Apartment

Garden Oasis: 1BR Apartment with Patio in Historic Home, Near Universities

Photo gallery for Garden Oasis: 1BR Apartment with Patio in Historic Home, Near Universities

Entering the garden apartment
View in to kitchen
Eat-in kitchen
Our fully-equipped kitchen makes it easy to prepare your own meals
Kitchen with stairs to bedroom-living room suite

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 3

Popular amenities

  • Onsite parking available
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Air-conditioning
  • Fenced yard
  • Free Wi-Fi

Explore the area

View in a map
Philadelphia, PA
  • Place, Drexel University
    ‪3 min walk‬
  • Place, University of Pennsylvania
    ‪9 min walk‬
  • Place, Philadelphia Zoo
    ‪12 min walk‬
  • Airport, Philadelphia, PA (PHL-Philadelphia Intl.)
    ‪23 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 3)

Upstairs bedroom suite

1 Single Bed and 1 Queen Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Garden Oasis: 1BR Apartment with Patio in Historic Home, Near Universities

Stay in a renovated Victorian in a historic, tree-lined neighborhood—a true garden oasis in the city. This light-filled, 2-story apartment blends unique character, Old World charm & exposed brick with modern comfort. A private entrance leads to a full eat-in kitchen, bath & laundry. Upstairs, the spacious bedroom/living room suite features a seating area, workstation & 50” 4K TV. Quiet yet walkable from Penn, Drexel, CHOP & HUP—just minutes from museums & downtown. Sleeps 1-3 (rollaway available).

The space
This renovated, two-story apartment offers a private retreat within a distinctive Victorian home in an historic University City neighborhood. Enjoy a separate entrance via a side gate, leading through the backyard to your own peaceful space.

The first floor features a bright eat-in kitchen with French doors and a view of the garden, a full bathroom, and laundry facilities. Upstairs, you'll find a spacious bedroom suite with a queen bed, a seating area, and a 50" 4K HDTV with Roku. A rollaway bed & linens for a 3rd guest is available.

The layout is unique, with the bedroom/living area and bathroom on separate floors. The stairs to the second floor are historically original, meaning they are somewhat steep (though with railings on both sides). This is characteristic of homes in our historic district.

The apartment offers plenty of comfort, natural light and a quiet atmosphere. It's conveniently located within walking distance of Penn, Drexel, CHOP, and HUP, making it a great base for visiting the universities, hospitals, or exploring the city's attractions. Plus, you'll enjoy easy access to the Schuylkill River Trail, perfect for jogging or biking.

Great food nearby! From restaurants and cozy cafes to bagels and ice cream, to quick bites from local food trucks, just a short walk away.

Exploring the city is effortless from our location, with a bus stop right across the street, a trolley stop just minutes away on foot, and a subway station within a 10-minute walk. These convenient public transportation options, along with readily available Uber and Lyft services, connect you quickly to Center City, Independence Hall, Old City, Fishtown, and all that Philadelphia has to offer. We're a very short drive downtown too.

Access
You will have full access to the apartment, and sole use of the deck. The rest of the backyard is reserved for use by our family.

Other things to note
As mentioned in the listing description, this apartment has a unique layout with the bedroom and bathroom on separate floors. The stairs leading to the second floor are historically original, meaning they are steeper and narrower than modern stairs, though they do have railings on both sides for assistance. We want to ensure this is comfortable for all guests.

On-street parking is generally easier and more convenient in our neighborhood than in many other parts of Philadelphia. However, some blocks have residential parking restrictions limited to 2 hours, daytime Monday through Friday (no restrictions on weekends), while other blocks have no parking restrictions at all. Guests are advised to check posted parking signs carefully.

Getting around the city is a breeze! We are conveniently located near multiple public transportation options. A bus stop is located directly across the street, a trolley stop is just a few minutes' walk away, and a subway station is less than a 10-minute walk, providing easy access to Center City, Independence Hall, Old City, Fishtown, and the rest of Philadelphia.

Please note: VRBO total includes local taxes (accommodations & lodging) by Pennsylvania and the City of Philadelphia (15.5%), in addition to VRBO fees.

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM

Minimum age to rent: 21

Check out before 11:00 AM

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Children

Adults only

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Events

No events allowed

Strict no parties/events in backyard or apartment

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Pets

No pets allowed

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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Quiet policy after 10pm, especially on patio & backyard

Use of gas grill and fire pit in backyard is not allowed

Important information

You need to know

Property Registration Number 916436
Property # 1431442vb
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Note from host: Strict no parties/events in backyard or apartment
This property uses some wind energy
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a deadlock

About the area

Philadelphia

University City, a neighbourhood in Philadelphia, is home to this apartment. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Rittenhouse Square and Fairmount Park, while Pennsylvania Convention Center and Philadelphia Zoo are popular area attractions. Mann Center for the Performing Arts and Adventure Aquarium are not to be missed. Enjoy the area's slopes with skiing, and don't miss out on the ice skating.
Map
Philadelphia, PA

What's nearby

  • Drexel University - 3 min walk - 0.3 km
  • University of Pennsylvania - 9 min walk - 0.8 km
  • Philadelphia Zoo - 12 min walk - 1.1 km
  • Fairmount Park - 16 min walk - 1.4 km
  • Philadelphia Museum of Art - 3 min drive - 1.5 km

Getting around

  • Powelton Ave & Lancaster Ave Stop - 3 min walk
  • 30th St Station - 17 min walk
  • Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) - 20 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Madis Coffee Roasters - ‬5 min walk
  • ‪Gaetano's Steaks - ‬4 min walk
  • ‪Savas Brick Oven Pizza - ‬6 min walk
  • ‪Spring Chinese Restaurant - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪Santucci's Original Square Pizza - ‬5 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Garden Oasis: 1BR Apartment with Patio in Historic Home, Near Universities pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Garden Oasis: 1BR Apartment with Patio in Historic Home, Near Universities?

As of 29 May, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Garden Oasis: 1BR Apartment with Patio in Historic Home, Near Universities on 31 May, 2026 start from S$354, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking at Garden Oasis: 1BR Apartment with Patio in Historic Home, Near Universities?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Garden Oasis: 1BR Apartment with Patio in Historic Home, Near Universities?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Garden Oasis: 1BR Apartment with Patio in Historic Home, Near Universities?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Garden Oasis: 1BR Apartment with Patio in Historic Home, Near Universities located?

Located in University City, this apartment building is within a 10-minute walk of Drexel University and University of Pennsylvania. Philadelphia Museum of Art and Philadelphia Zoo are also within 1 mile (2 km). Powelton Ave & Lancaster Ave Stop and Lancaster Ave & 38th St Tram Stop are within a 5-minute walk.

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 64 out of 73 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 7 out of 73 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 73 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 73 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 73 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Thad S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
It was a great location, and my wife and I enjoyed the patio very much in the morning and evenings. We would relax there in the evening after exploring the city.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Dylan C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very comfortable space. Individual heater/AC for both levels. Bathroom has heat fan in the ceiling. Easy check-in and great location close to the Amtrak station and just across the river from Philly downtown.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jami S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect Spot

Great location to use as a base for exploring Philadelphia!
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2024
Verified

8/10 Good

Hugh M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

West Philly

We enjoyed our stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Srikant G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
As described. Will return.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Amy G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Quick stop in Philly

Great place for my sister and me to stay for a couple of nights. Close to subway and some good eats.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Carl M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Return visit to Philly

David's rental was a perfect location for us to revisit Philly and visit with friends and family. The unit is cozy and had everything we needed. The back deck was a great spot for meals and to spend time with our kids.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Hongbin

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Beautiful and quiet place to stay while visiting Penn. The unit is attached to the main dwelling with private entrance. The kitchen is well equipped for a quick meal. The bedroom is clean and comfy. The bathroom is small but with a washer and dryer and warm shower. The backyard is charming and relaxing to have a morning coffee while listening to birds. David has been very friendly and easily accessible when we need help. Thanks again for sharing the place with us !
Stayed 4 nights in May 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kim R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cozy stay in powelton village

We really enjoyed our stay at David’s apartment! We liked that it was walking distance to penn and the parking situation on the street was super easy! The apartment was very nice and clean. David was available to answer any questions. We highly recommend this vrbo!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Karen A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Penn Parents

Nice location and amenities. Appreciated quick response to questions.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michael S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect for us

There are many things to love about this rental. Easy parking. Adorable patio. Its primary use for us was sleeping and showering, so it was practically perfect. The stairs up to the living area were quite steep and could be problematic for some. Communication with the owner was outstanding. Rapid responses to all queries and seems like a really laidback person.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Dacey D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

perfect urban setting for a weekend getaway

David's property is extremely clean and will lay down exactly how it's described in the description. It is extremely close to a number of attractions inclusive of art, museums, historical sites, restaurants and shops. This is my second stay at David's and will definitely come back for a third time thank you very much.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lynne P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great little apartment

This property was very quaint. Everything was clean and very well cared for. Parking on the weekend was free and easy. This would be a perfect place for some to stay if they were visiting someone at Drexel Univ as it was several blocks away. Don’t forget to visit Sabrina’s Cafe for your eating pleasure. Would definitely stay here again. Owner was friendly and helpful.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 6 Mar, 2020
Thanks, Lynne, it was nice to bump into you as I gardened the sidewalk plots, very glad you had such a great visit.
Verified

8/10 Good

Jo C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location

Powelton Village

Nice easy walk to the Hospital of U. Of PA…the reason we needed the place. Place was very clean, quiet, and well maintained. It needs some sprucing up on the outside, but was ok. Parking is a nightmare, but to be expected in this area! I’d stay again!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Aug, 2022
Hi Jo, Thanks for your kind review, the place is close to Penn and HUP. Your visit coincided with our move but the backyard was trimmed and planted with flowers shortly thereafter. Glad that you chose to stay with us again the following week and appreciate your giving us a 5-star review for that visit.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Gabe S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great spot, great house, EZ park

Love this cozy apartment. It is as advertised. Clean and comfortable. We parked right next to the entrance on 3Xth Street every time. EZ. Quick walk to Drexel. Expect city noises and plenty of sunshine. Stairs are steepish but EZ if you are not feeble. This is our 2nd time and we’ll be back. Host quite responsive.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

David W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Weekend stay

The apartment was impeccably clean and very well-equipped for such a small space. The bathroom and kitchen are very tidy, as is the upstairs bedroom. The closet is stocked with plenty of extra bedding, which we used due to the frigid weather, and a small cot. It was very cold, and this is an old house, so it took a while to warm the space up using the window heating units. Once it got warm, though, it stayed that way! A word of warning about the stairs up to the bedroom - they are steep and tight, so if you have mobility issues or are planning a weekend bender, stay somewhere else so you don’t hurt yourself. The host made a small space very comfortable and homey with everything you need
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

James M.

Lovely quaint unit

We live in a rural area in Oregon far from big cities. Staying in a big city was an experience but this house was on a quiet residential area and seemed less busy even with traffic and noise. It was a good experience!! One thing we did have a problem with is we are both large people and older so the stairs were an issue, especially at night when using the bathroom downstairs. Some people more elderly than we are and more immobile might not be able to navigate the stairs very well. Other than that, we had a lovely stay.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 6 Mar, 2020
Hi James, very glad you enjoyed your stay in Philly and at the apartment. The stairs are original to the Victorian house, and as they are more narrow than normal now, I do point out that bedroom and bathroom are on different floors in description. Happy that you had a lovely stay. Thanks, David
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Gail J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Workation

I enjoyed staying here for a few weeks. Most mornings, I'd walk a few blocks to Midas Coffee for a latte and vegan cookie and work on my laptop for hours. Some afternoons, I'd pick up an Indigo Bike and cycle to the the Schuylkill River Trail. Then I'd bike along the trail or park the bike and jog to the "Rocky" stairs and back. Very cool! Other days, I'd take a 20 minute walk in a different direction from David's place to visit my daughter at UPenn. As others have said, you need to be comfortable with a relatively steep staircase to stay here — The big bedroom is upstairs; the bathroom downstairs. Also, as others have said, the porch is a lovely feature.
Stayed 28 nights in Aug 2023
Verified

6/10 Okay

Donna O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Unfortunate, this could've been a wonderful place

There are a lot of things I liked about the rental, but 3 major reasons I would never stay there again. 1. The place smelled very musky. 2. It takes a rocket scientist to operate the oven. I nor my husband ( electronic tech) were able to get it cooking properly. It took 2 hrs. to cook a dish that normally takes 1 hour. and it still wasn't completely done. 3. I came for a wedding and my husband asked about an iron. We looked for an iron, but never found one, so we notified Mr. David which told me that it was unfortunate, because there was an iron and ironing board there but someone must have taken it. He never made any effort in getting me one. Thank God I was able to borrow one along with some decent pans. He has organic and good quality things, but most of which need updating especially furniture and some stainless steel pot and pans. Kitchen was loaded with almost everything coffee, salt, pepper, oil, plastic food storage bags. These are all things I usually bring and my husband loved the quality of the silverware. I did enjoy sitting on the deck each morning sipping on coffee. He also had a pitcher of filtered water like the one I have at home. BE CAREFUL WITH 2HR PARKING WEEK DAYS
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Aug, 2022
Hi Donna, It's unfortunate that your stay with us didn't meet your expectations. If you had mentioned some of these things during your stay, I would have been able to address them even though we were out of town during the entirety of your visit. Summers in Philadelphia are hot and humid and there was extreme heat & humidity during your stay (96-99 degrees F each day) so that may have contributed to the apartment feeling a little humid, but cranking up the AC has worked for all our other guests. However, any AC is going to struggle with such temperatures and an oven that is on for 2 hrs. If you'd let me know you were having issues with operating the oven, I could've pointed you to the manual in a kitchen drawer. Other guests haven't mentioned that the oven is difficult to use. You did let me know that the iron and ironing board were missing, regrettably it seems to have been taken and we were not aware until you let us know. I have ordered a replacement but since I was in California I wasn't able to replace it immediately, and a replacement order wouldn't have arrived in time since you were only staying 3 nights. We're glad that you enjoyed time on the deck and other aspects of the apartment. We strive to make our guest's stays enjoyable and take pride in other guests' reviews where they have noted that we are responsive, attentive and have an apartment with many amenities.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kate G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Couldn’t ask for a better spot! Everything was very well thought-out compared to other rentals we had stayed in during this trip. The bed and linens were super comfortable and the neighborhood was quiet and cute. Walking distance to restaurants and train stops. They even provided an umbrella during the rainy weekend. Would love to stay again :)
Stayed 3 nights in May 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jane L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Excellent communication with the host, David. I had to shift the dates of my reservation and also had questions about parking and later on about check-out. He responded very quickly and in detail. I really enjoyed our stay, especially sunning on the garden deck. The apartment had everything we needed (I did bring ground coffee of my own to brew) with cozy spots to sit inside also and read. Good lighting options too! I had a car, so I appreciated that parking was easy to find and that the location was convenient for moving my student from her dorm. Thank you!I look forward to being back soon!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Amanda C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A perfect stay just outside City Center, we were able to walk to most places. Super cute location and the host was so kind and considerate. We would definitely stay again!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

John B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Quick Weekend Trip

My wife and I rented this VRBO to attend the Army-Navy football game. We had flight problems and ended up arriving a day late - David was very easy to deal with - great communication. Our brief stay was pleasant - clean and well appointed space near U Penn. Small but nice. We would stay here again. Thanks David
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2022
Verified

8/10 Good

Dacey D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect weekend get away in charming vintage neighborhood clos to restaurants and shop. aunts

The property was immaculate, easy to check in, matched the description on the app. David the owner kept in good consistent communication with us and his recommendations for restaurants and experiences were spot on. Planning on going back with my sisters in January.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mel S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Very nice experience.

Communication with the owner was great. He responded quickly and was so helpful. There were little lists of info and directions everywhere (in drawers, on the light switches,etc.). Very cute and helpful. Everything was clean and smelled fresh (and not like cleaning fluid). Nice neighborhood. Felt safe. Parking free Sat+Sun, easy to find on weekdays but you have to move every 2hours. The bed was VERY FIRM , and the bathroom was the tiniest I’ve ever been in! The rails on the stairway feel very secure so, as an older person, I found the steps to be no problem. I highly recommend this home.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2022

About the host

Hosted by David Lane Fisher

Host profile image

After living in NY, DC, and NC, I returned to this neighborhood where I grew up. My family and I live in the front unit of the house, it's a great neighborhood, tree-lined and calm but so close to downtown. I love to travel and am happy to host after many great vacation and business rentals in US, Europe and more.

Why they chose this property

Close to downtown Philly while still feeling like a quiet, tree-lined suburb, you get best of both worlds. Friendly residential neighborhood with two large universities nearby and all of the great restaurants, cafes, food trucks, shopping and museums that are located by them.

What makes this property unique

Stay in a piece of history, house built in early 1860s. Beautiful garden an "extra room" for 8 months of the year. Great for long-term or extended stay

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests

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