Tea Around Town: A Charming Tea Experience in Philadelphia

Imagine combining the elegance of a traditional afternoon tea with a sightseeing tour of Philadelphia’s most iconic landmarks—all from the comfort of a cozy, stylish bus. That’s precisely what Tea Around Town offers. This 90-minute experience blends leisurely sightseeing, engaging narration, and a delightful tea tasting, making it an ideal way to spend an afternoon in the City of Brotherly Love.

What we love most about this tour is how it manages to make history feel personal and accessible—while offering a moment of relaxation with fine teas and tasty bites. The stunning views of landmarks like the Liberty Bell and Philadelphia Museum of Art add to the charm. One thing to consider is that, as with many outdoor experiences, weather can impact the day’s enjoyment. Nonetheless, this tour suits travelers who appreciate a bit of style, a relaxed pace, and authentic local flavor. Ideal for history buffs, tea lovers, and those seeking a unique city experience, it’s a memorable way to explore Philly from a different perspective.

Key Points

• Comfortable, stylish transportation: The pink bus is climate-controlled, providing a cozy setting for the ride.
• In-depth sightseeing with commentary: An engaging guide narrates stories behind the sights, making history come alive.
• Quality tea and food: Enjoy three carefully selected teas along with fresh baked scones, savory bites, and sweet treats.
• Stunning city views: See major landmarks like the Liberty Bell, City Hall, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art from a unique vantage point.
• Souvenir tumbler included: Take home a stylish TAT tumbler as a keepsake.
• Booking in advance recommended: Most travelers book about 17 days ahead due to popularity.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Transportation: A Stylish Pink Bus

The tour’s centerpiece is a charming pink bus, which immediately sets a tone of playful elegance. The climate-controlled interior ensures comfort regardless of the weather outside. With a maximum group size of around 38 people, it’s intimate enough to feel personalized but lively enough to foster a communal atmosphere. The bus’s comfortable seating means you can relax and watch Philadelphia’s sights glide by, all while listening to a live guide.

The Itinerary: A Walk Through Philadelphia’s Landmark Highlights

The tour’s route is packed with the city’s most recognizable sights, each offering a snapshot of Philadelphia’s history and culture. The Liberty Bell is the first stop—an obvious must-see, representing independence and freedom. The guide’s narration makes the story behind the crack and symbolism come alive, turning a photo opportunity into a meaningful moment.

Next, the view of the Ben Franklin Bridge offers a chance to marvel at the engineering that connects Philadelphia with New Jersey. The bus passes by the historic home of Betsy Ross, the woman credited with sewing the first American flag—an enduring symbol of patriotism that still resonates.

The tour then takes you past Benjamin Franklin’s resting place, a quiet spot that pays homage to one of America’s founding fathers. The African American Museum in Philadelphia is also on the route, highlighting the city’s diverse cultural landscape. The Reading Terminal Market is a lively stop, boasting a sensory overload of local vendors and food stalls, perfect for those interested in authentic Philadelphia eats.

Other sights include City Hall’s impressive architecture, the beloved Love Park with its iconic sculpture, and the grand Benjamin Franklin Parkway lined with cultural institutions. The Philadelphia Museum of Art looms majestically, with the famous steps—famous from the Rocky movies—offering a scenic backdrop. The modern Comcast Building showcases Philadelphia’s contemporary growth, and the historic Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul adds a touch of spiritual grandeur.

Throughout these stops, the guide offers lively commentary that transforms brief glimpses into stories and historical context, adding depth to your sightseeing.

The Tea and Food: A Gourmet Interlude

After about 75 minutes of sightseeing, you settle into a relaxing session of tea tasting. You’ll sample up to three fine teas, each carefully selected to complement the experience. Alongside, you’ll enjoy a variety of freshly baked scones, savory bites, and sweet treats. According to reviews, the food is a highlight, with many describing it as delicious and well-presented.

The inclusion of a stylish TAT tumbler means you’ll leave with a memorable souvenir, perfect for enjoying future teas or as a keepsake of your Philadelphia adventure.

Authenticity and Value: What Our Reviewers Say

One guest noted, “No Title — ‘Was a cool experience, my fiancé really loved it as she is an afternoon tea aficionado. Definitely recommended for a birthday! Jack and Thomas were great hosts and made the experience special, Jack was very charismatic and a good singer!’” This highlights the personalized, lively nature of the tour and the quality of the hosts.

However, not all reviews were perfect. One guest recounted, “No Title — ‘We scheduled a tea time for 2:30 pm, at which time there was no bus.’” This reminds us that punctuality and weather considerations are worth keeping in mind.

Pricing and Overall Value

At $85 per person, the tour offers a combination of sightseeing, storytelling, and gourmet treats. While not a bargain, the value lies in the unique experience—combining luxury transportation, an engaging guide, and authentic food—all set against Philadelphia’s iconic backdrop. For those who enjoy a relaxed, immersive city tour with a touch of elegance, it’s a worthwhile expense.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history enthusiasts, tea lovers, and those looking for a relaxed, stylish way to see Philadelphia. It’s especially well-suited for special occasions like birthdays or anniversaries, given the personable hosts and charming setting. If you’re traveling with someone who appreciates good food and stories behind the landmarks, this tour will delight.

It might not be ideal for travelers seeking a fast-paced, in-depth historical tour or those wary of weather disruptions, but for a leisurely, memorable afternoon, it hits the right notes.

The Sum Up

Tea Around Town manages to strike a rare balance—combining sightseeing, storytelling, and delightful food in a cozy, chic setting. It offers a charming way to see Philadelphia’s highlights while savoring some of the city’s best teas and bites. The friendly guides, stunning views, and authentic touches make it a worthwhile experience for anyone who enjoys a bit of elegance and local flavor.

While it’s not the cheapest tour, the value lies in its relaxed pace and the quality of the experience. If you’re looking for a unique, memorable way to explore Philadelphia, especially if you love tea or cultural sights, this tour will serve you well—just remember to book ahead and dress for the weather.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 90 minutes, including about 75 minutes of touring and 15 minutes for boarding and disembarking.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at the southwest corner of Market & South 6th Street, in front of 616 Market St.

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but if you have specific accessibility needs, it’s best to contact the provider in advance.

What is included in the price?
You’ll enjoy live narration, a stylish pink bus, views of landmarks like the Liberty Bell and Philadelphia Museum of Art, up to three fine teas, a variety of treats, and a souvenir tumbler.

Are tips included?
No, tips for the guide and staff are not included and are appreciated if you feel the service was excellent.

Can I cancel or change the booking?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed. Be sure to arrive on time, as late arrivals cannot be accommodated.

What should I wear?
Since the tour is outdoor and weather-dependent, dress appropriately for the forecast—layers are recommended, especially if it might be cold or rainy.

In essence, if you’re seeking a relaxed, stylish way to learn about Philadelphia’s sights while enjoying excellent teas and good company, this tour is a charming choice. It’s a blend of comfort, culture, and culinary delight that makes for a memorable afternoon in the city.