Looking for a great night out in downtown Philadelphia? Hotel Monaco is your spot! Located in the iconic LaFayette Building built in 1907, Hotel Monaco puts historic Philadelphia right at your doorstep.  

I was lucky to be treated this weekend to a girls’ night out, which started with drinks at the Stratus Rooftop Lounge. The bar does not open until 5 p.m. on Saturdays; we learned those in the know visit the lobby of Hotel Monaco first for a complimentary wine and sangria hour, then head up to the rooftop, where there is plenty of comfortable outdoor and indoor seating for parties of all sizes.

I could have stayed at Stratus all night, but alas, we had an 8 p.m. dinner reservation. After a fun night out, we returned to our beautiful hotel rooms at Hotel Monaco and reconvened the next morning at the Red Owl Tavern for brunch. What first appears to be a small, farm-style brunch spot actually has a second balcony filled with additional seating. The large windows that wrap the restaurant make you feel like you are more outdoors than in. 

After a fantastic parting meal, I was sorry to say goodbye to Hotel Monaco after only one night. It is very worth checking out for a drink on the roof or dinner at the Red Owl, or a weekend stay to enjoy all Hotel Monaco has to offer.  

— Danielle Hudena, executive vice president