Philadelphia Pennsylvania, USA Travel Guide
Major mobile providers include Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile. Prepaid SIM cards or eSIMs can be purchased at PHL or city stores. T-Mobile frequently has competitive options for foreign tourists. Verify your phone is unlocked.
Knowing a few local phrases makes for a better experience. "Jawn" is a versatile placeholder noun. "Wooder" is the local pronunciation of "water." When ordering a cheesesteak, "wit" or "wit-out" refers to fried onions.
Retail shops generally operate from 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM on weekdays, with prolonged weekend hours. Restaurants typically offer lunch from 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM and dinner starting AT 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM, with some open later.
Some outdoor attractions or seasonal businesses, like the RiverLink Ferry or Spruce Street Harbor Park, operate with limited hours or close during winter. It is advisable to check specific operating hours beforehand, especially during the off-season to avoid disappointment.
Philadelphia is a progressive and inclusive city. The Gayborhood (Washington Square West) is a celebrated LGBTQ+ district, known for its welcoming atmosphere. The city supports diversity and equality.
Philadelphia builds accessible infrastructure and services for all travelers, although some historic sites present limitations.
Many public buildings, attractions, and contemporary hotels meet ADA standards with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.
Many SEPTA buses, subway stations, and modern trolleys feature ramps and accessible seating. Regional Rail includes accessible cars.
Most major museums (Philadelphia Gallery of Art, National Constitution Center) are accessible. The Liberty Bell Center is fully accessible.
Many museums provide audio guides, large print materials, or ASL (American Sign Language) interpretation upon request. SEPTA features audible announcements and visual displays on most vehicles to help travelers.
The official tourism website, Visit Philly (visitphilly.com), provides information on accessible attractions and services. SEPTA's website details accessible routes and services for public transportation. Travel blogs and forums specific to Philadelphia offer first-hand advice and recommendations for wheelchair accessibility.
When using public transport, have your SEPTA Card or credit/debit card ready before boarding. This quickens the system for everyone.
The official currency in the United States is the U.S. Dollar (USD). Major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover) are widely accepted at most businesses, including restaurants, shops, and hotels. It's always a good idea to carry a bit of cash for small buys or establishments that might not accept cards.
Mobile payment options like Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay are increasingly common at retail locations. Check for compatible payment terminals. Budgeting for your trip includes factoring in expenses for food, transport, attractions, and any souvenirs.
It is always prudent to carry a small amount of emergency cash separate from your main wallet. Have a backup payment method, like an additional credit card or a travel debit card, in case your main card is lost or stolen. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas.
Sales tax in Pennsylvania is 6% statewide, with an additional 2% local sales tax in Philadelphia, making it 8% total on most goods and services. Prices listed on menus or in stores typically do not include tax. Restaurant prices often do not include gratuity, which is generally added after tax.
Carry a mix of payment methods and keep some emergency cash separate. Always be mindful of your surroundings, notably when handling money in public areas.
A guide to respectful interactions, dining, photography, and general behavior in Philadelphia.
Handshakes are common for formal introductions; casual greetings like "Hi" are typical. Looking someone in the eye is generally expected. Philadelphia's dress code is mostly casual, but smart casual attire is suitable for upscale restaurants or theater performances.
Tipping is an expected part of the service culture; see Section 2.3 for more details. In restaurants, wait to be seated by a host. Meals are generally not rushed, and servers usually wait for you to request the bill. Many restaurants allow you to bring your own alcoholic beverages (BYOB).
Photography is generally permissible in public spaces and at most attractions. Always ask permission before photographing individuals, especially children, respecting their privacy if they decline. Some museums prohibit flash photography or have restrictions on specific exhibits.
Avoid discussing politics or religion unless initiated by locals and you are comfortable engaging respectfully. Americans generally value personal space; avoid standing too close to strangers. Try to maintain a reasonable voice volume in public spaces, even in lively settings.
Philadelphia is known for its progressive plus all-embracing atmosphere, notably in the Gayborhood (Washington Square West). There are no specific gender-based restrictions on activities or attire.
