Hop On Hop Off Double Decker Bus Tour of Philadelphia

Philadelphia Hop-On Hop-Off Double Decker Bus Tour Review: A Practical Guide to Seeing the City

When you’re visiting the City of Brotherly Love, there’s no shortage of sights to see—from historic landmarks like Independence Hall to vibrant neighborhoods like South Street. The Hop-On Hop-Off Double Decker Bus Tour, offered by Philadelphia TrolleyWorks, is an efficient way to cover a lot of ground in a limited time. Priced at $39 per person and lasting about 90 minutes, this tour promises the flexibility to explore at your own pace, with live commentary and 27 stops including major attractions like Reading Terminal Market, the Rocky Statue, and the Eastern State Penitentiary.

What we love about this tour is how it combines convenience with local expertise. The open-air top deck offers a great way to enjoy the views and get a feel for the city’s layout, while guides like John and Ernest add a layer of storytelling that makes the historic sites more memorable. Plus, the ability to hop on or off at any stop means you can tailor your day—whether you want to linger at the Barnes Foundation or snap photos at the Rocky Steps.

One potential consideration is the reviewed inconsistency—some travelers noted that the guide’s commentary can vary in loudness or focus. Also, since the tour is about an hour and a half long, it’s best suited for those with a good sense of what they want to see; if you’re after an in-depth, immersive experience, this might feel a bit brief.

This tour suits first-time visitors eager to get an overview of the city’s highlights without the hassle of city-driving or multiple tickets. It’s also great for families or groups who value flexibility and guided insights on the go.

Key Points

• Flexible sightseeing with hop-on hop-off stops at 27 key locations
• Live commentary enhances understanding of Philadelphia’s history and culture
• Open-air double-decker bus offers excellent city views and photo opportunities
• Guides like John and Ernest add humor and deep knowledge
• Price point at $39 delivers good value, especially considering hotel pickup and drop-off
• Duration of 1.5 hours ideal for a quick overview, but not for in-depth exploration

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins at the Independence Visitor Center at the corner of 6th and Market Streets, a central and easily accessible location. Being right next to Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, it’s a natural starting point. The meeting point is straightforward, and most travelers find the process smooth, with confirmation provided at booking.

The bus fleet consists of comfortable double-decker buses, with most travelers noting their ease of access. The top deck is open-air, which makes for great sightseeing, especially on a clear day. The tour operates seasonally, with hours varying depending on the time of year, so checking in advance is wise.

The Route and Key Stops

The route covers a comprehensive mix of historic sites, cultural institutions, and lively neighborhoods. With 27 stops, you can hop off to explore, then hop back on when ready. Let’s look at some of the standout locations:

• Independence Visitor Center: Your kickoff point, close to most historic sites.
• Betsy Ross House: A charming stop that offers insight into the city’s revolutionary past.
• United States Mint and Ben Franklin’s Grave: For those interested in American currency and the city’s founding father.
• National Constitution Center: An interactive museum worth exploring if you want context on American democracy.
• Reading Terminal Market: A food lover’s paradise, perfect for a snack or lunch break.
• City Hall and Love Park: Iconic Philadelphia landmarks with a great photo opportunity.
• Eastern State Penitentiary: An intriguing historical site known for its unique architecture and history.
• Philadelphia Museum of Art and Rocky Steps: The must-see classic, especially for film fans.
• South Street: Known for its eclectic shops and vibrant vibe.
• Pine Street and Waterfront: For a taste of local neighborhoods and scenic views.

What to Expect at Each Stop

Each stop offers a chance for you to stretch your legs and explore. For example, at the Betsy Ross House, you might enjoy a quick tour of the historic house, while at the Eastern State Penitentiary, you can wander within its spooky corridors—though entrance fees and time for exploration aren’t included in the bus ticket.

The guide’s narration is lively and informative, with reviews praising how knowledgeable and entertaining the guides tend to be. One reviewer, Susan, appreciated how the tour “exposed her to a lot she hadn’t known before,” highlighting the educational value.

The Guides and Commentary

Guides like John and Ernest earn high marks for their humor, knowledge, and engaging storytelling. Several reviews mention that their commentary made different sites come alive, adding context that you might miss from a guidebook alone. However, a few travelers noted that at times, the microphone volume could be inconsistent, so you might have to lean in to hear certain stories.

The Advantages of Living in the Moment

The live commentary is a big plus, as it feels more personable than pre-recorded narration. Plus, since you can hop off at any stop, you can linger at sites that catch your interest—whether for a 10-minute photo break or a full visit.

Price and Value

At $39 per person, this tour offers excellent value for a flexible, guided overview of Philadelphia. Including hotel pickup and drop-off (if you choose that option), it becomes an even more convenient choice, especially for visitors unfamiliar with the city’s layout.

Some reviews mention that the tour length is just right for a quick introduction, but not enough for an in-depth exploration. It’s best suited for first-timers who want to see the highlights without feeling rushed, or for those who prefer a guided overview before returning on their own.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This bus tour works well for first-time visitors seeking an easy, informative way to see Philadelphia’s main attractions. Families and groups who want flexibility and a lively guide will also find it appealing. It’s perfect if you prefer guided commentary over wandering alone, but still want the chance to explore on your own.

If your goal is a comprehensive understanding of Philadelphia’s history or to visit specific museums in depth, you might want to supplement this tour with additional visits. But for a broad overview with flexibility, this tour hits the right notes.

Final Thoughts

In the end, the Hop-On Hop-Off Double Decker Bus Tour is a practical, enjoyable way to get acquainted with Philadelphia. It balances comfort, convenience, and local insights, making it a good choice for travelers who want a quick yet rich introduction to the city’s most famous sites. The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge are often highlighted as key strengths, helping you feel more connected to the city’s story.

While it’s not a deep-dive, it’s a solid starting point, especially if you have limited time or prefer to plan your own visits afterward. For those who appreciate guided tours with flexibility and stellar views, this option offers a straightforward, value-packed experience.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, giving you a good overview of Philadelphia’s highlights.

Can I hop off and on at any stop?
Yes, the tour allows you to get on or off at any of the 27 stops along the route, tailoring your day to your interests.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, which adds to the convenience, especially if you’re staying centrally.

Are the buses comfortable?
Most travelers find the buses comfortable, with open-air top decks providing great views and photo opportunities.

What is the price for this tour?
The standard ticket is $39 per person, offering good value for a guided city overview with flexible routing.

Are there guided commentary?
Yes, a live guide provides commentary, making the experience more engaging and informative.

Can I visit specific attractions afterward?
Absolutely. The hop-on hop-off format lets you disembark at stops like the Barnes Foundation, Eastern State Penitentiary, or the Rocky Steps for more in-depth visits.

What should I consider before booking?
Since reviews mention some variation in guide loudness and commentary focus, be prepared for a lively but sometimes inconsistent narration experience.

What ages is this suitable for?
Most travelers, including families with children, can participate. The tour is designed to be accessible, but check individual sites’ ages and accessibility if traveling with young kids or mobility concerns.

In summary, this hop-on hop-off tour is a practical and lively way to piece together Philadelphia’s story in a single day. Its combination of flexible stops, engaging guides, and scenic views makes it a worthwhile addition to any first-time visit. Whether you’re eager to see the historic sites or just get your bearings, this tour offers a friendly, affordable introduction to Philadelphia.