Philadelphia Hop-On Hop-Off City Tour — See 25 Stops from Independence Hall to Penn's Landing
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours (90-minute loop)
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; involves short walks on and off the bus for site visits
Overview
Climb aboard an open-top double-decker and let Philadelphia unfold. This 90-minute loop links 25 stops from Independence Hall to Penn's Landing, giving travelers the freedom to hop off for museums, markets, and skyline views.
Philadelphia Hop-On Hop-Off City Tour — See 25 Stops from Independence Hall to Penn's Landing
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The bus rounds the corner at 6th and Market like a slow-moving invitation: an open-top, double-decker carriage that exposes the city to wind, sun, and the murmur of street life. Riders lean on the low rail, cameras raised, as the guide folds history into casual commentary — where the Liberty Bell rang, which cobblestones once carried revolutionaries, and which side streets hide the best cheesesteak.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Redeem at Stop 1 before boarding
You must collect or activate your ticket at the Independence Visitor Center on the SW corner of 6th and Market before boarding the bus.
Reserve Independence Hall separately
Timed-entry sites like Independence Hall require separate reservations even if you have the hop-on hop-off ticket—plan ahead to avoid disappointment.
Use the upper deck for skyline photos
Sit on the upper level on the right side heading toward the river for the best views of the skyline and Penn's Landing.
Carry a refillable water bottle and sun protection
Upper-deck exposure is substantial in summer; a hat, sunscreen, and water make the ride comfortable.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Gulls and terns along Penn's Landing
- Urban squirrels in Rittenhouse Square
History
Philadelphia was the nation’s first de facto capital and the site of foundational institutions like Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, which shaped early American governance.
Conservation
The tour encourages staying on marked sidewalks and using public transit to reduce vehicle congestion; support local markets and historic sites that invest in preservation.
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Adventure Hotspots in Philadelphia
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Expect short walks on uneven cobbles and stairs at some stops.
Light rain jacket or windbreaker
Upper deck gets windy and spring showers are common.
spring specific
Sunscreen and hat
The open-top upper deck offers little shade during summer rides.
summer specific
Portable phone charger
Photography and navigation will drain batteries during a full day of hopping off.