Getting Around Philadelphia - the Best Ways to Travel

By Dom Bewley
Getting Around Philadelphia

So, you've planned your vacation to Philadelphia. Maybe its rich history has drawn you to it like a moth to flame. Or, maybe you simply want to see its vibrant spirit up close. Whatever your reason, you'll want to know about getting around Philadelphia, right? Read on, and discover our picks for the best ways to get around the city.

Including:

  • Is it easy to get around the city?
  • Can you ditch the vehicle and explore on foot?
  • Is it safe to walk the streets at night?
  • Cycling in Philadelphia
  • Is Philly PHLASH the way to go?
  • and more!
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Is getting around Philadelphia easy?

Yes! Thanks to SEPTA, or the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority, it's relatively cheap and easy to get around the city in a pinch. But there are plenty of other ways to traverse Philly. So, let's talk about them all!

Is getting around Philadelphia on foot possible?

Indeed it is. In fact, it's one of the top 5 most walkable cities in America! Why is that? Well, it's because the city was designed that way. Architect William Penn, whose name you'll find adorning many buildings, street signs, and areas of the city, is responsible for its simple 25-block grid design. The city center sits between two rivers, the Schuylkill and the Delaware. And, to make it even easier to understand, north-to-south streets are numbered, and east-to-west streets are named after trees found in the region.

Keen-eyed observers will also spot many 'Walk Philadelphia' signs all around the city. These aren't simply requests or suggestions; they pinpoint places where walking is the preferred mode of transport! You'll even find Community Street Representatives - or CSRs - wandering the streets. They'll be happy to answer any questions you have or direct you to points of interest close by. They'll even administer first aid or radio the authorities in a pinch. Heroes, one and all!

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Is getting around Philadelphia on foot safe at night?

Yes, Philadelphia is safe to walk around during its vibrant evenings. Like any other city, just be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings close as you navigate its many amazing bars, restaurants, and other night festivities!

Getting around Philadelphia by bike

If you're a fan of the two-wheeled wonders, you're in luck. Philadelphia is one of the most bike-friendly big cities in America. Cyclists will find dedicated bike lanes on city streets and miles of bike-specific trails. If you don't fancy lugging your bicycle all the way to Philly for your vacation, simply hire one. You'll find thousands of rental bikes throughout the city, and it's easy to hire one for an hour, a day, or even a week. So no excuses, get on your bike, and stay active while you explore!

Getting around Philadelphia in a PHLASH

Looking to see all of Philly's biggest landmarks in one fell swoop? Introducing the Philly PHLASH Downtown Loop, your one-stop shop for all things Philadelphia.

This amazing bus service is not only cheap, but it conveniently stops by all of the best bits in the city. Looking to see the likes of Penn's Landing, Independence Mall, The Franklin Institute, Philadelphia Museum of Art, and Philadelphia Zoo? Philly PLASH.

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Image courtesy of Tippman98x/Shutterstock

If you're looking to see other attractions, including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, Eastern State Penitentiary, and Betsy Ross' House, try a hop-on, hop-off bus tour instead! Stay on the bus to see them all, or hop off to get a closer look and catch the next bus when you're done. It's one of the easiest ways to get around the city while making the most of Philly's fantastic landmarks!

Getting around Philadelphia with a pass

If you've modern sensibilities and feel like paying for travel tickets with money is for old-timers, why not pick up a pass? They're the cool, trendy way to get about cities these days. As far as Philly is concerned, you've got a few choices. Let's explore them.

SEPTA (Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority) Key

SEPTA keys are cards you can load up with cash to bypass buying tickets and tokens. Utilizing 'state-of-the-art' chip technology, they allow you to tap in and out of turnstiles or on buses to catch a ride. You can put what you want on them or load them up with set amounts. Want to travel for the week? Select Weekly TransPass at a kiosk and load up the exact amount you need for your seven days of splendor. There are other options, of course, including monthly and even daily denominations.

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Independence Pass

The Independence Pass allows unlimited travel on SEPTA buses, trams, trains, and subways. These are best if you're traveling for a single day, and you can even get a family of five deal for a decent discount.

Getting around Philadelphia by train

Whether above ground or beneath the surface, trains are a great way to cover large distances in the shortest amount of time. Philly is loaded with options, so take a look at this interactive map to see which works for you. But if you want to know more about them, let's do it.

Regional Rail Lines

These above-ground trains will get you from the furthest reaches of the city into the center, with multiple lines intersecting at various points. For instance, if you're flying into Philly, you can get the Airport Line right into 30th Street Station.

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Subway Lines

There are three subway lines that connect the northwestern, northern, and northeastern districts of the city. They're called the Market-Frankford Line (blue), the Broad Street Line (orange), and Norristown (purple). The Market-Frankford line is especially useful, as it will take you right through the city's central areas, where Philadelphia's main attractions are focused.

Tram Lines

Depicted in green on the transport map, the tram is the slowest way to get around the city. However, being overground and running through the city itself, it gives you the chance to sightsee as you go. They also run out to the southwestern corner of the city, if you're staying further from the center.

And that's everything you need to know about getting around Philadelphia and the best ways to travel the city! Now you know how to get about, you might want to know what to do while you're there. Thankfully, Go City has you covered. With our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass, you can see the city at your own pace.

Dom Bewley
Go City Travel Expert

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Where To Stay in Philadelphia

Wondering where to stay over your vacation in Philadelphia? Wonder no more, because we've put together this handy guide to Philly's neighborhoods just for you! Whether you're looking to explore the city's historical landmarks or its impressive nightlife, we've got you covered. Read on, and check out our recommendations! Including: Old City Washington Square West Chestnut Hill Bella Vista West Philly and more! Is Philadelphia safe? Philly may have a reputation for being a relatively dangerous city, but that doesn't really paint the right picture. Most violent crime occurs in neighborhoods where tourists rarely step, and tends to be among residents. Therefore, for budding travelers such as yourselves, you won't really get mixed up in that. So, yes, Philadelphia is a city that's safe for travelers. With any big city, it's worth keeping belongings close, valuables at your hotel or Airbnb, and being mindful of your surroundings when out and about. Otherwise, go get on with the fun! Can I get around Philadelphia without a car? Cars are great and all, but if we're hopping on a plane to our vacation destination, sometimes the last thing we want to do is hire a car and drive about. Thankfully, Philadelphia has a fantastic transit system that means you can leave your car keys at home. Old City As the name suggests, Old City is where you'll find most of Philadelphia's historical landmarks and its oldest buildings. It played a massive role in the War of Independence, and as such, you'll find plenty of iconic landmarks on its streets. Highlights such as Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were both drafted and signed, the Liberty Bell, and Betsy Ross House are all found in this historic neighborhood. It's also a charming neighborhood in its own right, with plenty of period buildings, delightful restaurants, and Independence-themed bars and attractions. For instance, you can take a walking tour that combines all the Independence highlights in one fell swoop. If you're in Philadelphia for the history, then Old City is the answer for where to stay in the city! Fishtown If you're wondering where to stay in Philadelphia and you're not really here for the history, then let's switch gears to something more quirky. Fishtown was once the industrial hub of the city that was abandoned many years ago as said industries moved away. In their wake, myriad buildings, warehouses, and even homes were left unclaimed. And, thanks to those crafty millennials (pun absolutely intended), this concrete limbo has been transformed into a hipster's paradise. Now, you'll find quirky, millennial-style entertainment on every corner, from warehouses converted to theatres, to craft beer bars in old shopfronts. You'll also find plenty of converted lofts to stay in, if you want to be close to the warehouse parties, slapdash art exhibits, and neon-soaked boozy arcades. Northern Liberties Northern Liberties is Fishtown's neighbor, and it received an equal glow up during the invasion of the plat-shirt snatchers. Like its next-door neighbor, you'll find plenty of laid-back entertainment in Northern Liberties. If you want to be closer to nature during your visit, you'll find plenty of park space there to stretch out and make the most of it. Couple that with plenty of top restaurants, bars, and art galleries, and you've got yourself a top place to stay in Philadelphia! Washington Square West Washington Square West is Philadelphia's LGBTW+ hub, so if inclusivity is top of your list, look for a place in the neighborhood. Eschewing larger department stores and chains for small businesses, you'll find plenty of unique and delightful boutiques, jewelers, and heaps of food and drink opportunities. It's also the home of Washington Square Park, one of Philadelphia's most popular parks. Perfect if you want to have a picnic or go for a walk among the trees. Chesnut Hill If you want to be close to the center of Philadelphia but not right in the middle of it, then take a trip up to Chesnut Hill. Considered one of Philly's safest neighborhoods, its delightful name gives you some idea of what to expect. Known locally as 'the Garden District' due to its brilliant green spaces like Wissahickon Valley Park, you'll find plenty of family-friendly restaurants, cafes, and even pubs. If you're wondering where to stay in Philadelphia, and you're a sucker for the picturesque, then Chesnut Hill might just be perfect for you! Bella Vista With a name that literally translates to 'beautiful view', if you're wondering where to stay in Philadelphia, why not Bella Vista? If you like your food Italian, your vibe Italian, and your people Italian-American, then Philly's own Little Italy should be top of your list. On the outskirts of the city's Downtown, you'll find plenty of great eateries, places to have a quiet drink, parks to explore, and great people to meet. West Philly Known locally as University City due to the number of top higher education establishments that call it home, West Philly is a great place for younger travelers to go and kick back. Do bear in mind that you'll be rubbing shoulders with college students, for better or worse, when you head out to one of West Philly's many bars or eateries. But maybe their youthful exuberance will rub off on you, and you'll evolve (or devolve) into a hacky sacking wonder in no time. Graduate Hospital While its name might evoke a visit to the doctor, Graduate Hospital is actually one of Philadelphia's quieter, family-friendly districts. You'll find bars, restaurants, and entertainment opportunities on the neighborhood's South Street, but it's also far enough off the beaten path that you'll get a peaceful sleep too! The good news is that you can walk to Old City or the center of Philadelphia with relative ease, ensuring you'll hardly be bored. East Falls East Falls is ideal for you water-seeking wonders. Backing onto the delightful Schyukill River, you can spend many a morning walking or jogging along the river trail or wrangling up a picnic at the foot of Blue Bell Park. One of Philly's quieter areas, it's perfect if you're bringing the little ones along for your vacation. If not, there are plenty of bars and restaurants to keep adults happy too. And hey, if fishing's your game, you can even indulge as many do throughout the year. If you're wondering where to stay in Philadelphia, hopefully this guide has given you some ideas! Wondering what to do on your vacation? Don't worry; Go City's got you covered. With our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass, you can see all of Philadelphia's best bits at your own pace.
Dom Bewley

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