From NYC: Day Trip to Philadelphia and Amish Country

If you’re itching to explore more of Pennsylvania’s charms without the hassle of planning everything on your own, this day trip from New York offers a balanced peek into two very different worlds: the bustling, historic streets of Philadelphia and the quiet simplicity of Amish Country. It’s a full-day adventure that packs in some iconic sights, cultural insights, and a taste of rural life.

What we genuinely appreciate about this tour is how smoothly everything is organized, especially considering it’s a 14-hour journey. Plus, the focus on guided commentary in your preferred language makes the experience feel personalized and accessible. And then there’s the authentic Amish buggy ride, which is quite unlike anything you’ll get just by reading about it—it’s a real highlight.

That said, it’s not a trip without its quirks. The timing can feel a little rushed, especially at the Amish stops, and some reviews mention transportation comfort issues. If you’re planning to spend the whole day engaged and want a relaxed pace, this might be a consideration. Nonetheless, if you’re curious about American history and Amish life but short on time, this tour could be a great fit.

This experience is best suited for history lovers, culture enthusiasts, or anyone eager to see a snapshot of American rural life while ticking off Philadelphia’s must-see landmarks. It’s a good option if you prefer guided tours and want a comprehensive day without the stress of independent travel.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary covers iconic Philadelphia sights and Amish culture in one day.
• Guided commentary in multiple languages enhances understanding and engagement.
• Authentic Amish buggy ride offers a rare, close-up look at Amish life.
• Long, full-day experience—be prepared for early mornings and a lot of walking.
• Mixed reviews on transportation comfort and timing—worth noting if mobility or a relaxed pace matters.
• Excellent value for the price given the range of experiences and included stops.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Trip in Detail

Starting Early with Round-Trip Transportation

The day begins bright and early with a 6:30 AM departure from outside the Port Authority bus terminal in NYC. The journey to Philadelphia is mostly smooth, with air-conditioned buses making the long ride more comfortable. The main perk here is convenience—you get picked up right in Manhattan and don’t have to worry about driving or parking. The downside? As some reviews note, transportation quality varies; some find the minivan cramped or uncomfortable, especially for longer legs.

Philadelphia: A City of Heritage and Landmarks

Once in Philadelphia, the tour hits the ground running. You’ll see some of the city’s most recognizable attractions, starting with Independence Square, home of the Liberty Bell and Constitution Hall. These are iconic symbols of American independence, and the guides often provide insights that add context to their historical significance.

One of the fun moments is running up the “Rocky Steps” at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. If you’re a film buff or just enjoy a good photo op, this is a classic. As one reviewer said, “Seeing the Rocky Steps was a highlight,” especially for fans of the movie.

While the itinerary doesn’t specify inside visits like the Betsy Ross House or Franklin’s grave, the stops include Elfert Alley, the oldest inhabited street in America, which gives a tangible sense of history and old-world charm. The tour guides are praised for their insightful commentary, making this part of the trip educational and engaging.

The Food and Shopping Break

Though meals aren’t included, the tour typically offers a stop at a local eatery or market, where you can grab some quick country-style cooking or browse local shops. Several reviews mention the delicious food and quaint markets as highlights, adding a tasty and relaxed element to the day.

More Great Tours Nearby

Heading to Lancaster County and Amish Country

After exploring Philadelphia, the journey continues to Lancaster County, home to Pennsylvania’s Amish community. This stretch of the trip is often cited as both eye-opening and peaceful. You’ll visit an Amish market, where the variety of homemade goods, fresh produce, and crafts offers a glimpse into Amish life.

The real standout is the authentic Amish buggy ride. You’ll hop into a horse-drawn carriage and travel through scenic farmland, witnessing Amish farms and lifestyles firsthand. As one reviewer expressed, “It was amazing to see people living without modern technology,” and others note the serenity of the countryside makes it a memorable experience.

The Amish Market and Local Culture

Following the buggy ride, you can explore the Amish market, which often features homemade ice cream, baked goods, and crafts. Many travelers find this part of the tour quaint and authentic, providing both cultural insight and tasty treats.

Overall Experience and Value

The tour is generally considered a good value for $149, especially given the number of attractions packed into the day. The inclusion of guided commentary in multiple languages, an Amish buggy ride, and stops at major Philadelphia landmarks makes it a comprehensive option for a one-day escape.

What Could Be Better?

While many reviews praise the guides and the overall experience, some mention timing constraints—it can feel rushed, especially at Amish stops where more time to explore and shop would be appreciated. Others note transportation comfort issues, with some describing the minivans or buses as tight, which could be uncomfortable for those with mobility challenges or simply a preference for more spacious seating.

The Pros and Cons

Pros:
– Well-organized, full-day itinerary
– Knowledgeable guides offering commentary in your language
– Authentic Amish buggy ride and market visit
– Iconic Philadelphia sights like the Liberty Bell and Rocky Steps
– Good value for the price

Cons:
– Can be rushed, especially at Amish stops
– Transportation comfort varies, some find it cramped
– No included meals, so budget extra for food
– Slightly long day with early start and late return

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re interested in American history, iconic city landmarks, and Amish rural life, and you’re okay with a busy schedule, this tour offers a balanced overview. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate guided experiences and want to see a lot in one day without the hassle of planning multiple stops.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace, more time at each site, or have mobility concerns, this tour might feel a bit hurried. It’s also a good choice for first-timers to Philadelphia or Amish Country, as guides typically provide plenty of context.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The tour departs at 6:30 AM outside the Port Authority bus terminal on 42nd St, Manhattan. Be punctual as it’s an early start.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. The tour typically allows time to purchase food at the Amish market or in Philadelphia.

Is the Amish buggy ride authentic?
Yes, the buggy ride is described as authentic and is one of the highlights, giving you a real look at Amish farm life.

How long is the trip?
It lasts approximately 14 hours, generally starting early in the morning and returning in the evening.

Is transportation comfortable?
Transportation is by air-conditioned bus, but some reviews mention that the vehicles can be tight or uncomfortable, especially for longer legs.

Can I customize the tour or extend my stay?
This tour is a guided, fixed schedule experience. For more flexibility, you might consider visiting Amish Country independently or planning extra time in Philadelphia.

Final Thoughts

This day trip from New York to Philadelphia and Amish Country offers a well-rounded taste of American history, culture, and rural life. It’s a practical choice if you’re eager to see the highlights without the hassle of organizing multiple visits yourself. The guides tend to be knowledgeable, the sights memorable, and the overall experience offers a good balance of education and fun.

While it’s not perfect—some feel the timing could be more relaxed and transportation more comfortable—the value and variety of experiences make it worth considering. Just be prepared for a full, busy day, and bring comfortable shoes and an open mind.

If you’re a traveler who enjoys guided tours, is curious about Amish life, and wants to hit some of Philadelphia’s most iconic spots, this trip could be a rewarding choice. It’s especially great if you’re short on time but eager to get a sense of two very different American worlds in one go.

You can check availability for your dates here: