Philadelphia Pass: 30+ Things To Do including Philadelphia Zoo

Thinking about exploring Philadelphia without the hassle of buying individual tickets? The Philadelphia Pass might be just what you need. Designed for flexible travelers, this pass offers unlimited access to over 30 attractions for 1, 2, 3, or 5 days—perfect if you want to see as much as possible without worrying about costs piling up. It’s a convenient digital ticket that you can download or display on your phone, making planning a breeze.

What we really like about this pass is how easy it is to use—no more fumbling with paper vouchers—and how it offers a rundown of what Philadelphia has to offer. Plus, the inclusion of a hop-on hop-off bus tour makes it simple to get your bearings and see the city’s highlights in one go. However, some users have noted issues with activity availability and scheduling, so it’s worth planning ahead.

This pass can suit a wide range of visitors—from families wanting a fun, educational experience to history buffs eager to explore Philadelphia’s past. If you’re someone who appreciates the flexibility of choosing what to see and when, this could be a perfect fit. But if you’re after a more curated or exclusive experience, you may find some activities aren’t quite up to expectations.

Key Points

• Flexible duration options allow you to choose 1, 2, 3, or 5 days of unlimited sightseeing.
• Includes a hop-on hop-off bus tour with live narration, ideal for city orientation.
• Over 30 attractions covered, from historic sites to museums and aquariums.
• Digital access, so you can download or display your pass easily.
• Mixed reviews highlight both great value and some logistical hiccups.
• Best for travelers who want variety and flexibility without breaking the bank.

What’s Included and How It Works

The Philadelphia Pass is a digital ticket that grants you admission to over 30 attractions, depending on the length of your chosen pass. Prices start at $59 per person, which can be a good deal considering the number of sites you can visit. On average, people tend to book about 10 days in advance, so planning ahead is smart.

Once you purchase your pass, everything is accessible through the Go City app or a printable guide. This means no paper vouchers—just straightforward access to your selected attractions. The pass is valid for one year from purchase and activates when you visit your first attraction, remaining valid for the number of consecutive days you purchased.

The Itinerary in Depth

Big Bus Tours Philadelphia

The hop-on hop-off bus is a highlight of the pass. Operated by Philadelphia Trolley Works, this double-decker gives you a rundown of the city’s top sights. With live narration, guides share fascinating tidbits about Philadelphia’s history, culture, and local hotspots, like where to get the best cheesesteak.

The Blue route covers major landmarks, and the flexibility to hop on and off at your own pace makes it a fantastic way to orient yourself. Several reviews praise how easy and convenient this service is. One reviewer said, “It was a good way to tour and see the city,” and appreciated the friendly guides.

Eastern State Penitentiary

A true highlight for history buffs, this National Historic Landmark takes you inside one of America’s most iconic prisons. Built to encourage penitence through solitude and work, it also played a part in shaping reformative justice in the US.

The architecture is impressive—original cell blocks are arranged like spokes of a wheel, with water and central heating in some cells. Visitors can explore the prison’s history, including its role in reform efforts. One reviewer noted it’s “an architectural marvel,” making it well worth a visit.

Adventure Aquarium

With over 8,500 sea animals, this aquarium is a must-visit. It’s the only place where you can see hippos and the largest collection of sharks on the East Coast, including the great hammerhead shark.

The exhibits are interactive and constantly updated, with touches and immersive displays—making each visit a chance to discover something new. Visitors love the hands-on experience with sharks and stingrays, and one review mentioned the “fun and educational” atmosphere. Expect to spend about 2 hours here.

The Franklin Institute

A favorite among families and science lovers alike, this museum offers interactive exhibits that make learning about science fun. Climb into a fighter jet, explore the science of sports, or marvel at the giant telescope.

Named after Benjamin Franklin, the institute aims to inspire curiosity with explosive experiments and cutting-edge displays. Many reviewers found it “approachable and engaging,” with plenty of hands-on activities that appeal to all ages.

Betsy Ross House

No trip to Philly is complete without stopping by the home of America’s first flag-maker. The Betsy Ross House transports you back to the late 1700s, with a self-guided audio tour about Ross’s role in American history.

The house is restored to its 1777 appearance, offering insight into Revolutionary-era life. One reviewer called it “a great way to learn about the life of a revolutionary woman,” making it engaging for history enthusiasts.

Museum of the American Revolution

This museum takes you through the entire story of America’s fight for independence. Exhibits are organized chronologically, starting from early unrest to pivotal battles and founding documents.

Interactive displays and immersive experiences make history come alive. Visitors have described it as “a perfect starting point for exploring Philadelphia’s revolutionary past.” Expect to spend about 1.5 hours here.

National Constitution Center

Here, you’ll explore the story of the U.S. Constitution through multimedia exhibits, theatrical performances, and historic artifacts. It’s a dynamic way to understand how the Constitution still impacts us today.

The center encourages participation—think debates and voting stations—making it more than just a static museum. One reviewer called it “engaging and informative,” especially for those interested in American civics.

Philadelphia Museum of Art

The iconic steps, the impressive collection—this museum is a cultural treasure. With over 240,000 objects covering Asian, European, American, and modern art, you’ll find plenty to explore.

Highlights include impressionist paintings, historic rooms, and special exhibits. Many visitors say it’s “one of the most visited art museums in the world,” and worth the 3-hour visit to truly soak in the art.

River Link Ferry

A quick, scenic way to experience both Philadelphia and Camden waterfronts, the RiverLink Ferry runs during the summer season. It’s perfect for a relaxed, breezy trip across the Delaware River.

The ferry connects you to attractions like the Adventure Aquarium and Battleship New Jersey—which are also part of your pass. It’s a quick 30-minute ride, adding a fun twist to your sightseeing.

Battleship New Jersey

For maritime history lovers, touring the largest battleship ever built is a highlight. The ship served in WWII, Korea, and Vietnam, making it a floating museum packed with stories.

Self-guided tours with audio guides take you through 7 levels, giving you a feel for life onboard. Visitors love how the ship’s history is well-presented and how many decks you can explore.

Christ Church Burial Ground

Pay respects at the final resting place of key figures like Benjamin Franklin. The 300-year-old burial ground offers a quiet moment with historic gravestones, including those of revolutionaries.

A simple but meaningful stop, many appreciate the chance to connect with Philadelphia’s colonial past. The self-guided tours help you learn about the early American leaders buried there.

Philadelphia Zoo

Spanning 42 acres, this zoo is home to over 1,300 animals, including tigers, gorillas, and hippos. The Zoo 360 treetop walkways give animals more room and visitors a chance to see them from above.

The zoo is a favorite for families, offering interactive exhibits and scheduled thunderstorms in the crocodile exhibit that mimic natural habitats. Expect about 3 hours to see everything.

Ghost Tours of Philadelphia

If you’re into spooky stories, this candlelit walking tour of Independence Park and Society Hill brings Philadelphia’s haunted tales to life. Led by a costumed storyteller, it mixes history with ghostly legends.

The 75-90 minute tour is a unique way to see the city’s darker side. Visitors say it’s “entertaining and eerie,” perfect if you enjoy a little mystery after a day of sightseeing.

Bow Tie Tours

Step back into history on a 75-minute walking tour. Guides, trained as historians, share stories of how the colonies gained independence, touching on iconic figures like Washington, Jefferson, and Franklin.

It’s a lively, educational stroll that’s especially good for history buffs or anyone wanting to understand Philadelphia’s role in America’s founding.

Additional Attractions

The pass also includes visits to the Academy of Natural Sciences, LEGOLAND Discovery Center, Barnes Foundation, Liberty Museum, Longwood Gardens, Rodin Museum, African American Museum, Independence Seaport Museum, Penn Museum, Brandywine Museum, and Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History. Each offers a unique perspective on art, culture, and history.

Our Honest Take: Is it Worth It?

The Philadelphia Pass offers genuine value if you plan to visit multiple attractions. Several reviews praise the convenience and savings—one said it allowed them to visit 10 sites in two days that would have cost much more individually. The digital format makes everything straightforward, and the inclusion of the hop-on hop-off bus makes city navigation much easier.

However, some users have faced frustrations. For example, one reviewer noted that certain activities like the ferry or battleship were canceled or didn’t happen as scheduled, which can be disappointing when you’ve already committed time and money. Others experienced issues with attraction availability or miscommunication about what’s included—like the Mutter Museum not being part of the pass since 2020, despite some claims to the contrary.

The pricing at $59 for a one-day pass is reasonable, especially if you’re planning to hit at least 3-4 major sites. But if your plans are more spread out or flexible, the value diminishes. Some reviews suggest doing things on a day-by-day basis might be better if you want to avoid missing out on scheduled or canceled activities.

Timing and planning are key. The pass is valid for a year, but activities are only valid during the consecutive days you select. To maximize your experience, check the schedules of attractions beforehand—especially since some, like museums, may be closed on certain days.

Who Should Consider This?

If you’re a traveler who enjoys seeing many sights in a flexible way, this pass makes a lot of sense. It’s especially good for those who want to maximize their budget and prefer to have everything planned out in advance. Families who want a variety of educational and entertaining activities will find it particularly useful.

On the other hand, if you’re only interested in a handful of specific places—like just the zoo or a few museums—you might find buying individual tickets offers better value and less logistical hassle.

FAQs

Is the pass valid for a full year?
Yes, your pass can be purchased up to a year in advance and remains valid for one year from the date of purchase.

Can I use the pass for multiple attractions in one day?
Absolutely. The pass covers unlimited visits to the included attractions during your active days, so you can visit multiple sites in one day if you wish.

How do I access the pass?
Once purchased, your pass is available digitally through the Go City app or as a printable guide. You can download it immediately and start planning.

Are there any attractions not included, or could some be unavailable?
Yes, some attractions or activities may be closed or not included at the time of your visit. Always check schedules and availability ahead of time, especially since some sites may close on certain days.

Can I upgrade my tickets or buy extras?
Some attractions may offer additional ticket upgrades that are not included in the pass, which you can purchase directly at the site.

Is the hop-on hop-off bus schedule reliable?
Most reviewers find the bus convenient, but some experienced longer wait times. Check the schedule in advance and plan accordingly.

Are the attractions family-friendly?
Many attractions like the zoo, museums, and aquarium are suitable for families, but some, like ghost tours, may be more geared toward adults.

What if some attractions are canceled or don’t meet expectations?
This can happen, especially if schedules or weather interfere. Check attraction websites before your visit and plan some backup options.

Does the pass include transportation to attractions?
The pass covers entry only. Transportation to and from sites (except the included ferry and bus tour) is up to you.

What’s the best way to maximize the pass?
Plan your route around the most desired sites and check opening days and hours. Use the app to reserve spots where needed and stay flexible.

Final Thoughts

The Philadelphia Pass offers a solid way to explore the city with minimal fuss, making it ideal for travelers who want to see many sights without the hassle of ticketing and planning each visit separately. Its strength lies in the variety of attractions and convenience of digital access—saving you time and money.

That said, it’s not perfect—some users have encountered cancellations, scheduling issues, or confusion about what’s included. It’s worth doing some homework before your trip, checking opening days, and coordinating with attraction schedules to ensure you get the most out of your pass.

For those who enjoy a flexible, self-paced exploration of Philadelphia and want to cover a lot of ground, this pass can be a cost-effective and practical choice. Just remember, a little pre-trip planning will go a long way in making your experience smooth and enjoyable.

Happy travels, and enjoy discovering all the historic, cultural, and fun-filled sides of Philly!