Philadelphia: Double-Decker Sightseeing Bus Tour

Philadelphia: Double-Decker Sightseeing Bus Tour
Location: Pennsylvania, United States
Country: United States
Rating: 4.3 (326 reviews)
Price: $39 per person
Supplier: Philadelphia Trolley Works & Big Bus

Quick overview and why it’s worth considering

If you’re after a budget-friendly way to get a broad overview of Philadelphia’s most iconic sights, this double-decker hop-on hop-off bus tour offers a convenient and informative experience. For just $39, you get a 90-minute narrated ride that whisks you past nearly 30 points of interest, with the flexibility to hop off at landmarks like Independence Hall, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the Betsy Ross House.

Two things we appreciate most about this tour: first, the knowledgeable guides who make history lively and fun, often throwing in humor and local tips; second, the easy access to major attractions, perfect if you’re short on time or want a quick orientation of the city.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that the bus frequency can be inconsistent, with reviews noting that waiting times sometimes stretch beyond the advertised 20 minutes. If punctuality is critical for your schedule, this is worth considering.

This tour suits travelers who want a flexible, guided overview of Philadelphia, especially first-time visitors eager to see key sites without the hassle of navigating public transport or booking multiple guided walks.

Key Points

• Flexible hop-on hop-off access to nearly 30 attractions around Philadelphia
• Guided commentary enhances the experience with historical insights and local tips
• Affordable price for a 90-minute city tour, with options for multi-day passes
• Comfortable double-decker buses with open-top views for great photo opportunities
• Accessibility for wheelchair users and multilingual audio guides
• Departure from the southwest corner of 6th and Market Streets with easy sign-in

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on Your Tour

When you step aboard the open-top double-decker bus, you’re in for a relaxing ride through Philadelphia’s most celebrated neighborhoods and landmarks. The route covers nearly 30 sites, including Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence was signed, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art, famous for the Rocky Steps.

From the Betsy Ross House to the Eastern State Penitentiary, the stops are thoughtfully selected to give you a well-rounded glimpse of the city’s historic, cultural, and entertainment hubs. The audio guide, available in multiple languages, provides a running commentary that brings each site to life, whether you’re a history buff or just curious about Philadelphia’s stories.

The Itinerary in Detail

• Independence Visitor Center: The starting point is a natural first stop. Here, you can pick up maps and learn where to begin your exploration.
• Betsy Ross House: Step into the story of the woman who sewed the first American flag.
• U.S. Mint & Ben Franklin’s Grave: Two key historical sites offering insights into the nation’s early days.
• National Constitution Center: A modern museum with engaging exhibits on the U.S. Constitution.
• Chinatown & Reading Terminal Market: Perfect for quick bites or authentic snacks.
• City Hall & Love Park: Iconic city symbols and great photo spots.
• Philadelphia Museum of Art & Rocky Steps: Climb the legendary stairs and enjoy views of the Schuylkill River.
• Franklin Institute & Logan Square: Family-friendly spots with science and history exhibits.
• Eastern State Penitentiary: For those interested in America’s prison history, this historic site is a hit.

You can hop off at any stop to explore more deeply, or stay aboard for the full 90-minute ride, soaking in the city’s sights from the open-air deck.

Authentic Experiences with a Local Flavor

One reviewer highlights the guides’ expertise and humor—”Bruce was hilarious and I learned so much from him,”—which makes the journey more engaging. Another mentions the comfort and cleanliness of the bus, along with the good sound quality of the audio guide.

Given that the guides are well-versed and can share local tips, it’s like having a friendly, knowledgeable friend show you around. This personal touch makes even the brief stops memorable and informative.

Practicality and Value

While $39 per person might seem modest, the real value lies in the ability to see many major sites in a short time without walking long distances or dealing with parking. The multi-day options allow for a slower exploration if you have more time.

Some reviews note that the bus schedule can be less frequent than advertised—every 30 minutes instead of 20—which might affect your plans. If timing is tight, it’s wise to check the schedule or plan accordingly.

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Accessibility and Convenience

The tour’s wheelchair accessibility and audio guides in multiple languages ensure that more visitors can enjoy the experience comfortably. The courtesy pickup from hotels or the airport adds an extra layer of convenience, especially if you’re arriving in the city and want to start exploring immediately.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors who want a broad overview of Philadelphia’s highlights without committing to multiple guided tours or walking extensive distances. It’s also perfect for families, as the easy hop-on, hop-off format suits various paces and interests.

If you’re short on time but want to capture the essence of Philadelphia, this tour provides a good balance of guided narration and flexible exploration. Food lovers will appreciate the proximity to spots like Reading Terminal Market to grab authentic Philly fare, especially the famous cheesesteaks.

The Philadelphia double-decker sightseeing bus tour offers an accessible, fun, and informative way to get to know the city’s main attractions. It’s especially well-suited for first-timers eager to see highlights like Independence Hall, the Rocky Steps, and the Betsy Ross House without the complexity of planning multiple routes or tours.

You’ll love the guides’ lively commentary and the stunning views from the open-top deck, perfect for photos and soaking in the atmosphere. The cost-effectiveness of the ticket, coupled with the flexibility to hop on and off, makes this a practical choice for travelers of all ages.

While the bus frequency could be more consistent, most visitors find the overall experience efficient and enjoyable. It’s especially beneficial for those who want a guided overview but still prefer the freedom to explore on their own.

If you’re looking for a convenient, lively, and budget-friendly introduction to Philadelphia, this tour ticks all those boxes—and then some. Just plan your schedule with a bit of buffer for waiting times, and you’ll come away with a great sense of the city’s sights and stories.

How many sites does the tour visit?
It passes almost 30 points of interest, including major landmarks like Independence Hall and the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

What is included in the ticket price?
Your ticket covers transportation by bus, audio headsets, and a guided narration. Some reviews mention the courtesy pickup from hotels or the airport as an added convenience.

Can I hop off and explore at my own pace?
Yes, you can hop on and off at any of the 27 stops to explore attractions more closely or enjoy meals.

How long does the full tour last?
The initial ride lasts about 90 minutes, but with stops, your total experience can extend across a few hours depending on how long you linger.

Is the tour accessible to wheelchairs?
Absolutely, the tour is wheelchair accessible, ensuring that all visitors can enjoy the experience.

What languages are available for the audio guide?
The audio guide is available in English, Spanish, Portuguese, German, French, Italian, and Chinese.

What happens if I arrive late?
Buses run on a schedule, but reviews suggest that waiting times can vary, so it’s best to arrive a little early and confirm the current timetable.

Are the buses open-top?
Yes, the buses are open-top, providing great views and photo opportunities, though they are subject to weather conditions.

What’s the best way to plan my day with this tour?
Start early, get a multi-day pass if possible, and use the hop-on hop-off feature to maximize your time at each site, especially if you want to explore museums or neighborhoods more thoroughly.

In short, this Philadelphia hop-on hop-off tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to see the city’s highlights with the guidance of friendly, knowledgeable guides. It’s a good fit for those seeking a flexible, reasonably priced introduction to Philly’s sights, especially first-timers or visitors with limited time.

You can check availability for your dates here: