The College of Physicians of Philadelphia

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.