Everybody knows that Philadelphia is home to the Liberty Bell and the cheese steak sandwich, but the city is also home to distinctive neighborhoods, world-class museums and over 200 years of history. And a short drive out of the city will take you to the unspoilt countryside of Bucks County, the Amish communities in Lancaster County or the bright lights of Atlantic City.

Around 31 million passengers use Philadelphia Airport (PHL) every year, which is a major hub for US Airways as well as being an important base for the successful low cost carrier Southwest. The airport is located about eight miles southwest of Center City, as the historic few blocks in the center of Philadelphia are known. And if you haven’t flown into Philadelphia for a while, you may notice some improvements – an ongoing $250 million project to improve facilities at the airport and alleviate congestion should be completed towards the end of 2008.

A basic car service will cost from around $45 from Philadelphia airport to the downtown area; plan on paying around $80 for a stretch limo and from around $150 for a stretch Hummer limo. There may be extra charges such as waiting time, extra baggage, any additional stops you make on your route and a gratuity of 20 percent. And some limo companies will allow you a reasonable amount of time to reclaim your bags (and clear customs if applicable) and only then charge you extra for the additional wait time. However, if your flight is late, you won’t incur extra waiting time.

Getting into town by car or limo – or anywhere else in Pennsylvania or neighboring New Jersey and Delaware – is fairly easy, partly due to several interstate highways that conveniently pass through or circle the city. In fact, around two-thirds of all visitors to Philadelphia arrive in the city by car. It’s about a thirty minute journey – more during rush hour - from Philadelphia airport into Center City.

Once you exit baggage claim, different areas of the airport are designated for different transportation options – car or limo service, taxi, hotel shuttle, etc. If you are being picked up by limo service from PHL, you should be waiting in zone 6 on what is known as the commercial transportation roadway. There is also a ground transportation information desk located in each baggage claim area; the staff can provide a list of limo services authorized to take you where you are going - although they don’t actually make recommendations. Limo drivers must wait in their car for you and cannot leave a vehicle unattended at the curb.

Philadelphia car service and limo companies offer a wide selection of sightseeing tours, not just in Philadelphia but in the surrounding countryside. You can take a tour specializing in the many wineries that can be found in the nearby area, the several historic battlefields in the vicinity - or if shopping is your thing, there are several excellent outlet malls in the nearby area. And one of the biggest attractions – especially for kids – can be found just across the Delaware River in New Jersey – the Adventure Aquarium.

Atlantic City on the New Jersey coast attracts around 37 million visitors each year and is one of the most requested destinations by limo – it’s only about a ninety minute drive from Philadelphia airport or the downtown hotels. Atlantic City boasts several casinos including Caesars, the Trump Taj Mahal, the Tropicana and Harrah’s, as well as the famous boardwalk, which stretches for four miles. And if the street names seem familiar – they were the inspiration behind the original Monopoly game.

Limo service rates from Philadelphia to Atlantic City can vary widely, depending on the size of limo you need, as well as whether there are any special events or conventions on in town. If you are simply looking for a romantic getaway, limo companies can provide a car for you, along with some privacy and a bottle of champagne. If you are taking a group to Atlantic City, they can provide a limo that can accommodate twenty of your closest friends. Expect to pay around $140 for a basic sedan one way from PHL to Atlantic City; more for a stretch limo or luxury van.

One thing you are assured of is that your Philadelphia limo driver will be courteous and knowledgeable – all limo drivers are required to be certified by the Philadelphia Parking Authority. (PPA) This involves taking a five day training class, and having no criminal record or driving violation. The PPA also conducts the inspection for limos and hired cars in the Philadelphia area.

America’s fifth largest city has a lot to offer visitors. A limo rental, along with the services of a professional driver can ensure that your trip is even more enjoyable, whether you are visiting for business or pleasure.