The moment I decided that I wanted to explore the “Philadelphia Gayborhood,” my first choice was to check out the website called gaytravel.com It is there that I discovered the Alexander Inn.

Doing some research

According to VisitPhilly.com, “The center of Philadelphia’s gay residential life and culture since World War II, the blocks between 11^th and Broad Street and Pine and Chestnut streets  earned its nickname “The Gayborhood” during an October OutFest event in 1995.

The Full Monty

My goal was to have the full “gayborhood” experience. For me, that means finding and LGBT owned or managed boutique hotel where I have a better opportunity to interact with the other patrons.

I can’t lie. I has an absolutely wonderful time at the Alexander Inn. Located at 301 South 12^th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107, the Alexander Inn was the ideal stop for my two night visit.

Great communication

They sent me two welcome emails before my arrival. Despite my actual arrival around 12:45 am, Danielle greeted me with a smile and cheerfulness that no one is expected to still have so late at night. What I loved was, as a boutique hotel, they had affordable rooms for the single traveler. My room was simple and clean, and didn’t break my budget, which I appreciated since this adventure was a last minute decision. They even had WiFi available, so it was the perfect stop for a writer’s getaway in a cozy environment.

Continental Breakfast

Every morning they provided a continental breakfast from 7am to 10amIn the evening there was a Social time from 5-7 where red wine and snacks were provided to quests to mix and mingle.

Ren and Jay on the day staff at the reservations desk were also very helpful. Jay even went above and beyond the call of duty when I needed directions to the William Way LGBT Community Center. He was leaving for the day and volunteered to walk me to the center to make sure I didn’t get lost.

The entire staff of the Alexander Inn with whom I came into contact, made me feel like I was a VIP the entire time I was there.

Planning to Return

Whenever I return to Philadelphia to visit family, I will definitely be continuing my exploration of the “Gayborhood.” I don’t know how many LGBT owned or managed hotels are in the area. I may check them out but I Iike how the Alexander Inn treated me.  I have a feeling becoming a recurring guest at the Alexander Inn.

If you are planning a visit to Philadelphia or the “Gayborhood,” check out the Alexander Inn. It is a warm and cozy place to lay your head.  

Alexander Inn

301 S. 12^th Street

Philadelphia, PA 19107

(215) 923-3535