Go City: Philadelphia Explorer Pass: Choose 3 to 7 Things To Do

Traveling to Philadelphia? The Go City Philadelphia Explorer Pass can be a handy way to get around the city’s highlights, especially if you’re planning to hit several attractions. With options to choose between 3 and 7 activities, this pass aims to give visitors a flexible, budget-friendly way to explore the City of Brotherly Love. But is it really worth the price and effort?

We haven’t tested this specific pass ourselves, but after digging into the details and reviews, we’ve got a pretty clear picture of what you can expect. There are definitely some standout benefits, like the ease of mobile ticketing and the ability to see multiple major sights at a discount. On the flip side, there are a few considerations that could make or break your experience depending on your travel style.

If you’re someone who loves the idea of packing in a variety of museums, historical sites, and tours in one trip, this might be a good fit. But if you prefer a more relaxed pace or only want to see one or two key spots, it could feel like overkill. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know before deciding if the Philadelphia Explorer Pass will work for your trip.

Key Points

• Flexibility is a major plus: You can choose 3 to 7 attractions or tours, and the pass is valid for 30 days from your first visit.
• Mobile tickets make access easy: No need to worry about paper vouchers; you simply save the pass on your phone.
• Popular stops include: The Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus Philadelphia, Eastern State Penitentiary, the Franklin Institute, and the Museum of the American Revolution.
• It’s best for organized travelers: To maximize value, book attractions ahead of time, especially the more popular tours.
• Reviews highlight pros and cons: Know that some attractions, like the Mutter Museum, aren’t included anymore, which could surprise visitors.
• Cost-effectiveness depends on your plan: If you visit multiple attractions, you could save a good chunk of money. But if you only do one or two, the value drops.

What’s Included and How It Works

The Go City Philadelphia Explorer Pass offers you the chance to pick between 3 and 7 activities from a broad list of options. The price starts at $64.00 per person, which might seem steep at first glance, but the real value hinges on how many sites you plan to visit. Once you purchase, your pass is immediately accessible as a digital ticket, ready for use on your smartphone. This means no fuss with paper vouchers or printing tickets, making your entrance smooth and contactless.

The pass is valid for 30 days from your first attraction, giving you plenty of time to explore at your own pace. You can download the digital guide included in your purchase to see detailed info on opening hours, reservation instructions, and other practical tips.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What Are the Main Stops?

The pass covers a variety of destinations, from iconic museums to historic landmarks, and even scenic tours. Here’s a more detailed look at some of the highlights, along with what you can expect at each stop.

Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus Philadelphia

This is often considered one of the best ways to get a quick overview of the city. The Blue route takes about 1.5 hours for a complete loop, with over 25 stops along the way. The buses feature live narration by friendly guides, offering insights into Philly’s history, culture, and local favorites like the best cheesesteak spots.

Hop-on, hop-off allows you to explore at your own pace, which is perfect if you want to visit specific sites in depth. Many reviews mention how convenient this is, especially with the flexibility to step off and reboard. The open-air second level offers a great view of the city streets, adding to the experience.

Eastern State Penitentiary

One of Philadelphia’s most historic sites, the Eastern State Penitentiary is a must-see. Described as an architectural marvel, this former prison offers insights into criminal justice reform and the history of incarceration in America. It’s a National Historic Landmark that highlights the evolution of penology, from solitude to reform initiatives.

Visitors can expect a 2-hour self-guided tour through the original cell blocks, with some reviews noting the site’s dark but fascinating atmosphere. A key point to consider: the site’s stories of solitary confinement and the role it played in reforming the justice system make it both educational and a bit haunting.

Adventure Aquarium

For marine lovers, the Adventure Aquarium is a standout. Home to over 8,500 sea animals, it’s the only aquarium in the U.S. where you can see hippos, a great hammerhead shark, and the largest collection of sharks on the East Coast. The exhibits are immersive, with seven touch exhibits that let you get close to sharks, stingrays, and other creatures.

Reviewers appreciate the interactive nature and the variety of exhibits, making it a great stop for families or anyone interested in marine life. The aquarium typically takes around 2 hours to explore fully, and tickets are included in the pass.

The Franklin Institute

A hit for science buffs, this interactive museum brings science to life with hands-on exhibits, live demonstrations, and immersive displays. Named after Benjamin Franklin, it aims to inspire curiosity and innovation.

Expect to see things like a fighter jet simulator, sports science exhibits, and giant walkthroughs that are just as fun for adults as for kids. Visitors often comment on the engaging nature of the exhibits, and reviews mention the museum’s dynamic atmosphere. It’s a solid choice if you want an educational experience that’s also lively and entertaining.

Historic and Cultural Sites

Beyond the museums, the pass offers access to iconic landmarks like Betsy Ross House, Christ Church Burial Ground, and the Museum of the American Revolution. These spots give a tangible sense of Philadelphia’s role in American history, from the founding fathers to revolutionary stories.

The Betsy Ross House is especially popular, offering a glimpse into colonial life and the story behind America’s first flag. The self-guided audio tour helps bring the 1740s to life, and many visitors find it a meaningful stop.

Other Notable Stops

The pass also includes destinations like the Rodin Museum, known for its impressive sculptures; the Penn Museum, which houses artifacts from around the world; and scenic rides like the RiverLink Ferry, which offers a relaxing way to see the waterfronts.

Some reviews mention that certain attractions, such as the Mutter Museum, are no longer included, which could be disappointing if you were counting on them. It’s worth double-checking the current list before your trip.

How Travelers Feel About the Pass

The overall review score is around 3.5 to 3.7 out of 5, based on 26 reviews. Some travelers rave about the value for money, especially when visiting multiple attractions. For example, one reviewer noted, “We saw the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Barnes and Franklin Institute — great value for the price.”

Others, however, point out drawbacks. A few mentioned the limited validity period—the pass being only good for a single day was a surprise to some, leading to unanticipated extra costs, as one reviewer explains: “I was not aware the pass was only good for one day, so spent more money than I wanted to.”

Another common concern is that some attractions, like the Mutter Museum, are no longer included, which was a letdown for some visitors who planned on visiting those sites. This highlights the importance of reviewing the most up-to-date attraction list before you buy.

Some reviews highlight the quality of guides and staff, with comments like “Andrew at One Liberty Observation Deck was fantastic,” and the overall ease of use with mobile tickets.

However, a few travelers feel the pass isn’t worth it if they don’t plan to see enough attractions, with one stating, “Was not worth it. Hardly used it.” So, if you’re only planning a quick visit to just a couple of sites, this might not be the best deal.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Pass

• Plan ahead: Check the digital guide or app for reservation requirements and opening hours. Popular attractions often need advance booking.
• Prioritize your must-see sites: If certain places are a priority, make sure they’re included in your chosen attractions.
• Book early: Especially for tours like the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus, booking in advance can save time and frustration.
• Use your pass over the full 30 days: Don’t rush — spread out your visits to get maximum value.
• Double-check for updates: Attractions can change; always verify what’s currently included before heading out.
• Be prepared for some attractions to be busy: The city’s major sites can get crowded, so arriving early or during less busy times helps.

Who Will Love This Experience?

If you enjoy a flexible, all-in-one approach to city exploration, the Philadelphia Explorer Pass could be a good fit. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to see a mix of history, science, and culture without the hassle of purchasing individual tickets.

It works well for those who appreciate self-guided itineraries, as the pass allows you to explore at your own pace over a month. Families, history buffs, and museum lovers will find plenty to keep busy. But if you’re only interested in a couple of sites or prefer a more relaxed travel style, individual tickets might be more economical.

Keep in mind, the value really depends on how many attractions you plan to visit. If you’re strategic and pick your stops wisely, you could end up saving quite a bit compared to paying at each site.

FAQ

Is the pass valid for multiple days?
Yes. The pass is valid for 30 days from your first visit, giving you the flexibility to spread out your sightseeing.

Do I need to print anything?
No. The pass is delivered as a mobile ticket, so you just need to save it on your smartphone for quick entry.

Are reservations required for attractions?
Some popular attractions might require advance booking. Check the digital guide or app instructions to confirm and reserve spots early.

Can I visit the same attraction more than once?
Typically, the pass grants you access once per attraction, but always verify specific site policies.

What happens if an attraction is no longer included?
You might find that some attractions, like the Mutter Museum, are no longer part of the pass. It’s wise to check the latest list before booking.

Is it suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as a family pass, many of the included attractions are family-friendly, such as the aquarium, science museum, and historic sites.

What if I only want to see a few sites?
In that case, buying individual tickets might be more economical. The pass is best if you plan to visit multiple attractions.

Final Thoughts

The Go City Philadelphia Explorer Pass offers a practical way to see a good chunk of what Philadelphia has to offer, especially if you’re keen on hitting several museums, historic sites, and tours. Its main strengths lie in the flexibility, immediate mobile access, and potential savings when visiting multiple attractions.

The experience works best for travelers who prefer a self-guided, flexible itinerary and want to make the most out of their visit without worrying about individual ticket purchases. On the other hand, if your trip is more casual or focused on just one or two sites, it could be an unnecessary expense.

Overall, it provides a balanced mix of value and convenience, but be sure to plan ahead, check current inclusions, and decide whether the attractions align with your interests. With careful planning, this pass can help you enjoy Philadelphia efficiently and economically.

Happy exploring!