FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.

We Stayed at Kimpton Hotel Palomar: Here’s Our Take

by Francis X. Gallagher

Feb 20, 2025

© Kimpton Hotel Palomar

Hotel

Philadelphia was filling up with travelers, so I booked Kimpton Hotel Palomar due to its location in the heart of Center City — just off Samson Street, full of great restaurants. I parked around the corner; there are many options, and the hotel is also close to public transportation.

 

I admired the lobby renovations that took place not too long ago, making this a hidden gem with a real Philadelphia feel. The doorman greeted me and held my bags, as I arrived in the morning for meetings before check- in. When I returned in the afternoon, check-in was swift with a friendly front desk team offering water and help with questions.

 

interior

© Kimpton Hotel Palomar

I had a lovely King Bedroom Studio Suite, which featured a separate bedroom and sitting area with a convenient work station, a sofa and comfortable chair. A large, flat-screen TV allowed me to get news updates while I checked over the pending emails of the day.

 

The bedroom held a king-sized bed with two end tables and yet another sitting area with a comfortable chair. I had trouble selecting the best place to establish my office, but the sitting area with the TV made the most sense. The bed and bedding were comfortable, and I appreciated the restful sleep as I had to rise early for meetings.

 

The spacious bathroom featured a marble top on a single sunken sink and a large, walk-in, tiled shower with a glass front and door.

 

Take the opportunity to visit Square 1682, so named to honor William Penn, the founding father of Pennsylvania and Philadelphia. Penn created Rittenhouse Square and four other plazas in Philadelphia to encourage open space in Center City. Chef Patrick Czerniak, executive chef, Square 1682, has created “approachable cuisine in an upbeat ambiance.” — the restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Some of the favorites include the classic Square 1682 Burger (love the Cooper Sharp cheese) and the 1682 Steak, an interpretation of the famous French steak frites. I also suggest checking out happy hour at the bar, a local favorite Tuesday–Saturday, 5–7 p.m., for some specialty cocktails and top appetizers.

 

The hotel makes bikes available; provides yoga mats in every room; and offers something all hotels should have: the “forgot it, we got it” program, which offers everything you might have forgotten or lost, such as mobile phone chargers, lip balm, coffeemaker, curling iron, deodorant and much more.

 

Kimpton Hotel Palomar

117 S. 17th St.

Philadelphia, PA 19103

tel 215 563 5006

#TrazeeTravel

Insta Feed
Destinations / North America
Apr 15, 2026

3 Expert-Approved Glamping Sites for 2026

Just because you’re camping in an RV doesn’t mean you have to rough it. Opt for a glamping luxury RV campsite for more amenities and creature comforts. The pros at RVTrader recommended a few of the best across the United States.

TAP Air Portugal: A Milestone Year

From small airline to global success, TAP Air Portugal turns 80 and better than ever.

Destinations / North America
Apr 15, 2026

The Oregon Town That Keeps Surprising Visitors

A quiet but noticeable change has unfolded in Southern Oregon, amidst the West’s larger and more-visited destinations, consistently drawing travelers to experience its charms and wonders. Grants Pass, just minutes west of Interstate 5, is anchored by the Rogue River, surrounded by trails, farms and vineyards.

Destinations / North America
Apr 14, 2026

See Historical Landmarks by Boat

Sometimes, visiting a historic landmark is just as much about the journey as it is the destination — as is the case when visiting these historical landmarks only accessible via boat and recommended by the pros at Boatmart.

12 Reasons to Visit Gozo, Malta’s Slower Sister Island

Gozo may be small in size, but Malta’s charming sister island offers a unique blend of natural beauty, deep-rooted history, rich culture and adventure. Gozo offers unforgettable experiences for every type of traveler. From picturesque villages and cliffside views to ancient temples and festive celebrations, the island invites visitors to slow down and savor the true Mediterranean lifestyle.

Slideshow
Apr 14, 2026

7 Must-See Sites in Detroit, Michigan

It’s time to start dreaming of your next trip. Here are seven must-see sites in Detroit, Michigan.