Historic Philly for Kids Ages 5 to 12

If you’re visiting Philadelphia with young children and want to introduce them to American history in a fun, engaging way, the “Historic Philly for Kids” tour might be just what you need. Designed specifically for kids aged 5 to 12, this 1.5-hour walking tour offers a lively, interactive approach to learning about the city’s revolutionary past.

What we love about this experience is how it turns what can sometimes be dry history into stories that kids actually want to hear — and remember. The tour’s expert guides are praised for keeping children engaged, making the history accessible without losing the richness of the stories. Plus, it hits many of the city’s iconic landmarks, offering a well-rounded glimpse of Philadelphia’s revolutionary roots.

One thing to consider is that the tour is relatively short and might not satisfy those looking for a deep dive into every aspect of Philadelphia’s history. It’s also a walking tour, so comfortable shoes are a must for both kids and adults. This tour is best suited for families with children who enjoy stories, outdoor walks, and a touch of history sprinkled with fun.

Who Would Love This Tour?

Families with kids between 5 and 12 who want a lively, interactive introduction to Philadelphia’s history will find this tour perfect. It’s especially ideal if your kids are curious, enjoy storytelling, and like walking around cities rather than sitting in museums all day.

• Kid-Friendly Focus: Specially designed for children, making history accessible and fun.
• Expert Guide: Knowledgeable, engaging guides keep children entertained and involved.
• Iconic Landmarks: Visit essential sites like Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and historic streets.
• Short & Sweet: The 1.5-hour duration fits well into a busy sightseeing schedule.
• Cost-Effective: At $20 per person, this tour offers good value for a family experience.
• Flexible & Convenient: Begins at Independence Mall and ends near key historic sites, easy to access via public transportation.

The Constitution Museum

The tour kicks off at a national museum dedicated to the U.S. Constitution. While the interior isn’t included in the tour, just visiting this site sets a serious tone for understanding how American democracy began. Kids get to see the building that has hosted many moments of history, sparking curiosity about the foundational document.

Pennsylvania’s Beginnings & Betsy Ross

Next, the guide explains how Pennsylvania started, touching on the Quakers’ influence. A favorite stop is the Free Quaker Meeting House from 1783, where stories about Betsy Ross—famous for sewing the first American flag—are shared. The house from the 1740s is full of stories, and kids often love imagining what life was like in those days.

The First Mint & Modern Coin Production

Moving on, you visit the site of the nation’s first mint, now the largest in the world. Here, we loved the way guides explain how coins are made, turning a simple process into a fascinating story that appeals to children. It’s a quick glimpse into the economic side of history, adding depth to the narrative.

Benjamin Franklin & His Keys

No Philadelphia tour is complete without Franklin, and this tour includes a stop at the Keys to the Community, a large bronze bust of Franklin. Kids are told about his contributions and why there are keys all over him — a story that sparks questions and curiosity. The guide’s ability to make Franklin relevant and interesting is often highlighted in reviews, and this site is no exception.

Colonial Homes & the Historic Street

The walk takes you through America’s oldest, still-inhabited street from 1703, with cobblestones and colonial houses. It’s a living reminder of Philadelphia’s early days. Kids often find the fire markers and old-fashioned houses fascinating, imagining what life was like in the 18th century.

Christ Church & Revolutionary Burials

The tour continues at Historic Christ Church, where signers of the Declaration of Independence are buried. The guide shares stories about these figures, making history personable for kids who might otherwise find it distant or dull.

Independence Hall & the Birth of America

The core of the tour is a visit to Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were drafted. Standing where such pivotal documents were created is exceptionally meaningful. The guide’s storytelling turns this ancient building into a lively part of the kids’ understanding of American history.

The Liberty Bell

Finally, the tour culminates at the Liberty Bell, housed at the Liberty Bell Center. This iconic symbol of freedom resonates with visitors of all ages, and kids often connect emotionally to its message of liberty and independence.

The key strength of this tour is its ability to combine history with storytelling, making complex topics accessible to young minds. The guides are praised for their knowledge and ability to keep children engaged, which is critical when walking through historic sites where details can be overwhelming.

The value for the price—$20 per person—is clear when you consider the number of landmarks visited and the expert guidance. Since the tour lasts about 90 minutes, it’s a manageable chunk of time that fits well into a busy family itinerary.

Another highlight is the accessibility and convenience of meeting at Independence Mall, a central location with good public transportation options. The group size is capped at 15, ensuring everyone gets attention, which adds to the personalized feel.

A Few Considerations

While the tour is engaging and educational, it’s important to note that interior site visits are not included. If your family is keen to go inside museums or historic buildings, you’ll need to plan additional visits. Also, as a walking tour, comfortable shoes are essential, especially for children. Weather can impact the experience, so dress appropriately.

Authentic Reviews & Feedback

Two reviews highlight how successful the tour is at captivating kids. One reviewer mentions how their guide Wendy kept six kids aged 4-11 engaged and excited, even on a “frigid day.” The other praises the knowledgeable guide who kept the entire family’s interest with interesting facts. Both reviews emphasize that this tour makes history fun and accessible, which is exactly what parents looking for educational family activities want.

• Price: $20 per person; excellent value considering all the landmarks covered.
• Duration: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, perfect for young attention spans.
• Meeting Point: 101 N Independence Mall W, Philadelphia, easy to find and accessible.
• Start Time: 11:00 am, so plan to arrive a little earlier.
• Included: Guided walking tour by an APT-certified guide.
• Not Included: Site interiors, gratuity, or weather guarantees.
• Weather: Tours are subject to weather conditions; canceled tours due to bad weather offer a full refund or rescheduling.
• Accessibility: Service animals are allowed; most travelers can participate.

This “Historic Philly for Kids” tour is a smart choice for families who want to introduce their children to American history in a lively, relatable way. The friendly, knowledgeable guides turn historic sites into stories that stick. For parents who value value, this tour offers a comprehensive, engaging experience at a reasonable price.

It’s especially suited for younger kids, ages 5-12, who enjoy walking, stories, and outdoor exploration. If your children have a budding interest in history or enjoy hands-on learning, they will likely find this tour both fun and educational.

While it doesn’t go inside the buildings, the outdoor stops and storytelling create a solid foundation that can be built upon with additional visits to Philadelphia’s museums and historic sites.

This tour balances entertainment and education beautifully, making it a memorable part of your Philadelphia family adventure.

Is this tour suitable for very young children or only older kids?
The tour is designed for children ages 5 to 12, so it’s generally suitable for most young kids, especially if they enjoy stories and outdoor walking. Very young children should be accompanied by an adult and dressed comfortably for walking.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes, making it a manageable activity for families with kids — not too long, not too short.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 101 N Independence Mall W and ends near Independence Hall at 520 Chestnut St, both central and accessible locations.

What is included in the tour price?
You get a guided walking tour with an APT-certified guide. Site interiors are not included, and gratuities are optional.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Bad weather or insufficient bookings can lead to a full refund or rescheduling.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
The tour is accessible to most travelers, and service animals are allowed. However, it’s best to check with the provider if you have specific needs.

This family-friendly tour offers an authentic, enjoyable way to explore Philadelphia’s revolutionary history with kids. It combines storytelling, iconic landmarks, and expert guides to create a memorable experience that will leave young explorers excited about America’s past.