Holiday Lights Trolley Tour

Taking a tour like the Holiday Lights Trolley Tour in Philadelphia offers a charming way to experience the city’s seasonal cheer. While it might not be the most luxurious or elaborate holiday event out there, it provides a cozy, light-filled journey perfect for families, friends, or even a small office party wanting to soak up the festive atmosphere.

We love the fact that the trolley is decked out in holiday decor and plays holiday music, creating an inviting, cheerful environment. The stops at beautifully lit streets like Smedley Street and Miracle on 13th Street offer some genuine holiday sparkle. Plus, the opportunity to stretch your legs at stops like Smedley Street adds a nice touch of variety.

One potential downside? The reviews reveal that experiences can vary quite a bit — from glowing praise about the driver’s skill to outright disappointment. This inconsistency suggests that while the concept is fun, execution might depend heavily on the guide or specific day.

This tour suits travelers looking for a light, festive activity that combines sightseeing with holiday spirit, especially if you’re planning a family outing or a small holiday gathering in the city.

Good To Know

• Festive Atmosphere: The trolley is decorated with lights, holiday decor, and music, making it a joyful holiday experience.
• Convenient Stops: Notable locations like Miracle on 13th Street and Love Park offer immersive light displays and photo opportunities.
• Flexible Itinerary: Stops include brief stretches where you can walk around and enjoy the displays up close.
• Value for Money: At $59.99, the experience offers a decent holiday activity, especially with the included free stops and scenic views.
• Variable Reviews: Experiences can vary; some travelers rave about the scenery and guide skills, others report poor customer service.
• Ideal For: Families, holiday parties, small groups, and those looking for a relaxed, festive city tour.

What to Expect from the Holiday Lights Trolley Tour

An Overview of the Experience

The Holiday Lights Trolley Tour in Philadelphia is a two-hour journey offering a festive way to enjoy the city’s decorated streets and iconic landmarks. Starting at 21 S 5th St, the tour begins with you boarding a Victorian-style trolley dressed in holiday cheer, ready to take you around some of Philadelphia’s most beautifully lit neighborhoods.

The tour includes several key stops, such as South Smedley Street and Miracle on 13th Street, both known for their eye-catching holiday displays. You’ll pass by the city’s most recognizable sights, like City Hall, Love Park, and the Comcast Building, all sparkling under holiday lights. It’s a relaxed, 2-hour experience—allowing plenty of time to enjoy the lights, snap photos, and maybe sing along to holiday tunes.

The Stops and What They Offer

South Smedley Street: Known for its striking light displays, this street offers a 10-minute stop where you can get out, stretch your legs, and take in the festive scenes up close. One reviewer noted that seeing these decorations was a highlight, describing it as “amazing” and appreciating the chance to walk around freely.

Miracle on 13th Street: Starting November 28th, this display turns the block into a winter wonderland. Travelers have described the experience as “having a blast” and praised the driver for skillfully navigating the tight streets—an underrated skill when you’re steering a trolley through narrow, busy neighborhoods.

Other Scenic Pass-Bys: As your trolley glides past City Hall and Love Park, you’ll enjoy the holiday lighting against the historic architecture and bustling cityscape. These iconic landmarks lend a sense of occasion to your journey, with the lights adding a warm, festive glow.

The Atmosphere on Board

The trolley is decorated in holiday lights and features music to keep the mood merry. Depending on the guide, you might get a lively narration or just enjoy the scenery. Some reviews highlight the guide’s skill in navigating tight streets, which can be pretty impressive considering the urban environment. The small group size—up to 43 travelers—ensures a cozy, intimate atmosphere.

Practical Details and Logistics

The tour costs $59.99 per person, which is reasonable considering the scenery, the transportation, and the included stops. You need to book about two weeks in advance, as this tour tends to fill up quickly during the holiday season. The meeting point is central, at 21 S 5th St, close to public transportation options, making it easy to access.

The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, including loading and unloading. While the activity is wheelchair and service animal friendly, it’s worth noting that the experience is weather-dependent. If there’s heavy snow or rain, the tour might be canceled, with the option to reschedule or get a full refund.

Authentic Experiences & Review Highlights

One traveler shared that the Miracle on 13th Street segment was “amazing,” praising the driver’s deft handling of the trolley in narrow streets—a detail that really influences the overall enjoyment. Conversely, a less satisfied reviewer described a “terrible” experience, citing poor customer service. This highlights that while many enjoy the scenic route and festive ambiance, the quality of guide interactions can vary.

In particular, the reviews reveal that the guides’ navigation skills and attitude significantly influence how memorable the experience is. The tour’s core appeal lies in the light displays and city views, but the guide’s enthusiasm and professionalism can elevate or diminish the experience.

Pricing and Value Analysis

At $59.99 per person, this tour aligns with other city sightseeing experiences, especially considering the included stops and the festive atmosphere. For families or groups, it offers a relaxed, fun outing without the need to fuss over parking or navigating busy streets.

The value hinges on whether you enjoy holiday lights and festive cityscapes. Since the tour includes all fees and taxes, there are no hidden costs—just be prepared for the potential additional expense if you choose to BYOB or want souvenirs.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trolley ride works best for those who want to combine sightseeing with holiday cheer. It suits families with kids, small groups of friends, or even colleagues looking to celebrate the season. If you like a relaxed pace, festive music, and iconic city views, you’ll find this tour charming.

However, if you’re expecting a highly polished, seamless experience or detailed historical narration, you might find this tour a bit lacking—reviews confirm that the main draw is the scenery and the festive atmosphere rather than in-depth guides.

Final Words: Is This Tour Worth It?

In essence, the Holiday Lights Trolley Tour in Philadelphia offers a straightforward, cheerful way to enjoy the city’s holiday decorations. For about $60, you’ll get a cozy ride through some of the most beautifully lit neighborhoods, with the chance to stretch your legs at key stops. The experience’s success largely depends on the guide and the weather, but if you’re after a relaxed, joyful activity with family or friends, it’s a solid choice.

While it may not be perfect or consistently memorable, the combination of beautiful lights, iconic landmarks, and holiday music creates a warm, festive vibe that many will enjoy. If holiday cheer and scenic city views matter most to you, this tour can be a worthwhile addition to your seasonal itinerary.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s family-friendly and suitable for most travelers. The festive atmosphere and visual displays make it appealing to kids.

Can I cancel my booking if I change my mind?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the tour, allowing flexibility if your plans change.

Does the tour operate in bad weather?
The tour relies on good weather; if canceled due to rain, snow, or other poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is the tour accessible for people with disabilities?
While service animals are allowed, specific accessibility details aren’t provided, so it’s advisable to contact the provider directly for accommodations.

Are drinks or food included?
No, the tour does not include food or beverages, but BYOB is allowed.

How long is the entire experience?
The tour lasts about 2 hours, including loading, stops, and sightseeing.

Is the tour suitable for large groups?
Yes, it accommodates up to 43 travelers, making it suitable for small groups or parties.

The Holiday Lights Trolley Tour offers a cheerful, scenic experience that highlights Philadelphia’s holiday magic—perfect for those seeking festive fun without too much fuss. Just keep in mind that the quality of the experience can vary depending on guides and weather, so it’s a good idea to set your expectations accordingly.