Element Philadelphia Downtown

"My husband, my dog, and I were here for a night for some business in Philadelphia. We chose Element, even though it was a bit on the expensive side, because it has great reviews on dog friendliness and I agree. They gave us a couple of treats and poop bags with a bag holder which was very nice. The fee was something like 40 or 60$ which is much cheaper than some other hotels and the dogs are allowed in the breakfast area as well; they do mention that you can't leave your dog unattended in the room though which is understandable. The hotel is new and slick on the second floor that can be reached by elevator. Very neat and clean. Breakfast, from 6:30 to 10am, is very good with quite a large choice. Coffee is always available at the breakfast station in the morning and at a smaller station near the reception. They have a small snack and drinks store right next to the reception along with computers and a couple of lounging and working areas. The room was a good size and it had a closet and a small kitchen area with sink and microwave. The outside wall was all windows which made it look very modern and chic. It was mostly clean although I found a few hairs in the bathroom and carpet which probably belonged to the cleaning crew. Parking is only valet and costs a hefty 60$ per night without gratuity. Don't bother trying to find a different parking garage because they are all pretty much valet. Now the reason for the 3 stars. We value a good night's sleep and we did not get that: the HVAC system was, hands down, the loudest I've ever heard and it woke us up every time it kicked in. It seemed to be a common problem among other guests because the morning after, during breakfast, I've heard multiple people complaining about it too. The only way to sleep is to turn it off. But then the pillows were the second most uncomfortable I've had among the many hotels I've been to. They are huge fluffy ones that will flatten and deflate as soon as you lay your head on them; one's not enough and two are too many. And finally, but not the hotel's fault, is the noises from outside; we were on the 13th floor and we could hear people, cars, trash being thrown into the dumpster, sirens... Also, we asked for a late checkout and the receptionist said that she could do 12pm although the website says that the checkout is at noon either way our cards got deactivated at 11am sharp and we couldn't use the elevator causing me to go up and down a few times and then get the stairs from the 9th floor. One elevator kept acting up and caused me and my dog a mini heart attack because it stopped, jumped, and started to go up and down. Not the best of luck with elevators it seems. So yeah, it's a very nice hotel that unfortunately failed on what we value the most which is a decent sleep. I'd recommend it if sleep is something you don't really care about or you don't mind loud heating systems and uncomfortable pillows. Addendum : they charged us twice for the room even if at the check in they told us we already paid. We called and they will refund the amount charged. Likely an honest mistake but better to double check their charges on your credit card."

"Absolutely incredible location, within waking distance to almost everything!!! Amazing service, stunning views, amazing rooms. We particularly loved the filtered water in the sink with a large carafe you can keep filled in the fridge. Breakfast was delicious reach day, LOVED that there was an onsite laundry room for our long stay. 10/10 would absolutely recommend!"

"This is purely a review of the valet service. I stayed at the element for roughly two-ish weeks and valeted my car throughout the stay. The valet team was wonderful as was the hotel staff throughout my stay. The issue is that one of the days, the valet team double parked my car and I got a parking ticket. The valet team suggested I bring it to the front desk because it happens all the time, so they will pay it for me. I head to the front desk, the girl happily took the ticket and said she will have it paid. She said this happens all the time, not to worry. So I didn’t and assumed it would be paid. Fast forward to a few weeks later and I get a late notice from parking authority explaining that ticket had not been paid. I reached out to the hotel, they passed me around to several different people, finally Monica took my information and promised I’d be compensated for the cost of the ticket. Well it’s been 2 weeks since she and I spoke, I’ve co tinted to follow up with her, however I’ve yet to receive any sort of resolution. Very frustrating."

"I was very happy with my choice to stay at Element for Philadelphia Marathon weekend. I arrived a few hours early and not only was I able to check in early but was upgraded to a suite with a kitchenette. The suite was large and comfortable for my three-night stay. The hotel had everything I needed, including coffee in the room and the lobby and free breakfast. The staff was very friendly as well. The location was a quick walk from nearly everything in downtown Philly and extremely close to the SEPTA station which was perfect since I was coming from the airport. The bang for your buck here is great. Would highly recommend."

"Literally one of the best hotels we have stayed in! The staff is amazing and so helpful, the rooms are so comfortable and beautiful to the point that you feel your at home. The breakfast was complementary and delicious. And the location is perfect in the middle of it all. I highly recommend staying here!!!"