Philadelphia: Double-Decker Sightseeing Bus Tour

The Philadelphia: Double-Decker Sightseeing Bus Tour offers a lively and practical way to see the city’s top attractions. Priced at $39 per person, this flexible tour allows you to hop on and off at 27 stops across 1 to 3 days. The open-top double-decker buses provide a great vantage point for viewing landmarks like Independence Hall, Ben Franklin’s Grave, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art. The tour includes an onboard guide who shares detailed commentary on the city’s history, culture, and must-visit locations.

This tour is ideal for visitors wanting a rundown combined with the flexibility to explore at their own pace. The frequent departures—every day of the week—make it simple to fit into any schedule. However, it’s worth noting that the buses may be less frequent than every 20 minutes, and in some cases, may be replaced by trolley services depending on passenger numbers. Still, the $39 price point and multilingual audio guides (including Spanish, Portuguese, German, French, Italian, Chinese, and English) make it a good value.

Key Points

• Affordable price of $39 per person for a flexible city tour
• Passes available for 1 to 3 days, with 27 stops across Philadelphia
• Learn about city landmarks like Independence Hall, City Hall, and Love Park with guides onboard
• Hop on and off freely at popular sites such as the Betsy Ross House and Philadelphia Zoo
• Audio guides available in multiple languages, with wheelchair accessibility
• Tour departs from the southwest corner of 6th and Market Streets

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Starting Point at 6th and Market Streets in Philadelphia

The tour begins at the southwest corner of 6th and Market Streets, where you’ll find the Big Bus staff and kiosk. From here, the route covers nearly 30 points of interest, making it easy to plan your day around stops that catch your eye. The courtesy shuttle from airport or city center hotels simplifies logistics for travelers arriving in the city.

This departure point is well marked, and the buses are easily identifiable. Be aware that bus frequency can vary, so planning your day around the every 20-30 minutes schedule is recommended. The flexibility of this start location makes it convenient whether you’re arriving from the airport or staying downtown.

Exploring Philadelphia’s Iconic Landmarks

The tour’s route includes must-see attractions such as Independence Visitor Center, where the journey through Philadelphia’s revolutionary past begins. You’ll pass Betsy Ross House, famous for the flag’s origins, and Ben Franklin’s Grave, offering insights into one of America’s founding fathers.

Additional highlights include the National Constitution Center and Old City, where you can see Christ Church and the Museum of American Jewish History. The Philadelphia Museum of Art is a standout stop, and the Rocky Steps offer a photo opportunity and a chance to retrace the steps of the famous movie scene.

The Philadelphia Zoo, Please Touch Museum, and Memorial Hall in Fairmount Park are also part of the route, providing options for families and those interested in cultural institutions. Each stop offers a glimpse into the city’s diverse attractions, making this tour a well-rounded introduction.

The Experience of Riding a Double-Decker Bus

The open-top bus offers panoramic views of Philadelphia, perfect for photos and sightseeing. The comfortable buses feature audio headsets in multiple languages, allowing travelers to learn about each site while enjoying fresh air and sunshine.

Many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and friendly drivers, with some guides adding humor and entertainment to the narration. The bus interiors are warm and clean, although some comments note scratched windows from tree branches, which doesn’t affect the overall experience.

The bus length and viewing platform make for an engaging ride, especially during the 90-minute loop when you can sit back and relax while soaking in the city’s sights.

The Flexibility of Hop-On, Hop-Off Access

The hop-on, hop-off system is what makes this tour stand out. You can disembark at any stop to explore further and reboard on the next bus. This flexibility enables visitors to spend more time at favorite landmarks like Love Park, Rittenhouse Square, or Faneuil Hall.

Most stops are accessible with buses arriving every 20-30 minutes, though some reviews mention that timing can be less predictable during busy periods or due to construction. Purchasing a multi-day pass is highly recommended for those wanting to maximize their experience, as it allows multiple rides over up to 3 days.

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The Route and Key Stops

The route covers almost 30 locations including City Hall, Franklin Institute, Rodin Museum, and South Street. For history buffs, the Independence Hall and Liberty Bell are highlights where you can hear about the city’s revolutionary roots.

Cultural stops like the Barnes Foundation and Perelman Building of the Philadelphia Museum of Art are included, providing insight into the city’s artistic offerings. The Eastern State Penitentiary, just off the main route, is also a point of interest for those interested in criminal justice history.

Travelers can expect to see Love Park and Rittenhouse Square, known for their vibrant atmospheres, as well as Chinatown, which adds a multicultural flavor to the tour.

The Guides and Commentary

The onboard guides are consistently praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor. Some guides incorporate entertaining stories and humor into their narration, adding personality to the experience. The language options include Spanish, Portuguese, German, French, Italian, Chinese, and English, catering to diverse groups.

The guides’ expertise helps visitors understand the significance of landmarks like City Hall and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Their storytelling style makes the city’s history accessible and engaging without feeling overly technical.

Accessibility and Practical Tips

The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility needs. The courtesy pickup from the airport and city hotels simplifies transfers, especially for those arriving via train or flight.

Given that bus frequency may not be as high as in some cities, planning ahead by booking a multi-day pass is advisable. Keep in mind that buses may be substituted by trolley services depending on passenger numbers or construction, which could slightly alter the experience.

Value and Pricing for Money

At $39 per person, this tour offers good value considering the extensive route, guided commentary, and access to nearly 30 points of interest. The free cancellation policy—up to 24 hours in advance—adds flexibility for travelers with changing plans.

The option to reserve now and pay later allows for flexible planning, making it an attractive option for spontaneous or budget-conscious visitors.

Final Thoughts on the Philadelphia Double-Decker Bus Tour

This $39 hop-on hop-off tour presents a practical way for visitors to see the highlights of Philadelphia with expert guides and flexible scheduling. The many stops and multilingual audio guides make it accessible to international travelers, while the comfort and panoramic views enhance the overall experience.

While bus frequency and route adjustments may occasionally cause minor inconvenience, the value for money and comprehensive coverage make this tour a solid choice for those wanting an overview combined with the freedom to explore at their own pace. It’s especially suitable for first-time visitors or those with limited time to see the city’s rich historical and cultural sites.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $39 per person.

How long can I use the ticket?
Tickets are valid for 1 to 3 days, with frequent departures to fit your schedule.

Where does the tour start?
It departs from the southwest corner of 6th and Market Streets in downtown Philadelphia.

Are the buses accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

Can I get off at any stop and rejoin later?
Absolutely, the hop-on, hop-off system allows you to disembark at any stop and reboard when ready.

Are guides available in multiple languages?
Yes, audio guides are offered in Spanish, Portuguese, German, French, Italian, Chinese, and English.

What landmarks will I see?
Major sites include Independence Hall, City Hall, Love Park, Philadelphia Museum of Art, Betsy Ross House, Franklin’s Grave, and several museums and parks.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothing, a hat or sunscreen for the open-top bus, and water. The tour is outdoor, so dress appropriately.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour’s family-friendly stops and entertaining guides make it suitable for children and adults alike.

Can I reserve the tour in advance?
Yes, reservations can be made with optional pay later, and full refunds are available if canceled 24 hours in advance.

Does the tour include food or drinks?
No, but it passes by popular food markets and neighborhoods like Reading Terminal Market and Chinatown where you can find local eats.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby