Aka University City, Philadelphia ➤ Reviews, Rooms & Prices 2025

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Key details

About the Hotel

2929 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States, 19104

Near University of Pennsylvania

Great

8.6

8.9

/10

4.8

4.1

Loved by guests

Spacious suites
Full kitchen
Very nice views
Cute staff
Relaxing escape
Cinema room

"Fabulous apartment with great views of the city."

Susannah from United Kingdom

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"The rooms are fantastic and only overshadowed by the views."

lennart from Germany

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"Loved the size of the one bedroom premium suite."

Kristina

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Suites and Residences

AKA University City, located across the Schuylkill River from Center City, offers hotel residences for both short and extended stays. Guests can settle into studios or one- and two-bedroom suites. Penthouse options are also available. Accommodations feature custom furniture, wide-plank Italian white oak flooring, and kitchens with Italian cabinetry and stainless steel appliances. Bathrooms include Grohe fixtures and glass-enclosed showers. Select suites have 10-foot ceilings and city skyline views. In-suite Bosch washer and dryers are available, along with complimentary Wi-Fi.

Dining Options

Walnut Street Café, located in the Cira Centre complex, features American cuisine with menus made from local ingredients. Nativo Kitchen & Bar combines art-deco style with sky-high views.

Leisure and Wellness

Level28 includes a glass-enclosed swimming pool, a Technogym fitness center, and a bar with cocktails. Guests have access to a golf simulator and a private cinema. Cira Green, a one-acre urban park, offers cultural arts and events. Therapeutic enhancements, plus hand, foot, scalp, or back massages are available at the spa, with in-room treatments also an option.

Location and Access

AKA University City is located in Rittenhouse Square near restaurants and bars. The University of Pennsylvania, Drexel University, and the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia are within a 10-minute drive. 30th Street Station is nearby. Points of interest nearby include the University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology (1 km), the Rosenbach Museum and Library (1 km), and Rittenhouse Square (1 km).

Onsite Services

AKA University City provides services such as housekeeping, laundry, and valet dry cleaning. The Resident Services Team is available 24/7. Indoor parking is available. The business center on Level28 has printers, computers, a 12-person boardroom, and a 6-person conference room. Audio-visual services and Wi-Fi are available in common spaces.

“AKA University City impresses with its Level 28 amenities, including a rooftop garden and pool; suites offer full kitchens, a significant advantage for extended stays. Its proximity to the Universities of Pennsylvania and Drexel makes it a practical base. This hotel distinguishes itself through considered design and guest convenience.”

James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel

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Highlights from guests

Sports & FitnessEpic Views!

The 25m pool has great city views. The fitness center is new, with Technogym equipment. A running trail is nearby.

Carlos M from Spain

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Guest ParkingEasy Parking!

A secure parking garage is right next door. It's worth the cost when you're loading up a car.

Michelle L from Canada

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Room FeaturesSpacious suites

The suites felt like mini apartments. Our suite had a full kitchen, a walk-in closet, and a washer/dryer.

Karen S from Australia

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Media & EntertainmentRooftop fun

The rooftop park has a giant screen and a grill. There's also a movie theater.

Hiroki T from Japan

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Select your room type

The hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals

One-Bedroom Suite Library

2 persons

960 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

One-Bedroom Penthouse Library

2 persons

960 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Two Bedroom Penthouse Skyline

2 persons

1025 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

One-Bedroom Suite Den

2 persons

840 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

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Price and Room Availability Calendar

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Facilities

The hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

General

No smoking on site
Free Wi-Fi
Parking
24-hour reception
Pets allowed
Lift
Fireplace
Electric vehicle charging station

Sports & Fitness

Fitness centre
Yoga class

Services

Paid shuttle service
Room service
Dry cleaning
Grocery shopping service

Dining

Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area

Children

Game room

Spa & Leisure

Indoor swimming pool
Sun terrace
Garden area
Leisure/ TV room
Spa & wellness centre
Pool with view
Shallow end

Room features

Air conditioning
Heating
Sitting area
Terrace
Garden furniture

Dining Onsite

Aka University City offers a delightful culinary experience that captures the essence of American flavors in a vibrant setting. From the cozy indoors of Walnut Street Café to the chic vibes at Nativo Kitchen & Bar, there is something inviting for every palate to enjoy.

Aka University City Philadelphia Restaurant photo

Walnut Street Café

American

Ambiance

A welcoming café set within the Cira Centre complex, featuring an inviting environment perfect for casual dining.

Key Offerings

Enjoy hearty breakfast options or prepare gourmet meals using the fully equipped kitchen with stainless-steel appliances. The café offers a delightful selection inspired by local ingredients and seasonal flavors.

Reservation

Not needed.

Hours vary.

Nativo Kitchen & Bar

American with a modern twist

Ambiance

A chic dining destination adorned with art-deco elements and breathtaking views from an elevated position, combining elegance and comfort.

Key Offerings

Renowned for craft cocktails made from herbs handpicked from the garden by a master mixologist. Guests can savor innovative dishes while relishing the remarkable skyline vistas.

Reservation

Recommended.

Hours vary.

Location

2929 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States, 19104

Map view

2929 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States, 19104

City landmarks

Museum

The Franklin Institute

4800 ft

Museum

Philadelphia Museum of Art

1.3 mi

Art object

Art Museum Steps

1.2 mi

Museum

The Barnes Foundation

1.2 mi

Square

Rittenhouse Square

3600 ft

Museum

Independence National Historical Park

1.8 mi

Museum

Eastern State Penitentiary

1.3 mi

Museum

Mutter Museum

2600 ft

Museum

University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology

3200 ft

Museum

Rodin Museum

1.2 mi

Museum

The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University

1.2 mi

Landmark

Walnut Street

3500 ft

Library

Rosenbach Museum and Library

3700 ft

Monument

Benjamin Franklin National Memorial

5100 ft

Zoo

Philadelphia Zoo

1.7 mi

Landmark

Independence Hall

1.8 mi

Landmark

Liberty Bell

1.8 mi

Market

Reading Terminal Market

1.3 mi

Park

Love Park

1.2 mi

Landmark

Philadelphia's Magic Gardens

1.4 mi

Gallery

Institute of Contemporary Art

3400 ft

Mall

Pennsylvania Convention Center

1.3 mi

Museum

The College of Physicians of Philadelphia

2600 ft

Landmark

One Liberty Observation Deck

4900 ft

Gallery

Philadelphia Art Alliance

3800 ft

Gallery

Arthur Ross Gallery

2600 ft

Public Building

Philadelphia City Hall

1.2 mi

Church

Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul

1.1 mi

Nearby

University

University of Pennsylvania

800 ft

University

Drexel University

1800 ft

Restaurants

Walnut Street Cafe

400 ft

2929 Walnut St

World Cafe Live

600 ft

3025 Walnut St

Tipsy Bistro

900 ft

3131 Walnut St The Left Bank

24 Philadelphia

1400 ft

2401 Walnut St

Sotto Ristorante Italiano

1200 ft

151 S 24th St

Waterfront Gourmet Cafe & Deli

1200 ft

3131 Walnut St Store 2

Wahoo's

1600 ft

3180 Chestnut St

Bridgewater's Pub

1800 ft

30th Street Station

Res Ipsa Cafe

1500 ft

2218 Walnut St

Zavino University City

2500 ft

3200 Chestnut St

Explore Philadelphia

Local Excursions

University of Pennsylvania

3 minutes' walk

A prestigious Ivy League university offering stunning architecture and beautiful campus scenery, ideal for leisurely strolls.

Philadelphia Museum of Art

25-minute walk

Home to an extensive art collection and the iconic Rocky Steps, this museum also hosts special exhibitions and events.

Mutter Museum

10 minutes' walk

This medical museum features intriguing exhibits on medical history, making it a unique visit for curious minds.

Rittenhouse Square

14 minutes' walk

A vibrant park surrounded by shops and dining, perfect for relaxing amidst greenery in the heart of the city.

Yoga at Cira Green

2 minutes' walk

Enjoy outdoor yoga sessions at this rooftop park, providing a unique view of the skyline in a serene setting.

Bike Riding along Schuylkill River Trail

15 minutes' drive

This scenic trail is great for biking with rental services nearby, offering a thrilling natural escape from the city.

Arts and Crafts Markets

10 minutes' drive

Local markets featuring handmade goods and artisan crafts, perfect for cultural immersion and unique shopping experiences.

Walnut Street Cafe

2 minutes' walk

A cozy spot specializing in American cuisine with a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for breakfast and brunch. Reservations recommended.

Sotto Ristorante Italiano

5 minutes' walk

An inviting Italian restaurant serving homemade pasta and traditional dishes, ideal for romantic dinners or family gatherings.

World Cafe Live

3 minutes' walk

This venue combines food with music, serving a diverse menu while hosting local and national acts in an intimate setting.

The Academy of Natural Sciences

25-minute walk

A fun-filled museum featuring exhibits on nature and science, great for families and offering interactive experiences.

Tipsy Bistro

4 minutes' walk

A lively bistro known for its craft cocktails and casual vibe, perfect for socializing or kicking back with friends.

Getting around

City Centre

Philadelphia21 min · 1.1 mi

Airports

Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)21 min · 8.6 mi

New Castle Airport (ILG)84 min · 34.6 mi

Train

Philadelphia, PA Station5 min · 1400 ft

Underground

30th Street5 min · 1400 ft

34th Street11 min · 3000 ft

Bus

Bus stop17 min · 6.8 mi

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 15:00-23:59

Check-out

until 11 am

Guest Parking

Public parking is possible on site at USD 35 per day.

Internet

is available in for free.

Children & extra beds

There are no cots provided in a room.

Pets

Pets are allowed on request.

Number of floors:

Number of rooms:

Questions of the users

About Aka University City

Are there kitchen facilities available in the one-bedroom suites? What distinguishes the library suite from the den suite?

16 November 2024

Yes, one-bedroom suites are equipped with full kitchen areas. The library suite includes an additional room with a couch that converts into a second bed, while the den suite serves only as a home office without the capability to accommodate a bed.

What are the details regarding a quadruple room, specifically the number of bedrooms and bathrooms? Is daily housekeeping offered?

14 January 2025

Quadruple rooms consist of two bedrooms: one King and one Queen, along with two full bathrooms. Currently, housekeeping services are provided weekly, not daily.

How much does parking cost? Is there a 24-hour front desk available since I might arrive late?

7 December 2024

Parking fees are as follows: $4.00 for 1/2 hour, $8.00 for 1/2 to 1 hour, $12.00 for 1 to 1.5 hours, $16.00 for 1.5 to 2 hours, $22.00 for 2-12 hours, and $26.00 for 12-24 hours. Additionally, 24-hour front desk coverage is provided.

Is it possible to add a rollaway bed in the premium rooms for my teenager?

22 February 2025

Yes, the premium suites can effectively accommodate a rollaway bed for an additional guest.

Is air conditioning available in all rooms?

30 March 2025

All suites are equipped with thermostat-controlled HVAC systems to ensure a comfortable environment.

What can you tell me about the studio apartments? Are rollaway beds cleaned after each use, and are grocery stores nearby?

18 April 2024

Studios feature a King bed, a full kitchen, and a private bathroom. Rollaway beds are thoroughly cleaned and disinfected after each use. There are various grocery and convenience stores close by for essential supplies.

Is the indoor swimming pool operational?

11 May 2024

Yes, the indoor swimming pool is currently open for guest use.

Can you elaborate on the shuttle service to Center City? What are the operating hours and days?

20 June 2024

A complimentary shuttle service operates Monday through Friday, connecting University City and Center City. For added convenience, there is also a private Tesla car service available starting at $15 per ride.

What streaming options are available on the suite televisions?

5 August 2024

Streaming services can be accessed on all suite televisions for your entertainment.

Do any of the suites have bathtubs?

8 September 2024

The two-bedroom suites and one-bedroom suites with a library feature bathtubs among their amenities.

Are both the gym and the swimming pool accessible to guests currently?

12 October 2024

Yes, both the gym and pool facilities are available for hotel guests to enjoy at this time.