I prefer a combination of activity (hiking, jogging, swimming) on vacation, relaxation (reading), and good meals. Small hotels are preferable to big chains and historical settings are ideal.
June 18 2007: The Omni in downtown Philadelphia is in the perfect location -- it's across from a park and around the corner from all of the old Philly sights (Liberty Bell, Constitution Center) amongst cobblestone streets, neat small shops & restaurants. The hotel itself isn't anything great - a typical Omni (nicer than a Holiday Inn, a step down from a Westin or Marriott) but the location can't be beat. It's good value for your money to be able to walk to the museums and historical sights from the hotel. We took a jog one morning to the phila museum of art and ran up the 'Rocky' steps - not to be missed.
1 of 2 people (50%) found this review helpful. Did you? [Yes][No]
Location. The Omni Hotel Independence Park is located in the center of Old City and Society Hill in Philadelhpia, Pa. The property is three doors from Buddakan, one block form the Liberty Bell and and Washington. National Constitution Center is three blocks away. Other notable destinations of downtown Philadelphia include The Gallery at Market East and the Shops at Liberty Place. Philadelphia International Airport is 10 miles away. Hotel Features. The hotel lobby embraces a warm brilliance, with rosy marble floors lit by chandeliers. The Omni has achieved a laudable reputation of high service, including valet, concierge and bellhop. Though typically catering to sophisticated business and conference travelers during the week, the hotel becomes an elegant accommodation for touring families on weekends. The Omni Kids program provides young travelers with a goodie bag upon check in. Their adult counterparts may also receive local emergency numbers, a nightlight and outlet covers.
On site dining includes the Azalea Restaurant, offering a view of the park from a whimsically casual dining room with floral designs. Specialties include crab and shrimp cake, and the restaurant hosts a popular Sunday brunch. The hotel's lounge and parlor also makes a convivial social setting, anchored by its player baby grand piano and marble hearth fireplace where specialty cocktails and snacks are served.
Guestrooms Light floral designs and verdant potted plants make for soothing décor in the Omni's 150 spacious guestrooms. Furnishings are traditional European reproductions with cherry wood finishes. Wireless Internet is accessible in all rooms, and writing desk provides an excellent surface for scribbling missives home. Most king rooms feature a sitting area with sofa bed, and some offer views of Independence Park. Marble baths also provide terrycloth robes.
Expert Tip. Independence Visitors Center at Sixth and Market streets, provides maps and invaluable guidebooks for touring the city. This hotel is smoke free.
June 18 2007: The Omni in downtown Philadelphia is in the perfect location -- it's across from a park and around the corner from all of the old Philly sights (Liberty Bell, Constitution Center) amongst cobblestone streets, neat small shops & restaurants. The hotel itself isn't anything great - a typical Omni (nicer than a Holiday Inn, a step down from a Westin or Marriott) but the location can't be beat. It's good value for your money to be able to walk to the museums and historical sights from the hotel. We took a jog one morning to the phila museum of art and ran up the 'Rocky' steps - not to be missed. 
