So You Wanna Ditch Dutch Wonderland for PHL? How to Get From Lancaster to Philadelphia Airport Without Getting Lost (Much)
Let's face it, while Lancaster has its charm (who can resist a good shoofly pie?), sometimes you gotta fly the coop. Maybe you've got a tropical getaway planned, or a business meeting that involves more than shoo-fly pie on a conference table (although, that's a meeting I'd attend). Whatever your reason for jetting out of Philly Airport (PHL), this guide will help you get there from Lancaster without getting turned around by a herd of Amish buggies (although, that could be an interesting story for later).
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| How To Get From Lancaster To Philadelphia Airport |
Car: Speed Demon or Scenic Route?
- Need for Speed: If you're all about efficiency, buckle up! The drive is around 1.5 hours, and pretty straightforward. Just be prepared for some tolls, those things add up faster than a basket overflowing with scrapple.
- The Leisurely Lancaster Leave-Taking: Want to enjoy the countryside? Take the scenic route! Just be prepared for a longer trip (think 2ish hours) and maybe some winding roads. But hey, at least you might spot some Amish farms and pretend you're in witness protection (don't worry, they're friendly folks).
Important Note: No matter which route you choose, don't forget to factor in rush hour! Philly traffic can be a nightmare, and you don't want to miss your flight because you're stuck behind a SEPTA bus that's decided to become one with the I-95.
Tip: Read in a quiet space for focus.
Train: No Need to Parallel Park, Just Relax!
- Amtrak: Relax and Let the Rails Take You There: Feeling fancy (or just want to avoid parking)? Amtrak can whisk you from Lancaster Station to 30th Street Station in Philly, where you can hop on the SEPTA AirTrain and be at the airport in no time. This is a great option if you want to unwind and catch up on work or a good book.
Insider Tip: Pack some snacks for the train ride. Amtrak cafes can be a bit pricey, and those delicious-looking soft pretzels disappear faster than you can say "shoofly pie."
QuickTip: Pause after each section to reflect.
Ride-Sharing: Sharing the Ride, Sharing the Cost
- Uber/Lyft: When You Want Luxury ( -ish) Without the Hassle: Don't feel like driving or dealing with public transportation? Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft can get you to the airport in style (well, as stylish as a backseat can be). Just be sure to factor in surge pricing if your flight coincides with a busy time.
Side Note: If you take this route, be sure your phone is charged and you have the app downloaded beforehand. Nobody wants to be scrambling for wifi at the last minute.
Tip: Avoid distractions — stay in the post.
FAQ - Frequently Asked Flyers (Get it?)
How to Avoid Traffic Woes? Leave early! Factor in rush hour and potential delays, and you'll be thanking yourself later.
QuickTip: Read section by section for better flow.
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How to Save Money on Parking? Consider taking Amtrak or a ridesharing service. If you must drive, look for off-site parking options that offer shuttles to the airport. They're usually cheaper than official airport parking.
How to Find My Terminal? Don't panic! The Philadelphia Airport website and app have great tools to help you navigate the terminal maze. You can even check in for your flight online beforehand to save time.
How to Stay Entertained During the Trip? Download some movies, podcasts, or audiobooks to your phone or tablet. A good book can also be your best friend here.
How to Not Look Like a Tourist? Okay, this one's a joke (mostly). But seriously, relax and enjoy the ride. You've got this!
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