From New York City: Philadelphia & Amish Community Day Trip

From New York City: Philadelphia & Amish Community Day Trip
Location: Pennsylvania, United States
Country: United States
Rating: 4.5 (29 reviews)
Price: $120 per person
Duration: 13 hours

A Quick Look at the Experience

This full-day excursion takes you from the hustle of New York City to the cobblestone streets of Philadelphia and then out to Lancaster’s Amish community — all for $120. We love how this tour packs in a wealth of American history, from the Liberty Bell to the Rocky steps, along with an eye-opening visit to Amish life. The 13-hour journey is comfortably managed with round-trip transportation and a knowledgeable guide, making it a hassle-free way to see some key highlights without the stress of organizing logistics yourself.

Two standout aspects for us are the opportunity to stand on the iconic Rocky steps and the chance to visit a genuine Amish community, which isn’t something many day trips offer. These authentic experiences offer a real glimpse into American culture and history.

One thing to consider is the long travel time—about 2 hours each way—so if you’re someone who gets motion sickness or prefers shorter outings, this might feel like a bit of a stretch. But for those eager to explore both historic cities and rural traditions in one day, this trip hits the mark.

This tour is ideal for history buffs, culture seekers, and anyone curious about the Amish way of life. If you enjoy guided walks, insightful commentary, and a chance to see different sides of Pennsylvania, you’ll likely find this trip very worthwhile.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering Philadelphia’s landmark sites and Lancaster’s Amish community
• Expert guide (Martin praised for knowledge and attentiveness) enriches the experience
• Convenient round-trip transportation from New York City saves stress and time
• Authentic experiences like visiting the Amish in their community and standing on the Rocky steps
• Long day, so be prepared for a full schedule and some bus time
• Food and drinks not included, so plan to bring snacks or buy in Philly or Lancaster

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Philadelphia: A City of Firsts and Famous Sites

Once we’re picked up from our NYC hotel, the road to Philadelphia begins with anticipation. The 2-hour bus ride is a good chance to settle in, chat with fellow travelers, and review the day ahead. When we arrive, the first stop is the Liberty Bell, a symbol of American independence. We loved how our guide explained its significance and the stories behind its crack, making history come alive.

Next, we step into Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and Constitution were debated and signed. Seeing the very rooms where these foundational documents were crafted offers a tangible connection to the past. Our guide, Martin, added colorful anecdotes about the founding fathers, enriching the visit without overwhelming us.

Passing by the Congress Hall and the Christ Church cemetery—where Benjamin Franklin’s tomb rests—felt like walking through American history’s living story. We also visited the Betsy Ross house, the woman credited with sewing the first American flag. The cobbled streets of Elfreths Alley, the oldest in the country, lined by historic Georgian houses, offered a step back in time with plenty of charm.

Philadelphia’s city center is bustling, with sights like City Hall and the Parque del Amor, a surprising but lovely park. Our group appreciated the mix of history and liveliness in this vibrant city.

The Rocky Steps and the Philadelphia Museum of Art

No trip to Philadelphia is complete without a photo on the steps from the movie Rocky. We loved the anticipation of climbing those iconic stairs, imagining Stallone’s triumphant run. The view from the top offers a rewarding vista of the city skyline, and the steps are often busy with other visitors recreating the film moment.

Next, we visited the Philadelphia Museum of Art. The building itself is impressive, but it’s the famous staircase that steals the show. If you’re a film buff or just love a good “motivational” shot, this is a highlight.

Traveling to Lancaster and the Amish Community

After a satisfying morning exploring Philadelphia, we headed west to Lancaster County. The two-hour drive through Pennsylvania’s countryside is scenic and relaxing. Once in Lancaster, we visited an Amish community, observing their simple, traditional way of life. We appreciated the guide’s detailed explanations of Amish customs and how they contrast with Mennonite traditions, as one reviewer noted.

We saw Amish families working in the fields, barefoot in some cases, dressed in distinctive plain clothing. It’s an authentic look at a community that has maintained its traditions despite modern pressures. The visit provided a meaningful contrast to the urban history of Philadelphia, showing us a different facet of American culture.

What’s Included and What to Expect

This tour covers a comprehensive set of highlights:
– The historic landmarks of Philadelphia, including Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell
– The famous Rocky steps and Philadelphia Museum of Art
– A guided visit to an Amish community in Lancaster

The price includes round-trip transportation and a knowledgeable guide (Martin received high praise for his explanations and attentiveness). Note that food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or purchase in Philadelphia or Lancaster.

The bus is comfortable and air-conditioned, with a reasonable group size, making it easy to hear the guide and ask questions. The long duration (13 hours) might be tiring for some, but it also means you’re getting a full day of exploration without the hassle of driving yourself.

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Authenticity and Value

Based on reviews, travelers find this tour well-organized and insightful. Multiple guests praised Martin’s knowledge, highlighting how his commentary brought the sites to life. The visits to the Amish community are particularly valued for their authenticity, giving a genuine glimpse into rural life that’s quite rare on typical sightseeing trips.

The ticket price of $120 is reasonable when you consider the cost of transportation, guide expertise, and entry to the sites. It’s a good value for those wanting an in-depth experience without the hassle of planning multiple trips or navigating public transportation.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring a passport or ID card for identification—it’s required for the tour
• Pack snacks and water since food isn’t included, especially for the long bus rides
• Wear comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestones and uneven surfaces
• Be prepared for a full day, and plan for some downtime after returning home if you’re not used to long outings
• The meeting point may vary depending on your booking, so check your confirmation for details

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip suits history enthusiasts eager to see key American landmarks and culture lovers interested in rural traditions. If you enjoy guided tours with expert commentary, you’ll find the guide’s insights invaluable. It’s also ideal for those who prefer a full-day, all-in-one experience without the stress of organizing transportation and admissions.

The Amish visit is a highlight, especially for travelers curious about simple lifestyles and traditional crafts. The Philadelphia stops are suitable for first-timers wanting an overview of the city’s foundational moments, while film fans will get a thrill from standing on the Rocky steps.

The Sum Up

This day trip from New York City offers a well-balanced mix of urban history and rural culture. It delivers a comprehensive look at two very different aspects of Pennsylvania — the historic heart of the nation and the enduring Amish communities. The guided approach, with knowledgeable commentary, makes the experience more enriching than simply “seeing the sights.”

While the long day may not suit everyone, those with a curiosity for American history and authentic rural traditions will find it a rewarding adventure. The value comes not just from the sights seen but from the stories and insights shared by your guide — making this a memorable and educational outing.

If you’re looking for a day that combines the past with the present, and urban with rural, this tour offers a satisfying slice of Pennsylvania’s diverse character. It’s perfect for travelers who want an engaging, informative, and authentic experience without the hassle of self-guided planning.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from selected NYC hotels is part of the package, making the long day easier to manage.

How long is the drive?
It’s about 2 hours each way between New York and Philadelphia, plus travel time to Lancaster after the city tour.

What sites will we visit in Philadelphia?
You’ll see the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, Congress Hall, Christ Church cemetery, Betsy Ross House, Elfreths Alley, City Hall, and the Rocky steps at the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

Can I bring food and drinks?
Food and drinks are not included, so bringing snacks is advisable, especially given the long hours.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the itinerary is generally family-friendly, though the long bus ride might be tiring for very young children.

Are guides bilingual?
Yes, the tour is offered in Spanish and English, accommodating diverse travelers.

What is the group size?
While not specified, most guided tours like this tend to be small to medium groups, ensuring better interaction and a more personal experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

Ready to explore historic Philadelphia and experience Amish life firsthand? This tour offers a thoughtfully curated day that combines education, authentic culture, and fun, all at a reasonable price.

You can check availability for your dates here: