The cure for the common event

The Birthplace of American Medicine

Welcome to The College of Physicians of Philadelphia, where history and architecture combine to create a truly unique and elegant venue to make every event one to remember.

With its historic ambience and stately architecture, it’s no wonder that the College – located in Philadelphia’s charming Rittenhouse-Fitler Historic District – has been the chosen setting for a diverse range of memorable events. Its many event spaces provide plenty of opportunities for personalization, plus a lovely outdoor herb garden, making it a choice Philadelphia wedding venue.

The eight individually unique spaces our building offers can satisfy any of your event needs. Our rental options offer optimal customization by allowing you to select a combination of spaces that best suit your event. Many of our spaces are interconnected, permitting events to flow through multiple rooms with ease. To celebrate the College’s heritage, each space is named in honor of one of the College’s significant leaders.

As you enter our historic building, you are greeted by the stunning Marble Rotunda. The all-white octagonal interior, framed by majestic columns, provides a sophisticated space ideal for receptions and pre-event gatherings. Accenting the rotunda is the grand staircase, which leads to the great halls of the second floor, and is perfect for photography opportunities.

Gross Library houses what was the private collection of Dr. Samuel L. Gross, and provides an intimate area for private meetings, luncheons, or dinners. The room centers around a mahogany conference table with olive tone leather chairs. Wrap-around custom leaded bookcases, a period chandelier, and fireplace complete this dignified setting.

Thomson Hall, located between the Marble Rotunda and Medicinal Herb Garden, is often utilized for cocktail hour to give guests the opportunity to explore the gardens or head inside to the Mütter Museum. The Mütter Museum, world renowned for its awe-inspiring collection of anatomical specimens, medical instruments, photographs, and drawings, can be a unique complement to your event. Although the Museum cannot be rented, admission for your guests can be arranged.

The Sir John Templeton Veranda and Medicinal Herb Garden provide a beautiful, hidden area which is perfect for outdoor weddings and events in downtown Philadelphia. Tucked back from the hustle and bustle of Center City, with a backdrop of ivy-covered brick, this area is a top choice for couples looking to host an outdoor ceremony while still being in the thick of city life. This private oasis features four formal beds, or parterres, consisting of medicinal herbs and plants, many of which are still in use today.  Weddings and receptions are sure to be stunning, as the garden’s blooming cycles carry from spring until fall.

From prestigious lectures to exquisite weddings, exceptional occasions take place in this distinguished, richly paneled, and portrait-lined second floor hall. The grandest of the spaces, Mitchell Hall features a thirty foot rococo ceiling, large leaded glass windows, and a period dais. Adjoined to the Ashhurst Room, together they can accommodate large, multi-staged events with ease of flow between spaces.

One of the building’s two grand halls, Ashhurst is a magnificent space detailed with a floor to ceiling mahogany carved mantle piece and grand clock. The thirty foot walls are lined with stunning inset book shelves and feature the College’s historic card catalogs. During the day, the ceiling-high windows allow light to flood the room creating a fresh and open space. Ashhurst works well in conjunction with Mitchell Hall for hosting larger occasions.

Testimonials

I can’t thank you enough for the amazing work you and your team did last night! We love working with you and look forward to another event with you. The food offering was one of the best I have enjoyed for this type of event. It was a wonderful event! Everyone enjoyed the format, location, food and warmth! Thank you again!

Meghan

We are still relishing in the celebration for Hannah and Matt on June 3rd. It all went so well, with the venue, coordination, delicious food and drinks. The wedding and reception was so much more than what we anticipated. It was truly a spectacular event for which we continue to receive wonderful comments from our family and friends. Please pass our appreciation on to the staff. We thank you all for making it so special.

Jim & Jean

You and your team were magnificent at the Mutter Museum on Friday for Penn’s 40th MSOD Anniversary dinner party. The service was impeccable; your staff were kind and polite, attentive to all needs of those at party; timing went off perfectly, and the food was delicious. No doubt when it all comes together it is the collective effort of a great team and their leader. A job well done!
In future when Penn requires further catering for events my vote goes out to Catering by Design and the awesome team(s) led by you. It was an enjoyable and pleasurable night for all who attended – with a tip of the hat to the catering and staff at Mutter. Thank you for all your hard work and dedication to making it the best experience for your client.

Stephen Quigley