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State College, PA, USA to Philadelphia, PA, USA from $10: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
State College, United States of America
to
Philadelphia, United States of America

How to Get from State College to Philadelphia: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$10 by busBest price
248 kmDistance
2h 2m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from State College to Philadelphia with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
American Airlines
Plane
Average Duration
2h  2m
Estimated price
$276-582
Recommended
Company
Greyhound USA
Bus
Average Duration
5h  8m
Estimated price
$10-57
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 248 km
Duration: 2h 2m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
4h  28m
Estimated price
$14-2760
Company
Greyhound USA
Bus
Average Duration
4h  5m
Estimated price
$21-65
Company
various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
3h  3m
Estimated price
$61-153
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  33m
Estimated price
$2761-2762

Traveling From State College to Philadelphia

Your journey from the college town of State College, with its vibrant campus life and intimate community feel, to Philadelphia, brimming with rich history and urban energy, promises a blend of small-town charm and bustling city adventures.

Best Neighbourhoods in Philadelphia

Philadelphia boasts a diverse array of vibrant neighborhoods, each with its charm.

Old City
• Home to historic landmarks like Independence Hall.
• Lively arts scene with galleries and boutiques.
University City
• Center of higher education with a youthful atmosphere.
• Diverse culinary options reflecting global cultures.
Rittenhouse Square
• Upscale shopping and dining around a beautiful park.
• Popular spot for people-watching and outdoor events.

Best Times To Visit Philadelphia's Attractions

Philadelphia's attractions offer unforgettable experiences, especially during less crowded times.

Liberty Bell
Visit early on weekdays for a quieter viewing experience.
Philadelphia Museum of Art
Plan your visit during late afternoons to enjoy fewer crowds.
Reading Terminal Market
Go early on weekends for the freshest selections and a relaxed atmosphere.

Philadelphia Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Philadelphia experiences four distinct seasons, with hot summers and chilly winters, making each time of year unique for visitors. Late spring and early fall generally offer the best weather for exploring the city's rich history and attractions comfortably.

Dining Recommendation

Indulge in a classic Philadelphia cheesesteak at Pat's King of Steaks, a bustling spot known for its juicy, savory flavors that highlight the city's iconic food culture. The vibrant atmosphere, combined with the use of fresh local ingredients, creates a dining experience that stands in stark contrast to the more laid-back dining options found in State College.

State College - Philadelphia operators

Explore transport companies operating between State College and Philadelphia, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane Show flights
Website
aa.com

Plane from State College Airport (SCE) to Philadelphia Airport (PHL)

Average Duration
1h 2m
Estimated price
$2765-27620
Website
contouraviation.com

Plane from Altoona (AOO) to Philadelphia (PHL)

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$2766-2767
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from State College Bus Station to Philadelphia

Average Duration
4h 5m
Estimated price
$21-65

Bus from State College Bus Station to Harrisburg Bus Station

Average Duration
1h 45m
Estimated price
$5829-27685
Contact phone
+1-877-462-6342
Website
us.megabus.com

Bus from State College, PA to Philadelphia, PA

Average Duration
4h
Estimated price
$100-2762
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Harrisburg to 30th Street Station, Philadelphia

Average Duration
1h 45m
Estimated price
$2768-2769

State College to Philadelphia: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between State College and Philadelphia offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a scenic road trip from State College to Philadelphia, covering a distance of 193 miles in around 3 hours and 33 minutes. Enjoy the changing landscapes of Pennsylvania along the journey. 💰 Explore budget-friendly travel options with prices ranging between $35 to $55 for the trip by car. Plan your route strategically to make the most of your travel budget while experiencing the convenience of a personalized road trip.
Average price
$35 - $55
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train trip from State College to Philadelphia, you’ll find that Amtrak is the primary operator. They offer onboard catering services which typically include a café car where you can purchase snacks, sandwiches, and beverages. You can also check if there are seasonal offerings or meals specific to the route before your journey.
• Amtrak offers different seating options for your trip from State College to Philadelphia. You'll find Economy Class seating, which is the most affordable option. For a more comfortable experience, opt for Business Class, which offers larger seats and more legroom. Note that First Class is not available on this route.
• Upon arriving in Philadelphia at 30th Street Station, take note that you can leave your luggage in the station’s baggage room for a small fee, if needed. The station has clean restrooms available, but there are no shower facilities. Make sure to grab a map of the station to navigate your way easily to your next destination.
🛫 Flying from State College to Philadelphia is a convenient option with a quick direct flight that takes just 56 minutes via American Airlines. 🌇 Upon landing at Philadelphia Airport, travelers can expect a total travel time of 2 hours and 2 minutes from State College. 💸 Prices for flights between Philadelphia and State College can range from $276 to $582, offering travelers flexibility in choosing a flight that fits their budget.
Departure Point
State College Airport
Arrival Point
Philadelphia Airport
🚌 The bus ride takes approximately 4 hours and 5 minutes, allowing travelers to sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic route between these two Pennsylvania cities. 🚌
Departure Point
State College Bus Station
Arrival Point
Philadelphia station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• When booking your bus ticket with Greyhound USA, check for promotional rates and choose off-peak travel times to save money, as prices vary from $21 to $65.
• Since the bus only departs once daily, aim to arrive at the State College Bus Station at least 30 minutes early; familiarize yourself with the station layout by visiting the State College Bus Station map for smooth boarding.
• Upon arriving at Philadelphia’s bus station, be prepared for a busy environment; use the Philadelphia bus station guidelines to locate Ground Transportation options and nearby dining establishments if you're planning to grab a meal or explore while waiting.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from State College to Philadelphia.

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The distance between State College and Philadelphia is 154 miles or 192.9 miles by road. If you choose to drive, it takes approximately 3 hours and 33 minutes to travel from Philadelphia to State College. Alternatively, you can fly from State College to Philadelphia, which takes around 2 hours and 3 minutes. Another option is to take a bus, which typically takes around 4 hours. Overall, the travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from State College to Philadelphia is by bus, with prices ranging from $7 to $65 and a travel time of approximately 4 hours. However, if time is of the essence, the quickest way to reach Philadelphia is by flying, which takes approximately 2 hours and 3 minutes but can cost between $240 and $600. Both transportation options provide convenient and efficient ways to reach your destination, with the bus being more budget-friendly and the plane being faster.
The prices of a bus ticket between Philadelphia and State College can range from $7 to $65, depending on various factors such as the time of travel, the day of the week, and the type of bus service. Typically, bus fares are more affordable compared to other modes of transportation such as driving or flying. It is recommended to check with different bus companies or online platforms to find the best deals and book tickets in advance to secure lower prices.
One option to get from State College to Philadelphia without using public transportation is by driving. The distance between the two cities is around 193 miles, and it typically takes about 3 hours and 33 minutes to complete the journey by car. The approximate cost of the trip by car ranges from $35 to $55, depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls. This method offers flexibility and the opportunity to enjoy scenic views along the way.
To travel from State College to Philadelphia without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The journey takes around 4 hours and ticket prices range from $7 to $65, depending on the bus company and time of travel. There are multiple bus operators that offer routes between the two cities, providing a convenient and affordable mode of transportation for travelers.
Yes, there is a direct bus link between State College and Philadelphia. The bus service, operated by OurBus, departs once daily and operates every day. The journey takes approximately 4 hours. Passengers can conveniently travel between the two cities without the need for transfers or additional modes of transportation.
The flight between State College and Philadelphia takes approximately 57 minutes for a direct flight. The cost of a flight between the two cities typically ranges from $246 to $582. Please note that prices may vary depending on the airline and time of booking. It is advisable to check with different airlines and booking platforms to find the best deals for your specific travel dates.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Philadelphia. With over 626 hotels available, you will have a wide range of choices to suit your budget and preferences. Prices start at $51 per night, offering affordable options for travelers. Whether you prefer luxury hotels or budget-friendly options, you are sure to find a suitable place to stay near Philadelphia.

Trips from State College

Trips to Philadelphia