The lobby at this property is cozy and welcoming. Traditional elements such as wood coffered ceiling panels, wooden floors, and upholstered love seats are offset by colorful contemporary artwork. The front desk is a small antique, with a glass chandelier hanging overhead, and a huge is displayed prominently behind it. The room with natural light, thanks to the big arched windows and tall ceilings. The fireplace in the lounge area adds to the homey, inviting feel, and hot beverages are available all day. A public computer and printer are available, and there's a rack with tour and travel information. Elevators lead to the guest rooms. The Independent's proximity to historical sights and the Convention Center make it popular with business travelers and tourists alike.

Located in the lively neighborhood of Midtown Village, a sub-neighborhood of Center City, the Independent is conveniently located near many popular attractions and within walking distance to a number of restaurants, bars, shops, entertainment options, and activities. Guests are a 10-minute walk to the Pennsylvania Convention Center and are close to Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and Reading Terminal. The neighborhood is energetic and scenic, and though it can be noisy, it is safe and pleasant to walk in. Guests that prefer not to walk or want to explore more of the city can use the nearby subway or buses, and taxis are plentiful. The Philadelphia International Airport is a 20-minute drive away

The property offers traditional rooms as well as larger suites and lofts, all of which are spacious. The 24 units are decorated in warm neutral tones (white bedding, yellow-beige walls), with traditional wood furnishings and flooring, and wool rugs covering hardwood floors (many with a leopard print). The artwork consists of colorful photo collages of Philadelphia attractions. All come with microwaves and mini-fridges, free Wi-Fi, and a free continental breakfast delivery. The Deluxe Rooms are the smallest type available but are still fairly spacious, and have either one or two queen beds or a king bed. Guests that want more space should book the King Deluxe or the King Suite, both of which include seating areas, some with pull-out sofa beds. The largest room available is the luxurious Queen Loft Suite, which is spread over two floors and has a Murphy bed, one-and-a-half baths, and a fireplace. Lower-level rooms can be noisy, so guests that wish for quieter accommodations should request rooms on higher floors and away from the street.

In addition to the free breakfast that can be taken in the lounge or delivered the guest rooms, the property also offers an on-site Italian restaurant, Little Nonna’s, which features comforting favorites in a cozy atmosphere. There are hot beverages available all day in the lobby as well as an Internet terminal for guests, and Wi-Fi is free throughout the property. While there is no fitness center or pool on the premises, guests have access to the facilities at the nearby 12th Street Gym. The hotel also hosts a weekday wine reception and offers massage services.