Go City: Philadelphia Explorer Pass: Choose 3 to 7 Things To Do

Traveling to Philadelphia? Whether you’re a history buff, art lover, or family seeking fun, the Go City Philadelphia Explorer Pass offers a flexible way to see the city’s highlights. For $64 per person, you can select 3 to 7 attractions or tours, and enjoy them at your own pace over 30 days. The pass is delivered digitally, making for easy, contactless entry—no vouchers, no fuss.

What we love about this pass is its flexibility and cost-effectiveness. You get to customize your itinerary based on your interests, skipping the rigid schedules that often come with guided tours. Plus, the ability to hop on and off the Big Bus Tour or visit popular sites like the Betsy Ross House or Philadelphia Museum of Art makes it a real boon for travelers who prefer a self-directed approach.

However, a word of caution: some reviews mention that certain attractions, like the Mutter Museum, are no longer included, and the digital guide’s information might sometimes be outdated. Also, some travelers have experienced issues with pass scanning or limited availability at peak times, so planning ahead is key.

This pass works best for independent explorers, families, or first-time visitors who want a broad overview of Philadelphia without the rigidity of fixed tours. If you’re comfortable with self-guided adventures and enjoy choosing your own pace, this is an excellent option.

Key Points

• Flexible options: Choose 3 to 7 attractions from a long list, valid for 30 days.
• Convenience: Digital pass on your mobile device allows direct entry—no vouchers needed.
• Best for self-guided exploration: Perfect for travelers wanting to customize their itinerary.
• Good value: Compared to buying tickets individually, the pass often saves money.
• Popular stops: Includes top sights like the Big Bus Tour, Eastern State Penitentiary, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
• Potential limitations: Some attractions may be excluded or require advance reservations.

A Deep Dive into the Philadelphia Explorer Pass Experience

Driving through Philadelphia, it’s easy to be overwhelmed by the sheer number of things to see and do. The Explorer Pass aims to simplify your planning, offering a curated mix of top attractions with the flexibility to enjoy them as you see fit. Let’s explore what each component of this experience entails and why it might be worth your time.

The Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus Philadelphia Tour

Starting with the Big Bus Tour, this is often the highlight for first-timers. It’s a great way to get an overview of the city’s most famous sights, with the convenience of hopping on and off at over 25 stops. The live narration by friendly guides, like those mentioned in reviews, means you’ll learn a lot about Philadelphia’s history, culture, and even local food spots.

The blue route takes about 1.5 hours, covering landmarks such as Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art. The open-air second deck is perfect for snapping photos of the skyline or just enjoying the buzz of the streets below. You can hop off to explore neighborhoods, grab lunch, or visit a museum, then catch the next bus to continue your sightseeing.

The flexibility here is a huge plus. Several travelers appreciated the ability to craft their own route, especially when time was limited. One reviewer noted, “The hop-on-hop-off was a great way to see everything without rushing,” which sums up the benefit nicely.

Eastern State Penitentiary

Next up is the Eastern State Penitentiary, a true Philadelphia icon. As a National Historic Landmark, it’s more than just an old prison—it’s a window into the evolution of justice and incarceration practices in America. Designed to promote penitence through solitude, this site challenged the brutal methods of its time.

The prison’s architecture is stunning; the spokes of a wheel with cells lined along corridors are visually impressive and thought-provoking. It’s a must-see for history buffs interested in criminal justice reform. The original cell blocks, equipped with running water and central heating, highlight the building’s innovations, making it an architectural marvel.

A review mentioned that the tour helps you understand the dark side of history—and perhaps that’s why many find it both educational and haunting. The self-guided audio tour adds a personal touch, allowing you to linger and reflect.

The Adventure Aquarium

The Adventure Aquarium promises a lively, family-friendly experience. It’s the only aquarium in the world where you can see hippos and the largest collection of sharks on the East Coast. The touch exhibits are a hit, especially with kids—and adults who enjoy getting close to marine life.

With over 8,500 sea animals and 14 interactive exhibits, this venue offers a hands-on approach to learning about aquatic ecosystems. For many, it’s a fun break from the city’s historic sites. One reviewer called it “a place where every visit feels new,” thanks to the ever-changing displays and activities.

The Franklin Institute

Science lovers will find the Franklin Institute fascinating. Named after Benjamin Franklin, it’s all about making science accessible and engaging. Interactive exhibits, like climbing into a fighter jet or exploring sports science, keep both kids and adults entertained.

The museum boasts a dynamic lineup of temporary exhibits and multimedia experiences. It’s a great spot for curious minds who want to learn through play. Several visitors highlighted the “explosive demonstrations” and “thought-provoking displays,” making it an inspiring stop.

Historical and Cultural Stops

Philadelphia’s history is well-represented in attractions like the Betsy Ross House, where you can see the home of the woman behind the first American flag, and the Museum of the American Revolution, which walks you through revolutionary battles and key events.

The Christ Church Burial Ground offers a glimpse into colonial life, with the graves of Benjamin Franklin and other founding fathers. The National Constitution Center provides a lively, interactive way to learn about the U.S. Constitution, perfect for politically curious travelers.

For art lovers, the Philadelphia Museum of Art features masterpieces from Van Gogh, Picasso, and more, with enough variety to keep everyone engaged. The Barnes Foundation adds a different flavor—focusing on impressionist and African art, among others.

Unique Experiences and Hidden Gems

For something a bit more atmospheric, the Ghost Tours of Philadelphia combine history with a spooky twist, exploring haunted sites by candlelight. It’s especially popular among night-owl explorers who enjoy storytelling with a dash of the supernatural.

The River Link Ferry offers a scenic, relaxing way to cross the Delaware River, connecting the Philadelphia and Camden waterfronts. You can visit the Battleship New Jersey, a floating museum that provides an authentic look into naval history.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

While the pass offers great flexibility, keep in mind that some attractions, like the Mutter Museum, are no longer included, and you’ll need separate tickets if you want to visit. Several reviews mentioned that outdated information on the digital guide can cause confusion, so it’s wise to verify reservations and opening hours ahead of time.

The pass is valid for 30 days after your first redemption, giving you ample time to spread out your visits. This is ideal if you prefer a relaxed pace or want to revisit certain sites. Keep in mind that most attractions require advance reservations—check the digital guide or app to plan accordingly.

Group sizes tend to be small, with a maximum of 15 travelers, which means you won’t be lost in a crowd. The self-guided nature suits independent explorers who enjoy creating their own itinerary but still want the convenience of skip-the-line access.

Authentic Experiences Based on Reviews

Several visitors emphasized how knowledgeable guides and stunning city views made their experience memorable. One review raved about Andrew at the One Liberty Observation Deck, calling him “fantastic” and highlighting the breathtaking panorama of the city.

Others appreciated the value for money—particularly when they combined multiple top-tier sites like the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Barnes Foundation, and Franklin Institute. The ability to save on individual ticket prices and customize your visits was a clear advantage.

However, some found the pass not worth it if they didn’t use enough attractions or faced issues like voucher scanning problems. The key is to plan ahead and pick attractions that truly interest you, rather than hoping to fill every slot.

Who Should Consider the Philadelphia Explorer Pass?

This pass is best suited for independent travelers who enjoy flexible scheduling and want to avoid the hassle of buying tickets on the spot. Families with kids will love the hands-on exhibits at the Franklin Institute and Adventure Aquarium. History enthusiasts will find the Eastern State Penitentiary and colonial sites particularly engaging.

If you’re a first-time visitor wanting a broad overview of Philadelphia’s most iconic sights, the hop-on hop-off bus combined with a few key attractions makes for a memorable trip. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the savings compared to purchasing individual tickets, especially if you plan to visit several sites.

On the flip side, those seeking specialized or niche experiences, like exclusive tours or events, might find the pass limiting. Also, travelers on a tight schedule should note that reservations are recommended for many attractions, so some advance planning is necessary.

The Sum Up: Is the Go City Philadelphia Explorer Pass Right for You?

If you’re someone who loves the freedom to explore at your own pace, this pass offers incredible value. It’s a practical way to see Philadelphia’s top sights without the stress of purchasing tickets on the go. The ability to combine cultural, historical, and family-friendly activities makes it versatile and appealing, especially for first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive experience.

While it’s not perfect—some attractions are excluded, and you’ll need to plan ahead—most travelers will find that the savings outweigh the inconveniences. The pass is particularly suited for independent explorers who enjoy customizing their itinerary and don’t mind the self-guided approach.

For those who want a balanced mix of iconic landmarks and interactive experiences, this ticket helps maximize your time and budget in the City of Brotherly Love.

FAQ

How many attractions can I choose with the pass?
You can select from 3 to 7 attractions or tours, depending on the option you purchase.

Is the pass valid for multiple days?
Yes, the pass is valid for 30 days from the first use, giving you flexibility to visit attractions at your own pace.

Do I need to make reservations in advance?
Most popular attractions require reservations, so it’s wise to check the digital guide or app for specific instructions.

Can I use the pass for the Big Bus Tour?
Yes, the pass includes a ticket for the Blue Route Hop-On Hop-Off tour, which you can ride once.

Is the pass delivered physically or digitally?
It’s a mobile ticket, so you can save it on your device and use it for direct entry.

Are all attractions accessible with this pass?
Most are, but some, like the Mutter Museum, are no longer included, so check the digital guide for current options.

What if the pass doesn’t scan at an attraction?
Several reviews mention quick remediation, but it’s best to confirm your pass is properly downloaded and have proof of purchase just in case.

Can I revisit attractions with this pass?
No, the pass is generally valid for a single entry per attraction within the 30-day window.

Is the pass good for guided tours?
It includes some tours like the Big Bus and walking tours, but most attractions are self-guided or have their own guides.

What is the overall value of the pass?
For many travelers, the pass offers great value, especially if you plan to visit multiple major sites—saving both time and money.

Embrace Philadelphia with confidence, knowing this pass helps you cover more ground, learn more, and experience the city in a flexible, budget-friendly way. Happy exploring!