Holiday Lights Trolley Tour

Holiday Lights Trolley Tour: A Festive Spin Through Philadelphia’s Holiday Magic

If you’re looking for a lively way to celebrate the holiday season in Philadelphia, the Holiday Lights Trolley Tour might catch your eye. While it’s not a perfect fit for every traveler, it offers a cheerful, light-filled experience that feels both festive and authentic—especially if you love decorated streets and holiday music.

What we really appreciate is the cozy Victorian-style trolley, decked out in holiday lights and decor, creating a true seasonal atmosphere. The guided commentary and stunning views of illuminated landmarks make it a nice escape from the hustle of the city. Plus, the tour’s affordable price point of $59.99 offers decent value for a themed experience, especially considering the included stops at popular neighborhoods.

However, it’s worth noting that the overall experience can be hit or miss, with some reviews highlighting excellent navigation and festive displays, while others point out service issues or less engaging moments. This tour is best suited for families, groups of friends, or holiday parties seeking a relaxed, scenic outing with a holiday twist. If you’re after a more in-depth or historical tour, you might want to explore other options.

Good To Know

• Festive Atmosphere: Victorian-style trolley with holiday lights, decor, and music creates a cheerful ambiance.
• Flexible Stops: Includes time at Smedley Street, Miracle on 13th, and other illuminated neighborhoods.
• Good Value: Priced at $59.99, offering a two-hour experience with guided commentary and scenic views.
• Mixed Reviews: Some guests loved the festive displays and skilled navigation, while others faced service issues.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for groups, holiday parties, and those wanting a light-hearted, scenic outing.
• Convenient Location: Starts at 21 S 5th St, accessible via public transportation.

An In-depth Look at the Holiday Lights Trolley Tour

The Overall Experience and Atmosphere

The main appeal of the Holiday Lights Trolley Tour is its festive setup. The trolley itself feels like a moving holiday card, with lights, holiday music, and decor that instantly put you in a celebratory mood. It’s an easy way to see the city’s holiday decorations without the cold, especially if you’re traveling with kids or a group that prefers a relaxed, festive outing.

From the moment you board at 21 S 5th St, you’re greeted with a warm holiday atmosphere. The trolley’s Victorian style adds charm—think vintage charm mixed with twinkling lights—and it comfortably fits up to 43 travelers, so it’s not overly crowded.

The Itinerary Breakdown and What to Expect

Key stops on the tour include some of Philadelphia’s most decorated neighborhoods and landmarks.

• Smedley Street: Known for its impressive light displays, this stop allows guests to get out and stretch their legs for about 10 minutes. The street is famous for its festive outdoor decorations, making it a favorite among those who love holiday displays. One reviewer appreciated this stop, calling it “amazing,” thanks to the well-done lights and the skillful navigation of the tight streets by the driver.
• Miracle on 13th Street: Starting from November 28th, this neighborhood features an elaborate holiday display. Guests get a 10-minute window to enjoy the lights from the trolley and even get out briefly. One reviewer noted, “Had a blast,” citing the impressive light displays. It’s a chance to snap some holiday photos and enjoy the neighborhood’s festive spirit.
• View from the Trolley: The tour is primarily a scenic drive, with commentary guiding you past notable sites such as City Hall, Love Park, and the Comcast building. The views are enhanced by the holiday lighting, making the landmarks look even more striking at night.
• Other Pass-Bys: The route passes through some of Philadelphia’s most iconic areas, giving a quick peek at the city’s architecture and bustling streets lit up for the holidays.

The Pros and Cons

Pros

• The decorations and lights make for a very festive experience, particularly around Miracle on 13th St. and Smedley Street.
• The guided commentary helps you understand what you’re looking at, with some reviews praising the driver’s skill in navigating tight streets—something that’s often overlooked but important in this kind of tour.
• The price point is quite reasonable for a two-hour guided outdoor activity, especially with all fees and taxes included.
• The flexibility to get out and walk during stops provides a nice break and a chance for better photos.

Cons

• Some travelers reported service issues or rudeness from the tour provider, which can mar the overall experience. One review highlights a less-than-pleasant interaction, which is important to consider.
• The experience can feel somewhat superficial if you’re seeking more historical or cultural insights. This is mainly a light display tour.
• The timing and route depend heavily on the driver’s skill and traffic conditions, which can sometimes cause delays or uneven experiences.
• The limited duration of stops (about 10 minutes each) might not be enough for some to fully enjoy the displays or take photos.

Practical Details and Tips

• Booking in advance is highly recommended; most travelers book about two weeks ahead, ensuring better availability.
• The meeting point at 21 S 5th St is centrally located and easily accessible via public transit.
• The tour runs approximately 2 hours, including loading and unloading, which is perfect for an evening outing.
• The price of $59.99 per person offers good value if you’re looking for a fun, festive activity, especially with children or as part of a larger holiday outing.
• Bring warm clothes and possibly a blanket—even in December, outdoor and trolley weather can be chilly.
• The tour is BYOB, so you can bring your own beverages if desired, but note that alcohol is not included.

Review Insights and Traveler Experiences

From the six reviews available, opinions are mixed but insightful. One guest, Jennifer, described the experience as “amazing,” especially praising the driver’s skill in navigating tight streets and the overall fun of the bright displays. Conversely, another reviewer, Candace, had a terrible experience, citing poor customer service and unprofessional responses to her review. This highlights that while the tour can be delightful, service quality may vary.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for families looking for an easy, cheerful way to enjoy the city’s holiday lights. It also suits groups of friends or colleagues celebrating the season. If holiday decor and a cozy tour atmosphere are your priorities, you’ll likely find this worthwhile. For those seeking a more in-depth historical or cultural tour, or a more luxurious experience, other options might be better suited.

The Sum Up

The Holiday Lights Trolley Tour in Philadelphia offers a festive, family-friendly way to enjoy the city’s holiday decorations with minimal effort. Its Victorian trolley, decorated with holiday lights and playing cheerful music, creates a joyful atmosphere that many will find charming and Instagram-worthy. The stops at neighborhoods like Miracle on 13th and Smedley Street provide memorable moments and photo opportunities, especially if you love outdoor holiday displays.

At $59.99, it’s a reasonable price for a two-hour guided experience, particularly when considering the convenience of transportation, commentary, and scenic city views. That said, the experience can be inconsistent, with some guests experiencing excellent service and others encountering less friendly interactions or slight delays.

If you want a relaxed, cheerful outing that highlights the best holiday neighborhoods without a heavy historical focus, this tour makes a fine choice. It’s particularly suited for families, holiday celebrations, or anyone wanting a casual way to see the city’s decorated streets while enjoying festive music and lights.

For travelers who prioritize good value, festive cheer, and easy access to Philadelphia’s holiday spirit, this trolley tour hits the right notes. Just be aware that it’s more about the visuals and atmosphere than in-depth storytelling, so temper expectations accordingly.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s a family-friendly activity with a festive atmosphere that children tend to enjoy.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 2 hours, including loading and unloading.

Can I bring my own beverages?
Yes, the tour is BYOB, so you can bring your own alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks.

Where does the tour start?
The tour begins at 21 S 5th St, Philadelphia.

Is the tour accessible via public transportation?
Yes, the starting point is near public transit options.

Are tickets refundable?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather; in case of cancellation, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

What are the stops included?
Stops include Smedley Street, Miracle on 13th, City Hall, Love Park, and the Comcast building, with brief stops at some locations.

Can I get out and walk during the tour?
Yes, during stops like Smedley Street and Miracle on 13th, you are encouraged to get out and explore briefly.

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

In summary, the Holiday Lights Trolley Tour offers a cheerful, scenic way to experience Philadelphia’s holiday decorations, especially if you’re after a relaxed, visually stunning outing. While some areas for improvement exist, it remains a good option for holiday season fun with loved ones.