City Sightseeing Philadelphia Double Decker Hop-On Hop-Off (24, 48, 72 Hours)

Exploring Philadelphia with the Double Decker Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

When you want to get a broad taste of Philadelphia without the hassle of navigating on your own, the City Sightseeing Philadelphia Double Decker Hop-On Hop-Off offers a practical option. For around $68 per person, you can hop onto a classic London-style double-decker bus and spend about 90 minutes looping through over 25 key sites. The best part? You can choose a 24, 48, or 72-hour ticket—meaning you can spread out your sightseeing or learn about the city at a relaxed pace.

What we love about this tour is how it allows you to customize your experience—start and stop at any of the many stops, from the historic Liberty Bell to the lively Reading Terminal Market. Plus, the live guides who offer commentary in multiple languages make sure you learn a thing or two along the way. Another highlight? The stunning views from the upper deck—perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in Philadelphia’s skyline.

One possible drawback? The cost of $68 might seem steep, especially since admission to attractions isn’t included. If you have specific sites in mind, you’ll need to plan separately for entrance fees. And, while the bus runs frequently, the actual duration of each loop is about 1.5 hours, so if you’re squeezed for time or prefer walking, this might not be your ideal way to explore every corner.

This tour suits travelers who want a broad overview of Philadelphia without committing to multiple guided tours or navigating public transportation. It’s especially helpful if you’re on a layover or only have limited time but want a memorable, authentic look at the city’s highlights.

Key Points

• Flexible Ticket Durations: Choose 24, 48, or 72 hours to explore at your own pace.
• Over 25 Stops: Covers top landmarks like the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and the Rocky Steps.
• Live and Audio Guides: Guides offer commentary in multiple languages, enhancing your understanding of the city.
• Hop-On Hop-Off Convenience: Start and stop at any designated stop, making it easy to tailor your visit.
• Cost for Entrance Not Included: Be prepared to buy tickets separately for some attractions.
• Stunning Views: Upper deck seating provides excellent photo opportunities and city vistas.

A Deep Dive into the Philadelphia Double Decker Experience

Exploring Philadelphia with a double-decker hop-on hop-off bus is like having your own personal tour guide with the flexibility to go where you want, when you want. The main loop lasts around 1.5 hours, covering more than 25 stops—a robust lineup that touches on both historic sites and lively neighborhoods.

Starting Point and First Impressions

You’ll begin your journey at the Philadelphia Bourse at 21 S 5th St, where the ticket redemption kiosk is conveniently located. From here, the bus makes its way through the city’s core, giving you a chance to view iconic landmarks almost immediately. The buses are London-style double-deckers, offering an open-air upper deck that’s perfect for sightseeing. We found that the guides’ live commentary added flavor, providing context and stories that bring Philadelphia’s history to life.

Landmark Highlights

As you cruise past stops like the Betsy Ross House and the Independence Visitor Center, you’ll hear about the city’s revolutionary past. The commentary isn’t just dry facts; guides like Mike or Sarah (if mentioned in reviews) make the history engaging and accessible. The Reading Terminal Market is a stop you’ll definitely want to hop off at—this food lover’s paradise offers everything from Amish baked goods to artisanal cheeses.

The JFK Plaza (Love Park) is perfect for a quick photo op, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art Steps—made famous by the movie “Rocky”—offer a chance to get out and stretch, or snap memorable photos. The Logan Square and Sister Cities Park nearby are peaceful urban oases.

Authentic Local Experiences

The Eastern State Penitentiary is a notable stop, though admission isn’t included. If you’re interested in Philadelphia’s darker history, it’s worth planning to visit after your bus tour. The Please Touch Museum and the Philadelphia Zoo are family-friendly stops, while the Franklin Institute and Mütter Museum appeal to science buffs and enthusiasts of medical oddities.

Neighborhoods and Cultural Districts

Beyond the major landmarks, the tour takes you through Society Hill, with its historic row houses, and the vibrant Avenue of the Arts around Rittenhouse Square. The South Street District is known for its eclectic shops and lively atmosphere, perfect for a post-tour stroll.

Practical Tips for the Tour

• Timing: The 1.5-hour loop is a great way to get an overview, but you can hop off at any stop to explore more deeply.
• Language options: Audio guides are available in English, French, German, Spanish, and Mandarin, catering to international travelers.
• Price and value: While $68 seems high, the value lies in the flexibility—you can see many major sights in one trip and avoid the hassle of public transit.
• Tour guides: Reviewers consistently praise the knowledge and friendliness of the guides, which makes a big difference in your experience.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

One traveler named Jada loved all the stops and the guides, noting that the drivers were “top notched”. She wished she had more time to enjoy all the sights. Janice appreciated riding twice; her only concern was the driver’s speed during her second ride, which highlights the importance of safety and comfort on bumpy roads or busy traffic.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re looking for a comprehensive, flexible way to see Philadelphia, this hop-on hop-off bus is a solid choice. It’s perfect for first-timers eager to hit the highlights without the complication of planning every detail. It’s also good for families or groups with varying interests since you can hop off and on as you please.

However, if your main goal is to visit specific attractions with admission included or to explore neighborhoods on foot, you might want to supplement this tour with other activities. For budget-conscious travelers, accounting for additional attraction costs is essential.

This tour offers a convenient, informative, and comfortable way to get a broad sense of Philadelphia’s character and history. Just remember, the best value comes from using it as a flexible guide rather than a solely transportation device.

FAQ

How long is the tour loop?
The main loop lasts approximately 1.5 hours. You can hop off at any of the 25 stops to explore more or stay on for a rundown.

Are guides available on the bus?
Yes, professional live guides provide commentary during the loop, offering insights and stories in multiple languages. Audio guides are also available for self-paced listening.

Can I start the tour at any stop?
Absolutely. Your ticket allows you to begin at any stop on the route, making it convenient to customize your day.

What attractions are included in the tour?
You’ll pass by over 100 attractions, including the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and the US Mint. However, admission to individual sites is not included.

How much does it cost?
The ticket is $68 per person, with options for 24, 48, or 72 hours of unlimited travel within that period.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, especially since stops like the Please Touch Museum and the Philadelphia Zoo are family-friendly. The open-air upper deck may be more enjoyable in good weather.

Is there a discount for groups?
The data doesn’t specify group discounts, so it’s best to inquire directly if traveling with a large group.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat or sunscreen for sunny days, and your camera—the views from the upper deck are worth capturing.

To sum it up, this hop-on hop-off tour offers a practical way to get an authentic feel for Philadelphia’s essential sights. It’s ideal for first-time visitors, those with limited time, or travelers who prefer flexible, guided sightseeing. While the cost might seem steep without included attractions, the convenience and variety of stops make it a solid investment in your Philadelphia adventure. Just be prepared to plan a little extra if you want full access to individual sites or museums. Whether you’re cruising past historic landmarks or hopping off for a quick bite at Reading Terminal Market, this tour helps you see the city with comfort and ease.