Philadelphia: Go City Explorer Pass with 3 to 7 Attractions - Possible Drawbacks

Philadelphia: Go City Explorer Pass with 3 to 7 Attractions

Traveling to Philadelphia? Then the Go City Explorer Pass offers a flexible and wallet-friendly way to see the city’s highlights. For around $64 per person, you gain access to 3, 4, 5, or 7 attractions over a 30-day period, choosing from over 30+ activities and sights. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned visitor, this pass is designed to give you a taste of Philly’s rich culture, historic sites, and family-friendly attractions.

What we particularly like about this option is the cost savings of up to 50% compared to buying individual tickets, and the flexibility to pick attractions as you go—no need to pre-plan your days down to the minute. Another plus is the free digital guide, which makes planning a breeze and ensures you’re well-informed about opening hours and special instructions.

One thing to consider is that attractions and tours are subject to change, so it’s wise to check the most current details in your digital guide. Also, some popular attractions may require reservations, so it’s best to secure those early. This pass suits travelers who value flexible planning, a variety of options, and a good deal—perfect for families, history buffs, and anyone eager to explore without the stress of ticket lines.

Key Points

Philadelphia: Go City Explorer Pass with 3 to 7 Attractions - Key Points

  • Flexibility to choose from 30+ attractions during a 30-day window.
  • Cost savings up to 50% compared to individual tickets.
  • Includes a digital guide with updated attraction info and opening hours.
  • No need to decide upfront — attractions are picked as you go.
  • Activation occurs at your first visit, giving you a full month to explore.
  • Popular attractions like the Franklin Institute, Betsy Ross House, and Adventure Aquarium are included.

The Philadelphia Explorer Pass is an excellent choice if you’re planning a trip with multiple sights in mind. It’s especially appealing if you prefer not to buy tickets separately, which can add up quickly in a city packed with must-see attractions. For instance, a visit to the Franklin Institute or the Philadelphia Museum of Art can be costly individually, but with the pass, these are included, providing significant savings.

You can activate your pass at any included attraction—say, the Betsy Ross House—and then have 30 days to visit the remaining sites at your own pace. This flexibility works perfectly if you want to leave time for spontaneous stops or unexpected discoveries. One reviewer highlighted the value of the flexibility, noting that “we loved the way you could just pick as you go.”

Another aspect that travelers appreciate is the variety of attractions on offer. From the Adventure Aquarium to the Longwood Gardens and even the Philadelphia Zoo, there’s something for all. Whether you’re traveling with kids or exploring solo, this pass offers options that cater to diverse interests.

The pass provides digital entry to your chosen number of attractions. Once activated by your first visit, it remains valid for 30 days—a generous window to explore at your own pace. You’ll receive a digital guide, which details opening hours, attraction descriptions, and reservation instructions.

You can use the same digital pass on your phone or print a copy, making it convenient to carry around. The process is straightforward: show the pass at the gate, and you’re in—no need for separate tickets or additional payments at most locations.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Top Attractions You Might Visit

Philadelphia: Go City Explorer Pass with 3 to 7 Attractions - Top Attractions You Might Visit

Some favorites include:

  • Betsy Ross House: Enjoy the story of the American flag’s creator.
  • Adventure Aquarium: Perfect for family trips, featuring immersive exhibits.
  • Franklin Institute: A science museum packed with hands-on exhibits and giant IMAX screens.
  • Philadelphia Museum of Art: An iconic building with a stunning collection.
  • Eastern State Penitentiary: Tour the historic prison that once housed Al Capone.
  • Philadelphia Zoo: Home to over 1,300 animals in naturalistic habitats.

These selections highlight the diversity available—history, science, art, and fun—all accessible with your pass.

When we consider how this pass works in real life, it’s clear that planning can be minimal, but a little prep helps. For popular sites like the Eastern State Penitentiary or the Zoo, reservations are recommended, so don’t wait until the last minute. Many reviewers mention that the digital guide makes it easy to see opening hours and plan your day.

One traveler shared, “The selection of what you can do with the city pass is great. After I paid, I noticed it said I would receive the passes within 24 hours! I wanted to use them within an hour! I had to contact customer service for a different app that handled the city I was in—ultimately handled quickly but I shouldn’t have had to reach out in the first place.” This highlights the importance of immediately activating your pass once you receive it and checking for any updates.

The stunning views and knowledgeable guides at some attractions add to the value. For example, the Big Bus Philadelphia hop-on-hop-off tour, included in many city passes, allows you to get panoramic views of the city, with guided commentary that helps you get your bearings and understand Philadelphia’s neighborhoods and landmarks.

Possible Drawbacks

Philadelphia: Go City Explorer Pass with 3 to 7 Attractions - Possible Drawbacks

One common concern is the timing—the pass becomes active only after your first visit, so if you’re eager to start sightseeing immediately or have a tight schedule, quick activation is key. Also, attractions are subject to change, so double-check the digital guide before your trip to avoid surprises.

Some visitors pointed out that customer service can take time to respond—a reminder to be patient and proactive if issues arise. Also, the pricing might seem higher upfront compared to individual tickets, but the savings and flexibility generally outweigh this for most travelers.

This pass is ideal for families, history enthusiasts, or groups who plan to visit multiple attractions. It’s especially good if you want to maximize your time and avoid long lines or last-minute ticket purchases. If you prefer a set schedule or only plan to see one or two sites, individual tickets might be better.

It also suits travelers who appreciate detailed digital guides and are comfortable using apps for planning and navigation. And if you’re traveling over a 30-day window, the long validity period allows for a leisurely and unhurried exploration of Philadelphia.

The Go City Explorer Pass for Philadelphia offers a great balance of value, flexibility, and variety. It’s particularly suitable if you’re planning to explore multiple sights and want to avoid the hassle and expense of individual tickets. The included attractions are thoughtfully selected, covering history, science, art, and family fun—ensuring there’s something for all.

We believe this pass is best for travelers who enjoy spontaneous exploration, value cost savings, and want a convenient way to see the city without feeling rushed. It’s perfect if you prefer planning on the go and don’t mind a digital-first approach. And with most attractions being quite accessible, it’s a practical choice for a wide range of visitors.

If you’re looking for a cost-effective, flexible, and comprehensive way to explore Philadelphia, the Go City Explorer Pass deserves serious consideration. Just remember to activate it promptly and check the latest details in your digital guide to make the most of your trip.

Can I buy the pass in advance?
Yes, you can purchase the pass ahead of your trip. It’s valid for 1 year from the purchase date, giving you plenty of time to plan.

How long do I have to use the pass after activating it?
Once you activate your pass at your first attraction, you have 30 days to visit the remaining attractions purchased.

Are there any restrictions on the attractions included?
Most attractions are included with the pass, but some may require reservations—check your digital guide for details.

Can I visit the same attraction more than once?
The pass covers one entry per attraction, so repeat visits would typically require additional tickets unless specified otherwise.

Is the pass suitable for families?
Yes, many attractions like the Aquarium and Zoo are family-friendly, making this pass great for visiting with children.

What if an attraction changes or closes?
All attractions and their hours are subject to change, so check the most recent info in your digital guide before visiting.

Is customer service reliable?
Some reviews note delays in response, so it’s best to activate your pass promptly and plan for some flexibility in case of issues.

You can check availability for your dates here: