Philadelphia’s walking tours pack maximum history into manageable chunks, letting you experience America’s birthplace efficiently and enjoyably. Most tours run between 30 minutes and 3.5 hours, with local guides who know their stuff and keep groups small.
The Constitutional Walking Tour stands out for hitting all the major Revolutionary sites while keeping a brisk pace. For food lovers, the Market and Food Tour through Reading Terminal Market offers generous samples and cultural insights. History buffs shouldn’t miss the African American Heritage Tour, which reveals important stories often overlooked in traditional tours.
The best part? Most tours are wheelchair-friendly and maintain consistently high ratings from fellow travelers. Let’s explore the top walking tours that make Philadelphia’s history come alive.
Key Points
- Diverse range of walking tours in Philadelphia, from 30-minute to 3.5-hour experiences, catering to various interests and schedules.
- High-rated tours highlighting historical landmarks, local culture, and unique narratives with engaging storytelling by knowledgeable guides.
- Culinary tours showcasing the vibrant food scene in South Philadelphia, including the Italian Market and donut-focused experiences.
- Specialized thematic tours, such as the Great Comedy Magic Walk, UPenn Campus Tour, and Hidden Histories, offering unique perspectives.
- Comfortable, inclusive, and accessible walking tours with small group sizes, free cancellation options, and discounted museum access.
Philadelphia Old City Historic Walking Tour With 10+ Top Sites
The Philadelphia Old City Historic Walking Tour takes visitors on a 90-minute guided journey through the city’s rich Revolutionary-era past.
Led by a local guide who blends humor and historical insight, the tour covers over 10 iconic landmarks, including the Betsy Ross House, Elfreth’s Alley, the Liberty Bell, and Independence Hall.
With 1,668 reviews and a 99% recommendation rate, this tour is ideal for history buffs and first-time visitors alike.
Travelers praise the guide’s exceptional performance, the tour’s pacing, and the depth of information provided.
Offering convenient departure times and accessibility features, this walking tour is a top experience for anyone looking to enjoy Philadelphia’s storied history.
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Philadelphia: Guided Walking Tour of Historic District!
Situated in the heart of Philadelphia’s historic district, the Philadelphia: Guided Walking Tour of Historic District! offers visitors a captivating journey through the city’s storied past.
Priced at just $25 per person, this 1.5-hour tour is led by a knowledgeable guide and features 21 key sites, including the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and the Betsy Ross House.
The tour is wheelchair accessible and provides live commentary in English.
Customers praise the guide’s expertise and engaging storytelling, with a 5/5 rating based on 9 reviews.
Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking to explore Philadelphia’s rich heritage, this guided walking tour is an excellent choice.
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Philadelphia History, Highlights, & Revolution Walking Tour
Enjoy the captivating history of Philadelphia on the Old City Philadelphia History Tour with Washington Tent Show.
This highly-rated 3-hour walking tour takes you through the city’s historic Old City, offering insightful stories and revealing the pivotal role it played in America’s founding.
Led by a knowledgeable local expert, the tour highlights major landmarks while showcasing George Washington’s actual war tent.
Travelers praise the guides’ enthusiasm and the tour’s informative nature, which includes discounted entry to the Museum of the American Revolution.
With a maximum group size of 12, this wheelchair-accessible experience is a must for history enthusiasts visiting Philadelphia.
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Ghosts of Philly Night-Time Walking Tour
An enthralling Ghosts of Philly Night-Time Walking Tour takes visitors on a spellbinding journey through Philadelphia’s storied past.
For $39 per person, this 30-minute tour explores the city’s haunted history and paranormal hotspots. Guests visit sites like the Betsy Ross House, Independence Hall, and Washington Square, learning about ghostly encounters while seeing the city’s rich revolutionary heritage.
With a live guide, wheelchair accessibility, and free cancellation, the tour offers an engaging, unique experience.
Traveler reviews praise the guide’s storytelling and the tour’s blend of history and the supernatural.
Whether you’re a history buff or ghost enthusiast, this Ghosts of Philly Night-Time Walking Tour promises an unforgettable evening in the City of Brotherly Love.
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Explore Philadelphia: Founding Fathers Walking Tour
Explore the hallowed grounds where the nation’s founding was forged on the Founding Fathers Walking Tour of Philadelphia.
This 2.5-hour walking tour takes visitors to key historical sites, including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and Elfreth’s Alley. Guests will enjoy a 20-minute presentation at the Museum of the American Revolution and explore the President’s House site.
The tour is led by knowledgeable local guides and accommodates a maximum of 16 travelers. Priced at $41 per person, the tour offers excellent value, with 94% of 904 reviewers recommending the experience.
Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking to explore Philadelphia’s rich past, this tour is a must-do.
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Philadelphia: Black History Walking Tour
Delving into the city’s pivotal role in African-American history, the Philadelphia: Black History Walking Tour takes participants on a 1.5-hour journey through the streets where enslaved people, abolitionists, and groundbreaking figures left indelible marks.
For €33.16, guests explore significant sites like Independence Hall and the President’s House, learning about the Quaker school that educated Black and White students together and hearing stories of prominent early African-Americans.
The tour covers approximately 1.5 miles and is rated 4.8/5 by reviewers who praise the knowledgeable and energetic guide.
Comfortable shoes are recommended for navigating cobblestoned streets, and the tour includes gratuities.
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Badass Womens History Walking Tour of Philadelphia
The Badass Womens History Walking Tour of Philadelphia takes participants on a captivating 2-hour journey through the city’s streets, uncovering the untold stories of female heroes.
Praised for its knowledgeable and engaging guides, the tour explores the city’s rich history from a unique perspective, highlighting the contributions of remarkable women.
With a maximum group size of 30, the tour offers a personalized experience, allowing for intimate interactions and thought-provoking discussions.
Accessible to all and conveniently located near public transportation, the tour has earned a 5.0/5 rating and a Badge of Excellence, making it a must-do for both travelers and locals interested in Philadelphia’s empowering female narratives.
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Philadelphia: Private City Highlights Walking Tour
Although a private tour, the Philadelphia: Private City Highlights Walking Tour provides an immersive experience, guiding participants through the city’s iconic landmarks and historical sites.
The 2-hour tour is available in English, French, and Spanish, with a meeting point at the Wyndham Philadelphia Historic District. Priced from €110.00 per person, the tour offers flexible booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Highlights include exploring the Betsy Ross House, Independence Hall, Christ Church, and the Liberty Bell, with optional photo stops along the way.
Led by knowledgeable local guides, the tour aims to deliver tailored commentary and exclusive access to attractions. However, previous feedback suggests potential language barrier issues with the Spanish-language guide.
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Founding Phantoms Adults Only Walking Tour
For those seeking a thrilling and spine-chilling adventure, the Founding Phantoms Adults Only Walking Tour in Philadelphia offers an immersive exploration of the city’s haunted past.
This 95-rated (4.5 stars) tour takes guests on a journey through the historic Walnut Street area, uncovering the eerie tales and ghostly encounters that have haunted the city for centuries.
At $34.99 per person, the tour accommodates up to 30 travelers, starting at 9 PM. With inclusions like all fees, taxes, and gratuities, the experience is wheelchair and stroller accessible.
While most reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and engaging stories, some note occasional cancellations and less effective storytelling, which the host has addressed.
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Historic Philadelphia Walking Tour
This Historic Philadelphia Walking Tour provides a comprehensive exploration of the city’s rich colonial history.
Led by a retired history teacher with over 30 years of experience, the 3.5-hour tour takes visitors to major landmarks like the Presidents House, Liberty Bell, Carpenters Hall, and Franklin’s Grave.
The tour covers a range of colonial sites, including the city’s first Episcopal church and the oldest residential block in British North America.
Priced at $395 for up to 10 participants, the tour offers a flexible itinerary and is wheelchair accessible.
Visitors can opt to visit paid sites on their own after the tour.
With a wealth of historical knowledge and a friendly demeanor, the guide ensures an engaging and informative experience.
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Beyond the [Liberty] Bell History Walking Tour
![Beyond the [Liberty] Bell History Walking Tour](https://travel-buddies.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/1_beyond-the-liberty-bell-history-walking-tour.jpg)
Beyond the [Liberty] Bell History Walking Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Philadelphia’s rich and diverse history, going beyond the city’s iconic landmarks.
This 1-hour tour takes visitors through the cobblestone streets of Old City and Independence Park, visiting key sites like the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and the Betsy Ross House.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on the contributions of women, people of color, indigenous groups, and LGBTQ individuals. Knowledgeable guides provide insider tips and engaging stories, catering to a maximum of 30 travelers.
With wheelchair accessibility, free cancellation, and high ratings, this tour is an excellent way to discover Philadelphia’s lesser-known historical narratives.
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Philadelphia: Walking Tour of Colonial Nonsense
Philadelphia’s “Walking Tour of Colonial Nonsense” offers a refreshingly unique perspective on the city’s history.
Priced at $32 per person, this 2-hour English-language tour takes visitors on a journey through Society Hill and Washington Square Park, uncovering the gossip and anecdotes behind iconic landmarks like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall.
With a focus on engaging storytelling, the tour promises an entertaining and insightful experience.
Led by the knowledgeable and charismatic guide Fayge, the tour accommodates varied age groups and is praised for its ability to uncover Philadelphia’s hidden treasures.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and a “reserve now, pay later” option is available, making it a flexible choice for travelers.
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Philadelphia: Italian Market Food – Small Group Walking Tour
Offering a distinct contrast to the historical anecdotes of the “Walking Tour of Colonial Nonsense,” the Italian Market Food – Small Group Walking Tour immerses participants in the vibrant culinary scene of South Philadelphia.
Over 2.5-3 hours, groups of up to 10 people explore the century-old Italian Market, sampling a generous variety of dishes, from tacos to banh mi to cannoli.
Led by knowledgeable local guides, the tour delves into the neighborhood’s history, including its Italian immigration narrative and the influence of newer immigrant communities on the food culture.
With an average 5.0 rating from 190 reviews, this tour is a recommended choice for those seeking a flavorful and insightful experience in Philadelphia.
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Philadelphia: Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour
Allowing visitors to explore Philadelphia at their own pace, the Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour provides a comprehensive and immersive experience. Equipped with an audio guide, travelers can discover the city’s iconic landmarks, including Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, while learning about their rich history.
The tour covers a range of themes, from the American Revolution to the city’s cultural diversity, offering a well-rounded understanding of Philadelphia’s past and present.
With the flexibility to start and stop at any point, this self-guided tour allows travelers to customize their experience and delve deeper into the aspects that interest them most.
Whether seeking an independent exploration or a more structured sightseeing adventure, the Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour is a versatile option for experiencing the best of Philadelphia.
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Philadelphias Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour
Philadelphians and visitors alike indulge in the city’s Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour, a captivating exploration of the renowned donut scene. Rated 5.0 by reviewers, this 3-hour tour showcases the best donut purveyors in the city, from the iconic Federal Donuts to the beloved Beilers Donuts.
Travelers praise the knowledgeable guides, who share engaging stories and historical insights. The tour offers a diverse array of unique donut flavors, with options for dietary restrictions.
While some suggest reducing unnecessary walking and improving food presentation, the overall experience is deemed a delightful and tasty adventure. This walking tour combines donut tasting with local history, making it a must-try for both donut enthusiasts and city explorers.
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Philadelphia: Hidden Histories Walking Tour
What better way to explore Philadelphia’s rich history than through the Philadelphia: Hidden Histories Walking Tour?
This 2-hour walking tour takes you on a journey through the city’s cobblestone streets, uncovering the stories of women, indigenous people, people of color, and LGBTQ individuals often overlooked in standard narratives.
Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll engage with historical controversies, learn about William Penn’s relationship with the Lenni-Lenape nation, and visit key sites like the Betsey Ross House, Presidents House Site, Liberty Bell, and Independence Hall.
Priced at $49 per person, this tour offers a flexible, cancellation-friendly experience for those interested in exploring Philadelphia’s hidden histories.
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The Great Comedy Magic Walk
The Great Comedy Magic Walk offers a unique sightseeing experience in Philadelphia’s historic Old City neighborhood.
Combining comedy, magic, and history, this 1 to 1.5-hour tour takes participants on an engaging journey through the area. Highlights include an interactive magic show based on local history and a 30-minute walking portion showcasing the neighborhood’s highlights.
With a 99% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, this tour is suitable for all ages and accessible to wheelchair users. Participants can enjoy hands-on magic tricks and gain unique historical insights.
While the tour’s outdoor locations and cobblestone streets may present challenges, the overall experience is highly praised for its entertainment and educational value.
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Philadelphia: Road to Revolution GPS Walking Audio Tour
This compelling GPS-guided audio tour takes visitors on a captivating journey through Philadelphia’s pivotal role in the American Revolution.
Covering a 1.5-hour route, the tour highlights key landmarks like Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence was signed.
Along the way, the audio narration brings history to life, transporting participants back in time to the era of the Founding Fathers.
With the option to start and stop at any point, the tour offers flexibility and a unique immersive experience.
Priced at $35.50 per person, the Revolutionary Walk Through Historic Old City provides an engaging and educational exploration of Philadelphia’s revolutionary heritage.
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Private 2 Hour Walking Tour of Historic Philadelphia
Participants on the Private 2 Hour Walking Tour of Historic Philadelphia embark on an engaging exploration of the city’s revolutionary past. The tour highlights key sites like Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and Betsy Ross House, allowing visitors to enjoy the city’s history.
Led by knowledgeable, multilingual guides, the experience includes a 2-kilometer walk with frequent stops, providing an accessible and comfortable journey. With a high recommendation rate, the private tour offers personalized attention and accommodations, ensuring a memorable experience for all.
Travelers can also opt to extend their tour with a driving segment to see additional sights like the iconic Rocky Statue.
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Philadelphia: UPenn Campus Walking Tour & Museum Ticket
Explore the historic University of Pennsylvania campus and learn about the Ivy League experience with the Philadelphia: UPenn Campus Walking Tour & Museum Ticket. Priced from $32 per person, this guided tour takes you through the campus’ iconic landmarks, including the Love Statue, Wharton Business School, and historic halls.
Led by knowledgeable students, the tour provides insights into UPenn’s traditions and architecture. Lasting one hour, the experience includes entrance to the renowned Penn Museum.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour offers a convenient and flexible way to discover the vibrant heart of Philadelphia’s academic legacy.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Pet on the Walking Tour?
Most walking tour companies don’t allow pets on their tours, but you should check with the specific tour operator. Some may permit service animals or make exceptions, so it’s best to inquire before booking to ensure your pet can join the walk.
Is the Walking Tour Suitable for Young Children?
The walking tour may not be suitable for young children, as it can involve extensive walking and navigating crowded streets. Parents should consider their child’s age, stamina, and interest before booking the tour to ensure a comfortable experience.
Do the Tours Accommodate Wheelchair Users?
Many walking tours do accommodate wheelchair users, providing accessible routes and assistance as needed. Visitors should check with the tour operator in advance to ensure the tour is suitable for their mobility needs.
Are the Walking Tours Available in Multiple Languages?
Many walking tours in Philadelphia offer multilingual options, catering to diverse visitors. Participants can often choose from English, Spanish, French, and other languages, ensuring an inclusive and enriching experience for all.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Walking Tours?
Most walking tour companies offer flexible cancellation policies, often allowing participants to cancel or reschedule their tours with at least 24-48 hours’ notice without penalty. Cancellation fees may apply for shorter notice periods.
The Sum Up
Philadelphia offers a wide variety of walking tours that allow visitors to explore the city’s rich history, architecture, and cultural attractions. From guided tours of the Historic District to spooky ghost walks, there’s something for all. Whether you’re interested in the Founding Fathers or the Philadelphia comedy scene, these tours provide an engaging and immersive way to experience the city.