Like any other large city, Philadelphia's wide offering of attractions and spectacles is complemented by extensive transportation methods.
"Getting around" in the city can mean any number of possibilities, from taking a simple walk to traveling by cab, bus, subway or trolley. Such an array of options may at first seem daunting. However, after just a few short weeks, you will learn the most convenient, cost-effective routes to several locations.
If you are planning on staying in West Philadelphia, the Loop Through University City is an option. These buses stop at several locations in Penn's own neighborhood, including Drexel University and the University Medical Center.
LUCY buses make their loops at least twice per hour, and are free for University employees and students with valid identification. However, hours are limited; the buses run only on weekdays from 6:10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
In addition to LUCY, you'll find that most locations in West Philadelphia are well within walking distance.
SEPTA is the most widely used and expansive means of transportation in Philadelphia, and offers two main lines of subway and trolley, in addition to bus routes that traverse all neighborhoods in the city.
The Subway Surface or "Green Line" trolleys offer stops just outside Kings Court/English House at 36th and Sansom streets and outside the Upper Quadrangle on Spruce and 37th streets. Every line includes these stations with the exception of the Route 10 trolley, which stops at Drexel University but then branches northwest and away from University City.
The Market-Frankford Elevated Train or "El" subway is your best bet for traveling toward Center City. The Blue Line runs from 69th Street to Second Street before heading away from Center City. It stops at many hot spots including dining neighborhood Rittenhouse Square at 18th and Walnut streets and the Gallery, a shopping mall near Chinatown.
Transfers are also available between the Blue and Green lines, with free interchanges at the 30th, 15th and 13th street stops.
The area of South Street a popular spot laden with shops, restaurants and bars is a trickier destination to access. Using SEPTA, you will need to take three different rides on a bus, subway and trolley. Many students find cabs a much more suitable and convenient option; fare to South Street is usually around $10 for an approximately 15-minute ride.
Biking is another popular means of transportation for Penn students. With exclusive riding lanes throughout campus and the city, cycling can significantly reduce traveling time to almost any destination in Philadelphia.
If you are planning on leaving the city, 30th Street Station will serve as your hub. An extensive SEPTA regional rail system offers access to nearly every location in Southeastern Pennsylvania, including local universities like Temple and Bryn Mawr. Amtrak trains also run from this station, and offer service to a number of cities nationwide.
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