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

Travelers planning a trip to Philadelphia often seek ways to maximize their experience without breaking the bank. The Go City Philadelphia Explorer Pass, allowing you to pick 3 to 7 attractions from a curated list, promises an affordable way to explore the City of Brotherly Love.

Whether you’re into history, art, science, or family fun, this pass give you flexible access over 30 days, which is a significant advantage for those who want to pace themselves.

What we love about this pass is its flexibility—you can choose a variety of attractions suited to your interests and schedule. The convenience of mobile tickets makes entry seamless, and the range of options from historic sites to museums ensures there’s something for all.

A potential consideration, however, is that some reviews highlight that certain popular attractions like the Mutter Museum are no longer included, so always check the latest list before planning your visit.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy a mix of self-guided exploration, guided tours, and museum hopping — especially families, history buffs, and culture enthusiasts.

Key Points

• Flexible selection of 3 to 7 attractions over 30 days.
• Immediate mobile access reduces hassle and waiting times.
• Variety of experiences including historical sites, museums, aquariums, and tours.
• Good value compared to paying separate entrance fees.
• Some attractions may require advance reservations—plan ahead.
• Mixed reviews on certain inclusions, so verify details before finalizing your schedule.

An Introduction to the Philadelphia Explorer Pass

This pass isn’t just a ticket; it’s a passport to Philadelphia that encourages you to tailor your visit. We like that you can choose attractions that matter most to you, whether it’s historic landmarks like the Betsy Ross House or engaging museums like The Franklin Institute. The 30-day validity means you can spread out your activities, making your trip more relaxed and less rushed.

One of the standout features is direct entrance via your mobile device, eliminating the need for paper vouchers. You simply save your pass on your smartphone, and it’s ready to scan at each site. The ability to download the digital guide with opening times and instructions helps you plan your days efficiently. While the price of $64 per person for a set of attractions sounds reasonable, the true value depends on how many places you visit and how much you might spend otherwise.

What’s Included & How It Works

The pass provides digital access to attractions and tours that you select in advance or on the fly. It’s valid for 30 days from your first use, which encourages flexibility and spontaneous decisions. After purchase, your pass is available immediately, so there’s no waiting for mail or physical tickets.

Each attraction on the list offers a direct entry, saving time and eliminating the hassle of ticket lines. The digital guide helps you understand what to expect and how to reserve spots where necessary. Of course, some of the most popular experiences do require advance reservations, so it’s wise to plan ahead, especially during peak seasons.

In-Depth Look at the Itinerary and Attractions

The itinerary is packed with options. Here’s a detailed look at some highlights and what they offer:

Big Bus Tours Philadelphia

The Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus Tour is an excellent way to get your bearings. Operated by Philadelphia Trolley Works, these double-decker buses combine sightseeing with storytelling. The live narration by friendly guides offers insights into the city’s history, culture, shopping, and dining—including where to find the best Philly cheesesteaks.

Riders can sit in covered seats or go upstairs for open-air views—both great choices depending on your weather. The Blue route is a single comprehensive loop with over 25 stops, allowing you to hop on and off at sites that catch your interest. This flexibility is especially appreciated by reviews, with one traveler noting that the tour “makes sure you see it all,” and the ability to explore areas by foot after hopping off is a real plus.

Eastern State Penitentiary

This historic penitentiary is a must-visit for history lovers. Recognized as a National Historic Landmark, it was designed to inspire penitence through solitude and labor—an approach that influenced reform in the US justice system. Its architecture alone is worth the visit: the original seven cell blocks, laid out like spokes on a wheel, still impress visitors with their design and historical significance.

Inside, you’ll learn about the evolution of the American criminal justice system. One reviewer mentions that the building is regarded as an architectural marvel, and another appreciates the history of reform and humane treatment. The self-guided tour allows you to explore at your own pace, which is perfect if you enjoy immersing yourself without the rush of a guided group.

Adventure Aquarium

For families or marine life enthusiasts, the Adventure Aquarium offers a hands-on experience with over 8,500 sea creatures. Known for its hippos, sharks, and unique exhibits like the great hammerhead shark, it’s an engaging stop. With seven touch exhibits and 14 interactive displays, it guarantees an immersive experience.

Reviewers highlight that every visit feels fresh thanks to new exhibits and activities. The aquarium’s emphasis on interactivity makes it especially fun for kids, but adults will find plenty to marvel at too. You can expect a lively atmosphere, with plenty of opportunities for close encounters with marine animals.

The Franklin Institute

A favorite among travelers, this science museum lives up to its reputation as Pennsylvania’s most-visited museum. It’s designed to delight with interactive exhibits that make science approachable and fun. From climbing into a fighter jet replica to exploring the science of sports, there’s plenty to spark curiosity.

Visitors often mention the dynamic, experiential approach, making it a perfect stop for families or anyone eager to learn through doing. Its location in the city center makes it easy to combine with other nearby attractions.

Betsy Ross House

No visit to Philadelphia is complete without stopping at the Betsy Ross House, where the story of America’s first flag is rooted. The restored circa-1740 house offers a self-guided audio tour that makes learning about Betsy Ross and 18th-century Philadelphia engaging.

According to a review, the house provides a great peek into revolutionary life, and many appreciate the chance to see how a revolutionary woman balanced her personal life with her work. The house’s location, right in Historic Philadelphia, makes it easy to include in a day full of sightseeing.

Other Notable Attractions

The pass also includes options like the Museum of the American Revolution, National Constitution Center, and Philadelphia Museum of Art. Each offers a different perspective—history, civics, and art—catering to diverse interests.

The Museum of the American Revolution brings the revolutionary war to life with immersive exhibits. The Constitution Center offers a chance to understand the framework of American democracy through multimedia displays and debates. The Philadelphia Museum of Art, home of the iconic Rocky Steps, boasts an impressive collection of over 240,000 works.

Family & Unique Experiences

For families, the LEGOLAND Discovery Center and Longwood Gardens provide interactive fun and beautiful scenery. The River Link Ferry adds a scenic ride across the Delaware River, connecting attractions on both sides of the city and offering lovely views.

Lesser-Known Gems & Tips

Some reviews mention that certain attractions like the Mutter Museum are no longer included, so check the latest list before planning your day. Also, many popular sites require advance reservations, especially during busy seasons—plan your visits to avoid disappointment.

The Value of the Pass

At $64 per person for 3 attractions (or more for 4-7), the pass offers significant savings versus paying for individual admissions. For example, visiting the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Franklin Institute, and the Betsy Ross House separately would cost much more.

The flexibility of using the pass over 30 days allows you to spread out your visits, making it ideal for travelers who enjoy a relaxed pace or want to focus on specific interests.

However, some travelers have found that if they don’t plan ahead or only visit a few attractions, the pass may not be cost-effective. It’s best suited for those who intend to visit multiple sites or want the convenience of skip-the-line access.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Pass

• Plan ahead: Check which attractions require reservations and book early.
• Use the digital guide: It offers up-to-date info on opening times and instructions.
• Hop-on hop-off bus: The Blue route is a great way to get an overview and decide where to explore on foot.
• Verify inclusions: As some sites are no longer included (like the Mutter Museum), double-check the current list.
• Start early: Some attractions close by late afternoon; beginning early helps maximize your day.

Who Will Love This Pass?

This pass is perfect for families, history buffs, and culture lovers who appreciate a flexible, curated experience. It’s also great for visitors who want to see a variety of sites without the bulk of paying for each separately. If you enjoy self-guided exploration combined with guided tours, the pass has many options.

But if you prefer a more structured, guided tour experience or plan to visit only one or two sites, individual tickets might be more economical.

Final Thoughts

The Go City Philadelphia Explorer Pass offers a cost-effective and flexible way to sample the city’s best attractions. With a good mix of historic sites, museums, and family-friendly activities, it caters to a broad audience. The immediate digital access is a huge plus, making it easy to start exploring right away.

The biggest win is the freedom to choose what interests you most while making the logistics smoother. The main drawback could be the need for advance planning for certain popular spots, but overall, it’s a convenient and valuable option for an enjoyable Philadelphia trip.

If you’re a curious traveler who likes to customize your itinerary and wants the peace of mind that comes with a bundled ticket, this pass is worth considering — especially if you plan to visit several major attractions during your stay.

Can I use the pass for multiple days?
Yes, the pass is valid for 30 days from your first attraction visit, giving you plenty of time to spread out your activities.

Do I need to book reservations in advance?
Some popular attractions require advance reservations, so check the digital guide or app instructions ahead of time to avoid missing out.

How do I access the pass?
Your pass is a mobile ticket you can save on your device. Simply scan it at each attraction for direct entry—no paper vouchers needed.

What attractions are included?
The list includes options like the Big Bus Tours, Eastern State Penitentiary, Adventure Aquarium, the Franklin Institute, and the Betsy Ross House, among others.

Is the pass suitable for families?
Absolutely. Many attractions are family-friendly, including the aquarium, science museums, and LEGOLAND Discovery Center.

Can I buy the pass on the day I arrive?
Yes, the pass is available immediately after purchase, but booking some attractions in advance is recommended to secure spots, especially during busy seasons.

Whether you’re in Philly for a weekend or a week, the Go City Explorer Pass offers a practical, flexible way to see the city’s highlights while keeping things simple and affordable. Use your pass wisely, plan ahead, and enjoy exploring the historic streets, vibrant museums, and scenic waterfronts this wonderful city has to offer.