Philadelphia: Double-Decker Sightseeing Bus Tour

Philadelphia: Double-Decker Sightseeing Bus Tour Review

If you’re planning a trip to Philadelphia, a hop-on-hop-off double-decker bus tour offers a practical way to see the city’s highlights without the hassle of navigating on your own. With almost 30 stops around town, this tour lets you explore at your own pace, hopping on and off to dive deeper into the sights that catch your eye. Priced at $39 per person and offering flexible 1-3 day options, it’s a budget-friendly way to cover a lot of ground in one go.

What we really like about this experience is the knowledgeable guides, who bring the city’s history and culture to life with engaging commentary. Plus, the open-top bus provides fantastic views of Philadelphia’s historic and modern sights. That said, a potential consideration is that bus frequency isn’t as high as in some larger cities, so waiting times might vary. This tour suits first-time visitors wanting a broad overview or anyone who prefers a relaxed, guided approach to exploring Philly’s many neighborhoods.

Key Points

• Flexibility: Hop on and off at 27 stops around the city, customizing your visit.
• Expert guides: Well-informed guides like Robin, Sebastion, and Mike add personality and insight.
• Great views: The open-top design offers panoramic views of iconic attractions.
• Comprehensive route: Stops include historic sites, museums, parks, and vibrant neighborhoods.
• Value for money: At $39, it delivers a lot of sightseeing for a reasonable price.
• Accessibility: Wheelchair-friendly and offers guided commentary in multiple languages.

An In-Depth Look at the Philadelphia Double-Decker Bus Tour

When considering a city tour, we look for something that combines convenience, insight, and a sense of fun. This Philadelphia hop-on-hop-off bus ticks all those boxes, making it a solid choice for those wanting to see the city without the stress of planning every detail. The tour’s price of $39 per person is quite competitive, especially considering the extensive list of attractions covered and the option to explore for 1 to 3 days.

Starting Point and Practicalities

Your journey begins at the southwest corner of 6th and Market Streets, where you’ll find the Big Bus staff and kiosk. From here, you can hop aboard one of the open-top double-decker buses or trolleys, depending on availability. The buses run frequently throughout the day, with departures every day of the week, making it easy to fit into your schedule. The activity includes audio headsets, so you can listen to the guided narration clearly, even in busy traffic.

One standout feature is the courtesy pick-up service—either from your hotel or the airport—adding to the overall convenience. This makes it particularly attractive for travelers arriving or leaving the city, as well as those who prefer to start their sightseeing without navigating public transport or rideshare options immediately.

Route and Major Stops

The tour’s route covers almost 30 sites, giving you a well-rounded picture of Philadelphia. Here’s a breakdown of some highlights and what you can expect at each:

• Independence Visitor Center & Independence Hall: No trip to Philly is complete without a visit here. You’ll pass the birthplace of American independence and the location where the Declaration of Independence was signed. Reviewers mention the significance of these sites, and some appreciate the opportunity to learn more via the onboard guides.

• Betsy Ross House & Franklin’s Grave: These stops bring history to life, connecting you with the city’s Revolutionary roots.

• City Hall & Love Park: Perfect for snapping photos and enjoying a relaxing break in the city’s heart.

• Philadelphia Museum of Art & Rocky Steps: Standing at the foot of the famous staircase, many travelers like Sylvie’s review praising “Driver Darnell” for his friendly assistance, and the opportunity to reenact the iconic Rocky run.

• Eastern State Penitentiary & the Barnes Foundation: Art lovers and history buffs will appreciate these cultural stops, adding depth to your itinerary.

• Chinatown, Reading Terminal Market & South Street: For foodies and shoppers, these stops offer authentic local flavors and vibrant street scenes.

Throughout the ride, the guides share entertaining stories that resonate with reviews describing them as “very knowledgeable and friendly.” Mike, for example, is highlighted as “informative and humorous,” making the journey more engaging.

The Experience Onboard

Passengers praise the comfortable buses and sound clarity of the guides. One reviewer notes that “earphones are unnecessary” because the speakers are loud enough, which is a small but appreciated detail. The buses are clean and warm, ideal for cooler days, though some mention scratched windows from tree branches—something to be mindful of when considering window views.

A common theme among reviews is the guides’ ability to personalize the experience. Robin and Sebastian are noted for their friendly, knowledgeable approaches, often sharing lesser-known facts that enrich your understanding of the city. Plus, drivers like Darnell are appreciated for their helpfulness, such as delaying departures to allow bathroom breaks—a thoughtful touch.

Frequency & Duration

While the standard tour lasts around 90 minutes, you can extend your exploration by using the multi-day pass, especially since many users found this worthwhile. Some reviews mention taking advantage of the two- or three-day options to revisit favorite stops, like the zoo or museums, at their own pace.

It’s worth noting that some stops, such as 18-21, may be skipped due to construction, which is normal in urban environments. The route is carefully selected to give a rundown, but delays or route adjustments might happen occasionally.

Price & Value

At $39 per person, this tour offers exceptional value. For that price, you gain not just transportation but also insightful commentary from guides, scenic views, and the flexibility to explore areas that interest you most. Several reviews mention how helpful the tour is for planning, with some using it as a starting point to map out their personal walking routes.

Compared to the cost of individual tickets for museums or attractions, this bus tour bundles a broad range of sights into a single, accessible experience. Plus, the opportunity to hop on and off means you can tailor your day—whether that’s spending hours at the Philadelphia Museum of Art or grabbing a bite at Reading Terminal Market.

Accessibility & Flexibility

The tour is wheelchair accessible and offers audio guides in multiple languages, including Spanish, Portuguese, German, French, Italian, Chinese, and English. This inclusivity ensures that a wide range of visitors can enjoy the experience comfortably.

Real-Life Insights from Reviewers

Reviewers appreciate the friendly, well-informed guides who make the ride both educational and entertaining. “Robin and Sebastian,” for example, are praised for their humor and knowledge, making the sightseeing more memorable. Many highlight the flexibility, with some taking the tour as a relaxing way to see the city after a long walk or to get an overview before deciding which neighborhoods to explore in-depth.

Some minor drawbacks include slightly scratched windows, which can obscure views, and variable bus frequency, which might mean waiting a bit longer between departures. However, these are minor inconveniences in an otherwise well-organized experience praised for its value, comfort, and educational content.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This bus tour is ideally suited for first-time visitors eager to get a broad overview of Philadelphia’s most famous landmarks. It’s also perfect for those with limited time who want to maximize their sightseeing without missing key attractions. If you enjoy guided commentary but prefer to explore at your own pace, this flexible hop-on-hop-off system is a winner.

Travelers who appreciate authentic insights from guides, comfortable transportation, and the chance to see multiple neighborhoods in one day will find this experience highly worthwhile. It’s especially good if you’re traveling with family or a group, as the open-top bus is a fun way to keep everyone engaged.

Who Might Not Love It?

If you’re a traveler who prefers deep, immersive tours of specific sites, or if you thrive on walking and exploring quietly at your own pace, this might feel a little too rushed or broad. Also, those seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences might want to supplement this tour with more specialized activities.

FAQs

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility needs.

Can I hop on and off at any stop?
Absolutely. You can hop on and off at any of the 27 stops along the route, giving you flexibility to explore specific sites more deeply.

How long does the tour last?
The standard ride lasts about 90 minutes, but with a multi-day pass, you can spend more time exploring at your leisure.

Are guides available in different languages?
Yes, audio guides are available in several languages, including Spanish, Portuguese, German, French, Italian, Chinese, and English.

What happens if a bus route is disrupted?
Sometimes, due to construction or traffic, some stops may be skipped. The route is carefully planned but can be adjusted as needed.

Is there a pick-up service?
Yes, there’s a courtesy pick-up from hotels or the airport, adding extra convenience to your day.

How is the value for the price?
Given the price of $39 and the extensive list of attractions, many reviewers say it’s a great value, especially when considering the included guides, commentary, and flexibility.

Final Thoughts

The Philadelphia Double-Decker Sightseeing Bus Tour delivers a practical and enjoyable way to see the city’s main sights. The combination of comfortable transportation, knowledgeable guides, and flexible hop-on-hop-off stops makes it an excellent choice for first-time visitors, families, and those wanting a relaxed overview of Philly.

The route covers essential landmarks like Independence Hall, the Rocky Steps, and museums, making it a comprehensive introduction without feeling rushed. While bus frequency might be a minor consideration, the overall experience is praised for its value, informative guides, and scenic views.

If you’re looking for a way to understand Philadelphia’s layout and history while enjoying the sunshine from an open-top bus, this tour is definitely worth considering.

To sum it up, this tour caters well to travelers seeking a cost-effective, guided overview of Philadelphia. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy engaging guides, stunning city vistas, and the flexibility to customize their day. Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, this experience offers a fun, informative, and accessible way to get the most out of your time in the City of Brotherly Love.