What Old Town Trolley Tours offers

Old Town Trolley Tours is a hop-on, hop-off sightseeing service that operates in multiple U.S. cities. The company runs vintage-style trolleys on fixed routes through historic districts and popular tourist areas. You board at designated stops, listen to narrated commentary about landmarks and history, and can get off at any stop to explore on foot, then reboard a later trolley to continue.

The service runs year-round in most locations, though schedules vary by season and city. Trolleys typically depart every 20 to 30 minutes during operating hours. You do not need to book in advance for most routes — you can purchase a ticket at any stop or online before you arrive.

Old Town Trolley operates in cities including St. Augustine, San Diego, New Orleans, Savannah, Key West, and Washington, D.C. Each city has its own route map, stop locations, and pricing structure. The trolleys themselves are open-air or partially enclosed depending on the route and weather conditions.

Key Takeaways

  • Old Town Trolley runs hop-on, hop-off routes in six major U.S. cities, with trolleys departing every 20 to 30 minutes during operating hours.
  • You can buy tickets at any stop or online, and most routes do not require advance booking.
  • Ticket prices, route lengths, and operating hours differ by city, so check the specific location's website before your visit.
  • Trolleys include narrated commentary about local history and landmarks, and you can exit and reboard at any stop along the route.
  • Some cities offer combination packages that bundle trolley tours with museum entry, ghost tours, or other attractions.

How the hop-on, hop-off system works

When you board a trolley, your ticket is valid for the entire day or for a set number of hours, depending on which pass you purchase. You can get off at any stop on the route, spend as much time as you want exploring that area, and then board the next trolley that comes through. The trolley will have the same route number or name, so you know which one to wait for.

Each stop has a shelter or marked location where trolleys pause to pick up and drop off passengers. Stop locations are listed on the route map, which you can find online or pick up at the main terminal. Some stops are at major attractions like museums or historic squares; others are at hotels or parking areas.

The narrated tour runs continuously as the trolley moves between stops. A guide or recorded commentary describes the buildings, history, and points of interest you pass. You hear the same information whether you stay on for the full loop or get off and on multiple times.

Ticket types and pricing by city

Old Town Trolley offers different ticket options depending on the city. Most locations sell single-day passes, which let you board and exit as many times as you want within a 24-hour window. Some cities also offer multi-day passes or tickets valid for a specific number of hours (such as 48 hours from first use).

Pricing varies significantly by location. St. Augustine and Key West typically charge less per ticket than Washington, D.C. or San Diego. Children usually receive a discount, and some cities offer reduced rates for seniors or military personnel. Many locations allow children under a certain age (often 12 or younger) to ride free with a paying adult.

Combination packages are available in several cities. These bundle trolley access with entry to museums, ghost tours, or other attractions. Purchasing a package is sometimes cheaper than buying each ticket separately, but the savings depend on which attractions you plan to visit.

Operating hours and seasonal changes

Trolleys run daily in most cities, but hours shift between seasons. Summer typically has longer operating windows — sometimes 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. — while winter hours may be 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. or shorter. Some routes operate year-round; others close for a few weeks in the off-season.

Holiday schedules also vary. Many locations run extended hours around Christmas, New Year's, and other major holidays. A few routes may close entirely on certain holidays or operate on a reduced schedule.

Before your visit, check the specific city's website for current hours, as they change without notice due to weather, maintenance, or special events. The main Old Town Trolley website lists each city's operating schedule and contact information.

Where trolleys stop and how to find the nearest stop

Each city's trolley route includes 15 to 25 stops spread across the historic district or tourist area. Major stops are typically at hotels, parking garages, museums, and well-known landmarks. Smaller stops may be on residential streets or near less-trafficked attractions.

Route maps showing all stop locations are posted online and at the main terminal in each city. Many stops have a shelter or sign marking the trolley stop. If you are unsure whether a location is a stop, ask a staff member at the main terminal or call the city's trolley office — they can tell you the nearest stop to your hotel or starting point.

The main terminal is usually located in the downtown or historic district area. This is where you can buy tickets, ask questions, and board the first trolley of the day if you have not purchased a ticket online.

What to bring and what to expect on the trolley

Trolleys are open-air or partially covered, so weather affects your comfort. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water on sunny days. On rainy days, some routes offer enclosed trolleys or may run a reduced schedule. Check the weather forecast before you go and plan accordingly.

Trolleys can be crowded during peak tourist season, especially mid-morning and early afternoon. If you prefer a quieter experience, board early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Seats are first-come, first-served, though most trolleys have enough seating for all passengers.

The narrated tour is included with your ticket. Some guides are live and answer questions; others are pre-recorded. Either way, you will hear information about the route's history, architecture, and attractions. The pace is relaxed — trolleys move slowly enough that you can take photographs and read historical markers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to book a trolley tour in advance?

Most routes do not require advance booking. You can buy a ticket at any stop or online before you arrive. During very busy seasons (like Christmas or spring break), buying online ahead of time can save you time at the terminal, but it is not mandatory. Check the specific city's website to see if advance purchase is recommended for your travel dates.

Can I use my ticket on multiple days?

Single-day passes are valid for 24 hours from first use in most cities. Multi-day passes (typically 48 or 72 hours) are available in some locations and cost more than a single-day ticket. Check the city's website to see which pass options are offered where you are visiting.

Are there trolley tours for people with mobility issues?

Accessibility varies by city and trolley. Some trolleys have wheelchair lifts or ramps; others do not. Contact the specific city's trolley office before your visit to ask about accessible vehicles on your chosen route. They can tell you which stops are easiest to access and which trolleys have accommodations.

What happens if it rains?

Most routes operate in light rain with partial or full coverings. Heavy rain or severe weather may cause delays or temporary closures. If a trolley is cancelled due to weather, you can use your ticket on another day or request a refund. Check the trolley company's weather policy on their website or ask at the terminal.

Can I bring food or drinks on the trolley?

Policies vary by city. Most allow bottled water and soft drinks but prohibit alcohol and hot beverages. Outside food is usually permitted. Ask at the ticket counter or check the website for the specific city's rules before boarding.