When you think of luxury, designer threads and fast cars come to mind. Recently, I experienced luxury in the city of brotherly love and now understand its lure. The art of making each patron feel as if they are the only ones being served at a particular moment is the true definition of luxury.

My experience in Philadelphia was one of eye-opening reverence. Taken alone, I ventured to Philly — not for cheesecakes and soft pretzels but for the ambiance, expansive palette, and first-name-basis trip on a weekday.

Where to Sleep

The Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia is literally a journey above the clouds. From the moment you step on the elevator, it whisks you up to the 60th floor where reception is awaiting your arrival — greeting you with smiles and warm chocolates.

The tranquility on every floor feels as if you’re above it all: from the room key that hovers over the door lock to the bedspread and pillows that scream, “touch me.”

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While the sleeping experience wins awards, it was the double sink bathroom with an oval tub that stretched its length and delineated the toilet and shower on either side that gives the extra wow factor. All at the touch of a button, the lighting, sound and room service really makes you never want to leave.

Where to Visit

The “Harry Potter™: The Exhibition,” located at the Franklin Institute, is an expansive, must-visit attraction just walking distance from the Four Seasons.

It celebrates the iconic moments, beastly and loveable characters, and the Wizarding World as seen in the films and books of Harry Potter. Using best-in-class immersive design and technology, the exhibition takes your name and image upon entry and immerses you — bringing magic to life and revealing the artistry and craftsmanship behind the films.

Even if you’re not a current Potterhead, the technology used for this exhibit will definitely still impress you.

What to Experience 

The Four Seasons Hotel Infinity Pool, with 30,000 gallons of water, stretches right to the edge of a floor-to-ceiling windowed room — offering three-angled views of the neighboring skyscrapers and the sky above. The water is warm and inviting with just the right soundtrack playing from speakers lodged inside the 20-foot walls.

Most days when I swam, the pool was peaceful and mine alone to experience sublime sunrises. The hotel’s spa and gymnasium span the 57th floor with sweeping views of the Philadelphia skyline.

What to Eat

Experience the newly reopened Jean-Georges Philadelphia. Have your name engraved on the inside pages of the.

The master sommelier visited our table and coupled each course with wine and champagne. The ever-to-please waiters and food servers described each course with expertise.

The food is served in six elaborately choreographed — small yet surprisingly satisfying — courses. Each dish highlights seasonal ingredients prepared with classic French techniques while calling on global influences.

With its mirrored glass atrium and sky-high views, Jean-Georges Philadelphia is a destination where elevated dining and awe-inspiring architecture intersect to create an unforgettable experience. 

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