City Sightseeing Philadelphia HOHO Bus Tour + Bookable Extras

Travelers dreaming of exploring Philadelphia without the hassle of navigating on their own will find this hop-on hop-off (HOHO) bus tour a convenient option. Offering a flexible way to see the city’s most famous landmarks, this tour combines open-air double-decker fun with insightful commentary. We’ve looked into the details, reviews, and practical aspects to help you decide if it’s worth your time and money.

Two things we particularly like about this experience are the flexibility it offers—being able to hop off and explore at your own pace—and the friendly, knowledgeable guides who bring the city’s stories to life. On the flip side, a possible drawback is the inconsistency some travelers have experienced, especially when attractions are closed unexpectedly or buses run into delays.

This tour is best suited for those who want a broad overview of Philadelphia’s highlights, enjoy spontaneous exploration, and appreciate guided commentary. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for a quick glimpse, this service offers a straightforward way to get your bearings.

Key Points

• Flexible hop-on hop-off model allows customization of your itinerary.
• Multiple stops feature some of Philadelphia’s top attractions, from the Liberty Bell to the Franklin Institute.
• Live guide commentary adds a personable touch, making the experience more engaging.
• Price is reasonable at $39 per person, with options for 1-, 2-, or 3-day passes.
• Buses run approximately every 45 minutes during operating hours, with shorter routes of 30 minutes.
• The tour includes free headphones, a booklet with discounts, and a map—helping you plan your visits.
• Some reviews mention that attractions may be closed on certain days, so check ahead.
• The experience is accessible via mobile ticket, with a redeemable location at 21 South 5th Street.
• Not included: hotel transfers, gratuities, or food, so plan accordingly.

Introduction: What’s in Store?

If you’re considering a quick, flexible way to get to know Philadelphia, the City Sightseeing HOHO Bus Tour could be appealing. With multiple routes and stops, you can tailor your day to include the sites that interest you most. The open-top double-decker bus offers great views and a chance to see the city from a relaxed, comfortable vantage point.

Two things we especially appreciate about this tour are the ability to hop on and off at your leisure and the guides’ lively, informative narration. These elements combine to turn a simple bus ride into an engaging experience. However, it’s worth noting that some stops might be temporarily closed or affected by construction, which could impact your plans.

This tour is perfect for visitors who want a broad overview of Philadelphia without the commitment of a full-day walking tour or the expense of private guides. It’s also suited for travelers with limited time or those who prefer a more relaxed, observation-based experience.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Stops

This tour covers a wide array of attractions, from iconic landmarks to cultural institutions, and offers a chance to see the city’s neighborhoods and scenic parks as well.

Starting Point: Philadelphia Bourse and Betsy Ross House

Your journey begins near the historic Philadelphia Bourse, an impressive early 20th-century building. From here, you can disembark at the Betsy Ross House, where you’ll find the story of the woman credited with sewing the first American flag. Many reviews appreciate the opportunity to explore at their own pace, with one user noting, “We had ample time to explore Liberty Hall after getting off at stop one.”

Main Attractions: Constitution Center, Chinatown, and Reading Terminal Market

Next, the National Constitution Center offers an engaging look at the founding documents, while a stroll through Chinatown introduces a vibrant cultural neighborhood. The Reading Terminal Market is a foodie paradise, perfect for sampling local delicacies or grabbing a quick snack. Travelers have commented positively on the guides’ stories—adding historical context that makes each stop more meaningful.

Parks, Museums, and Historic Sites

The tour continues to JFK Plaza (Love Park), a well-loved spot for photos, and the stunning Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul. Both are easily accessible by bus, and many travelers enjoy the opportunity to get off and explore these sites in person.

You’ll find stops at the Rodin Museum, the Eastern State Penitentiary, and the Franklin Institute—each offering a different slice of Philadelphia’s cultural and historical fabric. Several reviews highlight the guides’ storytelling abilities: “Great stories about the social histories of each point of the tour,” one reviewer shared.

Unique and Offbeat Stops: Mütter Museum, Mother Bethel Church, and the Korean War Memorial

For something a bit different, the Mütter Museum provides fascinating, if slightly macabre, medical exhibits, while the Mother Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church offers insight into Philadelphia’s African-American history. The Korean War Memorial Park pays tribute to veterans, adding depth to your understanding of the city’s diverse history.

Scenic Overlooks and Downtown Vibe

The One Liberty Observation Deck offers panoramic city views, ideal for snapping memorable photos. The Avenue of the Arts showcases Philadelphia’s creative side with theaters, galleries, and street performers. Many reviews praise the opportunity to disembark here and soak in the city’s lively arts scene.

Final Stops and Return: Penn’s Landing and the Museum of the American Revolution

Your tour concludes near the waterfront at Penn’s Landing, a lively area for strolling or dining. The Museum of the American Revolution adds a final historical note, rounding out a comprehensive tour of Philadelphia’s key sites.

The Experience: What You Can Expect

Transport and Duration: The bus is an open-top double-decker, comfortable and perfect for sightseeing in good weather. Each route lasts about 30 to 60 minutes, with buses arriving roughly every 45 minutes. Being flexible means you might spend extra time at your favorite stops or hop back on when the next bus arrives.

Guides and Commentary: Many travelers praised the live narration, calling the guides informed and entertaining. One reviewer shared, “The guide gave us great information about each stop and many sights in between,” highlighting how this adds value beyond just riding the bus.

Price and Value: At $39 per person, this tour offers reasonable access to the city’s highlights, especially with the added perk of a multi-day pass—allowing you to spread out your sightseeing over several days if desired. The inclusion of free headphones and a booklet with discounts enhances the experience.

Flexibility and Convenience: The hop-on hop-off format allows travelers to create their own itinerary. Instead of rushing through sights, you can stay longer at favorites or skip those that don’t catch your interest. This flexibility is often a major plus, as one traveler remarked, “Good sightseeing of the important places in Phila, with commentary by the guides.”

Potential Drawbacks: Several reviews mention that some attractions were closed during their visit, which can be disappointing. It’s advisable to check ahead if specific sites are open, especially during off-peak times or holidays. Also, delays or bus scheduling issues have been noted, so downloading the app or checking the real-time bus tracker can help avoid long waits.

Accessibility and Extras: The tour accepts mobile and printed vouchers, with the main redemption point at 21 South 5th Street. The service is near public transportation, making it easy to reach without a car. While gratuities are not included, many guides are praised for their engaging storytelling, making tipping well-deserved.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour appeals most to first-time visitors wanting a broad overview without the hassle of navigating on foot or by car. It’s perfect for families, seniors, or anyone who prefers a relaxed pace. If you’re keen on learning from guides while having the freedom to explore at your own speed, this setup suits you.

Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the value, especially with multi-day passes and included discounts. However, those seeking in-depth, specific guided tours of particular neighborhoods or museums should consider supplemental options.

Weather-dependent travelers should keep an eye on forecasts, as the open-top buses are less comfortable in rain or cold. During the warmer months, it’s a fantastic way to stay outdoors and enjoy the city’s sights.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

For a practical, economical way to see Philadelphia, this hop-on hop-off bus service offers a solid balance of convenience, flexibility, and insightful commentary. You’ll love the views from the double-decker, the opportunity to customize your itinerary, and the friendly guides who share stories that bring the city’s history alive.

If you value authentic experiences and learning from local guides, this tour’s lively narration and multiple stops will enhance your understanding of Philadelphia’s diverse neighborhoods and landmarks. The ability to hop off at places like the Liberty Bell or the Franklin Institute makes it easy to customize your visit.

On the downside, the experience can be affected by closures or delays, so staying flexible and checking ahead on opening hours is wise. Also, for those seeking deep, specialized tours or private guides, this isn’t the right fit.

In summary, this tour is an excellent choice for those who want a cost-effective, flexible overview of Philadelphia with friendly guides and scenic views. It’s ideal for first-timers or anyone wanting a relaxed, informative introduction to a city packed with history and culture.

FAQ: Practical Questions Answered

How much does the tour cost?
It’s priced at $39 per person, with options for 1-, 2-, or 3-day passes, making it a flexible and affordable way to explore the city.

Can I hop on and off at any stop?
Yes, the tour is designed for unlimited hop-on hop-off access during your selected duration, giving you the freedom to explore specific sites or stay onboard for the full route.

What attractions are included?
Stops include major sights like the Liberty Bell, Betsy Ross House, National Constitution Center, Philadelphia Zoo, Franklin Institute, and many more.

Are the guides live or recorded?
Most reviews mention lively, knowledgeable live guides who tell stories and provide context for the sights, greatly enhancing the experience.

Do I need to print my voucher?
No, mobile tickets are accepted, but you must redeem your voucher at 21 South 5th Street.

What if some attractions are closed?
Some travelers have found that certain sites may be closed, so it’s best to check opening hours in advance. The flexibility of the tour helps you adapt if needed.

Is the bus accessible?
Yes, the tour is near public transportation and welcomes service animals.

What are the operating hours?
The Red Route runs from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm every 45 minutes, with shorter Blue Route options of 30 minutes. Seasonal adjustments or delays can occur, so plan accordingly.

Can I combine this tour with other activities?
Absolutely. You can use the hop-on hop-off as a base and add on walking tours, museum visits, or dining experiences nearby.

To sum it up, the City Sightseeing Philadelphia HOHO Bus Tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to get acquainted with Philadelphia. With friendly guides, flexible stops, and a good selection of key sights, it’s a reliable choice—especially for those seeking an overview with the option to explore at their own pace. Just remember to verify attraction hours beforehand and enjoy discovering the city’s diverse charm from the comfort of a double-decker bus.