The Hop On Hop Off Double Decker Bus Tour of Philadelphia is an excellent way to explore the city’s top attractions. Offering 27 stops at iconic landmarks, it provides open-air views and the flexibility to experience the city at your own pace. With convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, the tour caters to first-time visitors and families, all for an affordable price. But what makes this tour truly stand out? Let’s take a closer look.
Key Points
- The tour offers a comprehensive sightseeing experience with 27 stops, covering popular landmarks like Reading Terminal Market and the Rocky Statue.
- The tour provides open-air views from the top of the double-decker bus and includes hotel pickup and drop-off services.
- The tour meets at the southwest corner of 6th and Market Streets and returns to the same location, with a central starting and ending point.
- The tour has an overall rating of 3.8 stars from 83 reviews, with positive feedback on knowledgeable and entertaining guides.
- The tour is recommended for families and first-time visitors to Philadelphia, providing an ideal way to familiarize with key landmarks and neighborhoods.
Tour Overview and Features
The Hop On Hop Off Double Decker Bus Tour of Philadelphia offers visitors a comprehensive sightseeing experience, with 27 stops covering popular landmarks like Reading Terminal Market, South Street, and the iconic Rocky Statue.
Travelers can take in the open-air views from the top of the double-decker bus while enjoying live commentary from a local guide.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, and is limited to a maximum of 65 travelers per tour.
Operating hours vary by season, and confirmation is provided at booking.
Cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, with prices starting at $36 per person.
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Meeting and Pickup Information
The tour meets at the southwest corner of 6th and Market Streets in downtown Philadelphia.
The tour then returns to the same meeting point at the end. Travelers should gather at the first stop located at that intersection to begin their hop-on hop-off bus tour experience.
The tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off services, making it convenient for guests. However, the meeting point serves as the central starting and ending location for the experience.
Travelers should plan to arrive at the designated meeting spot to ensure they don’t miss the bus and the start of the informative narrated tour.
Tour Experience and Reviews
How do travelers rate the overall tour experience and what’re the common highlights and drawbacks based on reviews?
Passengers generally give the tour a solid 3.8-star rating out of 83 reviews.
Key positives include knowledgeable, entertaining guides and highlights like the informative narrations and visits to iconic spots like the Reading Terminal Market.
However, some travelers note ticketing issues and waiting times at stops as drawbacks.
The tour provides a fun and informative city overview, with room for improvement in areas like audio quality and communication around bus arrivals.
It’s a recommended option for first-time Philadelphia visitors.
Traveler Insights and Recommendations
Travelers generally recommend the Double Decker Bus Tour of Philadelphia for families and first-time visitors to the city.
It’s an ideal way to get acquainted with the city’s key landmarks and neighborhoods. The tour provides excellent city familiarization, with the flexibility to hop on and off at various stops. Some suggest taking the tour early in the trip for maximum benefits.
While the overall experience is positive, there’s room for improvement, such as better audio quality from guides and a more efficient ticketing process.
Clear communication about bus arrival times is also important to enhance the visitor experience.
Accessibility and Accommodations
The Double Decker Bus Tour of Philadelphia isn’t wheelchair accessible, which may be a concern for some travelers.
Guests with mobility issues should be aware that the buses have steps to climb and lack proper ramps or lifts.
While the tour experience itself may be challenging for those with accessibility needs, the city of Philadelphia offers various transportation options, such as the SEPTA bus and subway system, which are more accommodating.
Tour operators recommend contacting them in advance to discuss any special requirements or accommodations that can be made to ensure all guests have an enjoyable and inclusive experience.
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Presentation and Tour Duration
Guides on the Double Decker Bus Tour of Philadelphia vary in their presentation style, as noted in some guest feedback.
While some are praised for being knowledgeable, entertaining, and friendly, others could use a more engaging approach.
The tour duration is approximately 1.5 hours, with flexibility for guests to explore at various stops. This allows for a good overview of the city’s key sights.
However, feedback suggests the need for clearer communication regarding bus arrival times to improve the overall experience.
Route Considerations and Updates
The tour route covers 27 stops across Philadelphia, providing guests with ample opportunities to hop on and off at their preferred locations. Notable sites include the iconic Reading Terminal Market and the famous Rocky Statue.
However, construction in the area may affect route availability and access to certain attractions. Travelers should check for any updates or detours before their tour.
Plus, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so guests with mobility needs may need to consider alternative options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, it’s best to avoid consuming messy or smelly items that could disturb other travelers. Following the tour guidelines ensures an enjoyable experience for everyone.
Are Audio Tours Available in Multiple Languages?
The tour offers audio commentary in multiple languages, allowing travelers to choose their preferred language and learn about the sights at their own pace. This feature caters to the diverse needs of international visitors.
Do I Need to Purchase Tickets in Advance?
Tickets don’t need to be purchased in advance, but it’s recommended to do so to avoid potential delays at the meeting point. Advance booking ensures availability and allows for a smoother start to the tour experience.
Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available?
The tour offers a range of discounts and packages, including family deals and combo packages with other attractions. Visitors should check the tour operator’s website or inquire at the pickup location for the latest offers and pricing options.
Are There Any Restrictions on Luggage or Personal Items?
The tour doesn’t have any specific restrictions on luggage or personal items. However, travelers are advised to only bring what they can comfortably carry as the buses may have limited space for larger bags.
The Sum Up
The Hop On Hop Off Double Decker Bus Tour of Philadelphia offers a convenient and flexible way to explore the city’s iconic landmarks. With open-air views, 27 stops, and hotel pickup and drop-off, it’s an ideal choice for first-time visitors and families. At just $36 per person, this tour provides a practical and cost-effective way to experience Philadelphia at your own pace.
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