Search train tickets to Philadelphia

The most popular train station in Philadelphia is 30th Street Station. 30th Street Station is particularly close to the Powelton Village neighborhood, an artsy neighborhood known for its creative inhabitants and proximity to nearby Drexel University and the University of Pennsylvania.

Just across the river from the bus station is Rittenhouse Square, probably the most iconic (and historic) square in all of Philadelphia. Because this area is a little more touristy, prices on hotels and homeshares may be more expensive, but you’ll be right in the middle of everything.

East of Rittenhouse Square is Center City, the busy heart of Philly. If you stay nearby, you’ll be close to Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, as will be in the midst of a bustling nightlife scene.

Just north of Center City is Chinatown, where accommodations may be a touch more affordable, and you’ll have terrific Chinese food right outside your doorstep.

Between trams, trains and buses, Philadelphia's public transit system is well covered and relatively easy to navigate. The subway system is a bit smaller than the ones you’ll see in D.C. or New York, but that also makes it more manageable.

The SEPTA (Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority) operates four subway lines: Broad-Ridge Spur, Broad Street Line, Market-Frankford Line and PATCO Speedline. If you’re arriving into the 30th Street Station, you’ll likely find the Market-Frankford Line to be the most useful to you, as it operates east-west through Center City and most of Downtown Philadelphia.

The SEPTA subway lines operate from 5 a.m. to 1 a.m. every day, and tickets cost $2.50 for a one-way ride. If you know you will be using SEPTA all day, you can purchase a one-day pass (up to 8 trips on any bus/subway/tram) for $9.

Philly is most well-known for its history centered around the American Revolution. In Center City west of 30th Street Station, you can see Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence was signed, as well as the famed Liberty Bell.

If you’re an art fan, the Philadelphia Museum of Art is among the best in the country. It’s also famous for appearing in the original “Rocky” film, in which Rocky Balboa runs up and down the museum’s steps. Adults tickets to the museum cost $20, and student/youth (13-18) tickets cost $14.

If you love the outdoors, consider going to Bartram’s Garden, home to 45 acres of lush flora and fauna (plus, they offer free kayaking and rowboating out on the Delaware River). Speaking of the Delaware River, the Delaware River Waterfront is now a revitalized hub, with a popular promenade and charming nighttime atmosphere.

If you’re in Philly, you simply can’t leave without trying a Philly cheesesteak. (Unless you’re vegetarian, of course.) Geno’s Steaks in South Philadelphia is known for its melty cheesesteak sandwiches. The prices are very reasonable, and there’s even an outdoor seating area.

Downtown near 30th Street Station is Reading Terminal Market, a can’t-miss stop for foodies. The market has loads of restaurants, including Beck’s Cajun Cafe, Fox & Son Fancy Corndogs and Down Home Diner. It’s also home to two distilleries, two coffee shops, a pub and a juice bar.