Getting Around Philadelphia
The best way to get around Philadelphia is by foot. Although some attractions like the Philadelphia Zoo require some other mode of transport, most sightseeing is centered in the Old City, Rittenhouse Square and Society Hill areas, all of which are very pedestrian-friendly. To get from Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) and around the city, you can use a tangle of trolleys, buses and subways. From May to October, you can also get around via the purple Phlash trolleys. Hailing a cab is also an option, but the cost of the rides can add up quickly. And if you -- like the majority of Philly travelers -- come to the city by car, you should invest in a good map and be prepared for some driving and parking frustrations.
If you're traveling to Philadelphia from a nearby city, you might want to take Amtrak into the 30th Street Station. For New York travelers, you'll save some money by taking a combination of New Jersey Transit and SEPTA trains.
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On Foot |
Once inside the city, you'll find that Philly's downtown is very foot-traffic friendly. Likewise, you'll see many "Walk! Philadelphia" signs, which are printed with maps. Organized in a grid pattern, the streets are easy to navigate. |
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Bike |
Biking is another popular way of getting around, and rentals are available throughout the city. Rent one from a company like Trophy Bikes and cycling 12 miles on the Schuylkill River Bike Path from the city center to Valley Forge. |
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Public Transport |
The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) operates buses, the subway and a trolley system. The transit system can be confusing, especially when compared to other cities of equivalent size. But with patience and most likely several transfers, you'll reach your ultimate destination. Tickets, which start at $2, can be purchased at the Broad Street subway stop and in stores downtown, including some Rite Aids. There are two subway lines: The Broad Street line goes north to south, while the Market-Frankford line, which is an elevated train, runs east to west. Trolley routes extend from City Hall to 30th Street Station. The bus system tends to be confusing and not very helpful to short-term tourists. |
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Phlash Trolley |
The purple Phlash trolleys operate from May 1 to Oct. 31, and make 27 stops at popular sites like the Philadelphia Zoo and the Please Touch Museum, as well as the Center City. Fares are $2, but you can also buy a $5 all-day pass or an all-day family pass for $10. |
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Car |
The city is definitely drive-able. Many visitors arrive by car, and they also use them to get around, especially the outer-lying attractions. But because Philadelphia is such a popular spot, the usual driving frustrations apply: An unfamiliar map, expensive parking (not to mention spots that require parallel parking) and a profusion of one-way streets. You can rent cars at PHL Airport and at agencies scattered throughout. |
| Taxi | Taxis are another option of getting around, but these can get expensive quickly. The meter starts at about $3 and rises by some change every 1/7th mile. |
