From NYC: Day Trip to Philadelphia and Amish Country

From NYC: Day Trip to Philadelphia and Amish Country — A Complete Guide

Traveling from New York for a day to experience two very different slices of Pennsylvania life can be a rewarding adventure. This tour, offered by Amadeo Travel, packs in a lot for just $149 per person, with a full 14 hours of sightseeing, learning, and authentic experiences. Whether you’re a history buff, a curious foodie, or simply looking for a unique escape from city life, this trip promises plenty to enjoy.

We love that this tour combines the best of both worlds: the bustling, historic streets of Philadelphia and the quiet, traditional charm of Amish Country. The guided aspect ensures you get insights without the hassle of planning, and the buggy ride through Amish farmland is often highlighted as a real highlight. On the flip side, some travelers note that the day can feel a bit rushed, especially during the Amish segment. This trip is perfect for those who want a broad overview in one day, especially if you’re keen to learn about American history and rural life in Pennsylvania.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Comprehensive itinerary combining city sights and Amish culture
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with rich commentary
• Comfortable transportation in air-conditioned buses
• Authentic Amish buggy ride offers a glimpse into simple living
• Great value for a full-day guided tour including multiple stops
• Some reviews mention time constraints, so plan for a busy schedule

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Early from NYC

The adventure kicks off bright and early at 6:30 AM outside the Port Authority bus terminal in Manhattan, with a pre-arranged meeting point designed for quick boarding. The journey through New Jersey is usually smooth, but some reviews mention delays — for instance, one trip paused to pick up passengers from a broken-down bus, causing a 40-minute delay. While uncommon, it’s a reminder that early starts sometimes come with unexpected hiccups.

The bus itself is air-conditioned, which is a relief after the summer sun or winter chill. The group size tends to be manageable, and many reviews highlight courteous guides and drivers who do their best to keep everyone comfortable and informed during the ride.

Philadelphia: The Heart of American History

Once in Philadelphia, the tour quickly shifts gears from travel to sightseeing. The city is an intriguing blend of old and new, with some of the most iconic monuments and streets in American history. Highlights include:

• Liberty Bell: This symbol of American independence is a must-see. The bell’s crack and its backstory are well explained by guides, making it a meaningful stop. Reviewers mention feeling a sense of patriotism and appreciation for American resilience here.
• Constitution Hall and Independence Square: These are central to understanding the nation’s founding. The guides provide insights into events that took place here, making history come alive.
• Rocky Steps: Fans of the famous movie will enjoy running up the Philadelphia Museum of Art’s steps—a fun, energetic activity that many travelers love. One reviewer shared that they finally achieved their dream of climbing the steps, just like Rocky Balboa.

Most guests find about 1.5 to 2 hours in Philadelphia enough to see the major sights and take photos. Some, however, wish for a bit more time to explore or visit inside certain landmarks like Independence Hall; the tour usually focuses on exterior viewing due to time constraints.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Lunch and Local Flavors

After sightseeing, the tour heads to an Amish market for lunch and shopping. The food here is often praised, with reviewers mentioning country-style cooking, Amish ice cream, and homemade treats. It’s a relaxed break that offers a taste of local life and a chance to browse Amish-made crafts and foods. One guest remarked, “The Amish ice cream was delicious and a perfect treat,” which captures the authentic, wholesome vibe.

Exploring Amish Country

The highlight for many is the Amish buggy ride, an authentic experience that lasts around 30 minutes. You’ll glide through farmland, passing simple, well-kept homes, and learn how the Amish live without the modern conveniences most of us take for granted. Guides often explain how the Amish manage daily life without electricity, telephones, or modern appliances, which many find eye-opening.

Reviewers like Ana from Croatia describe the ride as “peaceful, scenic, and something truly special.” It’s a chance to step back in time and see a lifestyle that remains largely unchanged for generations. Some, however, note that the buggy ride is on a farm cart, which might feel rickety, and the time allocated is just enough to get a taste rather than a deep dive.

Additional Stops and Shopping

Following the buggy ride, the tour includes a visit to a local Amish market, where you can browse Amish quilts, baked goods, and crafts. It’s a popular spot for souvenirs and a glimpse into Amish craftsmanship. Several reviews praise the opportunity to interact with friendly vendors and sample homemade treats.

End of the Day and Return

The bus departs Lancaster County around 4:30 PM to head back to New York, aiming to be back around 8:30 to 9:00 PM. The total trip duration is 14 hours, but some reviews mention it arriving slightly earlier, around 12 hours, which can be a relief after a long day.

What We Love About This Tour

Knowledgeable Guides: Throughout the day, guides like Carlo, Iris, and Manny are repeatedly praised for their depth of knowledge, humor, and friendliness. They add context to every stop, making history accessible and fun.

Authentic Experiences: The Amish buggy ride is frequently highlighted as a genuine way to understand Amish life. It isn’t just a sightseeing stop — it’s an immersive look at a lifestyle many know only through movies or stories.

Diverse Sights in One Day: Covering Philadelphia’s landmarks and Amish Country in a single trip offers excellent value. You get a taste of urban history and rural simplicity without the hassle of planning multiple trips.

Good Food and Shopping: The Amish market provides a delicious break with country cuisine and homemade treats, plus unique crafts perfect for souvenirs.

Comfortable Transportation: Air-conditioned buses and manageable group sizes make the long day more comfortable, especially for those who dislike cramped or uncomfortable rides.

Room for Improvement

Despite the many positives, some travelers note the schedule can feel a little rushed. Time at each stop is limited, especially for the Amish part, which some wish was longer to fully soak it in. There’s also mention of certain stops, like the Amish farm, being less authentic than expected — on some trips, it’s a farm cart rather than a true buggy ride.

A few reviews point out logistical hiccups, like delays during pickup or discomfort in smaller transportation like vans for certain segments. Also, the tour does not include meals, so you’ll need to budget extra for lunch or snacks.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip suits travelers looking for a comprehensive day out that balances history, culture, and rural life. It’s ideal for those who appreciate guided commentary and want to see the highlights without the hassle of organizing multiple visits. Families, history enthusiasts, and curious travelers who don’t mind a busy schedule will find plenty to enjoy here.

It’s also perfect if you’re short on time but want to get a broad sense of Pennsylvania’s diverse attractions. However, if you’re seeking an in-depth Amish experience or more leisure at specific locations, you might find this tour somewhat limited.

Final Thoughts

This from NYC day trip to Philadelphia and Amish Country offers a well-rounded overview of two distinct worlds. It’s a good value for a full-day, guided journey that combines city sights with the peaceful simplicity of Amish life. The tour’s success lies in its knowledgeable guides, authentic experiences, and variety of stops, making it a worthwhile option for those wanting a quick yet meaningful exploration.

While it’s not perfect — some may find the schedule tight or the Amish experience a bit rushed — most guests leave with a deeper appreciation of American history and rural traditions. If you’re after an engaging, informative day with friendly guides and scenic views, this trip is worth considering.

FAQ

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses air-conditioned buses, which are generally comfortable. Some reviews mention managing group sizes well and courteous drivers.

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 6:30 AM outside the Port Authority bus terminal on 42nd street, offering a very early start to maximize your day.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. However, there is a visit to an Amish market where you can buy country-style food, snacks, and treats.

How long is the Amish buggy ride?
The buggy ride lasts about 30 minutes, providing a scenic and educational look into Amish farm life. Some guests find it just enough for a taste of Amish culture.

Is there enough time to explore Philadelphia?
You’ll have roughly 1.5 to 2 hours to see major sights like the Liberty Bell, Constitution Hall, and the Rocky Steps. Some reviews suggest that this is enough for a quick visit but not for in-depth touring.

How long is the total tour?
The entire trip lasts about 14 hours, usually starting early in the morning and returning around 8:30 or 9 PM. Some trips might arrive a little earlier or later.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are strongly recommended, as there’s some walking involved at each stop. Be prepared for weather conditions, as parts of the Amish experience are outdoors.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, all ages are allowed, including infants (who will need a backpack or chest carrier). Keep in mind the walking and bus travel involved.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flexible planning.

This day trip from New York to Philadelphia and Amish Country blends education, scenic beauty, and cultural insight. It’s a great choice for those wanting a broad overview of American history and rural life in one manageable, guided package.

You can check if your dates are available here: