The 6 top ways to explore Philadelphia

As the sixth-largest city in the U.S. and the largest in Pennsylvania, Philadelphia boasts the Phillies and Eagles, mouthwatering Philly cheesesteaks, vibrant museums, live music venues, and a rich tapestry of American history. So, what’s the best way to get around and soak it all in?

No matter how you arrive—by bus, train, or plane—visitors have a variety of options for getting around this bustling city. Despite its size, navigating Philadelphia is quite straightforward, and renting a car isn’t always necessary. Here are the most convenient ways to explore Philadelphia.

Stroll through Philly's streets

If you’re not pressed for time and the weather is pleasant, walking is one of the best ways to discover Philadelphia’s hidden architectural gems and public art.

Take some time to wander through a few neighborhoods; you never know what gems you might uncover. Some of the best areas to explore on foot in Philadelphia include East Passyunk, a foodie haven packed with bakeries, bagel shops, and diverse restaurants; Old City, known for its Colonial-era sights and shopping; and University City, which offers a vibrant college-town atmosphere.

Local tip: Streets running east to west are named after trees, like Chestnut St, Walnut St, and Spruce St, while the north-to-south streets are numbered in sequence.

Ideal time to visit Philadelphia

Use SEPTA for your travels

Public transportation is the perfect way to access Philadelphia's museums, attractions, and various activities, especially when you're short on time.

SEPTA, which stands for Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority, manages the bus, subway, and trolley services in Philadelphia. By utilizing these transport options, you can easily reach any area of the city. Consider getting a day pass or a SEPTA Key, which is a reloadable contactless card that allows you to navigate the public transportation system without needing cash. If you prefer to pay with cash, remember to have the exact fare ready.

Subway trains run around the clock, every day of the week. During peak hours (6 AM to 9 AM and 3 PM to 6 PM on weekdays), express trains provide a faster commute. Most stations feature subway maps, which you can also obtain from booth attendants or online.

Trains, buses, and trolleys have regular schedules, with departures approximately every 15 minutes from Monday to Saturday and every 20 to 30 minutes on Sundays.

8 essential tips to know before visiting Philadelphia

Consider renting a bike

Philadelphia is ideal for cycling, featuring over 200 miles of dedicated bike lanes, and you don't need to bring your own bicycle.

Indego is the city’s bike-share initiative, boasting more than 130 stations and 1,000 bikes available for rent 24/7. Just grab a bike from a self-service docking station and return it to another location near your destination. A 24-hour pass starts at $15.

Local tip: Buy an Indego pass ahead of time through the website or mobile app.

Staying in the downtown area? Take PHLASH

If you plan to stay close to the city center, the PHLASH buses offer a convenient loop service from downtown Philly, stopping at popular attractions like the Philadelphia Zoo and the Please Touch Museum, as well as Center City.

PHLASH operates every day from late April until Labor Day. From September 10 to December 30, services are available only on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Buses run every 15 minutes from 10am to 6pm. The fare is $2, or you can purchase a $5 all-day pass or a $9 two-day pass.

Top free activities to enjoy in Philadelphia

Catch a taxi or use a rideshare app

For quick transportation, opt for a taxi or a rideshare app. Taxis are readily available, especially around Philadelphia International Airport, 30th Street Station, and the Greyhound bus station, operating 24/7. Most taxis accept both cash and cards, but it’s wise to check with your driver before you start your journey.

Services like Uber and Lyft are also operational in Philadelphia.

Consider a hop-on hop-off tour

A fantastic way to kick off your visit to Philadelphia, particularly if it’s your first time, is to embark on a hop-on hop-off sightseeing tour.

Familiarize yourself with the city's layout and key attractions like Independence Hall, Elfreth's Alley, and Christ Church Burial Ground. The buses stop at nearly 30 locations, allowing you to hop off and explore or simply relax and enjoy the full 90-minute ride.

Single-day passes start at $36 for adults and $17 for children, with audio commentary available in various languages.

Accessible transportation options in Philadelphia

PHLASH and all SEPTA buses, trains, and trolleys in Philadelphia come equipped with accessible seating for wheelchair users. SEPTA buses feature a kneeling option for easier access. For detailed information on accessible transportation, visit Visit Philadelphia's website.

Various venues and historic locations across Philadelphia offer wheelchair rentals on a first-come, first-served basis. Philly Touch Tours provides guided visits to historic sites designed for visitors with vision impairments.

For additional details on accessible travel, download Dinogo Planet's complimentary Accessible Travel guide.