Mikä on suosittua
Philadelphiassa
Mikä on suosittua
Philadelphiassa
Mikä on suosittua
Philadelphiassa
Philadelphia pairs revolutionary history with serious culture and a big appetite. Stand by the Liberty Bell, explore Independence Hall, then climb the Philadelphia Museum of Art steps before tasting your way through Reading Terminal Market and nearby food tours with tickadoo tickets.
From Old City to Rittenhouse Square and the waterfront, you can bundle attractions with a Philadelphia All-Inclusive Pass, Explorer Pass or CityPASS, use hop-on hop-off bus tours, and start planning smart, flexible days in Philadelphia now.
Kaikki Philadelphian liput
Lataa lisää tapahtumia
Lataa lisää tapahtumia
Lataa lisää tapahtumia
Philadelphia quick facts: airports, stations and maps
Plan your days with these essential details for Philadelphia Pennsylvania. Use them to plot museum time, market stops and efficient links between attractions.
State/Region/Country: Philadelphia sits in southeastern Pennsylvania, in the Northeastern United States, along the Delaware River between New York City and Washington DC.
Airports: Philadelphia International Airport PHL is the primary gateway, with regional options at Trenton-Mercer Airport TTN and Lehigh Valley International Airport ABE within driving distance.
Main stations/hubs: William H. Gray III 30th Street Station handles Amtrak, SEPTA Regional Rail and NJ Transit. Jefferson Station and Suburban Station serve many downtown commuter lines.
Public transport: SEPTA runs the Market-Frankford Line MFL, Broad Street Line BSL, Norristown High Speed Line, Regional Rail lines and city bus and trolley routes.
Paying fares: SEPTA Key Card is the reloadable smart card, with discounted transfers and daily and weekly fare capping on most local rides.
Coordinates: Center City Philadelphia is around 39.9526° N latitude, 75.1652° W longitude.
Popular neighbourhoods: Old City, Society Hill, Rittenhouse Square, Center City, University City, Fishtown, Northern Liberties and South Philadelphia draw most visitors.
Additional context: The city has big league sports venues at the South Philadelphia Sports Complex and riverside paths along the Schuylkill and Delaware for walking and biking.
SEPTA continues to expand contactless payments, so check current details before you load your SEPTA Key Card or plan airport connections into Center City.
Top things to do in Philadelphia
Start with Philadelphia icons, then add food markets, neighbourhood walks and night tours with tickadoo to see different sides of the city.
Liberty Bell tickets and Independence Hall tours: Spend a morning inside Independence National Historical Park, pairing timed Independence Hall tickets with a visit to the Liberty Bell for essential American history.
Philadelphia Museum of Art tickets: Climb the famous Rocky Steps, then explore galleries filled with European, American and Asian art, or visit the nearby Barnes Foundation for its renowned collection.
Reading Terminal Market tour: Join a guided Reading Terminal Market tour with tickadoo to sample Pennsylvania Dutch specialties, local produce and classic sandwiches while learning the market’s 19th century origins.
Historic Old City food tour: Combine tastings with cobblestone streets, churches and hidden courtyards as a guide explains Philadelphia’s role in the American Revolution between bites.
Eastern State Penitentiary Historic Site: Walk through eerie cellblocks at this former prison, included with some Philadelphia attraction passes, and learn how it reshaped modern incarceration.
The Franklin Institute and Academy of Natural Sciences: Balance history with hands-on science and natural history exhibits that work well for families and curious adults.
Adventure Aquarium tickets and Philadelphia Zoo tickets: Use bundled passes to visit the Adventure Aquarium across the river and the historic Philadelphia Zoo for a full animal themed day.
One Liberty Observation Deck: Ride up for panoramic skyline views that help you orient neighborhoods from the Delaware River to University City.
Rittenhouse Square and Center City strolls: Relax on the lawns, then explore surrounding streets filled with restaurants, shops and cafes perfect between attractions.
Dark Philly Guided Night Tour: In the evening, join this adults only tour from near the Liberty Bell to hear stories about the city’s darker past and famous figures.
Tickets and city passes in Philadelphia
Booking tickets and passes before you arrive cuts queues, locks in prices and makes it easier to fit more Philadelphia attractions into each day.
Philadelphia All-Inclusive Pass by Go City: This pass covers a wide selection of top sights, including hop-on hop-off bus tours, the Franklin Institute and more. Choose your number of days and scan at included attractions.
Philadelphia Explorer Pass: Pick 3, 4, 5 or 7 attractions from a curated list such as Eastern State Penitentiary, the Philadelphia Zoo or the Museum of the American Revolution to build a flexible itinerary.
Philadelphia CityPASS: Save on bundles of 3, 4 or 5 major attractions, including Adventure Aquarium, the Franklin Institute and hop-on hop-off bus tours, with separate adult and child pricing.
Individual attraction tickets: For Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, check for required timed entry reservations, especially in peak season. Museums like the Barnes Foundation and Museum of the American Revolution also benefit from advance booking.
Specialty food and night tours: Historic Old City food tours, Reading Terminal Market tours and the Dark Philly Guided Night Tour often sell out on weekends, so secure spots a few days ahead.
If you plan to visit 2 or more paid Philadelphia attractions per day, a multi-attraction pass can offer strong value, particularly when you add hop-on hop-off bus transport and family friendly museums.
Getting around Philadelphia by transit, bus and on foot
Philadelphia is compact enough to walk many central sights, with SEPTA transit, hop-on hop-off buses and Regional Rail helping you reach outlying neighborhoods and the airport.
Subway and elevated lines: Use SEPTA’s Market-Frankford Line MFL for east-west travel between Frankford Transportation Center and 69th Street Transportation Center, and the Broad Street Line BSL for north-south trips through City Hall and sports venues.
SEPTA Key Card fares: Buy or reload a SEPTA Key Card at major stations for tap on payment, fare discounts and daily or weekly caps that keep frequent rides affordable.
Airport to Center City from PHL: SEPTA Airport Line Regional Rail runs from all PHL terminals to 30th Street Station, Suburban Station and Jefferson Station roughly every 30 minutes, usually in under 30 minutes of travel time.
Hop-on hop-off bus tours: Big Bus Company and Philadelphia Trolley Works operate hop-on hop-off circuits that stop at the Liberty Bell, Philadelphia Museum of Art, Reading Terminal Market and more, handy for first time visitors.
Buses, trolleys and Regional Rail: City bus routes and surface trolleys fill gaps between subway lines, while Regional Rail connects Center City to suburbs and nearby towns.
Rideshare, taxis and biking: Taxis and rideshare work well late at night or to reach South Philadelphia and Fishtown restaurants. Dedicated bike lanes and river trails offer scenic routes when weather cooperates.
Timing and traffic tips: Streets around the South Philadelphia Sports Complex and I-95 can clog before and after games, so allow extra time or choose SEPTA for big events.
For many visitors, pairing SEPTA with a hop-on hop-off ticket keeps most Philadelphia attractions within 30 minutes, without needing to rent a car.
When is the best time to visit Philadelphia?
Philadelphia is most comfortable in spring and fall, roughly April to early June and late September to October, when temperatures sit around 55 to 75°F and humidity is manageable. Summer can be hot and crowded, especially around July 4 events near Independence Hall. Winters are colder with occasional snow, but museums like the Franklin Institute and the Barnes Foundation feel quieter.
How many days do you need in Philadelphia?
With two days in Philadelphia you can cover the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the Museum of the American Revolution, a Reading Terminal Market tour and an evening Dark Philly Guided Night Tour. Add a third or fourth day for the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Barnes Foundation, Eastern State Penitentiary and a hop-on hop-off loop. With five days, include the Philadelphia Zoo or Adventure Aquarium.
Is the Philadelphia All-Inclusive Pass worth it?
The Philadelphia All-Inclusive Pass by Go City is worthwhile if you plan to visit several major attractions daily, such as the Franklin Institute, Adventure Aquarium, hop-on hop-off bus tours and Eastern State Penitentiary. If you prefer a slower pace with just one paid sight most days, an Explorer Pass or individual tickets bought through tickadoo can be better value.
What are the must-see attractions in Philadelphia?
Top Philadelphia essentials include the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall in Independence National Historical Park, the Museum of the American Revolution, and a Reading Terminal Market tour for food and stories. Add the Philadelphia Museum of Art and its Rocky Steps, Eastern State Penitentiary Historic Site, the Franklin Institute, the Barnes Foundation and One Liberty Observation Deck for a strong first visit.
Do I need to book Independence Hall tickets in advance in Philadelphia?
From March through December you should secure timed Independence Hall tickets in advance because daily allocations are limited and mornings near Independence Visitor Center fill quickly. Same day tickets are possible in quieter months, but booking through official channels or pairing with a Philadelphia attraction pass avoids queues and gives you a fixed time around which to plan nearby sights.
How do I get from PHL to downtown Philadelphia?
From Philadelphia International Airport PHL, the easiest budget option is SEPTA’s Airport Line Regional Rail from every terminal to Jefferson Station, Suburban Station and 30th Street Station in about 25 minutes. Local buses serve nearby neighborhoods. Metered taxis and rideshare head straight to Center City hotels, while some visitors combine rideshare to 30th Street Station with Regional Rail for outlying suburbs.
Where should I stay in Philadelphia?
Center City and Rittenhouse Square suit first timers who want walkable access to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Reading Terminal Market and many restaurants. Old City and Society Hill place you closest to Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. University City is handy for trains at 30th Street Station, while Fishtown and Northern Liberties appeal for nightlife and creative dining.
Can I get around Philadelphia without a car?
Car free travel in Philadelphia works well for most visitors. Many major attractions, including the Liberty Bell, Reading Terminal Market and Rittenhouse Square, sit within a compact Center City grid. SEPTA’s Market-Frankford Line, Broad Street Line, trolleys and buses fill gaps, and hop-on hop-off bus tours with tickadoo tickets create easy sightseeing loops without parking hassles.
Philadelphia quick facts: airports, stations and maps
Plan your days with these essential details for Philadelphia Pennsylvania. Use them to plot museum time, market stops and efficient links between attractions.
State/Region/Country: Philadelphia sits in southeastern Pennsylvania, in the Northeastern United States, along the Delaware River between New York City and Washington DC.
Airports: Philadelphia International Airport PHL is the primary gateway, with regional options at Trenton-Mercer Airport TTN and Lehigh Valley International Airport ABE within driving distance.
Main stations/hubs: William H. Gray III 30th Street Station handles Amtrak, SEPTA Regional Rail and NJ Transit. Jefferson Station and Suburban Station serve many downtown commuter lines.
Public transport: SEPTA runs the Market-Frankford Line MFL, Broad Street Line BSL, Norristown High Speed Line, Regional Rail lines and city bus and trolley routes.
Paying fares: SEPTA Key Card is the reloadable smart card, with discounted transfers and daily and weekly fare capping on most local rides.
Coordinates: Center City Philadelphia is around 39.9526° N latitude, 75.1652° W longitude.
Popular neighbourhoods: Old City, Society Hill, Rittenhouse Square, Center City, University City, Fishtown, Northern Liberties and South Philadelphia draw most visitors.
Additional context: The city has big league sports venues at the South Philadelphia Sports Complex and riverside paths along the Schuylkill and Delaware for walking and biking.
SEPTA continues to expand contactless payments, so check current details before you load your SEPTA Key Card or plan airport connections into Center City.
Top things to do in Philadelphia
Start with Philadelphia icons, then add food markets, neighbourhood walks and night tours with tickadoo to see different sides of the city.
Liberty Bell tickets and Independence Hall tours: Spend a morning inside Independence National Historical Park, pairing timed Independence Hall tickets with a visit to the Liberty Bell for essential American history.
Philadelphia Museum of Art tickets: Climb the famous Rocky Steps, then explore galleries filled with European, American and Asian art, or visit the nearby Barnes Foundation for its renowned collection.
Reading Terminal Market tour: Join a guided Reading Terminal Market tour with tickadoo to sample Pennsylvania Dutch specialties, local produce and classic sandwiches while learning the market’s 19th century origins.
Historic Old City food tour: Combine tastings with cobblestone streets, churches and hidden courtyards as a guide explains Philadelphia’s role in the American Revolution between bites.
Eastern State Penitentiary Historic Site: Walk through eerie cellblocks at this former prison, included with some Philadelphia attraction passes, and learn how it reshaped modern incarceration.
The Franklin Institute and Academy of Natural Sciences: Balance history with hands-on science and natural history exhibits that work well for families and curious adults.
Adventure Aquarium tickets and Philadelphia Zoo tickets: Use bundled passes to visit the Adventure Aquarium across the river and the historic Philadelphia Zoo for a full animal themed day.
One Liberty Observation Deck: Ride up for panoramic skyline views that help you orient neighborhoods from the Delaware River to University City.
Rittenhouse Square and Center City strolls: Relax on the lawns, then explore surrounding streets filled with restaurants, shops and cafes perfect between attractions.
Dark Philly Guided Night Tour: In the evening, join this adults only tour from near the Liberty Bell to hear stories about the city’s darker past and famous figures.
Tickets and city passes in Philadelphia
Booking tickets and passes before you arrive cuts queues, locks in prices and makes it easier to fit more Philadelphia attractions into each day.
Philadelphia All-Inclusive Pass by Go City: This pass covers a wide selection of top sights, including hop-on hop-off bus tours, the Franklin Institute and more. Choose your number of days and scan at included attractions.
Philadelphia Explorer Pass: Pick 3, 4, 5 or 7 attractions from a curated list such as Eastern State Penitentiary, the Philadelphia Zoo or the Museum of the American Revolution to build a flexible itinerary.
Philadelphia CityPASS: Save on bundles of 3, 4 or 5 major attractions, including Adventure Aquarium, the Franklin Institute and hop-on hop-off bus tours, with separate adult and child pricing.
Individual attraction tickets: For Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, check for required timed entry reservations, especially in peak season. Museums like the Barnes Foundation and Museum of the American Revolution also benefit from advance booking.
Specialty food and night tours: Historic Old City food tours, Reading Terminal Market tours and the Dark Philly Guided Night Tour often sell out on weekends, so secure spots a few days ahead.
If you plan to visit 2 or more paid Philadelphia attractions per day, a multi-attraction pass can offer strong value, particularly when you add hop-on hop-off bus transport and family friendly museums.
Getting around Philadelphia by transit, bus and on foot
Philadelphia is compact enough to walk many central sights, with SEPTA transit, hop-on hop-off buses and Regional Rail helping you reach outlying neighborhoods and the airport.
Subway and elevated lines: Use SEPTA’s Market-Frankford Line MFL for east-west travel between Frankford Transportation Center and 69th Street Transportation Center, and the Broad Street Line BSL for north-south trips through City Hall and sports venues.
SEPTA Key Card fares: Buy or reload a SEPTA Key Card at major stations for tap on payment, fare discounts and daily or weekly caps that keep frequent rides affordable.
Airport to Center City from PHL: SEPTA Airport Line Regional Rail runs from all PHL terminals to 30th Street Station, Suburban Station and Jefferson Station roughly every 30 minutes, usually in under 30 minutes of travel time.
Hop-on hop-off bus tours: Big Bus Company and Philadelphia Trolley Works operate hop-on hop-off circuits that stop at the Liberty Bell, Philadelphia Museum of Art, Reading Terminal Market and more, handy for first time visitors.
Buses, trolleys and Regional Rail: City bus routes and surface trolleys fill gaps between subway lines, while Regional Rail connects Center City to suburbs and nearby towns.
Rideshare, taxis and biking: Taxis and rideshare work well late at night or to reach South Philadelphia and Fishtown restaurants. Dedicated bike lanes and river trails offer scenic routes when weather cooperates.
Timing and traffic tips: Streets around the South Philadelphia Sports Complex and I-95 can clog before and after games, so allow extra time or choose SEPTA for big events.
For many visitors, pairing SEPTA with a hop-on hop-off ticket keeps most Philadelphia attractions within 30 minutes, without needing to rent a car.
When is the best time to visit Philadelphia?
Philadelphia is most comfortable in spring and fall, roughly April to early June and late September to October, when temperatures sit around 55 to 75°F and humidity is manageable. Summer can be hot and crowded, especially around July 4 events near Independence Hall. Winters are colder with occasional snow, but museums like the Franklin Institute and the Barnes Foundation feel quieter.
How many days do you need in Philadelphia?
With two days in Philadelphia you can cover the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the Museum of the American Revolution, a Reading Terminal Market tour and an evening Dark Philly Guided Night Tour. Add a third or fourth day for the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Barnes Foundation, Eastern State Penitentiary and a hop-on hop-off loop. With five days, include the Philadelphia Zoo or Adventure Aquarium.
Is the Philadelphia All-Inclusive Pass worth it?
The Philadelphia All-Inclusive Pass by Go City is worthwhile if you plan to visit several major attractions daily, such as the Franklin Institute, Adventure Aquarium, hop-on hop-off bus tours and Eastern State Penitentiary. If you prefer a slower pace with just one paid sight most days, an Explorer Pass or individual tickets bought through tickadoo can be better value.
What are the must-see attractions in Philadelphia?
Top Philadelphia essentials include the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall in Independence National Historical Park, the Museum of the American Revolution, and a Reading Terminal Market tour for food and stories. Add the Philadelphia Museum of Art and its Rocky Steps, Eastern State Penitentiary Historic Site, the Franklin Institute, the Barnes Foundation and One Liberty Observation Deck for a strong first visit.
Do I need to book Independence Hall tickets in advance in Philadelphia?
From March through December you should secure timed Independence Hall tickets in advance because daily allocations are limited and mornings near Independence Visitor Center fill quickly. Same day tickets are possible in quieter months, but booking through official channels or pairing with a Philadelphia attraction pass avoids queues and gives you a fixed time around which to plan nearby sights.
How do I get from PHL to downtown Philadelphia?
From Philadelphia International Airport PHL, the easiest budget option is SEPTA’s Airport Line Regional Rail from every terminal to Jefferson Station, Suburban Station and 30th Street Station in about 25 minutes. Local buses serve nearby neighborhoods. Metered taxis and rideshare head straight to Center City hotels, while some visitors combine rideshare to 30th Street Station with Regional Rail for outlying suburbs.
Where should I stay in Philadelphia?
Center City and Rittenhouse Square suit first timers who want walkable access to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Reading Terminal Market and many restaurants. Old City and Society Hill place you closest to Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. University City is handy for trains at 30th Street Station, while Fishtown and Northern Liberties appeal for nightlife and creative dining.
Can I get around Philadelphia without a car?
Car free travel in Philadelphia works well for most visitors. Many major attractions, including the Liberty Bell, Reading Terminal Market and Rittenhouse Square, sit within a compact Center City grid. SEPTA’s Market-Frankford Line, Broad Street Line, trolleys and buses fill gaps, and hop-on hop-off bus tours with tickadoo tickets create easy sightseeing loops without parking hassles.
Philadelphia quick facts: airports, stations and maps
Plan your days with these essential details for Philadelphia Pennsylvania. Use them to plot museum time, market stops and efficient links between attractions.
State/Region/Country: Philadelphia sits in southeastern Pennsylvania, in the Northeastern United States, along the Delaware River between New York City and Washington DC.
Airports: Philadelphia International Airport PHL is the primary gateway, with regional options at Trenton-Mercer Airport TTN and Lehigh Valley International Airport ABE within driving distance.
Main stations/hubs: William H. Gray III 30th Street Station handles Amtrak, SEPTA Regional Rail and NJ Transit. Jefferson Station and Suburban Station serve many downtown commuter lines.
Public transport: SEPTA runs the Market-Frankford Line MFL, Broad Street Line BSL, Norristown High Speed Line, Regional Rail lines and city bus and trolley routes.
Paying fares: SEPTA Key Card is the reloadable smart card, with discounted transfers and daily and weekly fare capping on most local rides.
Coordinates: Center City Philadelphia is around 39.9526° N latitude, 75.1652° W longitude.
Popular neighbourhoods: Old City, Society Hill, Rittenhouse Square, Center City, University City, Fishtown, Northern Liberties and South Philadelphia draw most visitors.
Additional context: The city has big league sports venues at the South Philadelphia Sports Complex and riverside paths along the Schuylkill and Delaware for walking and biking.
SEPTA continues to expand contactless payments, so check current details before you load your SEPTA Key Card or plan airport connections into Center City.
Top things to do in Philadelphia
Start with Philadelphia icons, then add food markets, neighbourhood walks and night tours with tickadoo to see different sides of the city.
Liberty Bell tickets and Independence Hall tours: Spend a morning inside Independence National Historical Park, pairing timed Independence Hall tickets with a visit to the Liberty Bell for essential American history.
Philadelphia Museum of Art tickets: Climb the famous Rocky Steps, then explore galleries filled with European, American and Asian art, or visit the nearby Barnes Foundation for its renowned collection.
Reading Terminal Market tour: Join a guided Reading Terminal Market tour with tickadoo to sample Pennsylvania Dutch specialties, local produce and classic sandwiches while learning the market’s 19th century origins.
Historic Old City food tour: Combine tastings with cobblestone streets, churches and hidden courtyards as a guide explains Philadelphia’s role in the American Revolution between bites.
Eastern State Penitentiary Historic Site: Walk through eerie cellblocks at this former prison, included with some Philadelphia attraction passes, and learn how it reshaped modern incarceration.
The Franklin Institute and Academy of Natural Sciences: Balance history with hands-on science and natural history exhibits that work well for families and curious adults.
Adventure Aquarium tickets and Philadelphia Zoo tickets: Use bundled passes to visit the Adventure Aquarium across the river and the historic Philadelphia Zoo for a full animal themed day.
One Liberty Observation Deck: Ride up for panoramic skyline views that help you orient neighborhoods from the Delaware River to University City.
Rittenhouse Square and Center City strolls: Relax on the lawns, then explore surrounding streets filled with restaurants, shops and cafes perfect between attractions.
Dark Philly Guided Night Tour: In the evening, join this adults only tour from near the Liberty Bell to hear stories about the city’s darker past and famous figures.
Tickets and city passes in Philadelphia
Booking tickets and passes before you arrive cuts queues, locks in prices and makes it easier to fit more Philadelphia attractions into each day.
Philadelphia All-Inclusive Pass by Go City: This pass covers a wide selection of top sights, including hop-on hop-off bus tours, the Franklin Institute and more. Choose your number of days and scan at included attractions.
Philadelphia Explorer Pass: Pick 3, 4, 5 or 7 attractions from a curated list such as Eastern State Penitentiary, the Philadelphia Zoo or the Museum of the American Revolution to build a flexible itinerary.
Philadelphia CityPASS: Save on bundles of 3, 4 or 5 major attractions, including Adventure Aquarium, the Franklin Institute and hop-on hop-off bus tours, with separate adult and child pricing.
Individual attraction tickets: For Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, check for required timed entry reservations, especially in peak season. Museums like the Barnes Foundation and Museum of the American Revolution also benefit from advance booking.
Specialty food and night tours: Historic Old City food tours, Reading Terminal Market tours and the Dark Philly Guided Night Tour often sell out on weekends, so secure spots a few days ahead.
If you plan to visit 2 or more paid Philadelphia attractions per day, a multi-attraction pass can offer strong value, particularly when you add hop-on hop-off bus transport and family friendly museums.
Getting around Philadelphia by transit, bus and on foot
Philadelphia is compact enough to walk many central sights, with SEPTA transit, hop-on hop-off buses and Regional Rail helping you reach outlying neighborhoods and the airport.
Subway and elevated lines: Use SEPTA’s Market-Frankford Line MFL for east-west travel between Frankford Transportation Center and 69th Street Transportation Center, and the Broad Street Line BSL for north-south trips through City Hall and sports venues.
SEPTA Key Card fares: Buy or reload a SEPTA Key Card at major stations for tap on payment, fare discounts and daily or weekly caps that keep frequent rides affordable.
Airport to Center City from PHL: SEPTA Airport Line Regional Rail runs from all PHL terminals to 30th Street Station, Suburban Station and Jefferson Station roughly every 30 minutes, usually in under 30 minutes of travel time.
Hop-on hop-off bus tours: Big Bus Company and Philadelphia Trolley Works operate hop-on hop-off circuits that stop at the Liberty Bell, Philadelphia Museum of Art, Reading Terminal Market and more, handy for first time visitors.
Buses, trolleys and Regional Rail: City bus routes and surface trolleys fill gaps between subway lines, while Regional Rail connects Center City to suburbs and nearby towns.
Rideshare, taxis and biking: Taxis and rideshare work well late at night or to reach South Philadelphia and Fishtown restaurants. Dedicated bike lanes and river trails offer scenic routes when weather cooperates.
Timing and traffic tips: Streets around the South Philadelphia Sports Complex and I-95 can clog before and after games, so allow extra time or choose SEPTA for big events.
For many visitors, pairing SEPTA with a hop-on hop-off ticket keeps most Philadelphia attractions within 30 minutes, without needing to rent a car.
When is the best time to visit Philadelphia?
Philadelphia is most comfortable in spring and fall, roughly April to early June and late September to October, when temperatures sit around 55 to 75°F and humidity is manageable. Summer can be hot and crowded, especially around July 4 events near Independence Hall. Winters are colder with occasional snow, but museums like the Franklin Institute and the Barnes Foundation feel quieter.
How many days do you need in Philadelphia?
With two days in Philadelphia you can cover the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the Museum of the American Revolution, a Reading Terminal Market tour and an evening Dark Philly Guided Night Tour. Add a third or fourth day for the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Barnes Foundation, Eastern State Penitentiary and a hop-on hop-off loop. With five days, include the Philadelphia Zoo or Adventure Aquarium.
Is the Philadelphia All-Inclusive Pass worth it?
The Philadelphia All-Inclusive Pass by Go City is worthwhile if you plan to visit several major attractions daily, such as the Franklin Institute, Adventure Aquarium, hop-on hop-off bus tours and Eastern State Penitentiary. If you prefer a slower pace with just one paid sight most days, an Explorer Pass or individual tickets bought through tickadoo can be better value.
What are the must-see attractions in Philadelphia?
Top Philadelphia essentials include the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall in Independence National Historical Park, the Museum of the American Revolution, and a Reading Terminal Market tour for food and stories. Add the Philadelphia Museum of Art and its Rocky Steps, Eastern State Penitentiary Historic Site, the Franklin Institute, the Barnes Foundation and One Liberty Observation Deck for a strong first visit.
Do I need to book Independence Hall tickets in advance in Philadelphia?
From March through December you should secure timed Independence Hall tickets in advance because daily allocations are limited and mornings near Independence Visitor Center fill quickly. Same day tickets are possible in quieter months, but booking through official channels or pairing with a Philadelphia attraction pass avoids queues and gives you a fixed time around which to plan nearby sights.
How do I get from PHL to downtown Philadelphia?
From Philadelphia International Airport PHL, the easiest budget option is SEPTA’s Airport Line Regional Rail from every terminal to Jefferson Station, Suburban Station and 30th Street Station in about 25 minutes. Local buses serve nearby neighborhoods. Metered taxis and rideshare head straight to Center City hotels, while some visitors combine rideshare to 30th Street Station with Regional Rail for outlying suburbs.
Where should I stay in Philadelphia?
Center City and Rittenhouse Square suit first timers who want walkable access to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Reading Terminal Market and many restaurants. Old City and Society Hill place you closest to Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. University City is handy for trains at 30th Street Station, while Fishtown and Northern Liberties appeal for nightlife and creative dining.
Can I get around Philadelphia without a car?
Car free travel in Philadelphia works well for most visitors. Many major attractions, including the Liberty Bell, Reading Terminal Market and Rittenhouse Square, sit within a compact Center City grid. SEPTA’s Market-Frankford Line, Broad Street Line, trolleys and buses fill gaps, and hop-on hop-off bus tours with tickadoo tickets create easy sightseeing loops without parking hassles.
Philadelphia quick facts: airports, stations and maps
Plan your days with these essential details for Philadelphia Pennsylvania. Use them to plot museum time, market stops and efficient links between attractions.
State/Region/Country: Philadelphia sits in southeastern Pennsylvania, in the Northeastern United States, along the Delaware River between New York City and Washington DC.
Airports: Philadelphia International Airport PHL is the primary gateway, with regional options at Trenton-Mercer Airport TTN and Lehigh Valley International Airport ABE within driving distance.
Main stations/hubs: William H. Gray III 30th Street Station handles Amtrak, SEPTA Regional Rail and NJ Transit. Jefferson Station and Suburban Station serve many downtown commuter lines.
Public transport: SEPTA runs the Market-Frankford Line MFL, Broad Street Line BSL, Norristown High Speed Line, Regional Rail lines and city bus and trolley routes.
Paying fares: SEPTA Key Card is the reloadable smart card, with discounted transfers and daily and weekly fare capping on most local rides.
Coordinates: Center City Philadelphia is around 39.9526° N latitude, 75.1652° W longitude.
Popular neighbourhoods: Old City, Society Hill, Rittenhouse Square, Center City, University City, Fishtown, Northern Liberties and South Philadelphia draw most visitors.
Additional context: The city has big league sports venues at the South Philadelphia Sports Complex and riverside paths along the Schuylkill and Delaware for walking and biking.
SEPTA continues to expand contactless payments, so check current details before you load your SEPTA Key Card or plan airport connections into Center City.
Top things to do in Philadelphia
Start with Philadelphia icons, then add food markets, neighbourhood walks and night tours with tickadoo to see different sides of the city.
Liberty Bell tickets and Independence Hall tours: Spend a morning inside Independence National Historical Park, pairing timed Independence Hall tickets with a visit to the Liberty Bell for essential American history.
Philadelphia Museum of Art tickets: Climb the famous Rocky Steps, then explore galleries filled with European, American and Asian art, or visit the nearby Barnes Foundation for its renowned collection.
Reading Terminal Market tour: Join a guided Reading Terminal Market tour with tickadoo to sample Pennsylvania Dutch specialties, local produce and classic sandwiches while learning the market’s 19th century origins.
Historic Old City food tour: Combine tastings with cobblestone streets, churches and hidden courtyards as a guide explains Philadelphia’s role in the American Revolution between bites.
Eastern State Penitentiary Historic Site: Walk through eerie cellblocks at this former prison, included with some Philadelphia attraction passes, and learn how it reshaped modern incarceration.
The Franklin Institute and Academy of Natural Sciences: Balance history with hands-on science and natural history exhibits that work well for families and curious adults.
Adventure Aquarium tickets and Philadelphia Zoo tickets: Use bundled passes to visit the Adventure Aquarium across the river and the historic Philadelphia Zoo for a full animal themed day.
One Liberty Observation Deck: Ride up for panoramic skyline views that help you orient neighborhoods from the Delaware River to University City.
Rittenhouse Square and Center City strolls: Relax on the lawns, then explore surrounding streets filled with restaurants, shops and cafes perfect between attractions.
Dark Philly Guided Night Tour: In the evening, join this adults only tour from near the Liberty Bell to hear stories about the city’s darker past and famous figures.
Tickets and city passes in Philadelphia
Booking tickets and passes before you arrive cuts queues, locks in prices and makes it easier to fit more Philadelphia attractions into each day.
Philadelphia All-Inclusive Pass by Go City: This pass covers a wide selection of top sights, including hop-on hop-off bus tours, the Franklin Institute and more. Choose your number of days and scan at included attractions.
Philadelphia Explorer Pass: Pick 3, 4, 5 or 7 attractions from a curated list such as Eastern State Penitentiary, the Philadelphia Zoo or the Museum of the American Revolution to build a flexible itinerary.
Philadelphia CityPASS: Save on bundles of 3, 4 or 5 major attractions, including Adventure Aquarium, the Franklin Institute and hop-on hop-off bus tours, with separate adult and child pricing.
Individual attraction tickets: For Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, check for required timed entry reservations, especially in peak season. Museums like the Barnes Foundation and Museum of the American Revolution also benefit from advance booking.
Specialty food and night tours: Historic Old City food tours, Reading Terminal Market tours and the Dark Philly Guided Night Tour often sell out on weekends, so secure spots a few days ahead.
If you plan to visit 2 or more paid Philadelphia attractions per day, a multi-attraction pass can offer strong value, particularly when you add hop-on hop-off bus transport and family friendly museums.
Getting around Philadelphia by transit, bus and on foot
Philadelphia is compact enough to walk many central sights, with SEPTA transit, hop-on hop-off buses and Regional Rail helping you reach outlying neighborhoods and the airport.
Subway and elevated lines: Use SEPTA’s Market-Frankford Line MFL for east-west travel between Frankford Transportation Center and 69th Street Transportation Center, and the Broad Street Line BSL for north-south trips through City Hall and sports venues.
SEPTA Key Card fares: Buy or reload a SEPTA Key Card at major stations for tap on payment, fare discounts and daily or weekly caps that keep frequent rides affordable.
Airport to Center City from PHL: SEPTA Airport Line Regional Rail runs from all PHL terminals to 30th Street Station, Suburban Station and Jefferson Station roughly every 30 minutes, usually in under 30 minutes of travel time.
Hop-on hop-off bus tours: Big Bus Company and Philadelphia Trolley Works operate hop-on hop-off circuits that stop at the Liberty Bell, Philadelphia Museum of Art, Reading Terminal Market and more, handy for first time visitors.
Buses, trolleys and Regional Rail: City bus routes and surface trolleys fill gaps between subway lines, while Regional Rail connects Center City to suburbs and nearby towns.
Rideshare, taxis and biking: Taxis and rideshare work well late at night or to reach South Philadelphia and Fishtown restaurants. Dedicated bike lanes and river trails offer scenic routes when weather cooperates.
Timing and traffic tips: Streets around the South Philadelphia Sports Complex and I-95 can clog before and after games, so allow extra time or choose SEPTA for big events.
For many visitors, pairing SEPTA with a hop-on hop-off ticket keeps most Philadelphia attractions within 30 minutes, without needing to rent a car.
When is the best time to visit Philadelphia?
Philadelphia is most comfortable in spring and fall, roughly April to early June and late September to October, when temperatures sit around 55 to 75°F and humidity is manageable. Summer can be hot and crowded, especially around July 4 events near Independence Hall. Winters are colder with occasional snow, but museums like the Franklin Institute and the Barnes Foundation feel quieter.
How many days do you need in Philadelphia?
With two days in Philadelphia you can cover the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the Museum of the American Revolution, a Reading Terminal Market tour and an evening Dark Philly Guided Night Tour. Add a third or fourth day for the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Barnes Foundation, Eastern State Penitentiary and a hop-on hop-off loop. With five days, include the Philadelphia Zoo or Adventure Aquarium.
Is the Philadelphia All-Inclusive Pass worth it?
The Philadelphia All-Inclusive Pass by Go City is worthwhile if you plan to visit several major attractions daily, such as the Franklin Institute, Adventure Aquarium, hop-on hop-off bus tours and Eastern State Penitentiary. If you prefer a slower pace with just one paid sight most days, an Explorer Pass or individual tickets bought through tickadoo can be better value.
What are the must-see attractions in Philadelphia?
Top Philadelphia essentials include the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall in Independence National Historical Park, the Museum of the American Revolution, and a Reading Terminal Market tour for food and stories. Add the Philadelphia Museum of Art and its Rocky Steps, Eastern State Penitentiary Historic Site, the Franklin Institute, the Barnes Foundation and One Liberty Observation Deck for a strong first visit.
Do I need to book Independence Hall tickets in advance in Philadelphia?
From March through December you should secure timed Independence Hall tickets in advance because daily allocations are limited and mornings near Independence Visitor Center fill quickly. Same day tickets are possible in quieter months, but booking through official channels or pairing with a Philadelphia attraction pass avoids queues and gives you a fixed time around which to plan nearby sights.
How do I get from PHL to downtown Philadelphia?
From Philadelphia International Airport PHL, the easiest budget option is SEPTA’s Airport Line Regional Rail from every terminal to Jefferson Station, Suburban Station and 30th Street Station in about 25 minutes. Local buses serve nearby neighborhoods. Metered taxis and rideshare head straight to Center City hotels, while some visitors combine rideshare to 30th Street Station with Regional Rail for outlying suburbs.
Where should I stay in Philadelphia?
Center City and Rittenhouse Square suit first timers who want walkable access to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Reading Terminal Market and many restaurants. Old City and Society Hill place you closest to Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. University City is handy for trains at 30th Street Station, while Fishtown and Northern Liberties appeal for nightlife and creative dining.
Can I get around Philadelphia without a car?
Car free travel in Philadelphia works well for most visitors. Many major attractions, including the Liberty Bell, Reading Terminal Market and Rittenhouse Square, sit within a compact Center City grid. SEPTA’s Market-Frankford Line, Broad Street Line, trolleys and buses fill gaps, and hop-on hop-off bus tours with tickadoo tickets create easy sightseeing loops without parking hassles.