At the heart of the thriving early industrial community known as Rittenhouse Town, the first paper mill in America was built. It all began when, in 1687, papermaker William Rittenhouse followed other Quaker and Mennonite families emigrating to the newly formed neighborhood of Germantown (founded in 1683). William partnered with Philadelphia’s first printer, purchased a 20-acre plot of land along Paper Mill Run (a tributary of the Wissahickon Creek) and, with the help of his son Nicholas, built the first paper mill in British North America that otherwise could only be delivered from England. For the next 40 years, the Rittenhouse family were the only papermakers in America.

One of the most historic buildings in Baltimore; built in 1866, The Grand was first known as the Tremont Grand, and served as the headquarters for the Maryland Freemason for 130 years. In the late 1990’s the building underwent a massive restoration project before finally reopening in 2005. Completely restored to its original grandeur, The Grand is one of the most iconic event venues in Baltimore.

Every detail of the Lord Baltimore Hotel is rich in historical and architectural significance, all coming together to create one of the most unique and interesting hotels in downtown Baltimore. Guests arriving through our revolving doors are greeted by a magnificent lobby featuring a beautiful grand piano, classic oil paintings, polished brass and an award-winning vaulted fresco ceiling with an immense Murano glass chandelier.

In the heart of Center City, this landmark mansion takes its name from Horace Trumbauer, esteemed architect of America's Gilded Age. His career was launched with the creation of Lynnewood Hall in Elkins Park, the Georgian Revival palace commissioned by streetcar tycoon Peter A. B. Widener in 1897. A native Philadelphian, Trumbauer is also associated with grandiose buildings in New York and Newport, the main library at Harvard University and much of the campus of Duke University. Today, Trumbauer is hailed as one of America's premier architects. In 1906, he embarked on Trumbauer Hall, a formal Colonial Revival building of brick, concrete, limestone and marble construction. What began as one of the most prestigious private city clubs in North America is now also Center City’s best address for high-end entertaining. Since 1999, Jeffrey Miller has been the exclusive caterer for weddings, corporate dinners, fundraisers and other special events at Trumbauer Hall.

The Highlands offers a unique setting for your special day. Only 17 miles north of downtown Philadelphia, on top of a hill sits The Highlands. This elegant, two-centuries-old Georgian style mansion is surrounded by 44 acres of rolling hills and beautifully landscaped gardens. Completed in 1796, the mansion features fifteen foot ceilings and bright spacious rooms in addition to a 2 acre formal garden and the ambiance of the surrounding estate.

The German Society of Pennsylvania is a historic, three-story brick building with a classic Colonial touch, and is an elegant setting for a Philadelphia wedding. The property offers several venues for every stage of your celebration. The Joseph Horner Memorial Library offers a unique space, with two stories and galleried bookcases. The antique furniture and wood paneling will evoke Belle’s library. The Auditorium, with its distinctly Colonial architecture, is an elegant ceremony venue, but is also perfect for a reception, with plenty of space for dining and dancing. For your cocktail hour, celebrate with your guests in the Ratskeller, a cozy dining room with a tavern atmosphere, or on the spacious and shady Leidy Terrace.

Experience Philadelphia's favorite Historic Hotel when you stay with us. Our stunning rooms, high ceilings, fireside lobby and, inviting hospitality will enhance your Historic District experience. The Independence Park Hotel, a member of Best Western's Premier Collection provides you with a unique local, boutique hotel experience and, the proven strength of a world hospitality leader.

Portico is a storybook wedding venue located in a 55 acre arboretum in the historic Germantown neighborhood of Northwest Philadelphia. This magical locale is perfect for romantic celebrations. Once the private enclave of an extended Quaker family, the Arboretum is a green oasis in a densely-populated urban environment with the Francis Cope House as its centerpiece. The gracious Quaker stone mansion has floor-to-ceiling windows and a magnificent wrap-around porch from which guests can survey the picturesque English landscape of specimen trees, woods and rolling meadows. Imagine meandering trails, wetlands, open fields and a peaceful pond! The venue's capacity is 160 with outdoor dining on a flagstone patio and white tent encircled by landscaped gardens.