Get There
What is the best way to get to Philadelphia?
Flying: Located just seven miles from Center City, Philadelphia International Airport is served by all major domestic carriers and is a major international hub for American Airlines, with nearly 500 daily departures to more than 120 destinations worldwide.
Train: Philadelphia is served by Amtrak, which operates rail service along the Northeast Corridor, stretching from Boston to Washington, D.C. The city is only a 1.5-hour train ride from New York City and two hours from D.C. The 30th Street Station is just a short walk from hotels and meeting venues.
Car: Philadelphia is served by the PA Turnpike (I-276), I-76, I-476, I-95, US-1, and the New Jersey Turnpike. It’s a two-hour drive from both New York City and Baltimore and a three-hour drive from Washington, D.C.
What is the best time to visit Philadelphia?
The best times to visit Philadelphia are during the spring and fall months, in order to avoid both the winter chill and the summer heat. Plus, in the spring, cherry blossoms are in bloom around the city. (The Philadelphia Flower Show takes place in March and the Subaru Cherry Blossom Festival in April.) Peak season is the summer, so expect crowds of tourists at popular sites like Independence Hall and the Philadelphia Zoo during that time. Key events include the Mummer's Parade, which is held each New Years Day, and the Fourth of July festival, which in Philadelphia lasts for five days. Keep in mind, since Philly is a big sports town, that the Philadelphia Eagles play home games at Lincoln Financial Field from September to December, the 76ers play from October to April at Wells Fargo Center, and the Phillies play home games at Citizens Bank Park from March to October.
Get Around
Walking: Ranked one of the most walkable cities in the nation, Philadelphia boasts color-coded directional signs that let you know what district you’re in and point you toward area attractions. Plus, in Center City, uniformed community service representatives are available to give directions and answer questions.
Transit: SEPTA (Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority), the city’s comprehensive bus/ subway/ commuter rail system, includes an extensive bus system, along with the tourist-friendly PHLASH Downtown Loop, commuter train service to all the surrounding areas, and two subway lines.
Taxi: Taxi cabs are easy to find at transportation hubs like the Philadelphia International Airport and 30th Street Station, but you can also hail one on the street. Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are also available.