ARRIVAL /CHECK-IN: My trip into downtown Philadelphia fell in conjunction with the celebration of Global Traveler’s ninth annual Leisure Lifestyle Awards at the Union League. I was excited to celebrate the winners and even more pleased to learn The Notary Hotel, Philadelphia, Autograph Collection was right around the corner. I always enjoy hotels within Marriott’s Autograph Collection because of the unique and distinctive qualities they typically display. I’m pleased to say The Notary was no exception.

Listed on the National Registry of Historic Places, the building structure was the former City Hall Annex and official location for notarization of marriage licenses, businesses and other services. As I arrived, I marveled at the luxurious touches inside such a historic location. The arched windows and coffered ceilings made for a grand entrance, with pops of emerald green furniture and modern art on the coffee tables. I later learned the ceilings, chandeliers and bronze work were all original, dating back to 1926.

I checked in a bit early, but my room was ready and waiting. Before handing me the key cards, the attendant officially stamped and “notarized” the outside of my key card packet with a large “N” — a very nice way to pay homage to the history of the building and a special touch I found quite charming.

GUEST QUARTERS: My Signature Guest Room King was on the eighth floor and featured a spectacular view of the city, including William Penn atop City Hall. I also had ample space with a king-sized bed in one half of the room and a nice sitting area with a taupe leather chair and bright pink ottoman in the other. Extra-special knick-knacks of books, an antique notary stamp and a perpetual desktop calendar greeted me on a free-standing shelf, keeping the sense of history alive and well in my room. The bathroom featured a sink and vanity area, separate from the toilet and standing shower with double glass doors. The shower also housed two different shower heads: one a rainfall, the other a standard hand-held. The Notary’s nostalgic concepts continued with my C.O. Bigelow hand soap and body cream, both in the scent of Fresh Watery Fruit & Aromatic Botanical Notes.

Overall, the room harkened back to the early 1920s with Art Deco touches that weren’t over-the-top but still carried the theme of the building and this notable location.

SERVICES/AMENITIES: Though my time in Philadelphia was short and I wasn’t able to experience any of the hotel’s amenities, I did tour the premises and found a nicely sized fitness center and a series of excellent meeting spaces. The conference rooms and ballrooms were adorned with beautiful ceilings, many with columns, colors and designs reflective of the spirit of 1776.

Inside The Notary you’ll find Sabroso+Sorbo restaurant and a separate bar. Serving Spanish tapas and specialty cocktails, the restaurant and bar both looked inviting. Perhaps one day I can return to enjoy a Beez Kneez and a few Latin-inspired options on the dinner menu!

Finally, The Notary Hotel also offers a coffee bar with grab-and-go breakfast options for those looking to explore the downtown area on foot.

TOP TAKEAWAYS:

• A city view is spectacular, highly recommended and easily worth the extra price.
• The hotel is quiet, and the gorgeous lobby offers numerous spots to relax away from the noise and rush of downtown.
• History buffs will enjoy The Notary’s nostalgia, while luxury travelers will enjoy the elevated design and décor.

THE NOTARY HOTEL, PHILADELPHIA, AUTOGRAPH COLLECTION
21 N. Juniper St.
Philadelphia, PA 19107
tel 215 496 3200
marriott.com