Does Philadelphia have an underground subway?
David Jones
Published Jan 24, 2026
Subway Routes and Schedules Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) operates three of Philadelphia’s four subway lines: Market-Frankford Line, Broad Street Line and Broad-Ridge Spur. Broad Street Line is underground for almost all of its 10-mile length.
What do they call the subway in Philly?
SEPTA is the nation’s sixth-largest public transit system, with train, subway, trolley and bus lines serving 1.3 million customers every day, and giving visitors an easy, affordable way to explore Philly.
How much is a subway ride in Philly?
The fare is $2 per ride; your first transfer is free, $1 for your next transfer if you have a SEPTA Key card. No Key card, no worry, the cost per ride is $2.50 which you can use to purchase a Quick Trip (ticket) from the Fare Kiosk at the station.
What is the best way to get around Philadelphia?
Getting Around Philadelphia. The best way to get around Philadelphia is by foot or PHLASH bus. Although some attractions like the Philadelphia Zoo require some other mode of transport, most sightseeing is centered in the Old City, Rittenhouse Square and Society Hill areas, all of which are very pedestrian-friendly.
Is Philadelphia subway safe?
As several others have noted, public transit is safe and efficient. I would recommend using Septa to reach U Penn, either train or bus. Center City is very pedestrian friendly and walkable.
Does the Philadelphia subway run all night?
Schedule and Frequency Philadelphia’s three subway lines, operated by SEPTA, run from 5:00 am to 1:00 am. The frequency of available subways depend on the line and if it is peak or non-peak hours. The PACTO line runs 24 hours a day. The overnight bus that replaces the subway from Monday to Friday runs every 15 minutes.
Can you live in Philadelphia without a car?
You can go car-free. While Philadelphia isn’t as walkable as New York City, it’s still possible to go without a car in Philly. Depending on where you live, work and recreate you can get around by walking, biking or taking public transit.
Is it safe to walk around Philadelphia?
Wander too far north or too far south. Center City is extremely safe, and you can feel comfortable on the streets basically any time of day or night, but if you wander too far north from Fishtown, Center City or too far south from South Philly, you may find yourself in a sticky spot.
What’s the bad part of Philadelphia?
According to Newsbreak, Tioga-Nicetown was just named the most dangerous neighborhood in Philly. For those who never been down there let me paint a picture for you. The neighborhood reminds me of Fishtown.
Is Philadelphia easy to get around?
Getting around Philadelphia is easy. The central portion of the city was designed in colonial times, in a grid pattern, with 5 main squares or parks of open space and the north-south running streets are numbered. Philly is considered one of the best walking cities in the country.
Are there any subway lines in Philadelphia PA?
Philadelphia has 3 subway lines operated by SEPTA (Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority), the same company that is in charge of most of the city’s buses, trolleys and trains. An additional subway line is operated by the company PACTO.
What kind of public transportation does Philadelphia have?
Philadelphia has an extensive public transportation system that includes a couple of main subway lines (the Market-Frankford line, also known as the El because it’s partially elevated, and the Broad Street line), several trolley lines that run underground in Center City and along the streets elsewhere, buses,…
When was the first subway built in Philadelphia?
In April of 1903, the first construction of a tunnel from City Hall to 23rd Street began, followed in 1904 by the construction of an elevated section on Market Street. Opening in March of 1907, this would become Philadelphia’s first subway line and what we know today as the Market Frankford Line.
Is there an underground rail system in Philadelphia?
Philadelphia has a 3.5-mile (5.6 km) underground transit concourse in Center City, which connects the SEPTA Regional Rail lines with local rail and trolley lines.