Tips for Groups Traveling to Philadelphia

Philadelphia is welcoming groups of all sizes to explore its historic sites, world-renowned museums and popular attractions. Here’s a few tips to help you plan your group’s visit to the City of Brotherly Love with ease.

Check operating schedules

Many of Philadelphia’s museums and attractions are open, but whether it’s due to the season or post-pandemic adjustments, some of them are operating on different schedules. It’s important to doublecheck each museum or attraction’s days and hours of operation. If there is a place on your must-see list, make sure that specific location is open on the day you are planning your visit. When creating your itinerary, we highly recommend you start with the place that is an absolute must-visit, and then depending on that museum or attraction’s schedule, build out the rest of your stops from there. Also, be sure to check with each establishment’s new on-site dining options as these may have changed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. To learn more about Philadelphia’s museums, click here.

Make reservations in advance

The early bird gets the worm. The earlier you book, the better off your group will be in the long run. Reservations can fill up quickly so book in advance to secure the date and time you want. Many of Philadelphia’s museums and attractions now require timed ticketing to manage occupancy and allow for social distancing due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Be prepared to be flexible. We recommend having at least one back-up plan in case your plans change due to unforeseen circumstances. Group dining reservations are also highly recommended.

Know group size capacities

Each museum and attraction has its own capacity limit. Since group size capacities differ at each experience, it is in your group’s best interest to reach out to the place you wish to visit beforehand to learn more about the size of the space and how many people it can safely accommodate. For a list of attractions welcoming group tours, click here.

Plan on where to park

Finding parking on the day of your arrival can be a challenge so have a plan and know where you can park before you even get on the road. Keep in mind that all buses, motor coaches and tour buses are prohibited from parking on Philadelphia streets. Buses can only stop for loading/unloading purposes at designated locations specific to Philadelphia’s major attractions. There are designated bus parking facilities, as well as drop-off and pick-up locations throughout the city. For more bus parking information, click here.

Take advantage of virtual offerings

Experience Philadelphia from the comfort of your home or classroom. Many of Philadelphia’s museums and attractions are offering virtual experiences on their respective websites and social media platforms. For more information and how to access or book these virtual experiences, click here.

Cover photo Group Tour Museum of the American Revolution. Photo by A. Sinagoga for PHLCVB.