The Priory Hotel

For those seeking a distinctive and charming accommodation within the "Hotels Near Of Me" category in Pittsburgh, The Priory Hotel offers a truly unique experience. Located at 614 Pressley St, Pittsburgh, PA 15212, USA, this historic boutique hotel is nestled on the North Shore, providing a convenient and walkable base for exploring many of Pittsburgh's attractions. You can reach the hotel directly at (412) 231-3338 or via mobile at +1 412-231-3338 for inquiries and reservations.

The environment of The Priory Hotel is its most captivating feature. Originally built in 1888 as a Benedictine monastery, the hotel has been meticulously restored and transformed into an elegant, European-style boutique hotel while retaining much of its original architectural grandeur. Guests are often struck by the building's historic charm, with features like arched windows, 14-foot-high pressed tin ceilings, exquisite mantelpieces, and unique Victorian-era furnishings. The hotel boasts a beautiful garden courtyard, reminiscent of an Italian villa, complete with a fountain and an awning-enclosed Victorian porch, offering a tranquil outdoor space. Inside, a lobby fireplace creates a cozy ambiance, particularly during colder months. The surrounding North Shore neighborhood is near attractions such as PNC Park, Acrisure Stadium, The Andy Warhol Museum, and the National Aviary, all within walking distance. Guests can enjoy river views from some rooms and the hotel's proximity to public transportation, including the subway in the fare-free zone, adds to its accessibility. While generally considered a "true find" and a "lovely historic building," one guest noted the minor downside of being near an elevated freight line, which could imply some train noise, similar to other North Shore properties.

The services at The Priory Hotel aim to provide a personalized and comfortable stay, reflecting its boutique nature. A highly praised feature is the complimentary breakfast service. While some sources describe it as a "chef-prepared grab-and-go breakfast box" with fresh pastries, fruits, and beverages, other reviews consistently highlight "wonderful breakfast service" and a "decent selection." This complimentary amenity adds significant value to the stay. The hotel also offers a convenient shuttle service, operating typically from 3 PM to 12 AM, for drop-offs and pick-ups within two miles of the property, which is particularly beneficial for navigating the city and reaching nearby attractions without a car. Free self-parking is another highly valued amenity for guests, a rarity in downtown city hotels. The hotel provides free in-room Wi-Fi, ensuring guests can stay connected. For business needs, there is a 24-hour business center and meeting rooms, with approximately 6,997 square feet of conference space available, making it suitable for various events and gatherings. Other conveniences include a 24-hour front desk, express check-in/check-out, dry cleaning/laundry services, and a snack bar/deli.

The features of The Priory Hotel contribute to its unique appeal. With only 42 guestrooms spread across four levels, the hotel offers an intimate and personalized guest experience that larger establishments often cannot match. Each room is air-conditioned and includes a flat-screen TV with cable channels, an in-room safe, a desk, an iron/ironing board, and bathrobes, adding to the comfort. The Monks' Bar, located within the hotel and formerly the monastery's library, is a particularly charming feature, described as Pennsylvania's smallest bar with seating for 14, offering a selection of liquors, wines, and microbrews. The hotel also boasts a fitness center, equipped with various machines and dumbbells, for guests to maintain their workout routines. An EV charging station is available for guests with electric vehicles, and the hotel actively promotes itself as "bike-friendly," offering tools, maintenance items, and outdoor storage for cyclists, given its proximity to the Allegheny River bike trail and the Great Allegheny Passage.

However, an objective introduction must also address areas of concern highlighted by guests. A significant issue reported by one guest was an untimely and unprofessional cancellation of their reservation just "1 hour before their listed check-in time," with no alternative offered. This situation, stemming from a purported "leak" in a room after an initial room change due to a wedding, led to considerable inconvenience and additional cost for the guest, and a lack of follow-up from management. This isolated incident, if indicative of broader reliability issues, is a serious concern for prospective travelers who prioritize dependability. Another minor point mentioned by a guest was that the rooms, while clean, could feel "a little dated." Additionally, the proximity to the elevated freight line might be a consideration for very light sleepers, although this is often balanced by the overall quietness of the property and its charming ambiance. The hotel is a smoke-free property, and pets are not allowed, which is useful information for guests with allergies or those traveling with animals.

The Priory Hotel has received numerous accolades, including the Tripadvisor Certificate of Excellence every year since 2008 and being named "Best of the Burgh" in the Boutique Hotel category by Pittsburgh Magazine in 2024. These awards speak to the hotel's consistent commitment to quality and guest satisfaction over many years, which contrasts sharply with the negative reservation experience reported. The staff, when not impacted by management issues, is frequently praised for being "friendly, kind, and so helpful," providing a warm welcome and going "above & beyond" for guests.

In terms of promotional information, the hotel's direct website and major booking platforms will feature current rates and any special packages. The Priory Hotel is often a popular choice for weddings and events, as it also houses Pittsburgh's Grand Hall, a historic event venue that was once the adjacent St. Mary's Church. This offers the convenience of on-site accommodations for event attendees. Guests can also inquire about special rates for patients and family members receiving treatment at Allegheny General Hospital, located approximately eight blocks away. Given its unique blend of history, location, and personalized service, The Priory Hotel often appeals to travelers seeking an experience beyond a standard chain hotel.

In summary, The Priory Hotel offers a charming and historically rich experience within the "Hotels Near Of Me" category in Pittsburgh. Its prime North Shore location, complimentary breakfast, free parking, and attentive service, particularly from the front desk staff, are strong advantages. However, the reported incident of an untimely reservation cancellation highlights a potential reliability concern that future guests should be aware of. While the hotel generally receives high marks for cleanliness and staff, this severe lapse in service cannot be overlooked. For those who appreciate a unique, boutique atmosphere and are willing to acknowledge these potential issues, The Priory Hotel remains a highly appealing option for a memorable stay in Pittsburgh.