As a wedding photographer, I have captured weddings at some of the most breathtaking venues. One venue that always leaves me amazed is the Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia at Comcast Center. This Four Seasons Philadelphia venue guide will detail exactly why!
History of the Four Seasons Comcast Center
The Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia at Comcast Center is a relatively new addition to the Philadelphia skyline, opening in August 2019. The hotel is located on the 48th through 60th floors of the Comcast Technology Center. This is the tallest building in the city at 1,121 feet tall. The tower was designed by Foster + Partners, an internationally recognized architecture firm, and is a marvel of modern engineering.
Prior to the construction of the Comcast Technology Center, the site was home to the former John F. Kennedy Boulevard. This was a major roadway that ran through the heart of Center City. The street was closed and eventually demolished to make way for the new development. This has revitalized the area with its stunning architecture and luxurious amenities.
The Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia at Comcast Center is part of the Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts chain. It was founded in 1960 by Isadore Sharp. The company has become one of the most respected names in the hospitality industry, with properties in over 50 countries around the world.
The opening of the Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia at Comcast Center marked a major milestone for the city. It brought an unprecedented level of luxury and sophistication to Philadelphia’s hotel market. The hotel has quickly become a favorite among visitors and locals alike, thanks to its prime location, breathtaking views, and unparalleled amenities.
Weddings at the Philadelphia Four Seasons
The Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia at Comcast Center offers several unique wedding locations.
The whole 5th floor can be turned into a private party space for you and your guests. Creating a one-of-a-kind event is easy with this malleable space. You can use this space for cocktail hours, and it’s gorgeous.
With floor-to-ceiling windows, the Grand Terrace Ballroom showcases a modern design set against the history of the Philadelphia skyline.
The Arch Ballroom at the corner of Arch Street and North 18th Street is filled with natural light. There are two side-by-side ballrooms, so you can do anything you want. You can use one ballroom for your ceremony and another for your reception, or one for dinner and another for your afterparty. A rehearsal dinner, reception, or post-wedding brunch would be perfect in this ballroom.
Whether you’re planning a rehearsal dinner, post-wedding brunch, or even a ceremony, the two venues on the 59th floor provide unmatched views of Philadelphia’s iconic landmarks. It’s also possible to privatize venues. The Calder Room and Fairmount Room both have floor-to-ceiling windows and neutral décor – so you can do anything you want with them!
I love that getting married at Four Seasons gives you exclusive access to Jeff Leatham’s gorgeous floral creations. Jeff is known internationally for his work at Four Seasons Hotel George V, Paris, and Four Seasons Hotel Beverly Hills.
In addition, Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia wedding couples have exclusive access to our 60th-floor Sky Lobby and public areas for wedding-day photos.
Can we also discuss the rooms to stay and get ready?
On the 48th to 56th floors are 219 accommodations, including 39 suites, with floor-to-ceiling windows and unobstructed skyline views. There’s nothing better than the famously comfortable Four Seasons beds and large, luxurious bathrooms. Ask about special rates for wedding room blocks!
The 39 suites have separate living areas so you can entertain guests or relax on your own. You’ll love the Jeff Leatham florals in your suite and the window-side bathtubs. They even give the newlyweds a free night’s stay in a luxurious suite on their wedding night.
Dining here is also awesome. The Four Seasons has some of the best food in the city. Discover Jean-Georges Philadelphia on the 59th floor, featuring a six-course tasting menu curated by Michelin-starred chef and restaurateur Jean-Georges Vongerichten. A chic lounge serving approachable Jean-Georges cuisine crowns the city on the 60th floor. Vernick Fish, by James Beard award-winning Chef Greg Vernick, is located on the street level, while Vernick Coffee Bar, in the Comcast Technology Center’s upper lobby, elevates the café experience.
Photo locations at the Four Seasons
Having convenient locations for photography on an event property is important for a wedding venue. It provides convenience for the couple, family, and wedding party, as they don’t have to worry about leaving the venue to take photos elsewhere.
It also allows for more opportunities to capture uniquely different backdrops for your portraits!
My top five favorite photo locations inside the Four Seasons Philadelphia (and this was extremely difficult to narrow down!) are:
- The hotel rooms. The large windows in the rooms offer panoramic views of the city. They allow plenty of natural light to flood in, creating a bright atmosphere ideal for photos.
- The 60th-floor lobby. As soon as you step off the elevator and enter the lobby, you are greeted with floor-to-ceiling windows that offer panoramic views of the city skyline. The space is bright and airy, with plenty of natural light pouring in throughout the day. The lobby is decorated in a sleek, modern style with elegant furnishings and artwork. This is a WONDERFUL place for photos.
- The infinity pool. The infinity pool at the Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia at Comcast Center is located on the 57th floor, providing killer views of the Philadelphia skyline. The pool is surrounded by comfortable lounge chairs, sleek modern design, and floor-to-ceiling windows, creating a sense of being suspended in the air high above the bustling city below. The infinity pool is a perfect location for unique wedding day photos.
- Jean-Georges Philadelphia: Descend the waterfall-encased staircase for utterly amazing wedding day portraits – it’s one of my favorite spots in the whole hotel!
- The fifth-floor terrace. Unobstructed Philadelphia city views. Need I say more?
Photo locations near the Four Seasons
While having aesthetically pleasing and photogenic locations within the wedding venue is certainly a plus, sometimes couples may want to venture out to other locations for their wedding photos.
This may be because you have a specific place in mind that holds special meaning to you, or simply because you want to add more variety to your photo album.
By traveling offsite, you may also explore the surrounding area.
Additionally, changing up the scenery can provide a break from the energy and emotions of the wedding venue. This allows you to relax and have fun with your photoshoot.
Ultimately, the decision to leave the venue for photos is personal and depends on the couple’s preferences and priorities for their special day.
If you decide to leave the Four Seasons and venture elsewhere for photos, here are my top suggestions:
- Philadelphia Museum of Art – 2600 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA 19130 (10-minute drive) The Philadelphia Museum of Art is a world-class art museum with over 240,000 pieces of art from different cultures and eras. Its grand neoclassical building is perched on a hill overlooking Benjamin Franklin Parkway and the Schuylkill River. Visitors can walk on the iconic “Rocky Steps,” made famous by the movie “Rocky,” to get a stunning view of the city skyline.
- Rittenhouse Square – 210 W Rittenhouse Square, Philadelphia, PA 19103 (10-minute drive) Rittenhouse Square is a popular public park located in the heart of Philadelphia. The park is surrounded by historic buildings, high-end shops, and restaurants, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The park features beautiful landscaping, fountains, and sculptures, making it a picturesque location for a leisurely stroll or picnic.
- Race Street Pier – Race St & N Columbus Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19106 (10-minute drive) Race Street Pier is a scenic waterfront park located on the Delaware River. The pier offers stunning views of the Ben Franklin Bridge, the Camden Waterfront, and the Philadelphia skyline.
- Boathouse Row – Kelly Dr, Philadelphia, PA 19130 (10-minute drive) Boathouse Row is a collection of historic rowing clubs along the Schuylkill River. The boathouses, built in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, feature distinct architectural styles. They are lit up at night, creating a beautiful backdrop for a romantic evening photo session.
- Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens – 1020 South St, Philadelphia, PA 19147 (15-minute drive). Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens is an immersive outdoor art installation created by Isaiah Zagar. The space features intricate mosaics and sculptures made from found objects, creating a whimsical and enchanting environment for visitors to explore.
- Bartram’s Garden – 5400 Lindbergh Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19143 (20-minute drive) Bartram’s Garden is a historic botanical garden located on the banks of the Schuylkill River. The garden features a variety of plant species, including an extensive native plant collection. Visitors can stroll through the gardens or take a guided tour to learn about their history.
- Fairmount Park – 1 Boathouse Row, Philadelphia, PA 19130 (10-minute drive) Fairmount Park is a vast urban park that covers over 2,000 acres and is home to historic sites, museums, and outdoor recreational opportunities. The park features scenic gardens, hiking trails, and lovely overlooks.
- Washington Square Park – 210 W Washington Square, Philadelphia, PA 19106 (6.4 miles, about 20 minutes by car). Washington Square Park is a historic park located in Philadelphia’s Society Hill neighborhood. The park spans several blocks and is surrounded by beautiful 18th and 19th-century architecture, creating a charming atmosphere. The park has a stunning fountain, various monuments, and benches throughout. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery. There’s always something interesting happening in the park, from art installations to live music performances.
- The Merchant Exchange – 143 S 3rd St, Philadelphia, PA 19106 (5-minute drive) The Merchant Exchange is a historic building located in Philadelphia’s Old City district. Built in 1832, the Merchant Exchange served as the city’s first commodities exchange and was a hub of trade and commerce for decades. The building’s architecture is stunning, featuring a neoclassical facade with towering columns and intricate details.
In conclusion…
As we conclude our Four Seasons Philadelphia venue guide, it’s evident that this venue is more than just a space – it’s a canvas where wedding dreams come to life, set against the backdrop of Philadelphia’s dynamic skyline. Each event at the Four Seasons Philadelphia becomes a bespoke masterpiece, reflecting the unique personalities of each couple.
Whether it’s the breathtaking views, the impeccable service, or the exquisite culinary delights, this guide has highlighted why the Four Seasons Philadelphia stands out as a premier choice for those seeking an unforgettable wedding experience.
