Philadelphia Money Saving Tips

Philadelphia founded by William Penn is the location of the first White House. It’s also home to the famously delicious cheesesteak and most recently the 2017 Super Bowl Champions. Philadelphia or lovingly called Philly is credited with being the birthplace of the USA and according to the Philadelphia Annual Report 2018, a great place to visit. It said that the city “welcomed a record 43.3 million visitors, 88% of which were there for leisure purposes” in 2017. That stated, if you plan to visit the city, here are some Philadelphia money saving tips that will maximize your travel experience and minimize your travel expense.

Philadelphia Money Saving Tips

Tip 1: Purchase “The Philadelphia Pass”

The Pass is a gem! It gives travelers discounted access to many of the city’s most famous attractions including the Franklin Institute, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the Mutter Museum.

Travelers have three pass options: All Inclusive, Explore and Build Your Own. If you’re staying in Philly only for the weekend, consider the 1 or 2-Day All Inclusive. The cost is $59 and $84 for adults respectively. Total savings can be more than $100 depending on the number of attractions you end up visiting.

Tip 2: Planning – Time Does Matter

In order to maximize your time and the value of your Philadelphia Pass, plan accordingly. Separate the free attractions such as the Liberty Bell from paid ones like the Hamilton exhibit at the National Constitution Center. Also consider the locations and hours of operations for attractions you want to visit. Prioritize those that charge entrance fees first and save the free ones towards the end of your day.

Tip 3: Take Advantage of Downtown Weekend Parking Deals

If you’re visiting downtown with a rental car, one of my Philadelphia money saving tips is to search for the best weekend parking deals. Choose a centrally located garage (like the one on 618 Market Street) and park your rental car for the day. Getting around the city is easy especially if you take advantage of the Hop-on Hop-off Tour bus attraction from your Philadelphia Pass. You can also walk since many of the attractions included are within blocks of each other.

Tip 4: Cheesesteak and Combo Meals

Cheesesteak is synonymous to Philadelphia and trying at least one during your visit is a must. There are several places to get mouthwatering cheesesteaks including Sonny’s Famous Steak. Located right in Philly’s Old City, it offers a handful of cheesesteak options as well as burgers and other types of sandwiches. A cheesesteak by itself is $9 but they also have a special that gives you both fries and a fountain drink for a mere $2 extra; which gives travelers a $3.50 discount if purchased individually. That’s 24% in savings!

Philly is a great city to explore and get to know.  There’s plenty of historical and cultural attractions worth visiting. My family and I certainly enjoyed our weekend trip. And with proper planning and these Philadelphia money saving tips in hand, you’re bound to do the same.

Written by Atonya Miller and edited by Iris A.