Philadelphia travel guide

Philadelphia travel guide

National Airports

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania has one major airport:

Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)

There are also a few smaller airports in the surrounding area:

Northeast Philadelphia Airport (PNE)

Wings Field (BBX)

Trenton-Mercer Airport (TTN)

Trains in Philadelphia

Philadelphia has several train options for transportation, including:

SEPTA Regional Rail: This commuter rail system serves the greater Philadelphia region, including the suburbs, with over 150 stations. It is operated by the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA).

Amtrak: This national passenger railroad system serves Philadelphia’s 30th Street Station, which is a major transportation hub for the city.

PATCO: This rapid transit system operates between Philadelphia and southern New Jersey, connecting the two cities via a tunnel under the Delaware River.

NJ Transit: This statewide public transportation system operates commuter trains from Trenton, New Jersey to Philadelphia’s 30th Street Station, as well as other stations in the region.

Amtrak Keystone Service: This high-speed rail service connects Philadelphia to Harrisburg, Pennsylvania and provides connections to other cities on the Amtrak network.

Amtrak Acela Express: This high-speed train service runs between Boston and Washington D.C., with stops in Philadelphia and other major cities on the East Coast.

Buses in Philadelphia

Philadelphia has several bus options for transportation, including:

SEPTA Bus: This is the primary bus system serving Philadelphia and its suburbs. It has more than 120 routes with thousands of daily trips.

Greyhound: This is a national bus company that operates out of Philadelphia’s Greyhound Bus Terminal, which is located in the city’s Center City neighborhood.

Megabus: This is a low-cost, intercity bus service that serves Philadelphia from various locations in the Northeast and Midwest regions of the United States.

BoltBus: This is another low-cost, intercity bus service that serves Philadelphia from various locations in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions of the United States.

Chinatown Bus: This is a network of independent bus companies that offer low-cost service between major East Coast cities, including Philadelphia.

New Jersey Transit: This is a statewide public transportation system that operates buses from southern New Jersey to Philadelphia and other destinations in the region.

How to get to Philadelphia

There are several ways to get to Philadelphia, depending on your starting point and mode of transportation. Here are some common options:

Fly: Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) is the primary airport serving the city, with nonstop flights to many domestic and international destinations. Once you arrive, you can take public transportation, taxi, or ride-share to your final destination.

Drive: Philadelphia is accessible by several major highways, including I-95, I-76, and the Pennsylvania Turnpike. If you are driving from nearby cities, such as New York or Washington D.C., it is also easily accessible via major interstates.

Train: Philadelphia’s 30th Street Station is a major Amtrak hub and serves many trains from cities up and down the East Coast, including Boston, New York, Washington D.C., and Baltimore. There are also regional rail services provided by SEPTA.

Bus: Philadelphia is also accessible by bus, with multiple companies providing service to and from the city, including Greyhound, Megabus, and BoltBus.

Bike/Walk: If you are located nearby, or if you’re up for a long-distance ride or walk, Philadelphia is accessible via several bike and pedestrian trails, including the Schuylkill River Trail and the Delaware River Trail.

What is the best time to travel to Philadelphia

The best time to travel to Philadelphia largely depends on your preferences and the activities you plan to do while you’re there. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect during each season:

Spring (March-May): Spring is a beautiful time to visit Philadelphia, with mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and fewer crowds than during the summer months. This is a great time to explore the city’s parks and gardens, and to attend outdoor festivals and events.

Summer (June-August): Summer in Philadelphia can be hot and humid, but it’s also a lively time to visit, with lots of outdoor concerts, festivals, and other events. This is a great time to visit the city’s many museums and historical sites, and to take advantage of its outdoor dining and bar scene.

Fall (September-November): Fall in Philadelphia is one of the most beautiful times of year, with colorful foliage and cooler temperatures. This is a great time to explore the city’s historic neighborhoods and parks, and to attend fall festivals and events.

Winter (December-February): Winter in Philadelphia can be cold and snowy, but it’s also a festive time to visit, with holiday markets, ice skating rinks, and other winter-themed events. This is a great time to visit the city’s museums and indoor attractions, and to warm up with a cup of hot cocoa or a bowl of soup from one of the city’s many restaurants.

How to get around Philadelphia

Philadelphia has several transportation options for getting around the city, including:

SEPTA: The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) operates the city’s public transportation system, which includes buses, trolleys, regional rail, and subway lines. SEPTA is the most convenient and affordable way to get around the city.

Taxis/Ride-Sharing: Taxis are readily available in Philadelphia, and ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft are also popular options for getting around the city.

Biking: Philadelphia has an extensive network of bike lanes and trails, making it easy to explore the city on two wheels. There are several bike rental companies and bike share programs available for visitors.

Walking: Philadelphia is a pedestrian-friendly city, and many of its major attractions are within walking distance of each other. Walking is a great way to explore the city’s historic neighborhoods and parks.

Car Rental: If you prefer to have your own transportation, there are several car rental companies with locations throughout the city. However, parking in Philadelphia can be challenging and expensive, so be prepared to pay for parking or use a parking garage.

Accommodations in Philadelphia

Philadelphia has a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Here are some options to consider:

Hotels: Philadelphia has many hotels ranging from budget-friendly to luxurious. Some popular options include The Ritz-Carlton, The Four Seasons Hotel, The Logan, The Warwick Hotel Rittenhouse Square, The Kimpton Hotel Monaco Philadelphia, and The Bellevue Hotel.

Bed and Breakfasts: There are many charming bed and breakfasts located in the historic neighborhoods of Philadelphia, such as Society Hill and Old City. Some popular options include The Morris House Hotel, The Thomas Bond House, The Penn’s View Hotel, and The Gables Bed and Breakfast.

Vacation Rentals: Philadelphia has many vacation rental options available through platforms like Airbnb and VRBO. This is a great option if you’re looking for a more homey and private accommodation.

Hostels: For budget travelers, Philadelphia has several hostels, such as the Apple Hostels of Philadelphia, City House Hostel, and Philadelphia House. These are a great option for travelers looking to save money and meet fellow travelers.

Extended-Stay Hotels: If you’re planning a longer stay in Philadelphia, there are several extended-stay hotels, such as Residence Inn by Marriott, Homewood Suites by Hilton, and AKA University City, that offer comfortable accommodations and amenities like kitchens and laundry facilities.