By J.D. Wollf
Riding
Philadelphia's subway system is cheap and uncomplicated. There are only two lines, which connect to the city's other transportation options such as trolleys, buses, suburban rail and Amtrak. While reading the subway map might be easy, knowing which fare options are best and which trains to board might be a bit more challenging for tourists.
Instructions
Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Things You'll Need:
- Map
Cash, subway tokens or pass
- Map
- Cash, subway tokens or pass
Step 1
Check which route you need to use. Study the routes of the two subway lines in Philadelphia--the Market-Frankford line (Blue Line, El), which runs east and west, and the Broad Street line (Orange Line), which runs north and south. The lines meet at City Hall, and both are convenient to the Center City tourist attractions.
Step 2
Pay for your trip. You can use cash (a $2 fare), but other methods of payment are cheaper. Tokens cost $1.45 per trip and are available in packs of two, five and 10. A 1-day convenience pass costs $6 and allows you eight rides on the subway. You also can use the convenience pass on buses and trolleys.
Step 3
Make sure you catch the correct train. Even though there are few subway lines in Philadelphia, each line runs different kinds of trains. On the Broad Line, white lights mean that the train is running local, while green lights mark an express train. A train with yellow lights is running off the main line and onto the Broad Street Spur. On the Market-Frankford Line, trains run in a staggered pattern during rush hour; trains marked with an "A" run to "A" stations and stations marked "All Stations," while trains marked with a "B" run to "B" stations as well as stations marked "All Stations.
Step 4
Be careful and use common sense to travel safely. Keep your belongings close, know where you're going and don't flash money around, for example. The Philadelphia subways are generally safe during the day. At night, however, you might want to take a bus or cab instead.
Resources
About the Author:
J.D. Wollf has been a writer since 1999 and has been published in a variety of newspapers and newsletters. She has covered everything from local sports to computer accessory reviews and specializes in articles about health issues, particularly in the elderly.
