Philadelphia
At a Glance

Best Time to Go
If you can stand the crowds, Philadelphia comes alive with patriotic frenzy and fireworks each Independence Day. This would make a festive time to visit. However, many travelers trek to Philly during the spring months when the weather is mild and the flowers are in bloom. It's also a great time for pro basketball.

Average Weather
Philadelphia can get unbearably humid in the summer and freezing cold in the winter, making spring and fall, which are generally characterized by warm days and cool nights, the best time to visit the city.

Transportation
The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation System, SEPTA, runs rail lines from the airport into the city every 30 minutes. Shuttle buses, limousines and taxis also operate between the airport and the city. Driving isn't recommended in central Philadelphia - parking is a strain and regulations are strictly enforced. Most downtown distances are short enough to walk.

If you want to get out into the suburbs, SEPTA provides comprehensive transportation service outside the city as well, both on rail and bus systems. A trolley bus is a good way to visit many of the sights. And, there are three subway lines under the city.

In-Season Costs
When you think of Philadelphia, you don't necessarily think about the cost. It's pretty consistent year-round, although some hotels may jack their prices during peak seasons. As for shopping, there are great outlet malls just outside the city.

Day Trips
The Pennsylvania Dutch Country is a 90-minute drive west of Philadelphia on Route 30. If you don't have a car, you can hop a train or a bus, which run between Lancaster and Philadelphia. A smathering of towns, farms and villages makes up the Dutch Country, which is inhabited mainly by Amish folks.

Take the kids to Valley Forge National Historic Park, where the US Army dwelled from December 1777 to June 1778, while the British occupied Philadelphia during the War of Independence. Valley Forge is 20 miles northwest of downtown Philadelphia. You can take a bus from downtown or take your car via the Schuylkill Expressway.

About 90 minutes outside of Philadelphia you'll find The Poconos, a great choice for nature, sports and outdoor enthusiasts. This part of Pennsylvania is a heavily touristed area especially on weekends and in the fall when visitors come to see the leaves change. Many folks choose to honeymoon in this part of the country.

Philadelphia Hotels