped with melted cheese, typically Cheez Whiz or provolone, all served in a soft hoagie roll. It’s a must-try for any visitor, best enjoyed from one of the many local shops where you can customize your toppings, including sautéed onions and peppers.
• Soft Pretzel: This iconic Philly snack is a chewy, salty delight often enjoyed fresh from street vendors or bakeries. The pretzel is traditionally twisted into a knot shape and can be paired with mustard for an authentic experience, making it perfect for a spontaneous snack as you explore the neighborhood.
• Roast Pork Sandwich: Another local favorite, the roast pork sandwich features tender, slow-roasted pork served on a crusty roll, often topped with sharp provolone and broccoli rabe. This hearty sandwich reflects the city’s Italian heritage and is best enjoyed at a deli or sandwich shop that focuses on quality ingredients.

Best time to go to Kensington

Kensington experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 33.3°F (0.7°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 78.3°F (25.7°C). August is usually the wettest month. June, July, and September are the peak travel months in Kensington, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with light rainfall. On the other hand, May, October, and November tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.