Name: Aka University City
Address: 2929 Walnut St, Philadelphia, 19104, US

8/10

Excellent

02 Aug 2026

Julia C

Very nice hotel with huge rooms. Coffee available no breakfast unless you go to on site cafe but that is extra. Parking at garage next door is 42 dollars.

6/10

Pleasant

02 Aug 2026

lori

The hotel staff gave someone a key to my room. Luckily, I was just sitting at the table and not in the shower or bedroom when I went downstairs to explain to them what happened they unapologetically said “well the system signed you out“ they did end up compensating that night of my hotel. Stay which I appreciated but their overall defensive attitude did not show very quality customer service.

10/10

Exceptional

01 Aug 2026

Megan

Cool vibe. Clean rooms. Helpful staff.

6/10

Pleasant

30 Jul 2026

Latisha

Its a cool place it depends on what your looking for. Its upscale apt style. You wont find alot of help, there isn't room service, there is a fee for parking and for the price I feel there should be Charging Docks
Maybe if youre going to be hanging out onsite and get to utilize the gym and other places its cool or maybe a business trip but a bae-stay just be aware

You can get to alot of places from this central. We were in town for a concert and was about 10 mins from alot of eateries and the venue

6/10

Pleasant

26 Jul 2026

Brian

The room was immaculate. Only issue we had on our stay was the AC was too loud. It was like a subway train pulling into the station every 20 minutes. We had a very difficult time sleeping at all. Everything else was fantastic.

8/10

Excellent

26 Jul 2026

Desiree

Quiet environment. Clean room. All Furniture was low in height including the bed and mattress was hard/firm, but overall comfortable. Kitchen was perfect and bathrooms were perfect
No phone in the room which I didn’t like.

10/10

Exceptional

22 Jul 2026

Kevin

The host who checked me she very friendly and great service

10/10

Exceptional

21 Jul 2026

Gabriel

Clean big room, great staff. Had a lot of fun in the city and aka made it a great stay!

Self

10/10

Exceptional

15 Jul 2026

Lauren

Will be back again

2/10

Poor

13 Jul 2026

Glen

Nothing

10/10

Exceptional

13 Jul 2026

Damon

My family enjoyed our stay.

Family_with_children

10/10

Exceptional

02 Jul 2026

Carrie

The property was amazing, amenities were wonderful although our stay was short so we didn’t get to utilize all of them. Only issue we had was with some of the door hardware, but we didn’t notice it until right before we left and we brought it to their attention and they were having someone look at it right after we left. All in all, I’d definitely go back!

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

01 Jul 2026

Mecca

My day was amazing. I will definitely return in the future.

10/10

Exceptional

28 Jun 2026

Taeja

Best hotel in Philly. Period!

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

26 Jun 2026

Dr. Judy

Very clean aparthotel with amazing views, a 3-5 minute walk to train and bus, 10 minutes walk from riverside park. In university City so lots of students about (although school is out for summer) so felt very safe and walkable. Lots of food options and again, amazing views of the city and river. Room had a full size kitchen with dining area, large, modern, very clean bathroom and bedrooms. Will definitely stay again. Only downside is parking is in public parking garage right next door to hotel but does not belong to hotel. No in/out privileges u less you make a separate agreement with parking garage management

Friends_and_family Family

10/10

Exceptional

21 Jun 2026

John M

Great location. Quick to get around as the metro (train) station was two blocks away. We were on the 35th floor and the views were really great. the hotel and the staff were really wonderful. Would be happy to stay at AKA again when we're in Philly.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

21 Jun 2026

Bejon

Very Clean

10/10

Exceptional

13 Jun 2026

jonathan

Loved the outdoor lounge and pool. Great views as well. Great experience.

Self

10/10

Exceptional

10 Jun 2026

Catherine

Clean rooms and beautiful views

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

10 Jun 2026

Sue

If was lovely., safe Staff was wonderful Absolutely stay

Friends_and_family Family

10/10

Exceptional

09 Jun 2026

Shane

Staff were helpful, the rooms are great!

Family_with_children

2/10

Poor

07 Jun 2026

Nicki

The staff at AKA University were unprofessional and gossipy. It was very unfortunate as I had high expectations for this hotel. I emailed the general manager Evan O’Donnell directly, but he never responded to any of my emails. Which lends to my point the staff is extremely unprofessional. I would never recommend anyone to stay at this hotel. The amenities came with a fee which you don’t have a choice to decline and I spent most of my time outside the hotel for work and was not able to use the amenities and was charged almost $100 for just three days. It was a terrible experience staying at this hotel. Would definitely not recommend this hotel to anyone.

Business

10/10

Exceptional

06 Jun 2026

Edward

Loved how helpful and pleasant the staff was

Self

10/10

Exceptional

05 Jun 2026

Kenesha

Staff was extremely helpful.

Friends

10/10

Exceptional

04 Jun 2026

Rochelle

Everyone was kind to place was very clean easy to get in and out and also easy for Easy transportation around the city

Friends

2/10

Poor

01 Jun 2026

Joshua

First of all, you will be required to pay a $250 damage deposit which was a surprise to us. Immediately after our very slow, abrupt check in we were informed that the locks to the rooms did not work. We got up to our room (slow elevators) to find our room door wide open which was unsettling. We quickly found out that many other things did not work - electrical sockets, hairdryer and blinds that did not cover the windows. We spent extra to give our daughter a bedroom but her bed was not made up and there were scant supplies in the room to do so. It was nice to have a washer/dryer. The ‘restaurant’ was not open at all during our stay (Sunday to Monday). A lot of promise but did not live up to it at all.

10/10

Exceptional

31 May 2026

Cheryl

This was my first stay at an AKA property. The hotel was absolutely beautiful. The rooms were spacious beautifully decorated and extremely clean. There was a lot more space in the room than I anticipated. The room really could have accommodated at least for adults. I would definitely recommend this hotel to others and would definitely stay there again.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

30 May 2026

Phillip

Great hotel , definitely will be very soon.

Family_with_children

8/10

Excellent

25 May 2026

Mark-David

The room was very clean and exactly what we were hoping for. My only problem was the bed slats collapsed twice throughout the night and made it difficult to sleep in the hole created by this happening. For a one night rental, this was disappointing

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

24 May 2026

Cameren

In a good area, staff was great helped put together a nice letter for my ladys birthday! Everything was clean and nice. The amenities were great, the pool with the view was our favorite. Cafe downstairs is good! Just overall great experience! Definitely will be back!

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

15 May 2026

Jenetta

Clean room great hotel

10/10

Exceptional

15 May 2026

Faree

Yes

10/10

Exceptional

09 May 2026

STEPHEN

Large room, great view of the city!

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

03 May 2026

Dorian

The place exceptional however no Valet parking and no in room dining was available other than that 5star hotel.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

29 Apr 2026

Maria

Excellent location for the Penn Relays. Everything walking distance. Plenty of space for our tall family. The kitchen was a bonus.

Family

10/10

Exceptional

28 Apr 2026

Amy

I like the small kitchen so I can cook for myself while traveling solo.

Self

4/10

Poor

27 Apr 2026

Oggy

My husband and I travel to Philadelphia (and in general) often and love trying out different hotels. We wanted to stay at AKA because we thought it would be a nice vibe for our anniversary while in Philly. Unfortunately, that was not the case. We liked our room, but everything else was not great - had to be our worst experience at a hotel. The staff was unfriendly to the point it made us uncomfortable. I probably have never written a review, but our experience was that bad. Was charged an additional “resort” fee after booking/paying when we arrived as well. The drink voucher that we were promised was not available because they no longer have a bar and we were not compensated for this and it’s still being promoted.. We don’t drink, but we’re looking forward to some mocktails. We stayed here a year ago and loved our experience, but after this stay we won’t ever be back.

Partner

8/10

Excellent

25 Apr 2026

Travis

It’s a great building, with wonderful facilities, including a gym, a pool and golf. But there’s limited food available and minimal coffee so if you bring a few things from home or order ahead, the stay will be perfect.

10/10

Exceptional

25 Apr 2026

Sierra

This is a beautiful property conveniently located near Penn and the city hub. We had a two bedroom on the 33rd floor and the views were impressive. The furniture although modern was a bit worn and the bed had severe dips. There were areas of the room that felt like they could have been cleaned better but we took care of it within 10mins. We did need to change rooms because there was an overwhelming food smell coming from the unit next door. Unfortunately, opening the windows didn’t help. The second room was cleaner although many of the lamps didn’t work (burnt out bulbs). Again, the bed wasn’t great but we were only is this room one night. Parking is in the city lot next to the property. This hotel has the potential to be one of the best however beds would need to be replaced and the overall cleanliness taken up a notch. The front desk staff was amazing!

2/10

Poor

21 Apr 2026

Elijah

Upon my arrival, I was informed that my family and I had been mistakenly assigned to a penthouse room instead of the penthouse plus den room we had booked. This discrepancy was attributed to an error made during the Aka booking process, which resulted in the reservation of an accessible room without a den.
Despite my clarification and presentation of the booking details, the front desk staff refused to rectify the situation. They offered to accommodate us in a cheaper room, but wouldn’t accommodate us the price difference which was between $200-350
The following day, we attempted to access the pool, only to find it fully reserved. We were unable to enter the pool or lounge area that day, the following day after the event, we went to check out the pool the presence of hazardous conditions such as toilet paper and hair floating throughout the pool.
Upon contacting the front desk again, we were informed that Manager Rick would reimburse us $50 for our stay. However, upon our return to the pool the following day, we discovered that it was still contaminated with toilet paper and hair, despite the manager’s promise of cleanup.
This incident highlights the need for thorough verification of bookings and the importance of addressing customer complaints promptly. The staff’s lack of assistance in resolving this issue is unacceptable.
I strongly advise potential guests to exercise caution and avoid booking this establishment.

8/10

Excellent

19 Apr 2026

Carter

Staff service was inconsistent

10/10

Exceptional

13 Apr 2026

Lasni

We were delighted with our stay. Lots of space, well planned unit, incredible views of the city and the river. Just like home feeling.

Family

10/10

Exceptional

12 Apr 2026

Mar'kasia

Nice place! Very clean and beautiful view

10/10

Exceptional

05 Apr 2026

Stacy

Better than expected. Huge room with walk in closet and separate living room. Great service from Nekaya at the front desk and Fren/Fran? in housekeeping. Attached restaurant has great coffee and food. Views are amazing (ask to face water and UPenn. Attached parking garage where rates are just ok. Amenities are the highlight with a gorgeous huge resort style pool, outdoor lounge area with fire pit, gym and cinema.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

03 Apr 2026

William

Everything was great as usual

10/10

Exceptional

30 Mar 2026

Victoria

Beautiful rooms and views

10/10

Exceptional

18 Mar 2026

Susan

Excellent hotel. Nespresso machine was a great surprise

10/10

Exceptional

10 Mar 2026

Jennifer

Clean, friendly staff, great accommodations, quiet. My only complaint, no fault of anyone, was the on site restaurant being closed both days/nights of my stay.

10/10

Exceptional

05 Mar 2026

David

Great

10/10

Exceptional

15 Feb 2026

Adrian

Great staff, clean building good amenities

Leisure Partner

4/10

Poor

15 Feb 2026

Aaron

The room was spartan, worn, with cheap furniture, tv remote didn't work, windows opened on the 33rd floor, common areas were dimly lit, there was no restaurant despite what the website said. Overpriced

10/10

Exceptional

26 Jan 2026

Charles

Room was clean , staff was nice

Business

8/10

Excellent

18 Jan 2026

Deniz

Convenient, but expensive for what it is. This was 6th or 7th stay in 4 years. Parking super expensive. Units vary in how run down they are.

Business Family

10/10

Exceptional

18 Jan 2026

Kenneth

The room was clean, staff was excellent. The views from the room, gym and pool are amazing

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

15 Jan 2026

Greg

Yes

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

08 Jan 2026

shante

The AKA is the upscale spot in the city where you need to be. Clean

10/10

Exceptional

08 Jan 2026

Johanna

From the check in with Rihanna to check out, everything was perfect! Room was gorgeous and clean! Amenities were so a plenty! We got lucky because there weren’t many guests at the time so it was very calm and quiet, felt extra luxurious! Can’t wait to stay here again very soon! So happy we found AKA!

Leisure Family

8/10

Excellent

02 Jan 2026

S.M.

We had issues when checked in our room, the staff fixed it quickly with an upgrade. Everything was clean and the amenities were amazing.

Friends_and_family Friends

6/10

Pleasant

10 Dec 2025

David

The staff was great, friendly and courteous and very helpful. The room had an incredible view and I enjoyed watching the city lights at night and the sunset and also the sunrise is very beautiful and calming. There are some minor things with the room that I found very disappointing one of the lamps in the second bedroom did not have an on-off switch. I had to keep unplugging it from the wall and plugging it back in the dimmer on off, which seems to have been removed from it. Also, the dispenser for the soap did not work. The pump was broken. I had to unscrew the top. The other thing that I found most disturbing in the room was the sound of the HVAC unit clicking on and clicking off throughout the night I heard this noise through the vents and it woke me up every time the bed was somewhat uncomfortable, and the pillow is not firming enough for my liking one of the TVs had its cord unplugged from the back of the TV and did not function until I had to plug it in there are a small things like this that presents the hotel in a bad light during a stay. Lack of attention to details the towels and bathrobes were extremely nice the shower, water, pressure and sink water pressure was strong and I enjoyed that a lot.

Leisure Self

8/10

Excellent

29 Nov 2025

Nicole

Great amenities and location

10/10

Exceptional

25 Nov 2025

Whislyn

I will definitely stay here again whenever I’m in Philadelphia. Very convenient walk from the Amtrak train station. Clean rooms. Pleasant staff.

Leisure Self

4/10

Poor

23 Nov 2025

Zhige

NA

10/10

Exceptional

23 Nov 2025

JOSEPH

We have stayed at many hotels in Philly and this hotel ranks near the top. It’s an oasis of tranquility near everything. The amenities are 28 floors above the hustle and bustle of the city below. Even during peak times, it feels like a private escape with a one-of-its-kind swimming pool, a cinema, and a spacious fitness center with breathtaking views of the city. Love this hotel!

Friends_and_family Family

10/10

Exceptional

15 Nov 2025

Tarikka

Yes yes

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

01 Nov 2025

Siddhartha

It was a great place, close to a wedding venue. The view of the city was spectacular. We had a great stay. The only thing that would have been helpful is for them to provide information upfront that there’s not really a valet parking option available and there are no bell captains that can help with our luggage.

Business_and_leisure Family

8/10

Excellent

22 Oct 2025

Sara

great views of Philly!

8/10

Excellent

21 Oct 2025

Carletta

The rooms had noticeable small areas of damage to the property already, so I did take my own pictures to note the damages were already there. I also had a slight issue with the AC not seeming to blow out cold, but was fixed.

Leisure Family

10/10

Exceptional

21 Oct 2025

Elizabeth

Loved the suite, with kitchen, washer-dryer and large size. Room was sootless, with a great view.

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

11 Sep 2025

Deniz

Spacious and comfortable room; excellent customer service; easy parking; easy to walk to restaurants; safe.

Business_and_leisure Family

10/10

Exceptional

01 Sep 2025

Verified traveler

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.

Friends_and_family Family

10/10

Exceptional

12 Aug 2025

Peter

Very nice property. Close to work and amenities

Business Friends

2/10

Poor

28 Jul 2025

Young Ju

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.

Business_and_leisure Family

6/10

Pleasant

28 Jul 2025

Mercedes

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).

Leisure Friends

10/10

Exceptional

16 Jul 2025

Adriana

Great place

4/10

Poor

08 Jul 2025

NICOLAS

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.

Business_and_leisure Self

10/10

Exceptional

07 Jul 2025

Chanel

always a pleasure when i stay at the AKA

Leisure Partner

2/10

Poor

06 Jul 2025

Ambher

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.

Leisure Family_with_children

4/10

Poor

30 Jun 2025

Creede

Run down apartment/hotel concept. Dirty floors. Dirty furniture. No amenities. Not great.

Business

10/10

Exceptional

27 Jun 2025

TERRELL

Wister ensured my family and I were checked in quickly and thoroughly. His customer service skills should be rewarded and definitely respected!

Business_and_leisure Family_with_children

10/10

Exceptional

24 Jun 2025

Matthew

Aka was excellent as always, everything was great.

Leisure Self

8/10

Excellent

22 Jun 2025

Christopher

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.

Friends_and_family Family

8/10

Excellent

15 Jun 2025

Marsheila

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.

Partner

8/10

Excellent

07 Jun 2025

Kristina

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.

Leisure Family

10/10

Exceptional

02 Jun 2025

Edward

Beautiful place would recommend to everyone

Leisure Self

8/10

Excellent

02 Jun 2025

Cazembe

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!

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

01 Jun 2025

TERRELL

Honestly the best view of the city. breathtaking!

Friends_and_family Family

10/10

Exceptional

01 Jun 2025

matthew

Perfect. Entire staff was awesome. Especially those on my arrival and guy at lounge 28.

Self

10/10

Exceptional

29 May 2025

Karen

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.

Friends_and_family Family

8/10

Excellent

27 May 2025

Reena

Front desk could be more friendly. No lotion or wastebasket in the bathroom. These are simple things that would elevate the stay

Friends_and_family Family

10/10

Exceptional

22 May 2025

Chanel

awesome

Leisure Partner

4/10

Poor

16 May 2025

Caitlin

Fufgghufvhh

8/10

Excellent

04 May 2025

myla

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.

10/10

Exceptional

27 Apr 2025

Susan M.

Clean. Safe area.

Friends_and_family Family

10/10

Exceptional

27 Apr 2025

Chanel

always a pleasure

Leisure Partner

8/10

Excellent

21 Apr 2025

Deandrea

Love everything, comes with full kitchen.

10/10

Exceptional

16 Apr 2025

William

The place was spectacular. Views were great. Pool was awesome

Leisure Family_with_children

10/10

Exceptional

13 Apr 2025

Connor

Absolutely loved this propert as well as the staff.

Leisure Partner

6/10

Pleasant

04 Apr 2025

Danielle

Hotel was clean with nice views of the city

Leisure Self

10/10

Exceptional

03 Apr 2025

Jennifer

Fabulous place!

Business_and_leisure Self

10/10

Exceptional

02 Apr 2025

Aleksandra

Charming place with a lot of the same folks staying in short and long term apartment like rooms. Great view of Philadelphia, and comfortable bed and couch. Loved the espresso machine in the room and the fully equipped kitchen. Almost made me wish I could have stayed another night.

Business