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PhiladelphiaSelf-guided activities

Our most recommended Philadelphia Self-guided activities

Philadelphia: Double-Decker Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour

1. Philadelphia: Double-Decker Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour

Explore the origins of America on a hop-on hop-off bus tour of Philadelphia. Discover the city where America’s Founding Fathers first declared independence, and ratified the US Constitution and Bill of Rights. Along the way, enjoy stunning views of historic landmarks including the Christ Church Burial Grounds, Elfreth’s Alley, the Betsy Ross House, and Independence Hall.   Begin your tour at the Bourse Building, across from Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. Listen to the multilingual audio commentary as you enjoy the views from the open-top deck. See the Friendship Gate in Chinatown and be amazed by the architecture of Philadelphia’s City Hall.   Hop off to explore the various museums along Benjamin Franklin Parkway, including the world's largest collection of post-impressionist art at the Barnes Foundation. Marvel at Philadelphia’s skyline and stop to enjoy a bird’s-eye view from the One Liberty Observation Deck. Pass through the charming neighborhood of Society Hill and end your tour with a drive along the banks of the Delaware River. Stops:  • The Bourse Building  • Betsy Ross House  • National Constitution Center  • Chinatown  • Reading Terminal Market  • Love Park  • Cathedral Basilica  • Logan Circle  • Rodin Museum  • Eastern State Penitentiary  • Special Events - The Perelman Building  • The Rocky Steps and Statue  • West Entrance of the Philadelphia Museum of Art and Boat House Row  • Civil War Memorial  • Please Touch Museum  • Philadelphia Zoo  • Franklin Institute  • Mutter Museum  • One Liberty Observation Deck  • Avenue of the Arts  • Society Hill, Antique Row  • Mother Bethel A.M.E Church  • Headhouse Square  • Vietnam & Korean War Memorials  • Penns Landing  • Museum of the American Revolution  • Christ Church  • The Liberty Bell

Philadelphia: Eastern State Penitentiary Admission

2. Philadelphia: Eastern State Penitentiary Admission

Discover the historic building of the Eastern State Penitentiary which stands today in ruin, a haunting world of crumbling cellblocks and empty guard towers. Learn about how when Eastern State opened more than 180 years ago, it changed the world of prisons and was copied throughout the world. Known for its grand architecture and strict discipline, this was the world's first true "penitentiary," a prison designed to inspire penitence, or true regret, in the hearts of prisoners. Discover how the building itself was an architectural wonder; it had running water and central heat before the White House. Marvel at the vaulted, sky-lit cells which once held many of America's most notorious criminals, including bank robber "Slick Willie" Sutton and Al Capone. As you explore the building, listen to 'The Voices of Eastern State' audio tour which is included in your admission price. Narrated by actor Steve Buscemi (known for Boardwalk Empire, Fargo, Armageddon, and Ghost World), this rich, stereo soundscape mixes dozens of voices. Hear the stories of 3 former wardens and 25 guards and inmates which create an atmospheric tour as you stroll through Eastern State's cellblocks and yards. When you arrive, receive an MP3 player and headset that will guide you through the penitentiary complex and explain the prison's history. This audio guide contains a main audio route, plus additional stops for subjects like escapes, riots, sports, sexuality, and more. You are free to tour at your own pace and to listen to (or skip) stops based on your interests. Also discover interactive experiences, history exhibits, and a critically acclaimed series of artist installations.

Philadelphia: Open-Top Nighttime Bus Tour

3. Philadelphia: Open-Top Nighttime Bus Tour

See the dazzling lights of the city from atop a double-decker bus. This beautiful city has age and wisdom, and buildings steeped in rich history. Cruise by Philadelphia's most iconic buildings, such as the newest addition to the skyline, the Comcast Technology Center. Discover the city as it lights up for the night. From the open-air top deck of the tour bus, you’ll have spectacular views of twinkling lights and top landmarks, like the Philadelphia Museum of Arts, the Bellvue Hotel, and The Kimmel Center. This nighttime bus tour is not a hop-on hop-off activity; simply climb aboard, sit back, and relax during an exciting one hour and 15-minute ride.

Philadelphia: Museum of the American Revolution Entry

4. Philadelphia: Museum of the American Revolution Entry

Discover the dramatic story of the American Revolution at one of Philadelphia’s lead attractions. Step into the Museum of the American Revolution, then watch an introductory movie before making your own way through the exhibitions. Marvel at the museum’s vast collection of Revolutionary-era weapons, personal items, documents, and works of art that bring history back to life. Learn about this fascinating period of time as you explore immersive galleries, engage in powerful theater experiences, and take part in interactive features. Located just steps from the famous Independence Hall, the museum serves as a portal to the region’s Revolutionary history, which sparks interest, provides context, and encourages exploration. Printed museum guides are available in English, Spanish, French, German, Mandarin and Japanese, to elevate your learning experience.

Philadelphia: Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Flex Pass & Campo's Steak

5. Philadelphia: Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Flex Pass & Campo's Steak

Hop aboard a double-decker bus and discover Philadelphia's top attractions with comfort and ease. From the top deck, admire panoramic views of the city that will leave you speechless and entertained while you soak up the history, heritage, and beauty of one of America's oldest cities. Benefit from a local guide's informative commentary as you travel around a 90-minute circuit to 28 different stops highlighting Philadelphia's 100 most popular attractions, including the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and the US Mint. At Stop number 27, hop off and enjoy a delicious cheesesteak sandwich combo meal at one of Philadelphia's most well-loved institutions, Campo's. Sit down to your choice of sandwich, served with potato chips, water, and Philadelphia's own TastyKake and Peanut Chews.

Philadelphia: Double-Decker Sightseeing Bus Tour

6. Philadelphia: Double-Decker Sightseeing Bus Tour

Climb aboard the double-decker hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus and discover the sights of Philadelphia at your own pace. Benefit from the services on an onboard guide and avail of frequent departures every day of the week. Learn the history of the city and its cultural attractions, and hear where the best places to eat and shop are along the way. Follow in the footsteps of "Rocky" and climb the stairs of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Enjoy an authentic cheesesteak or retrace the steps of the founding fathers and see where they signed the Declaration of Independence. Sit back and enjoy the 90-minute ride around Philly seeing almost 30 points of interest along the way. Sights you will see: • Independence Visitor Center (northeast corner of 5th and Market Streets) • Betsy Ross House  • U.S. Mint and Ben Franklin’s Grave  • National Constitution Center  • Chinatown (northeast corner of Arch Street at 10th Street) • Reading Terminal Market/Convention Center  • City Hall and Love Park • Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul/Sister Cities  • Barnes Foundation (21st Street and Ben Franklin Parkway)  • Rodin Museum • Eastern State Penitentiary • Perelman Building of the Philadelphia Museum of Art • Philadelphia Zoo  • Please Touch Museum/Memorial Hall/Fairmount Park • Rocky Steps • Philadelphia Museum of Art • Franklin Institute/Logan Circle • The Bellevue/Rittenhouse Square • Academy of Music/Broad Street • Antiques Row (10th and Pine Street) • South Street/Headhouse Square • Vietnam Veterans Memorial • Hilton Philadelphia at Penn's Landing/Columbus Boulevard • Penn's Landing/Waterfront • Old City/Christ Church • Museum of American Jewish History

Philadelphia: Historic Self-Guided Tour with GPS & Audio

7. Philadelphia: Historic Self-Guided Tour with GPS & Audio

Journey back in time to historic Philadelphia to the days of George Washington. Follow this self-guided tour that has been developed by local guides and narrated by professional voice artists. Make stops along the tour to hike, visit historic homes, and marvel at waterfall views. Start by downloading the Action Tour Guide app that will function as your personal guide, audio tour, and map all in one. Purchase one tour per car, not per person. Everyone listens together!Begin at the City Hall and make your way to the historic district while exploring the catalysts of the war. At the famous Independence Hall, dive into the Declaration of Independence’s drafting, debating, and signing. From there, explore George Washington’s legacy as a politician, general, and president. This leads to the iconic Liberty Bell and the history behind its famous crack and its status as an abolitionist symbol.  Then explore the lives, museums, and homes of revolutionary figures like Ben Franklin, Benedict Arnold, Thomas Jefferson, and Crispus Attacus. Continue your journey past the famous African American Museum, Franklin Square, National Constitution Center, and the Mint.  At the historic Betsy Ross House, see the birthplace of the American flag, and in picturesque Elfreth’s Alley, step back into a quaint, cobblestoned era. Finally, pass George Washington’s church and finish at the Museum of American Revolution.

Philadelphia: Haunted City Exploration Game

8. Philadelphia: Haunted City Exploration Game

Explore the dark side of Philadelphia while you play a fun and exciting city discovery game. See the highlights of the city in groups of any size. The city game starts at the Edgar Allan Poe House. It will take you between 1.5 to 2 hours to complete and you can also explore at your own pace: pause the game and resume anytime from the location where you paused it. You will finish at Eastern State Penitentiary. As you solve challenges, the story unfolds and exact directions on your phone will guide you to the next location. After your booking, you will receive an email with instructions on how to download and play the game on your phone. You can play on your own, in a large group or in several smaller groups that compete against each other and meet at the final stop of the game. We recommend that each user purchases a ticket for an optimal experience, although several people can share a phone.

Philadelphia: Old Town Exploration Game

9. Philadelphia: Old Town Exploration Game

Play an exploration game on your phone that takes you on a self-guided tour of Philadelphia. Stop at the most iconic spots of the city and learn their history while using clues, solving problems, and unlocking stories. Enjoy the flexibility of a tour taken entirely on an app. The game begins with you following the trail of a missing son. Start your pursuit at Spruce Street Harbor Park. From there, simply follow the route and instructions on the app. Explore at your own pace: pause the game and resume anytime from any location where you paused it. As you solve challenges, the story unfolds and exact directions on your phone will guide you to the next location. See Penn's Landing, the Liberty Bell, Benjamin Franklin's Grave, and more. Discover Philadelphia’s cobblestoned streets, photo-worthy Independence Mall, and old town. Choose to play on your own, in a large group, or in several smaller groups to compete against each other and race to the final stop of the game. Try a new type of experience that’s the perfect mix between a tour, outdoor escape game, and treasure hunt.

Philadelphia: Road to Revolution GPS Walking Audio Tour

10. Philadelphia: Road to Revolution GPS Walking Audio Tour

Every building in Philadelphia has a story to tell. The materials, technology, and styles in vogue when these buildings were constructed might reveal one story, while the people who designed, built, lived, and worked in them often add a narrative of their own. Come with me on this walking tour to hear about the events that took place in and around Philadelphia’s Old City buildings. Along the way, I’ll tell you about the individuals who shaped the city from its beginnings to American Independence. Starting in Elfreth’s Alley, the oldest continuously inhabited street in America, you’ll walk the same streets as Philadelphia’s founding fathers and mothers to Independence Hall. The American Revolution will loom large, as will the founding of our government, in which Benjamin Franklin had a large role to play. He’s the only person to have signed the Constitution of the United States, the Declaration of Independence, the Treaty of Alliance, and the Treaty of Paris. You’ll also hear about Alexander Hamilton’s time in Philadelphia and the scandal he was involved in. And you’ll learn about the city’s first fire marks, and a bit about the architectural styles of this time period, including Georgian, Federal and Greek Revival. Along the way, you’ll see: • Christ Church, where George Washington, Betsy Ross, and Deborah Franklin all worshiped at some point • Fragments of Franklin Court, and the sections where Ben Franklin spent the last years of his life • Carpenters’ Hall, the first craft guild in America and home of the First Continental Congress • First Bank of the United States, created by Alexander Hamilton, which sparked the beginning of the two party system • Second Bank of the United States, which looks Grecian in style • The Liberty Bell, where you’ll hear its story and discover what it commemorates • Independence Hall, home of the Declaration of the United States and the Constitution So come with me on this fun and fact-filled journey through Colonial Philadelphia. I promise you an interesting adventure!

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Frequently asked questions about Philadelphia Self-guided activities

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What people are saying about Philadelphia

Best hop on hop off tour we have ever taken! This was our second time taking it… several years apart. Both times we had a live tour guide and both times the guide was awesome! Philadelphia has so many visually interesting landmarks and iconic areas to visit. The tour gets up close to all areas, buildings and statues. We found most everything to be within a quick few minutes walk of the stops. If you’ll be in town several days it would be worthwhile to get a 2 day pass.

Very nice tour with a local guide. You get a lot of information in the context of then and now. Highly recommended. Our your was only in English, which wasn't a problem for us but maybe good to know if you don't speak the language very well

When you stay for a few days in a big city and you don’t have much time, the hop on-hop off is the best means to visit the place. Very practical since your ticket can be used for a whole day.

Sara was the best. Great mix of crazy facts and sarcastic humor. I’d definitely do it again.

It was an amazing experience educational and I highly recommend