Exceptionally nice, two month old boutique hotel, part of the Kimpton chain. Very interesting, eclectic decor throughout the public areas of the hotel, from the main lobby (with a nice functioning fireplace) to the individual floor elevator lobbys to the elevators themselves. The hotel is a half block away from the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall - an amazing location for historic sight seeing. Very easy, convenient subway ride from the 30th Street Train station via the Market-Frankford Line; $2.00 in exact change or bills, exiting at the 5th Street Station.

The sleeping rooms are an interesting mix of Alice in Wonderland and the Liberty Bell, with bright, vibrant colors, quotes, and designs on the walls and carpet. Very modern, upscale furnishings and decor. I asked for and got a room on a high floor (8) away from the elevators, and it was very quiet all night long. One downside was the size of my room... it was fine for me, but I suspect it would be pretty tight for more than one person. Another negative is there's no coffee maker in the room, but this seems to be pretty standard for the Kimpton chain... there was free coffee service in the lobby in the morning (but I would rather not have to go get it). Also, as more and more places seem to be doing, there was no bill/receipt under the door in the morning, so I had to go to the front desk to check out. I'd prefer not to have to do that.

All staff I encountered, from the front desk to room service, were exceptionally nice, and very competent. For example, upon arrival I just missed the free wine tasting, so the front desk clerk asked (unsolicited) if I'd like to take a glass of wine up to my room.

Room service for dinner from the Red Owl Tavern was good. I had the St. Louis Baby Back Ribs, Roasted Potato Gratin, and Grilled Asparagus.

I would be happy to stay at the Monaco again. I was able to take advantage of an introductory e-mail offer this time; not sure what kinds of rates they charge normally. This is a very nice place.

NOTE - I saw maybe one person my age or older there (I'm 58 years old). This Monaco definitely seems to attract a younger, upscale crowd. It wasn't a problem in terms of noise... I just felt a bit out of place in my business suit.

Another great Kimpton hotel has landed on the best piece of real estate in Philadelphia. Hotel Monaco, like its counterpart in Portland and other cities, is a quirky, modern hotel that feels boutique-y but has the perks of a chain. The bold, contemporary (I'd even say loud) decor of this PA location may not be your personal taste, but it's perfect to enjoy for a night or two. Before you go, sign up as a Kimpton rewards member and you'll get a mild room upgrade, free wifi and $10 off anything you want from the minibar. Rooms were small compared to the big suites I've stayed in at other Monaco's, but enough room to get work done or relax.

Now lets talk about the location. Amazing! Literally across the street from Independence hall and the Liberty Bell, along with all the other great historic sites, Monaco is your chic, modern home base to your walk through time. And you've got great restaurants within walking distance as well, including Buddakan a block away.

Bottom line - if you like contemporary decor, attentive staff and little perks - all combined with a prime location, don't pass this hotel up.

Beautifully designed hotel. Swarovski lobby chandelier, winding hall to living rm with fireplace and multi sitting areas with comfortable inviting vibe. Don't miss the complementary wine nightly. The room is beautifully furnished. Nice bar choices and cute rocky robe. Red owl tavern quaint and so is rooftop bar. Love this new boutique hotel overlooking independence park! Shout outs to bell staff... especially James and Shawn...really nice accommodating guys! It's the real deal here! Will be back!

This new hotel is very fresh and clean with the usual amazingly helpful Kimpton staff who did all they could to make our weekend stay special. The free wine reception featured excellent wines and the event was well attended in the trendy and beautifully appointed living room. The roof bar is so popular there are red ropes outside to hold those waiting to enter. We didn't check out that scene but surmise it is quite popular. Our room had a park view which was nothing special, but at least we weren't looking out on another building or the courtyard which sounded rather bleak from the description given during our booking. Valet parking is $40/night, but we used a local garage about 2 blocks away and it was $18/day (but no in and out privileges). The beds and pillows are fantastic and the bathroom has a nice long counter so we can all put our cosmetics out without crowding. Our 8th floor room meant we could hear, not too distinctly, the music from the 10th floor bar. Don't stay on the 9th floor unless you like to party! Great location for historic district (Liberty Bell, Independence Hall) and great restaurants, as well as metro stop.