There’s no denying that traveling will be different from now on, and we’ll all have to adapt to a new way of seeing the world. As I try to look ahead and imagine how traveling will look after the pandemic is over, I thought what better way to ease back into traveling than with a fun staycation in my favorite city. I was all too excited to give my wanderlust heart a glimpse at a brand new luxury apartment complex in Philadelphia: The Chestnut at University City during my most recent staycation.
Sometimes, when searching for a new adventure, it is easy to think that distance = excitement. But have you taken the time to discover the magic in your own city? You might think, “I live in Philly, I’ve seen it all!” but the neighborhoods of U City are as unique as fingerprints and filled with surprises and exciting experiences that can be had only in Philly.
I really wanted to get away from home but not be too far away. As many of you know, I used to live in Philadelphia through college and grad school and now I call the suburbs of NJ home (again). However, if I were to make the jump back to city living, I’d 1000% choose this new luxurious apartment complex located in University City. University City feels like home to me and happens to be one of my favorite areas in Philly. I used to work in this area and love how beautiful it is. I haven’t even mentioned the best part of this stay yet – The Chestnut is PET-FRIENDLY which means that my dog Rupert (@RupertTheDawg) was able join along on the adventures 
. Rupert and I were beyond excited to check this place out during our end of summer staycation. If anyone isn’t familiar with staycations, they are simply vacations close to home. People typically stay in hotels or housing arrangements close to their backyards, all while creating a vacation-like environment. Luckily The Chestnut is now leasing and you are able to make the vacation vibes even more permanent!
For our staycation, we stayed in a charming 1-bedroom apartment at The Chestnut Apartments located in University City because the location was prime for the plans and events we had in mind for Labor Day weekend. We had the most amazing time staying here. The Chestnut is located on 37th and Chestnut Street, conveniently right near UPenn’s campus and so many awesome eateries.
The Chestnut truly fulfilled my dreams of staying in a plush, modern fully furnished apartment complex in Philadelphia! We were greeted in the most professional and warm way at the front desk and given a key to our room. In addition, we were given a box filled with treats for us to enjoy! The Chestnut team does a phenomenal job with offering the consistencies and hospitality of a hotel format, but taking it a step further by providing a space that feels more like home.
The unit we stayed in was fully furnished and styled perfectly, it was such a gorgeous layout! Residences at The Chestnut feature elegant natural beauty enhanced with sophisticated design elements. The warm color palette is a soothing complement to the building’s park-like grounds. Our apartment was the perfect size, and it came with all of the features needed to feel at home. The apartment had a full kitchen, a small table and two chairs for eating, a living room space, washer & dryer in-unit, and bedroom with a plush queen sized bed that included a walk-in-closet – all designed to perfection.
The full bathroom was spacious and modern. I loved how the entire apartment flowed so well between the different living areas. You don’t realize how important a washer and dryer is in your apartment until you have one. All of the apartments include a laundry option which is great. It made it so convenient having the washer and dryer inside the apartment so we were able to return home with clean clothes!
There is also a fitness center within The Chestnut. I made it a point to utilize the awesome amenities during my stay. The gym in particular has a wide array of equipment and there is plenty of room to exercise. During my stay I was able to workout early in the morning and had the gym all to myself so I felt extremely safe given the current pandemic.
Some of the other amenities include beautifully curated co-working spaces – great for networking and collaborating, sky lounge and rooftop pool, media/game room – complete with shuffleboard, TV, and pool table, green space – great for your furry companions, and more!
The Chestnut has impeccable views, standing over 30 stories overlooking the city and midtown’s skyline. Unfortunately the sky deck was closed during my visit but I would’ve loved capturing memories up there and taking it all in! (an excuse for me to visit again I suppose) 
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Staying in University City is a great way to feel like you’ve entered a different city entirely. The ease and comfortability we received at The Chestnut apartments are unmatched and would rival any hotel establishment. They truly know what it means to take a stay further. If you’re looking for a new home, consider The Chestnut in U City. I promise you’ll feel at home by overlooking the skyline and the bridges crossing the river or relaxing at the rooftop pool. Take a walk around the neighborhood, admire University of Pennsylvania’s historical campus, do some retail therapy, and be sure to try all of the awesome food places.
Grab lunch or dinner at unique dining locations, including Louie Louie, The Walnut Street Cafe, White Dog Cafe, and Baby Blues BBQ.
We had such a fun time during our stay, I would personally move there in a heartbeat. I hope you all get the opportunity to explore The Chestnut for yourself.
Check out this awesome new luxury apartment building in Philadelphia if you are on the hunt for a new apartment. The units are filling up quickly so be sure to schedule an in-person or virtual tour today!
Thank you so much to The Chestnut at University City for partnering with me on this post. All opinions are my own!
Click to view slideshow.Stay tuned for more adventures…
xoxo Mimi