Double Decker Hop-On Hop-Off City Sightseeing Philadelphia (1, 2, or 3-Day)

Exploring Philadelphia on the Double Decker Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

If you’re visiting Philadelphia and want a straightforward way to see the city’s most iconic landmarks, the Double Decker Hop-On Hop-Off City Sightseeing Tour offers a flexible, engaging experience. Priced at $39 per person, you can choose from 1, 2, or 3-day passes, giving you plenty of time to explore at your own pace. The tour typically lasts about 90 minutes for the main loop, but with the hop-on, hop-off flexibility, you can spend as much time as you like at each of the 27 stops.

What we love about this experience is how it combines convenience and insight. The open-top buses allow you to enjoy panoramic views of the city, and the live onboard narration makes the history come alive. Plus, the ability to hop on and off at your preferred stops means you can prioritize sites like the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, or the Reading Terminal Market without feeling rushed.

One possible consideration is that attraction admissions aren’t included, so you’ll want to budget extra for any museum or site entry. Also, the start point at the Philadelphia Bourse can be tricky to find initially, but once you’re underway, the route is smooth, with friendly guides and drivers who know their way around Philadelphia’s streets.

This tour is especially perfect for travelers who want to get a broad overview of Philly’s highlights without the hassle of navigating public transport or trying to see everything on foot in a limited time. Families, first-time visitors, or those with mobility concerns will find this a practical way to orient themselves in the city.

Key Points

• Flexible 1-3 day passes that let you tailor your sightseeing experience.
• Live commentary enhances understanding of Philadelphia’s history and culture.
• Easy hop-on hop-off access at 27 stops means you can explore selectively.
• Open-top double-decker buses provide great views and photo opportunities.
• Not including attraction tickets encourages planning for additional visits.
• Most travelers find the guides knowledgeable and entertaining, making the ride more engaging.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Taking the Double Decker Hop-On Hop-Off Tour in Philadelphia is a practical way to see a city packed with historic sites and vibrant neighborhoods. For around $39, you get a ticket that’s valid for 1 to 3 days, giving you the flexibility to explore on your schedule. The main loop takes about 90 minutes, but with unlimited hopping on and off, you can spend as long as you desire at key locations.

The Route and Stops

The tour kicks off at the Philadelphia Bourse, right in the heart of the city’s historic district. From there, it weaves through Old City and Center City, covering some of the most visited landmarks and neighborhoods. Each stop offers a different slice of Philly life — from the Betsy Ross House, where you can glimpse America’s founding era, to the Reading Terminal Market, a bustling food hub perfect for tasting local flavors.

Other highlights include the National Constitution Center, where you can learn about the founding documents of the U.S., and the Philadelphia Museum of Art, with its world-renowned collection and the iconic Rocky Steps nearby. The Eastern State Penitentiary makes a compelling stop for history buffs interested in America’s penal history, though admission isn’t included.

Along With historic sites, there are cultural stops like the Rodin Museum and the Avenue of the Arts, where you might catch a performance or enjoy cultural attractions. For a panoramic view of the city, the One Liberty Observation Deck is a popular stop, providing sweeping downtown vistas.

Guides and Commentary

A standout feature of this tour is its live onboard narration. Reviewers consistently praise the guides for their knowledgeable and humorous commentary. One reviewer mentioned that Denise, their guide, “saved the day” when printed tickets were needed, highlighting the helpfulness of staff. The guides are well-versed not only in facts but also in delivering engaging stories that bring Philadelphia’s history to life.

The Value of the Hop-On, Hop-Off Format

Many travelers appreciate the flexibility this format offers. As one person put it, “We loved it—we could see the city without trying to figure out how to get around.” You can hop off at a site that catches your interest, spend some time exploring, then re-board later. Some visitors took advantage of this by doing the tour twice, once to get the lay of the land and again to revisit specific spots.

Limitations and Tips

While the tour provides fantastic views and context, keep in mind that admission to specific attractions isn’t included. If you plan to visit Eastern State Penitentiary, the Please Touch Museum, or the Philadelphia Museum of Art, budget extra for tickets.

Also, some reviewers mentioned that finding the starting point at the Philadelphia Bourse can be a little tricky, especially if you arrive early or after a walk around Old City. It’s wise to arrive a little early or check the exact meeting location beforehand.

Weather and Comfort

Since the buses are open-top, be prepared for the weather. A sunny day will make the experience delightful, while rain or intense heat might reduce comfort, especially downstairs. Most travelers recommend bringing sunscreen, water, or a lightweight raincoat.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This hop-on hop-off experience is especially suited for first-time visitors eager to get a broad overview of Philadelphia’s most famous sites. Families or groups with varied interests will also appreciate the flexibility to customize their sightseeing day. If you’re someone who enjoys lively guides and scenic routes, you’re likely to enjoy this tour. However, if you’re looking for deep dives into specific attractions or included entrance fees, you may want to plan additional visits.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For just $39, this tour offers considerable value. It’s a convenient, engaging way to familiarize yourself with Philadelphia’s most cherished landmarks and neighborhoods. The live guides consistently receive high praise for their humor and knowledge, making the ride both educational and entertaining. The flexible hop-on, hop-off style means you can tailor your day, spending more time at attractions that interest you most.

If you’re a traveler who appreciates scenic views, local insights, and the freedom to explore at your own pace, this tour hits the mark. It’s also ideal for those with limited time but a desire to see as much of the city as possible without the stress of navigating transit or walking for miles.

However, be aware that additional tickets are needed for some attractions, so plan your day accordingly. Also, weather can influence your experience, so check the forecast and dress accordingly.

This tour strikes a good balance between cost, convenience, and insight, making it a practical choice for a first visit or for those wanting a quick, fun overview of historic Philadelphia.

FAQ

Does the tour run rain or shine?
Yes, the ride operates in most weather conditions, but since the buses are open-top, you might want to check the forecast and dress appropriately or consider rescheduling in heavy rain.

Can I hop on at any stop?
You can hop on at any of the 27 stops once your ticket is valid, but it’s recommended to start at the designated Philadelphia Bourse to avoid issues with printed tickets, per reviews.

Are multilingual audio guides available?
Yes, audio guides are available in English, French, German, Spanish, and Mandarin to help non-English speakers enjoy the tour.

Is there a specific start time?
Yes, the tour begins daily at 9:30 am, and you can hop on throughout the day at any of the stops.

How long is the main route?
The main loop takes approximately 90 minutes, but with the flexibility of hopping on and off, your overall experience can extend over multiple hours or days.

Are the buses accessible for people with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s wise to check with the operator for specific accessibility questions or requirements.

Do I need to print my tickets?
Reviews mention that printed tickets are necessary for the bus drivers, so having a printed voucher or ticket is recommended.

What attractions are included?
While the tour passes by more than 100 attractions, tickets to individual sites like the Liberty Bell or Independence Hall are not included.

Can I do the tour over multiple days?
Yes, tickets are valid for 1, 2, or 3 days, giving you the flexibility to spread out your sightseeing.

Is this a good way to learn about Philadelphia’s history?
Definitely. Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and engaging commentary, making it an informative experience.

In summary, if you’re looking for an easy, affordable, and flexible way to get to know Philadelphia’s highlights, the Double Decker Hop-On Hop-Off Tour offers a practical and enjoyable option. Just remember to plan for extra attraction tickets if there are specific sites you wish to visit, and enjoy the lively guides and scenic routes that make exploring Philly a breeze.