Philadelphia, the city of brotherly love and birthplace of America, boasts an abundance of historical sites, iconic landmarks, and vibrant neighborhoods. One of the best ways to experience all that Philly has to offer is by taking a bus tour. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local looking to rediscover your city, there’s a bus tour for everyone. From the hop-on-hop-off style to themed tours and night tours, in this post, we’ll explore the best bus tours in Philadelphia for an unforgettable sightseeing experience.

The 2 Best Coach Trips in Buses in Philadelphia

1. Philly by Night Double Decker Bus Tour
2. Philadelphia Hop on Hop Off Sightseeing Bus Tour

The 2 Best Coach Trips in Buses in Philadelphia

1. Philly by Night Double Decker Bus Tour

Looking for a unique way to explore the City of Brotherly Love? Look no further than the Philly By Night Double Decker Bus Tour. This 90-minute sightseeing tour takes guests on a loop around Philadelphia to visit 27 of the city’s top landmarks and attractions. As the sun sets, see the city in a whole new light as it’s illuminated for the evening. Along the way, an on-board escort will share interesting commentary and historic facts. The tour passes by must-see sites such as the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, as well as Penn’s Landing and the famous Rocky Steps at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. With convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, this double-decker bus tour may just be the perfect way to cap off a day of exploring in Philly. Don’t miss this chance to see Philadelphia in a new and dazzling way!

2. Philadelphia Hop on Hop Off Sightseeing Bus Tour

Explore the historic landmarks of Philadelphia on a hop-on hop-off bus tour. Covering a 16-mile journey with 28 stops, the tour allows you to hop on and off at your convenience. Experience the awe-inspiring Liberty Bell and the historic Betsy Ross House, among other landmarks. One of the tour’s biggest attractions is the chance to climb the 72 stone steps that Rocky Balboa famously ran up in the eponymous film. The tour begins at the Bourse Building next to Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, where you can avail of the multilingual audio commentary. Take in the stunning views of historic landmarks like the Christ Church Burial Grounds, Elfreth’s Alley, and Independence Hall from the open-top deck. Other notable stops include world-renowned museums along Benjamin Franklin Parkway. Explore the history of America as the Founding Fathers did and relive the birth of a nation on this unforgettable tour of Philadelphia.

Common Questions Tourists Ask About Philadelphia

Philadelphia is one of the most historically rich cities in the US. It was once the capital of the United States and is home to various landmarks and attractions that are famous worldwide. Therefore, it’s crucial to prepare yourself with proper information to make the most of your visit. Here are some frequently asked questions by tourists about Philadelphia.

1. What’s the best time to visit Philadelphia?

The best time to visit Philadelphia is in the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are relatively fewer. The temperatures are mild, and the city isn’t too humid or too cold, making it an excellent time to explore outdoors.

2. What are the top attractions to see in Philadelphia?

Philadelphia has much to offer for tourists, from historical landmarks to museums and parks. Here is a list of popular attractions:

Independence Hall

Independence Hall is a UNESCO World Heritage site, the birthplace of the US Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution. Visitors can see the Assembly Room, the Hall of the Unicameral, and other exhibits.

Liberty Bell Center

The Liberty Bell Center houses the iconic symbol of freedom, the Liberty Bell. Visitors can learn more about its history and significance in the US culture.

Reading Terminal Market

Reading Terminal Market is America’s oldest farmers market and an excellent place to sample some Philadelphia delicacies.

Philadelphia Museum of Art

The Philadelphia Museum of Art houses over 240,000 exhibits from around the world, including works of art from renowned artists like Van Gogh and Monet.

3. How can I get around Philadelphia?

Philadelphia offers several means of transportation, including buses, trains, taxis, and ride-sharing applications like Uber and Lyft. However, several top attractions are in close proximity, making it easy to explore by foot.

4. What are some famous food items in Philadelphia?

Philadelphia is known for its comfort foods and iconic dishes such as Philly Cheesesteak and Soft Pretzels. Here are some popular food items:

Philly Cheesesteak

Philly Cheesesteak is a sandwich made of thinly sliced steak, onions, and cheese in a long roll. Tourists can find the best cheesesteaks at Pat’s King of Steaks and Geno’s Steaks.

Soft Pretzels

The city is known for its Soft Pretzels, which are often sold from street vendors. Tourists can find some of the best Soft Pretzels at Miller’s Twist and The Pretzel Factory.

5. What’s the weather like in Philadelphia?

The climate in Philadelphia is humid subtropical, with four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, and winters are cold with occasional snowfall. Spring and fall offer the best temperatures and milder weather for exploration.

6. How much time should I spend in Philadelphia?

Tourists can easily take in the main highlights in a 2-3 day trip to Philadelphia. However, if you’re looking to explore more, add a day or two for neighboring attractions like Valley Forge National Park, the Amish Country, and Sesame Place.

7. What are the best neighborhoods to stay in Philadelphia?

Philadelphia has several neighborhoods with lots of entertainment, dining, and accommodation options. Some of the top neighborhoods include:

Center City

Center City is an excellent place to stay as it’s within walking distance to most attractions, and there are plenty of food options.

Old City

Old City is another popular neighborhood, with plenty of historical landmarks and museums.

Rittenhouse Square

The Rittenhouse Square neighborhood is known for its luxury hotels, great shopping, and dining options.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a wonderful city that has a lot of history, culture, and attractions to offer. As a tourist, it can be difficult to know where to start and what to see. In this guide, we will provide detailed instructions on how to make the most out of your trip to Philadelphia.

1. Visit the Liberty Bell

The Liberty Bell is an iconic symbol of American independence and history. The bell is located in Independence National Historical Park, which is a must-visit destination for any tourist. The park also includes other historic buildings, such as Independence Hall, where both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were signed.

How to Get There:

The Liberty Bell is located in the Independence National Historical Park, which is situated in the Old City neighborhood of Philadelphia. The park is easily accessible by public transportation or on foot.

Opening Hours and Admission:

The park is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm every day except for Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day. Admission to the park is free, but you need to reserve a ticket in advance to see the Liberty Bell.

2. Experience Philadelphia’s Food Scene

Philadelphia is famous for its food scene, which includes Philly cheesesteaks, soft pretzels, and the famous Reading Terminal Market. The market offers a variety of local and international foods, such as Pennsylvania Dutch treats, sandwiches, and fresh produce.

How to Get There:

Reading Terminal Market is located in Center City Philadelphia, just a few blocks away from City Hall. It is easily accessible by public transportation.

Opening Hours and Admission:

The market is open from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm every day, except for Sunday when it closes at 5:00 pm. There is no admission fee, as the market is an open-air market where vendors sell their goods directly to the public.

3. Visit the Philadelphia Museum of Art

The Philadelphia Museum of Art is one of the largest art museums in the country, with more than 240,000 objects that span over 2,000 years of art history. It is home to works by famous artists such as Vincent van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, and Salvador Dali.

How to Get There:

The museum is located in the Fairmount neighborhood of Philadelphia, just a short walk from the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. It is easily accessible by public transportation.

Opening Hours and Admission:

The museum is open from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm every day, except for Wednesday when it is open until 8:45 pm. Admission for adults is $25, but there are discounts available for seniors, students, and children.

4. Walk Along the Schuylkill River Trail

The Schuylkill River Trail is a scenic path that spans over 30 miles along the Schuylkill River. It is a perfect place to go for a walk, bike ride, or run. The trail offers stunning views of the river, the Philadelphia skyline, and the historic Boathouse Row.

How to Get There:

The trail is accessible from various points along the Schuylkill River. The easiest way to get there is to take public transportation or drive to one of the trailheads.

Opening Hours and Admission:

The trail is open year-round, 24/7. There is no admission fee to use the trail.

5. Discover the Magic Gardens

The Magic Gardens is a unique art installation that covers half a block in South Street. It is a large mosaic made of various materials, such as glass bottles, mirrors, and ceramic tiles. The installation was created by artist Isaiah Zagar, who has also covered many other buildings in the city with his artwork.

How to Get There:

The Magic Gardens is located in the South Street neighborhood of Philadelphia. It is easily accessible by public transportation or on foot.

Opening Hours and Admission:

The Magic Gardens is open from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm every day, except for Tuesdays when it is closed. Admission for adults is $10, with discounts available for seniors, students, and children.

Conclusion

Philadelphia is a city full of history and culture. There are many things to see and do, from visiting historic landmarks to eating local food and exploring art installations. We hope that this guide has provided you with helpful tips and recommendations for your trip to Philadelphia. Enjoy your stay!

Philadelphia is a city full of history, culture, and character. One great way to explore all that the city has to offer is through a bus tour. Whether you’re a local looking for a new way to experience your city, or a tourist visiting for the first time, there are plenty of bus tours in Philadelphia that will show you the best sights and sounds of the city. In this post, we’ll highlight some of the best bus tours in Philadelphia and what you can expect from each one. So, buckle up and get ready for an adventure through the streets of Philadelphia!

The 2 Best Coach Trips in Buses in Philadelphia

1. Philly by Night Double Decker Bus Tour
2. Philadelphia Hop on Hop Off Sightseeing Bus Tour

The 2 Best Coach Trips in Buses in Philadelphia

1. Philly by Night Double Decker Bus Tour

Explore the best of Philadelphia at night with the Philly by Night Double Decker Bus Tour. Hop on board and ride through 27 of the city’s top attractions, including the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, Penn’s Landing, and the famous Rocky Steps at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. With a tour escort/host to guide you and provide commentary, you’ll get to know these iconic landmarks in a whole new light. See the city lit up at night as you sit back and relax on the bus, enjoying a view that is truly unique. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, so you can start and end your tour with ease. Don’t miss out on this amazing sightseeing tour of Philadelphia by night.

2. Philadelphia Hop on Hop Off Sightseeing Bus Tour

Explore the origins of America on a hop-on hop-off bus tour of Philadelphia. Discover the city where America’s Founding Fathers first declared independence and ratified the US Constitution and Bill of Rights. Begin your tour at the Bourse Building across from Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. Enjoy stunning views of the city’s historic landmarks, including the Christ Church Burial Grounds, Elfreth’s Alley, and the Betsy Ross House, while listening to the multilingual audio commentary from the open-top deck. Don’t forget to hop off to explore the various museums located along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, including the world-renowned Philadelphia Museum of Art. Climb the 72 stone steps that Rocky once climbed and experience the Liberty Bell and Betsy Ross House. With 28 stops in total, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to explore Philadelphia’s rich history and architecture at your own pace.

Frequently Asked Questions by Tourists About Philadelphia

Introduction

Philadelphia, the birthplace of America, is one of the most historic cities in the United States. The city is rich in history, culture, and innovation, and draws millions of tourists from around the world year after year. Whether you’re a first-time visitor, or a seasoned traveler looking to explore the city, Philadelphia has something for everyone.In this blog post, we will explore the most frequently asked questions by tourists about Philadelphia, to help you plan your trip to the City of Brotherly Love with ease.

1. What Is the Best Time to Visit Philadelphia?

Philadelphia has four distinct seasons, with hot summers and cold winters. The best time to visit the city is in the fall, between September and November, when the weather is mild, and the colors of the trees in the parks and gardens are in full bloom. Spring is also a great time to visit, between March and May, when the city comes alive with blooming flowers and outdoor festivals.

2. What Are the Must-See Attractions in Philadelphia?

There are several must-see attractions in Philadelphia that you should not miss when visiting the city. These include:

Independence Hall

Located in Independence National Historical Park, Independence Hall is where both the United States Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution were debated and signed. Visitors can take a guided tour of the Hall and see where the Founding Fathers gathered to create this nation.

Liberty Bell

Another iconic symbol of American independence is the Liberty Bell. The Bell is housed in a glass building at Independence National Historical Park and is free to the public to view.

The Philadelphia Museum of Art

Famous for its “Rocky Steps” from the movie “Rocky,” the Philadelphia Museum of Art is one of the largest art museums in the United States. The museum features an extensive collection of art and artifacts from around the world.

Reading Terminal Market

A popular foodie destination in the city, Reading Terminal Market is one of the largest and oldest public markets in the United States. Here, visitors can try a variety of Philadelphia’s famous foods such as Philly Cheesesteaks, soft pretzels, and Pennsylvania Dutch treats.

3. What Should I Know About the Food Scene in Philadelphia?

Philadelphia is a city with a rich culinary history and is known for its unique food scene. The city is famous for its Philly Cheesesteaks, soft pretzels, and hoagies, and has a vibrant street food scene.Some of the must-try foods in Philadelphia include:

Philly Cheesesteaks

A Philadelphia staple, a Philly Cheesesteak is a sandwich made with thin slices of beefsteak and melted cheese, served on a long hoagie roll.

Soft Pretzels

Another popular food in Philadelphia are Soft pretzels, they are a local favorite, and are often served with mustard or melted cheese.

Hoagies

Hoagies are long sandwiches made with Italian rolls and a variety of fillings, such as cold cuts, cheese, lettuce, tomato, and onion.

4. What Is the Best Way to Get Around the City?

Philadelphia is a very walkable city, and many of its major attractions are located within a few miles of each other. However, if you don’t feel like walking, there are several other ways to get around the city.The city has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, trolleys, and trains. SEPTA is the public transportation authority that manages this service.Taxis and ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft are also available in the city. Philadelphia is also a bike-friendly city, with bike-sharing programs offered by Indego, Zagster, and other operators.

5. What Is the Best Neighborhood to Stay in?

Philadelphia has several neighborhoods that offer unique experiences for visitors. The best neighborhood for you to stay in depends on your interests and preferences. Some of the most popular neighborhoods for tourists include:

Center City

Center City is the heart of Philadelphia and is home to many of the city’s top attractions, including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art. This neighborhood is great for travelers interested in history, culture, and entertainment.

Fishtown

Fishtown is a trendy neighborhood in Philadelphia that is home to some of the city’s best restaurants, bars, and boutiques. This neighborhood is a great choice for travelers who are interested in exploring the city’s food and drink scene.

University City

University City is home to several of Philadelphia’s top universities, including the University of Pennsylvania and Drexel University. This neighborhood is great for travelers interested in higher education, as well as those interested in museums and cultural events.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Philadelphia

Philadelphia, the birthplace of America, is a city that boasts a rich history, art and culture, culinary delights, and amazing outdoor spaces. This city has so much to offer to tourists that it can be overwhelming to decide where to start. In this guide, we will outline the top things to do and see in Philadelphia to help you make the most of your time here.

1. Visit the Liberty Bell

No visit to Philly is complete without a trip to the Liberty Bell. This iconic symbol of American independence is housed in a glass pavilion on Independence Mall. You can view the bell up close and learn about its history and significance at the visitor center. Best of all, admission is completely free.

2. Explore Independence National Historical Park

Located right next to the Liberty Bell, Independence National Historical Park is a must-visit attraction for history buffs. Home to Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution were both signed, the park takes visitors on a journey through American history with guided tours, exhibits, and interactive displays.

3. Wander Through the Museum District

The Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Barnes Foundation, and the Rodin Museum are all located in the museum district and are a must-see for art lovers. Known worldwide for their impressive collections, these museums showcase everything from classic paintings to contemporary art. Be sure to climb the iconic steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, famously featured in the movie Rocky, for breathtaking views of the city skyline.

4. Visit Reading Terminal Market

Foodies rejoice – Reading Terminal Market is a food lover’s paradise. This historic indoor market has been in operation since 1893, and it’s home to over 80 vendors selling everything from cheesesteaks to artisanal chocolates. It’s a great place to grab a quick bite or pick up some snacks for later.

5. Take a Stroll Through Rittenhouse Square

One of Philadelphia’s most beloved public spaces, Rittenhouse Square is a beautifully landscaped park popular with locals and tourists alike. There are plenty of benches to sit and relax, and between the fountain and art installations throughout the park, there’s plenty to see.

6. Visit the Philadelphia Zoo

With over 42 acres of land and over 1,300 animals, the Philadelphia Zoo is one of the most popular attractions in the city. Home to lions, tigers, giraffes, and many more exotic animals, the zoo is a great place to spend the day with the whole family. Don’t miss the Zoo360 animal exploration trail, where you can watch animals roaming around above your head.

7. See a Show at the Kimmel Center

The Kimmel Center is the premier performing arts center in Philadelphia. With multiple venues showcasing everything from Broadway shows to classical music concerts, the Kimmel Center is a cultural hub that should not be missed.

8. Get a Taste of Philly’s Best Cheesesteaks

No trip to Philly is complete without trying the legendary Philly cheesesteak. While there is some healthy debate about where to find the best one, some of the most popular spots include Pat’s King of Steaks, Geno’s Steaks, and Jim’s Steaks. Be sure to order your cheesesteak “Whiz wit” (with Cheez Whiz and fried onions) for the authentic Philly experience.

9. Walk through the Historic District

The Historic District is a neighborhood located between 2nd and 7th streets, and Market and Lombard streets. It’s the birthplace of American democracy and home to several historic landmarks, such as the Carpenter’s Hall, Betsy Ross House, and Christ Church. Walking around this neighborhood gives you a sense of Philadelphia’s rich history and culture.

10. Visit Fairmount Park

Fairmount Park is the largest urban park in Philadelphia, with over 2,000 acres of trails, playgrounds, and natural beauty. Take a stroll or bike ride along the Schuylkill River Trail or have a picnic in one of the many scenic pavilions. The park is home to numerous historic sites, including Shofuso Japanese House and Garden and the Please Touch Museum.

Conclusion

Philadelphia is a city that truly has something for everyone. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, a foodie or an outdoor enthusiast, you’re sure to find plenty to do and see in this city. Follow this guide to make the most out of your time in Philly, and you’ll create memories that will last a lifetime.