AKA University City

Location: 2929 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, us

Star Rating: 4 Stars

Property Type: Hotels

About this Property

Important Information

Policies

Check-in: 03:00 PM - 12:00 AM

Check-out: 11:00 AM

Amenities & Facilities

• Electric bicycle charging station
• Fitness facilities (surcharge)
• Parking
• Non-smoking rooms
• Air conditioning
• Swimming pool
• Restaurant
• Room service
• Terrace
• Family rooms
• Pets allowed
• Lift / Elevator
• Non-smoking throughout
• Shared lounge/TV area
• Shuttle service (additional charge)
• Grocery deliveries
• Heated pool
• Outdoor furniture
• Shallow end
• Staff adhere to local safety protocols
• Guest rooms disinfected between stays
• Cleaning standards that are effective against Coronavirus
• Physical distancing rules followed
• Hand sanitizer in guest room and key areas
• Cashless payment available
• First aid kit available
• Invoice provided
• Guests can opt-out any cleaning services during stay
• Shared stationery like menus, pens are removed
• Guest room sealed after cleaning
• Access to health care professionals
• Screens / Barriers between staff and guests for safety
• Face masks for guests available
• Front desk (limited hours)
• Free wired internet
• Access to nearby indoor pool
• Beach yoga on site
• Fitness facilities (surcharge)
• Internet access
• Games
• Japanese garden
• Secured parking
• Garage
• Swimming nearby
• Electric bicycle charging station
• Charcoal grill
• Accessible shuttle
• No accessible shuttle

Rooms Available

• Two Bedroom Skyline

  This quadruple room features a private bathroom, and a seating area. The unit has 2 beds.

  Max Occupancy: 5 (5 Adults)

  • Seating Area
  • Private bathroom
  • Kitchen

• One-Bedroom Suite with Library

  This suite has a private bathroom and a seating area. The unit has 1 bed.

  Max Occupancy: 4 (4 Adults)

  • Seating Area
  • Private bathroom
  • Kitchen

• Two Bedroom Penthouse Sunset

  This quadruple room features a private bathroom and a seating area. The unit offers 2 beds.

  Max Occupancy: 5 (5 Adults)

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Shower
  • TV
  • Telephone
  • Air conditioning
  • Hair dryer
  • Seating Area
  • Toilet
  • Private bathroom
  • Heating
  • Kitchen
  • Linen
  • Toilet paper

• One Bedroom Premium Penthouse

  This triple room features a private bathroom, and a seating area. The unit has 1 bed.

  Max Occupancy: 4 (4 Adults)

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Shower
  • TV
  • Telephone
  • Air conditioning
  • Hair dryer
  • Seating Area
  • Toilet
  • Private bathroom
  • Heating
  • Kitchen
  • Coffee machine
  • Linen
  • Toilet paper
  • Body soap

• One Bedroom Premium Suite - Accessible

  This double room features a private bathroom, and a seating area. The unit has 1 bed.

  Max Occupancy: 2 (2 Adults)

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Shower
  • TV
  • Telephone
  • Air conditioning
  • Hair dryer
  • Desk
  • Seating Area
  • Toilet
  • Private bathroom
  • Heating
  • Kitchen
  • Linen
  • Toilet paper

• One-Bedroom Suite with Den

  A seating area, a desk and a private bathroom are offered in this spacious suite. The unit has 1 bed.

  Max Occupancy: 4 (4 Adults)

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Shower
  • TV
  • Telephone
  • Air conditioning
  • Hair dryer
  • Desk
  • Seating Area
  • Toilet
  • Private bathroom
  • Heating
  • Kitchen
  • Additional bathroom
  • Coffee machine
  • Linen
  • Toilet paper
  • Body soap

• Two Bedroom Penthouse Skyline

  This quadruple room has a private bathroom and a seating area. The unit has 2 beds.

  Max Occupancy: 5 (5 Adults)

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Shower
  • TV
  • Telephone
  • Air conditioning
  • Hair dryer
  • Seating Area
  • Toilet
  • Private bathroom
  • Heating
  • Kitchen
  • Oven
  • Additional bathroom
  • Linen
  • Toilet paper

• Two Bedroom Sunset

  This quadruple room features a private bathroom and a seating area. The unit offers 2 beds.

  Max Occupancy: 5 (5 Adults)

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Shower
  • TV
  • Telephone
  • Air conditioning
  • Hair dryer
  • Seating Area
  • Toilet
  • Private bathroom
  • Heating
  • Kitchen
  • Coffee machine
  • Linen
  • Toilet paper

• Studio Penthouse

  This double room features a private bathroom and a seating area. The unit offers 1 bed.

  Max Occupancy: 2 (2 Adults)

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Shower
  • TV
  • Telephone
  • Air conditioning
  • Hair dryer
  • Seating Area
  • Toilet
  • Dishwasher
  • Private bathroom
  • Heating
  • Kitchen
  • Linen
  • Toilet paper

• Studio - Accessible

  This double room features a private bathroom, and a seating area. The unit has 1 bed.

  Max Occupancy: 2 (2 Adults)

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Shower
  • TV
  • Telephone
  • Air conditioning
  • Hair dryer
  • Seating Area
  • Toilet
  • Private bathroom
  • Heating
  • Kitchen
  • Coffee machine
  • Linen
  • Toilet paper

• One Bedroom Premium Penthouse - Accessible

  This double room has a private bathroom and a seating area. The unit has 1 bed.

  Max Occupancy: 2 (2 Adults)

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Shower
  • TV
  • Telephone
  • Air conditioning
  • Hair dryer
  • Seating Area
  • Toilet
  • Private bathroom
  • Heating
  • Kitchen
  • Coffee machine
  • Linen
  • Toilet paper

• Two Bedroom Penthouse Sunset - Accessible

  This quadruple room has a private bathroom and a seating area. The unit has 2 beds.

  Max Occupancy: 4 (4 Adults)

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Shower
  • TV
  • Telephone
  • Air conditioning
  • Hair dryer
  • Seating Area
  • Toilet
  • Private bathroom
  • Heating
  • Kitchen
  • Linen
  • Toilet paper

• Studio

  This studio has 10-feet high ceilings and offers views of the city. It comes with Italian white oak flooring and king bed. The kitchen has custom Italian cabinetry and are equipped with stainless steel appliances. The marble bathroom includes a walk-in glass enclosed shower, custom vanity and complimentary toiletries.

  Max Occupancy: 2 (2 Adults)

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Shower
  • TV
  • Telephone
  • Air conditioning
  • Hair dryer
  • Desk
  • Seating Area
  • Toilet
  • Private bathroom
  • Heating
  • Kitchen
  • Linen
  • Toilet paper
  • Trash cans
  • Shampoo
  • Conditioner
  • Body soap
  • Smoke alarm

• One Bedroom Premium Suite

  This apartment comes with a walk-in closet, room darkening window shades, floor-to-ceiling sheer daylight curtains, 10-feet high ceilings and offers views of the city. It comes with Italian white oak flooring and king bed. The kitchen has custom Italian cabinetry and are equipped with stainless steel appliances. The marble bathroom includes a walk-in glass enclosed shower, custom vanity and complimentary toiletries.

  Max Occupancy: 3 (3 Adults)

  • Seating Area
  • Private bathroom
  • Kitchen

• One-Bedroom Penthouse with Den

  A seating area, a desk and a private bathroom are provided in this spacious triple room. The unit offers 1 bed.

  Max Occupancy: 4 (4 Adults)

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • TV
  • Telephone
  • Air conditioning
  • Hair dryer
  • Desk
  • Seating Area
  • Toilet
  • Private bathroom
  • Heating
  • Kitchen
  • Coffee machine
  • Linen
  • Toilet paper
  • Body soap

• One-Bedroom Penthouse with Library

  This triple room features a private bathroom, and a seating area. The unit has 1 bed.

  Max Occupancy: 4 (4 Adults)

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Shower
  • TV
  • Telephone
  • Air conditioning
  • Hair dryer
  • Desk
  • Seating Area
  • Toilet
  • Private bathroom
  • Heating
  • Kitchen
  • Additional bathroom
  • Coffee machine
  • Linen
  • Toilet paper

Guest Reviews

• Matthias (9/5): -
• Donna (9/5): Wonderful front desk staff and spacious room. - The room was spacious, with a kitchen, and had amazing floor to ceiling windows with a beautiful view. The elevator was a little dirty.
• Daniel (10/5): -
• Lisa (9/5): - Excellent location and ammenties The apartments had shoddy repainting and so functional changes that could have been fixed better
• Luc Y Catherine (6/5): Strange feeling of being in an apartment building more than a hotel - Location is great The staff was not particularly welcoming - but the usual reception you get from a hotel
• Miguel (9/5): Buen hotel para reservar en Filadelfia - Las vista del hotel son muy buenas. La ubicación es muy buena al estar a dos cuadras de la estación de tren. Al ser departamentos están equipados, por lo cual pudimos cenar una noche en el hotel y usar el lavarropas para limpiar la ropa. Tiene toallas y batas para ir a la pileta. Estuvimos dos noches, y no limpiaron la habitación el día que correspondía
• luan (10/5): -
• Richard (9/5): -
• Tatyana (10/5): -
• Syrel (10/5): -
• David (10/5): We’ll be back. Our favorite place to stay in Philadelphia. - Large, clean room with wonderful views. Excellent kitchen. Beautiful pool. Quiet. Easy parking next door. Very convenient to Penn.
• Colin (1/5): - Location Unaccomadating hotel
• Roy (9/5): -
• Tanya (10/5): -
• Tanya (10/5): So comfortable - Very clean N/A
• FERNANDO (1/5): Que dia será feito o reembolso - Fizeram uma cobrança indevida e até hoje não foi feito o reembolso
• Jill (10/5): Beautiful unit, amenities and views with the most professional, helpful and friendly staff! - I was there for an outpatient procedure at the University of Pennsylvania, but wanted to stay an extra day in case of complications as I live two hours away. It's a good thing I did. I wound up in the emergency room and admitted to the hospital for five nights, and the incredible reception staff, and Chauncey in particular, went above and beyond to help keep my husband in the same unit each night as my medical situation unfolded. I did have one night in the beautiful unit we were upgraded to at first check and I was grateful to be in that comfortable space in my postsurgical discomfort and worry.
• Jordan (8/5): - I didn’t expect staff to be at the door at the exact second during check out time I understand but they were very rude
• Jordan (8/5): -
• Abdulaziz (8/5): Nice place. - Location and facilities House-keeping and cleaning policies. Should be more frequent. Communication with reception is difficult without a phone in the room.
• Kahlie (10/5): -
• Dukes (10/5): Good - Good Good
• B8520BBstephent (10/5): Best rental experience in Philadelphia! - I’ve lived in AKA University City for nearly 18 months and have thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of my residency. The floor to ceiling panoramic views—river to river, gorgeous sunrises and sunsets, modern finishes, friendly and respectful neighbors, and top-notch amenities. Best of all is the staff—supremely attentive, professional, and cheerful. They’re nothing they can’t solve! Shout out especially to Lennel, who has been unceasingly pleasant and responsive since the day I moved in!
• lennart_ger (10/5): Thanks for four great years - I've lived at AKA since 2021 and continue to be very happy. Over the years I have seen many employees come and go but I would like to specifically thank Lennel and Anthony who have helped us from day one. They always carry a smile, put up with all our deliveries and go above and beyond when we need help with anything, such as Lennel helping us move in with heavy items. I am always looking forward to seeing them when I head out or come back. I'm also very happy with the new leadership under Jim and Rick, who are putting more effort into community events and revamping spaces such as the gym. Thank you for four great years!
• rlewisphilly (10/5): A positive experience in the city - The University City AKA is a modern hotel with a very cosmopolitan vibe. The rooms have a great view and a great comfortable feel. The staff makes it even better. everyone always trying to help. An example: Lennel, who works the main entrance always has a smile, always engages and always happy to go above and beyond. He did once for me, even after his shift ended...and he did it with a smile and a contagious positive attitude. Staying in Philly? Stay AKA!
• kashewman (10/5): Fun, easy, professional - Team was great and check in process was smooth - Lennel at the front helped me out when we needed to load / unload all of our stuff!
• 424tanjl (10/5): Great! - This hotel is beautiful. I was there for aqua pilates class. The experience was great. The instructor was very knowledgeable and the hotel staff was warm and welcoming. I definitely plan on returning.
• Zoey (10/5): Enjoyed my stay - Super friendly staff and a comfortable bed, highly recommended!
• skychaserCalgary (10/5): Great Stay - This was our first experience with AKA University City and it won’t be our last. However we will definitely book a one bedroom next time. Our studio unit on the 29th Floor was fine - good views, good layout, appreciated in suite washer/dryer. The facilities at AKA are second to none: Lap pool, golf simulator, gym, etc. Staff was amazing especially Sanaa and her colleagues.
• kevincH7911TD (10/5): Fall get-away in Philadelphia - Wonderful location for our visit. Beautiful view from the 34th floor. Very quiet and comfortable room. The water pressure in the shower was awesome! All the staff were accommodating and friendly. We visit twice a year and we’ll definitely be back. First class lodging with a very positive experience!
• JayPoll (10/5): Best service ever! - I can’t say enough good things about the team at AKA University Hotel. I had to make a last-minute cancellation due to an unexpected emergency, and Nekayah was absolutely lovely—so kind, understanding, and accommodating. Rick was equally gracious and made the entire process seamless during what was a stressful moment. I was truly looking forward to staying here, and the level of care and service I experienced—even without checking in—spoke volumes about this hotel. Exceptional customer service like this is rare, and I will absolutely be staying here in the future. Thank you again to Nekayah and Rick for going above and beyond!
• Christopher (10/5): -
• shereetaw2025 (10/5): Serenity Meets Style - A Hidden Gem - Sunrise views that steal your breath to a sparkling pool that feels like pure vacation magic, this boutique hotel is pure comfort. The team radiates warmth—polite, attentive, and genuinely welcoming. Perfect, rare blend of chic, peaceful, and truly encompasses elevated modern flare.
• tashad540 (10/5): Stunning property - Absolutely amazing property . Will definitely return . My friends and family will all be told about this gem . Will be back soon
• alexesc2025 (10/5): Amazing stay - I had a great experience! Everyone was welcoming , polite and professional. I will definitely be coming back! I had a nice room, nice size and the hotel itself is beautiful
• starb713 (10/5): Family Fun and Full of Surprises - The time I with my family at the AKA at University City was amazing. It was such a relaxing and luxurious stay and the employees management there was extremely pleasant and professional. What my family and I enjoyed most was the private movie theater and the indoor pool which made our time together even better !
• tondalayaw2025 (10/5): Absolutely loved my stay at AKA University City! 🌆 The staff was so friendly, the room was spotless with amazing skylin - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Hands down one of the best stays I’ve ever had in Philly! From the moment I walked into AKA University City, it just felt different — modern, calm, and luxury without being pretentious. The staff were super welcoming and made me feel like more than just another guest checking in. The room? Stunning. Clean, spacious, and the views… unreal. Waking up to that skyline every morning was such a vibe! Everything from the linens to the lighting felt thoughtfully done. And the kitchen area made it feel like a little home away from home — not your average hotel room setup at all. The building itself is beautiful — sleek elevators, quiet hallways, and even the lobby smells amazing (you know that clean, upscale scent 😌). The amenities are top-tier — from the gym to the lounge, everything was spotless and high-end. Plus, the location couldn’t be better. You’re close to Drexel, UPenn, great food spots, and just a short drive to Center City. Whether you’re in town for school, work, or just to relax — this place checks every box. I’ll definitely be back next time I’m in Philly. 10/10 recommend — comfort, views, and vibes all in one place. ✨
• ther286 (10/5): Exceptionally clean stay, plethora of amenities, excellent customer service! - The room -- erh -- APARTMENT is beautiful! It is VERY CLEAN, has ceramic tile from floor to ceiling in the bathroom, a full kitchen, and - not just your basic amenities - but LUXURY amenities INCLUDED. It has a movie theater, on-site cafe and restaurant, plenty nearby eateries, an infinity pool, garden, golf, pool table, and much more. AKA University City leaves guests feeling like Superstars. I'd like to especially say thank you to Nekayah, who went above and beyond to ensure my husband and I were very comfortable during our stay. Although we were a bit early for check-in, Nekayah kindly extended an opportunity for us to visit the lounge, pool area, cafe or other amenities. What an example of great customer service! On top of that, once we were able to check-in she graciously accommodated us with an upgrade. We appreciate her courtesy and professional demeanor. AKA University is truly five star experience. I would recommend staying here to anyone visiting Philadelphia or even just a luxury staycation for Philly residents. AKA Ucity... it's AKA home! - Rs
• michellehL1074DY (10/5): My Home Away From Home in Philadelphia - I always stay at AKA University City when visiting my daughter at Drexel, and it’s consistently a great experience. The apartments are spacious, comfortable, and spotless, with everything you need for a longer stay. The staff are friendly and professional, and the views of the city are incredible. It’s in a convenient location and has great amenities — definitely my go-to place in Philly.
• Deniz (10/5): - Spacious and comfortable room; excellent customer service; easy parking; easy to walk to restaurants; safe.
• Verified traveler (10/5): -
• Verified traveler (10/5): Aka Great place to stay while in Philadelphia - The rooms at AKA are perfect. The only hotel I’ve stayed in that comes close, in my opinion, is Ocean Casino Resort in Atlantic City — though AKA has a slight edge, thanks to its separate bathroom and kitchen setup. The television setup takes a bit of getting used to. It’s not the standard system most are familiar with. I even downloaded a $6.99 app called Screen Mirroring in an attempt to watch the shows I normally enjoy, but I wouldn’t recommend it — it didn’t work and felt like a waste of money. The most memorable part of my stay was the 28th floor, which we started calling the “Paradise Floor.” It features a fantastic pool (though it could use a jacuzzi), a business center, and a ton of amenities — but the real standout for me was the cinema room. You need to contact the person managing the floor to book a time slot. For me, that was Hailey, who went above and beyond — truly a gracious and helpful host. The cinema experience was definitely the highlight of my stay. Overall, AKA is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a relaxing escape from your usual routine. It offers everything you need to unwind without ever needing to leave the hotel — but without making you feel confined to your room either.
• Natarina (10/5): -
• Carolyn (10/5): It’s was relexable and peaceful - It was very comfortable a nice view the pool was awesome I love it definitely will come back again Everything was great
• Vintage Luxury (10/5): - Everything was amazing definitely will be coming back.
• Sachi (10/5): - It has. A mini kitchen and a toaster it was perfect since we had to leave early in the morning for UPenn camp. And their body soap and shampoo were so nice!
• BRUCE (7/5): -
• Peter (10/5): - Very nice property. Close to work and amenities
• Donna (8/5): - Nice apartment with views of the city, gym, laundry and close to train station. Comfortable bed. Good free coffee!
• ABDALLAH (8/5): - النظافة والموقع والمرافق خدمة ذاتيه، التنظيف مرة بالاسبوع
• Mercedes (6/5): - I think the property is great in many ways but dropped the ball in a few ways like the key cards taking forever to open a door or the door to my apartment taking forever to close and lock (safety wise it’s a problem).
• Young Ju (2/5): - Aka didn't supply any hotel daily-service. They never cleaned our room during my stay. Theny didn't refill coffee canpsules, and didn't change towels. Door-knobs were so weird, so we couldn't lock the doors of bathrooms. It's very difficult to open and close doors... Floors were sticky. The carpet was dirty and hairs of carpet flew. Why were Aka's amenities and room conditions so different from explnation of Expedia and Aka's home page? I was really disappointed and very uncomfortable during my stay.
• Boonchai (8/5): Very good -
• Ositojoe (10/5): Best Pick For Long Stay - Great stay. Modern, clean, and has everything for an enjoyable long term stay. Good location and a friendly staff. Highly recommended.
• Karl (10/5): Exceptional -
• wael370 (4/5): Disappointed - I stayed twice in the same month, rented 2 bed room suite & second time 2 , 1BD suites … The staff accommodated my needs, however, all suits I have occupied furniture are tired, overused and need to be renewed. Even the lights switches are not working properly… carpets are washed so many times, until colors are faded. I rented 1BR library suite, had to change it, since the sofa bed impossible to sleep on it ! no bed sheets are available! and waited 1hr for housekeeping to provide… and it was after midnight!!! all in all, my experience at AKA was unsatisfactory for the price I paid during my stay
• Navigate32189 (2/5): - Quit playing dumb about the room keys not working and fix the problem. First ride in the elevator, another guest warned us it was an escape room. We — and everyone else we encountered — had this problem the whole visit, being trapped in the elevator, the key not working, the elevator not responding, unable to get out. The key works for the room but not for the gym. There is no water in the gym. Rooms: update the descriptions. One bedroom with a den does not sleep three when neither small sofa pulls out and you don’t provide a set of sheets. You need black out blinds, and lights that will turn off short of being unplugged. This is not the upscale apartment experience we paid for. I would not stay here again.
• Sonia (4/5): It was ok - The location House keeping once per week . No telephones in the room , rude staff
• Boonchai (9/5): Superb -
• monicajY3405VR (2/5): I should get half of money back . - "I was disappointed that the pool wasn't open when I initially wanted to use it. When I finally got a chance to swim the next day, I was only given a limited amount of time in the pool, which was frustrating. I expected more flexibility and better availability."
• Parks (10/5): Exceptional -
• Adriana (10/5): - Great place
• Mark (10/5): Exceptional -
• 987cherriw (2/5): About the a.k.a. - For my first time being there, I did not like it at all when I had booked in the lady told me the pool was up and running, but when I got there at the front desk to check in, they told me the pool was not open. it was under maintenance And it should not be long by me being in the outside guest. I did not like it. you make me do not want to come back there no more.
• NICOLAS (4/5): - I arrived to the hotel a little earlier than check in time and needed a place to change for an event and they were not accommodating at all.
• Chanel (10/5): - always a pleasure when i stay at the AKA
• Ambher (2/5): - Extremely disappointed in the cleanliness and response to my concerns. The day before check out, i did speak with the Assistant Director of Housekeeping who was sweet and helpful but this was the day before checkout so she couldn’t do much about my issues.
• Jones (8/5): Very good -
• Larry (10/5): Exceptional -
• Creede (4/5): - Run down apartment/hotel concept. Dirty floors. Dirty furniture. No amenities. Not great.
• 370terrellc (10/5): FIVE STAR CUSTOMER SERVICE - I can’t say enough about how wonderful our experience was thanks to Wister at the front desk. From the moment we arrived, he went above and beyond to make us feel welcomed and taken care of. His warm personality, professionalism, and attention to detail made check-in an absolute breeze. Wister didn’t just handle our reservation — he genuinely made sure every part of our arrival was smooth, answered all our questions with patience, and even offered helpful local tips that truly enhanced our stay. It’s rare to come across someone so dedicated and attentive. Because of Wister, we started our trip on such a positive note, and we’re incredibly grateful for all his help. He’s a true asset to the team, and we hope he gets the recognition he deserves. Thank you, Wister, for your outstanding service! We’ll absolutely be back.
• TERRELL (10/5): - Wister ensured my family and I were checked in quickly and thoroughly. His customer service skills should be rewarded and definitely respected!
• Matthew (10/5): - Aka was excellent as always, everything was great.
• Christopher (8/5): - Facility was fantastic. Amenities like gym, pool, business centre, cafe onsite were all 5 stars. The reason I didn’t give 5 stars was the key card system was a sh*t show. I had to exchange my cards 4x over 2 days because they stopped working sometimes on the elevator (to get to the floor) and then the room door. Others were having the same issue.
• travelsey (4/5): Terrible front desk and service - The staff in this hotel are very rude, not helpful at all, with the exception of the young man who helped me with my luggage. At times no one answers the front desk phone during the day so you can’t really ask for extra towels etc. The room was spacious and the views and amenities were very nice but I will say the shower and floors were not very clean but sticky. Dishwasher didn’t work very well. It’s an expensive stay to have to deal with rude, unhelpful front desk staff. And the keys to the elevator, gym floor almost never work. Very frustrating stayz
• Anne (8/5): Comfortable, clean and quiet. - Location close to medical center Nice facilities
• Molly (10/5): Exceptional -
• Charles (8/5): Good proximity to medical center, nice and clean - Great views of city skyline. Wonderful gym and indoor pool. Nice terrace…but the weather did not cooperate Furnishings were sparse and minimalistic
• Marsheila (8/5): - The room was fantastic, but the front desk staff didn't appear very knowledgeable or helpful when asked basic questions Re: room service and the restaurant within the hotel. Also, the room service option was confusing and not very efficient. Would stay there again because of location, but would avoid asking for help beyond checking in if at all possible. I would also avoid the in-house restaurant.
• Fahad (1/5): Bad -
• deborahwK5878IW (8/5): Top Notch, But Please Fix Elevator Key Card situation - The comfy, expansive rooms are 5-star with full kitchen and plenty of seating for guests . The only reason I gave a 4 out of five is that the card key for the elevator is super complicated to used. Press, Wait for light. Flip card. Press again. Wait for light, press floor—or some nonsense like that. PLEASE FIX or give people explicit instructions in writing on key card envelope. Also, we reserved with the $25/day parking package to be able to go in and out without paying each time.
• Kristina (8/5): - Loved the size of the one bedroom premium suite. This felt more like a mini apartment than a hotel room. The walk in closet and washer and dryer were so appreciated. I went to the Roots Festival and day one was so muddy and rainy! It was nice to be able to wash and dry the muddy clothes before repacking. It was nice having a full kitchen as well, we didn’t cook but brought snacks and water and having the fridge was great. Parking was at a parking deck right next door. You do pay separately for parking, about $35 a night. The deck is not managed by the hotel. The location was about a 12 min Uber ride from the Mann park where the festival was and although there wasn’t a restaurant on site, there are eateries within walking distance and Door Dashing was easy. (Again, very much an apartment vibe) 4 stars instead of 5 because the floor 28 bar wasn’t open, I feel like that’s one of the amenities that made me choose this hotel. They did give a voucher for a free bottle of wine but when we went to the 28 floor there was no one to claim it. Oh and the views were incredible. You could see so much of the city from our room. Large windows, lots of light. It was only a two night stay but I would definitely stay again. Felt safe and also very relaxing.
• Edward (10/5): - Beautiful place would recommend to everyone
• Cazembe (8/5): - Check in was 3 pm. We arrived at 4 but they did not check us in until 5pm. The front desk was not friendly or attentive as we waited. Our room was spacious, clean and well decorated. The views were amazing!
• matthew (10/5): - Perfect. Entire staff was awesome. Especially those on my arrival and guy at lounge 28.
• TERRELL (10/5): - Honestly the best view of the city. breathtaking!
• Karen (10/5): Wonderful Family Staycation - I booked an overnight staycation with my family. I’ve been to this University City location before, but it’s been a couple years since I’ve been back. I had an amazing experience, we loved our room, the views from our floor were spectacular, and the staff was so welcoming. I think the front desk ladies were Sophia and Quinn. Wonderful ladies, so pleasant and helpful. I’m already looking forward to coming back again for another staycation.
• Reena (8/5): - Front desk could be more friendly. No lotion or wastebasket in the bathroom. These are simple things that would elevate the stay
• stephside (10/5): Davonna is incredible! - I had the best experience with Davonna at the front desk. I was on a work trip that unfortunately fell apart, and I got stuck in Philly. My employer booked me a room at the AKA, however did not do it properly, and poor Davonna had to pick up the pieces. Through out the whole process she was incredibly patient. Not only was she on the phone with my employer for over 30 mins, but she was also taking care of the other guests at the hotel. She was an incredible multitasker, and stayed polite and professional through the whole experience. I am so grateful for her.
• Scott (10/5): Exceptional -
• Anne (10/5): Great stay - Location. Well furnished . Practical
• Chanel (10/5): - awesome
• Csconn (7/5): great city views and location to river trail - I stay here often seems like there's a lot of turnover on staff
• KatInTheCity31 (10/5): Amazing views & top-notch stay - Had an incredible stay at AKA University City. The views from the rooms and sky lounge are unreal—definitely one of the best in Philly. The suite felt super modern and comfortable, like having your own apartment in the sky. Loved the gym and pool, and the staff was friendly and helpful the whole time. Great spot for a longer stay or a treat-yourself weekend.
• Caitlin (4/5): - Fufgghufvhh
• Mireig (8/5): Very good - cleanliness
• Thanh (9/5): Superb -
• myla (8/5): - The property is very clean and well appointed. I appreciate the safety of secure elevators requiring a room key. Parking is expensive and the hotel.should consider validation. We enjoyed our short stay. We would consider this hotel again based on proximity to the university.
• Ashok (7/5): Great value for money but let down by the staff - Our accommodation was very spacious with all the essential amenities. The gym is well equipped and spacious, with a good view. There is also a business lounge, which is ideal, although we didn't use it. A chain is as strong as its weakest link. While checking in, Quinn, who was on duty, was totally unempathetic. There was no one at the desk when we arrived. Quinn arrived 10 min later, and didn't even greet us or say sorry for making us wait. That's not even the worst part...our keycard didn't work, so we went to the lobby to get it fixed. Guess what, it didn't work the second time either. After going back to the lobby the third time, she assigned us another room, saying there might be some issue with the lock. Again, no sorry from her. All this happened around 10 pm, when we were tired after a long drive. Possibly one of the worst "hospitality" employee I have ever come across in my 25 years of traveling (45 countries, 250+ hotels). I'd say she is in the top 3 worst ever.
• Shanieka (10/5): Exceptional -

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