I have stayed in hostels all over the world, but never in the States, as I feel like they don't…read morehave a good reputation here. I really wanted to be in Philly, because my church was having a fellowship weekend and my usual hosts were not available.
This hostel was in the middle of an alley in the center of downtown, so very convenient location. It was spacious with front check in area, pool table, kitchen, couches, and games. The decor is colorful and fun, with plenty of Philly inspired artwork.
I received my key card and towel, then headed upstairs to the room, which had a large window and 6 bunk beds. The space seemed to be clean and well kept.
There was a towel hanging on one of the hooks, so I put my towel (of a different color) next to it. When I returned late that night, I noticed that my clean towel was no longer on the hook. I looked around and saw said towel haphazardly thrown on a lower bunk bed that was not mine. Why do people have to ruin things?! I cannot fathom how anyone could think it is appropriate to use and much less, touch, someone else's towel! Feeling quite upset, I had to go back down to the front desk (which was thankfully 24 hours) in order to get a new towel. After that, I made sure to lock up my towel.
The bathroom for the floor was pretty well maintained. Kitchen was nice and cute with plenty of spots to sit. There was free tea, as well as a machine providing coffee and chai for $1. I selected the Chocolate Chai, which was a comforting blend of rich cocoa and warm spices from the chai flavor.
Overall, service was welcoming. The guests mostly kept to their own group, which is not what I'm used to when I'm in hostels internationally. However, I didn't really mind since I was barely there. I might consider staying again, but only as a last resort.