Philadelphia Hop-On Hop-Off City Tour: Easy Double-Decker Sightseeing Loop
Climb an open-top double-decker and let Philadelphia unfold: from Independence Hall to Penn’s Landing, the hop-on hop-off loop offers a practical, scenic way to orient yourself—and carve out time to explore the city’s best neighborhoods. Learn how to make the most of a 90-minute loop and longer hop-off adventures.
The Experience
Before You Go
Redeem at Stop 1 before boarding
Tickets must be redeemed at the Independence Visitor Center (SW corner of 6th & Market); allow 10–15 minutes on busy days.
Bring a small daypack
Carry water, ID, and a light jacket—top-deck weather can change quickly even on mild days.
Plan hop-off timing
Pick 2–3 stops you really want to explore—museums and markets need at least 60–90 minutes each.
Use live commentary to orient
Onboard guides offer historical context you won’t get from maps—ask questions and note stops to revisit.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Pine Street’s weekend markets and coffee shops near Old City
- •The less-visited Rodin Museum terraces for quieter sculpture views
Wildlife
- •Pigeons and urban sparrows near Independence Mall
- •Seagulls along Penn’s Landing and the Delaware waterfront
Conservation Note
Operators encourage staying on sidewalks, using designated stops to reduce idling; consider walking between nearby stops to reduce emissions and support local businesses.
The route stitches together Philadelphia’s revolutionary-era landmarks—Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell—along with industrial and cultural sites that shaped the city’s growth.
Photographer's Notes
- • Top deck facing west on Market Street for Independence Hall
- • Steps of the Philadelphia Museum (Rocky Steps) for skyline shots
- • Penn’s Landing waterfront at sunset
What to Bring
Comfortable walking shoesEssential
City streets and museum steps demand supportive, comfortable footwear.
Reusable water bottleEssential
Staying hydrated is essential, especially if you spend hours exploring in summer heat.
Portable phone chargerEssential
A full battery keeps maps, tickets, and mobile photography powered through the day.
Light rain shell or layered jacket
Top-deck exposure means a lightweight shell is useful during cool mornings or sudden showers.
Common Questions
Do I need to redeem my ticket in person?
Yes—tickets must be redeemed at Stop 1 (Independence Visitor Center) before boarding for the first time.
Can I hop on and off as much as I like?
Yes, within the validity of your ticket type (1/2/3 day options); each loop runs roughly every 20 minutes.
Are the buses wheelchair accessible?
Yes—buses are wheelchair accessible; notify at booking or at the redemption desk if you need assistance.
Is commentary available in languages other than English?
Live onboard commentary is provided in English; check with the operator for any multilingual options or printed guides.
When is the best time to ride for photography?
Early morning or late afternoon for softer light and fewer crowds; midday can be bright but busier.
What happens in bad weather?
The operator may cancel for severe weather; check policies and the Big Bus website for real-time stop changes and safety updates.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
90 minutes (continuous loop); plan 2–6 hours for hop-off exploring
Location
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
No particular fitness required; involves short walks and stairs when entering attractions
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