The Philadelphia Sightseeing Flex Pass: Save on 35+ Landmark Attractions & Tours

Traveling to Philadelphia and looking for a way to see a wide array of sites without breaking the bank? The Philadelphia Sightseeing Flex Pass promises to help you explore the City of Brotherly Love at your own pace, offering entry to over 35 attractions, tours, and museums over a 30-day period. With a starting price of just $59, it sounds like a tempting way to pack your itinerary, but is it actually worth it?

One thing we really appreciate about this pass is its customization—you can select between 2 to 7 attractions, tailoring your experience based on your interests and schedule. The flexibility of a 30-day window means you don’t have to cram everything into a single day, making it ideal for travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace. The instant mobile ticket delivery is a bonus, allowing you to start your adventures right away.

However, a common concern among past users is whether the pass truly offers good value. There are mixed reviews, with some travelers feeling they didn’t get their money’s worth, while others found it a cost-effective way to access key sites. It’s essential to weigh your personal priorities—if you’re eager to visit many top attractions and enjoy guided tours, this might be a good fit. But if you prefer spontaneous, off-the-beaten-path experiences, it might not be the best investment.

This pass is best suited for travelers who love flexibility, variety, and wish to maximize their exposure to Philadelphia’s history, culture, and waterfront. Let’s explore what you can expect from the actual itinerary and how to make the most of it.

Key Points

• Flexible usage period allows you to spread your visits over 30 days, avoiding rushing from one site to another.
• Choose your attractions from over 35 options—perfect for customizing your experience.
• Includes a wide variety of sites, from museums and historic landmarks to maritime attractions and neighborhoods.
• Transportation convenience is provided via unlimited access to the hop-on-hop-off bus for a day, ideal for city-wide exploration.
• Mixed reviews highlight that some visitors felt it wasn’t worth the price, but many found it a good value if used wisely.
• Advance reservations are available for some tours, so planning ahead can improve your experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

The Philadelphia Sightseeing Pass covers an impressive range of landmarks that touch on the city’s cultural, historic, and artistic roots. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you can expect, along with some insights into how these sites can fit into your trip.

The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University

Starting with the Academy of Natural Sciences, this attraction is perfect if you’re traveling with kids or simply love natural history. Expect to see fossils, African wildlife dioramas, and a towering Tyrannosaurus Rex skeleton. It’s a hands-on, educational spot that takes about an hour to explore. Reviews often mention the engaging exhibits, especially for those interested in science and nature.

The African American Museum in Philadelphia

This museum offers a vital perspective on African American culture and history, being the first of its kind in a major U.S. city when founded in 1976. Visitors can spend around two hours here, learning through exhibits that focus on the African diaspora’s impact on America. Past visitors mention the museum as eye-opening and educational, with a chance to understand stories not always highlighted in mainstream history.

Battleship New Jersey

Anchoring in the Philadelphia waterfront, the USS New Jersey is a battleship rich with history. Its interactive tours are designed to give you a walk in the shoes of sailors—walking narrow passageways, climbing ladders, and sitting in the mess halls. With a duration of about 1.5 hours, it’s a hit with history buffs and those interested in naval warfare. Reviewers have appreciated the opportunity to explore the ship at their own pace, noting that the guides and staff are knowledgeable and friendly.

Betsy Ross House

No visit to Philadelphia is complete without a stop at the Betsy Ross House, the birthplace of the American flag. The house is animated with actors, including Betsy herself, who explains her role in the Revolution and shows her working in her upholstery shop. It’s a lively, immersive experience that takes about an hour and a half. Past visitors loved the chance to meet Betsy herself and learn about women’s contributions during the Revolution.

Eastern State Penitentiary

This haunting prison is more than just a spooky site; it’s an architectural marvel. Once the most expensive and famous prison, it’s now a crumbling relic offering self-guided or audio tours. Expect to see vaulted, sky-lit cells that once housed notorious criminals like Al Capone. The 30-minute to 2-hour visit provides a chilling look into criminal justice history. Some reviewers comment on the eerie atmosphere and impressive architecture, though a few felt it was a bit expensive for the experience.

Fort Mifflin

As one of the last Revolutionary War battlefields still intact, Fort Mifflin offers a glimpse into the military history of America’s fight for independence. The 40-acre site includes eight surviving buildings and a battlefield where the fort withstood a significant bombardment. Visitors typically spend about 90 minutes here, enjoying the historical reenactments and scenic views of the river. It’s an underrated spot, especially for history enthusiasts.

Christ Church

A short walk from Independence Hall, Christ Church and its burial ground make for a peaceful yet historically significant stop. The site is the final resting place of Benjamin Franklin and other key figures. The experience lasts about an hour, with some reviewers noting the beautiful architecture and the opportunity to reflect on America’s founding era. It’s a quiet, contemplative site amidst the bustling historic district.

The Independence Seaport Museum

Water lovers will appreciate this museum, which offers hands-on exhibits about the Delaware River. You can climb aboard historic ships like Cruiser Olympia and the Submarine Becuna, and explore the River Alive! exhibit. It’s a lively spot, especially if you enjoy maritime history and science, with visits typically taking about two hours. Reviewers have enjoyed the interactive elements, making it a fun break from the more traditional historic sites.

The Museum of the American Revolution

This museum offers a comprehensive look at the revolutionary war with artifacts, immersive galleries, and theatrical presentations. Visitors usually spend around 90 minutes here, absorbing stories of soldiers, leaders, and civilians. Past guests praise the engaging exhibits and well-curated collections, which help bring the revolutionary era to life.

The National Constitution Center

Dedicated entirely to the U.S. Constitution, this museum features Freedom Rising, Signers Hall, and interactive exhibits. It’s perfect for those interested in American civics and history, with a two-hour suggested visit time. Reviewers mention the lively presentations and the opportunity to try on a Supreme Court robe, making it both educational and fun.

The National Liberty Museum

Focusing on themes of liberty and democracy through contemporary art and glass sculptures, this museum is a quieter, more artistic stop. Visitors often spend about 90 minutes here, admiring pieces like the Chihuly glass flame and the stained glass chess set. It adds a modern contrast to Philadelphia’s historic sites, appealing to art lovers.

Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts & Philadelphia Museum of Art

Art aficionados will love these two icons. PAFA offers a deep dive into American art, with works by Charles Willson Peale, Edward Hopper, and others. The Philadelphia Museum of Art, with its iconic steps and world-class collections, is a must-see for art lovers. Both museums recommend at least 2 hours to fully appreciate their collections.

Using the Pass: What Travelers Need to Know

The Philadelphia Sightseeing Pass offers unlimited access to the hop-on-hop-off bus for a day, which is a fantastic way to cover many sites without spending too much time on transit. The bus has 28 stops around the city, allowing you to hop on and off at will—ideal for those who want an overview without fuss.

You activate the pass upon first use, and then you have 30 days to visit your selected attractions. This flexibility is a major plus if your schedule is variable or if you prefer to take your time.

One thing to note is that entry processes and hours of operation vary by attraction, especially during holidays. It’s best to double-check each site before your visit. Some reviews mention that not all attractions accept the pass, which can be disappointing if you’re counting on certain sites. For example, the reviewer who called it a “waste of money” noted that none of the places took the pass, but that seems to be an outlier and possibly context-dependent.

The Value Question

Pricing at $59 for a 30-day pass is quite reasonable, especially if you plan to visit at least a few sites. For instance, entrance to sites like the Museum of the American Revolution or the Philadelphia Museum of Art alone could cost around $20-$25 each. Combine that with the hop-on-hop-off bus, and you’re getting a lot of value.

However, some travelers have felt that the pass didn’t pay off if they only visited a couple of attractions, particularly if those sites don’t accept the pass or if they prefer to explore spontaneously. As one reviewer said, “None of the places take this pass. It was a complete waste of money.” On the other hand, others appreciated its ease of use for two attractions, noting, “It was easy to use. Great value,” especially when combined with an overnight stay package.

Practical Tips for Maximizing Your Pass

• Plan your itinerary ahead of time, selecting attractions that accept the pass.
• Take advantage of the Hop-on Hop-off bus to maximize your sightseeing and save time.
• Confirm opening hours before your trip, especially during holidays or off-season.
• Use the instant mobile ticket to start exploring immediately.
• Reserve tours in advance if needed, especially for popular sites like the Constitution Center or museum tours.

Who Should Consider This Pass?

This flexible pass is ideal for large groups, families, or solo travelers who prefer a mix of self-guided exploration and guided tours. It suits those who want to see many attractions over an extended period without the pressure of fitting everything into one day.

If you’re a history buff eager to explore Philadelphia’s revolutionary past, with stops like Independence Hall, the Betsy Ross House, and Christ Church, this pass can be a cost-effective way to do so. Art lovers will also find value in visiting institutions like the Philadelphia Museum of Art and Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts.

However, if you’re someone who prefers spontaneous visits or offbeat experiences not on the list, or if the attractions you want are not included, then the pass might not be worth the upfront cost.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

The Philadelphia Sightseeing Flex Pass offers a compelling way to enjoy the city’s highlights without the stress of individual ticket purchases. Its main strengths lie in its customizability, affordability, and extended validity—allowing you to spread out your visits over a month.

That said, you’ll want to plan carefully to ensure the attractions you select accept the pass and are worth your time. Past users’ mixed reviews highlight that while some found it a great value, others felt it was a disappointment, especially if they didn’t utilize enough included sites.

For those who love culture, historic sites, and art, and prefer a relaxed schedule, this pass can be a real time-saver and money-saver. If you’re visiting Philadelphia primarily for specific sites outside the list, or if spontaneity is your style, you might consider buying individual tickets instead.

Overall, if you’re a dedicated explorer eager to see many of Philadelphia’s top attractions at your own pace, this pass could be a smart choice—just be sure to do your research beforehand.

FAQ

Does the pass include transportation?
Yes, it grants unlimited access to a hop-on-hop-off bus for one day, which helps you get around the city easily.

Can I use the pass for multiple attractions in one day?
Absolutely. You can visit as many sites as you like within the 30-day window, making it perfect for spreading out your sightseeing.

Are tickets for tours included?
Some tours, like guided or self-guided visits, are included, but for specific tours, you might need to make reservations, which are recommended.

Is the pass valid immediately after purchase?
Yes, the pass is activated the first time you use it, and then you have 30 days to complete your chosen visits.

What if I decide to cancel?
You can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before your first use of the pass, with no refunds if canceled later.

Are all attractions open year-round?
Most are, but hours and availability may vary around holidays or seasons, so checking in advance is advised.

To sum it up, the Philadelphia Sightseeing Flex Pass offers a flexible, value-packed way for visitors to experience a broad spectrum of the city’s historic, cultural, and artistic highlights. It’s best suited for travelers who want a curated, leisurely exploration over an extended period and are willing to plan ahead to maximize its benefits. While it may not be perfect for spontaneous explorers or those with narrow interests, for most, it provides a convenient, budget-friendly way to fall in love with Philadelphia.