Nestled on a corner Philadelphia block is Akwaaba Inn, an intimate bed and breakfast inside of an 1800s mansion with rooms and suites inspired by music made by famous Philadelphians like Teddy Pendergrass, Jill Scott, and The Roots.
A large wooden and white-pillared porch wraps the house in a way that draws you in. When you enter Akwaaba (which means welcome in the Ghanaian language, Twi), there’s an overwhelming sense of peace and an immediate at-home feeling. The foyer feels like walking into a cozy Southern space, complete with a library, dining, living room, and a large backyard with a bit of that classic East Coast rowhome design.
In the living room area, where you’ll check in with the B&B’s host (and receive a complimentary welcome wine), there’s a plush couch and glass coffee table surrounded by wood-paneled walls with hints of green and orange and a fireplace, all beneath a beautiful crystal chandelier. The mantle and ledges are made shelves for classic vinyl records from iconic jazz musicians, a touch that makes Akwaaba feel like a curated step back in time.
Days at Awkwaaba begin in the dining room decked with white cloth tables, jazz swirling in the air, and bay windows that let in the perfect amount of morning sunlight. The chef prepares and serves delicious freshly brewed coffee, orange juice, and breakfast, including things like scrambled eggs topped with fresh dill, crispy potatoes, and honey-baked cornbread with a side of strawberries. Up the wooden staircase are six spacious ensuite rooms, and suites hold twenty guests. Many of them have a seating area, fireplaces, and writing desks. Each room has a different theme, so choose based on how you want your stay to feel or which musician’s energy you want to evoke.
In the two-room ‘Swoon Suite,’ inspired by crooner Teddy Pendergrass, the room has a sultry vibe decorated in deep gray and crushed red velvet tones. The sleeping area has a calm aura with all-white bedding and silver finishes. ‘Like It’s Golden,’ inspired by neo-soul singer Jill Scott, is airy and regal with white and gold decor and wooden elements, and like many of the rooms, there’s a mantle, antique mirror, and a stunning chandelier. The Roots Retreat is Akwaaba’s most extensive offering, a 7-person apartment with natural wood decor and leather, patterned details, and a full kitchen.
Overall, Akwaaba is a unique and luxurious stay and a standout bed and breakfast option in Philadelphia.
Top Takeaways
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Rating: Four-Star
The vibe: Homey jazz-inspired bed and breakfast for those who prefer an intimate stay
Amenities: Daily chef-made breakfast, personal concierge, parking, flatscreen TVs, a library, complimentary wine, free wifi
Food + Drink: The dining area at Akwaaba sits at the front of the house, full of natural light and street views. The food is excellent, with a daily homemade breakfast made by their in-house chef. In the afternoon, light refreshments are available for guests.
Our favorite thing about the hotel? The best part of Akwaaba is genuinely the service. As expected with Bed and Breakfasts, the staff goes above and beyond to make the stay comfortable, delicious, and memorable. The personal concierge services as a touchpoint that helps get to know the property and the surrounding neighborhood from a truly local perspective.
Any neighborhood recs? Visit the Penn Museum or Institute of Contemporary Art, Try Federal Donuts, Grab lunch fare at Franklin’s Table Food Hall
What’s nearby? Drexel University, Philadelphia Museum of Art, Philadelphia Zoo, and many restaurants
Pricing: Rooms start at $150/night
Rooms: 6 rooms and suites
Closest airport: Philadelphia International Airport
