Whether you are visiting Pennyslvania to explore colleges in Philadelphia, attend Parent & Family Weekend, move-in, graduation, or a big game day, choosing the right place to stay can make the experience feel much more enjoyable. At Cornerstone Bed & Breakfast, guests can enjoy the character of a historic inn along with a prime location in University City that makes getting to nearby campuses easy and convenient. Set in one of Philadelphia’s most attractive and well-regarded neighborhoods, Cornerstone is surrounded by leading academic institutions, including Drexel University and the University of Pennsylvania.
Stay In the Heart of University City
Located in Philadelphia’s storied University City neighborhood, Cornerstone Bed & Breakfast offers guests the best of both worlds: close proximity to campus activity and a quieter, more personal place to relax at the end of the day. Its convenient setting makes it easy for families and visitors to walk to campus events, enjoy dinner nearby, and avoid the stress of navigating city traffic once they arrive. Back at the inn, guests can unwind in one of Cornerstone’s six elegant guest rooms, adding an extra sense of comfort and character to the stay. Guests are also within walking distance of local restaurants and popular attractions like the Philadelphia Zoo and the Philadelphia Museum of Art, with easy access to the subway for visiting Center City, the Historic District, and the Convention Center.
Nearby campuses:
- Drexel University: 3 minute walk
- University of Pennsylvania: 5-10 minute walk
- Temple University: 15 minute drive
- Thomas Jefferson University: 15 minute drive
- Bryn Mawr College: 25 minute drive
Safety and Peace of Mind for Families
We know that when you are visiting a new city, especially with your family, safety is always top of mind. One of the things our guests consistently mention is how comfortable and secure University City feels. With its close connection to major universities, there is a steady, active presence throughout the neighborhood throughout the day and evening. Whether you are heading to campus or returning after dinner, you can feel comfortable coming and going throughout your stay. When you stay with us at Cornerstone, you will notice:
- Well-lit, walkable streets
- A strong university presence in the area
- Daily patrols from University City District Safety Ambassadors
- Coordination with local and campus police
Which Colleges in Philadelphia Are Near Cornerstone Bed & Breakfast?
While there are several colleges, near our Philadelphia B&B. One of the biggest advantages of staying at Cornerstone is how close it is to some of Philadelphia’s most prestigious universities like Drexel and University of Pennsylvania.
“The Cornerstone is an outstanding bed and breakfast.The location is ideal if you’re visiting Penn or Drexler. I was here for two nights, visiting Penn, and loved it: the house is very pleasant, breakfast very tasty, and the neighborhood pretty.” Christopher W. Google Review
Drexel University
Cornerstone is especially accessible for Drexel visitors. The inn is across the street from campus, making it a convenient choice for families attending admissions tours, accepted student events, move-in days, athletic events, and Parent & Family Weekend.
University of Pennsylvania
The University of Pennsylvania is about 5 minute walk away, making Cornerstone a great home base for prospective students, alumni, families, and guests visiting Penn for academic programs, sports, reunions, and campus celebrations. The walkable setting helps guests enjoy the neighborhood instead of relying on a packed itinerary of rides and parking.
Why Parents and Families Like Staying Here
For parents, the appeal of Cornerstone goes beyond geography. College visits can be emotional, busy, and sometimes tiring. Staying in a warm, welcoming inn rather than a standard hotel can make the trip feel far more enjoyable. Here are a few reasons parents often appreciate Cornerstone:
1. You can stay close to campus without feeling stuck in the middle of the rush
Being near Drexel and Penn means less time dealing with traffic, parking, and long commutes. That is especially helpful during high-traffic weekends like orientation, graduation, and game days.
2. The neighborhood offers extra peace of mind
Cornerstone is located in University City, which the inn describes as one of Philadelphia’s safest neighborhoods. The area is also supported by University City District Safety Ambassadors, who patrol daily as a visible deterrent to crime and provide services including walking escorts. They patrol from 8 a.m. to 3 a.m., seven days a week, in coordination with local and university police departments. That visible presence is one reason many visitors feel comfortable walking through the neighborhood.
3. It feels more restful than a typical city stay
After a full day of tours, campus events, or cheering from the stands, returning to a historic bed and breakfast can feel like a reset. Cornerstone combines old-world hospitality with boutique amenities, giving guests a place to recharge in comfort.
4. Breakfast is built-in
Parents and visitors often appreciate starting the day with an excellent breakfast before heading to a campus event. Breakfast is one of the stand-out parts of the guest experience, with responsibly sourced coffee and locally sourced ingredients whenever possible.
5. There is more to do if you make a weekend of it
Many college visits turn into mini getaways. Because Cornerstone is close to museums, restaurants, and well-known attractions, families can easily add some fun to the trip before or after campus plans.
Perfect for More Than Just Campus Tours
A stay near some of the top colleges in Philadelphia is useful for much more than admissions tours. Cornerstone is also an ideal choice for:
- Parent & Family Weekends
- Accepted student events
- Graduation and commencement
- Move-in and move-out weekends
- College reunions
- Homecoming and alumni events
- Athletic competitions and game days
- Visiting professors, speakers, and guest lecturers
Because of its location and comfort, it works just as well for first-time visits as it does for repeat stays.
Walk to Dinner, Explore Philadelphia, and Keep the Car Parked
One of the advantages of staying at Cornerstone Bed & Breakfast is how easy it is to enjoy Philadelphia once you arrive. Guests can walk to a variety of nearby restaurants and local attractions, making it simple to step out for dinner or explore the neighborhood at a relaxed pace. The inn is also conveniently located near the subway, offering easy access to Philadelphia’s Historic District, Center City, and the Convention Center. Whether you are spending the day on campus or making time to see more of the city, Cornerstone offers a comfortable and convenient home base.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the best place to stay when visiting the University of Pennsylvania?
A Philadelphia bed and breakfast in University City, like Cornerstone, offers walkable access to campus, a quieter environment, and a more comfortable experience for families compared to traditional hotels.
What is the safest area to stay in Philadelphia?
University City is considered one of the safest areas due to its strong university presence, active neighborhood environment, and services like Safety Ambassadors who patrol daily.
Where should I stay for college graduation in Philadelphia?
Staying in University City places you close to major campuses like Penn and Drexel, making it easier to attend ceremonies, events, and celebrations without commuting across the city.
Where should I stay for Penn Parent Weekend or homecoming?
Cornerstone Bed and Breakfast is about a 10 minute walk to the University of Pennsylvania, making it easy to attend events, tailgates, and activities without worrying about parking or transportation.
What else can we do while visiting for a college event?
In addition to campus visits, families can explore museums, dining, and attractions like the Philadelphia Zoo or take a quick trip into Center City or the Historic District using nearby transit.
Book Your Stay Near University City, Philadelphia
College visits come with full schedules and important decisions. Where you stay should make the experience easier, not more complicated. By choosing a walkable, centrally located, and comfortable place to stay, families can be less stressed and save time. Make your stay easy, comfortable, and memorable at Cornerstone Bed & Breakfast. With a prime location in University City, close proximity to major campuses, and the warm hospitality of a historic inn, Cornerstone is an ideal home base for visiting colleges in Philadelphia. Book your stay today and enjoy a more relaxing way to experience Pilly.
