Philadelphia’s best tours cut straight to what matters: history, food, and local life. The city’s most worthwhile options include walking tours through Old City (perfect for Revolutionary history buffs), food-tasting adventures in the Italian Market, and engaging “Amazing Race” style scavenger hunts that keep families entertained while learning.
I particularly love the Constitutional Walking Tour for its no-nonsense approach to the city’s biggest historical hits, and the Evening City Tours that show Philadelphia’s monuments beautifully lit after dark. For food lovers, the Market Tours deliver authentic tastes and local insights without tourist traps.
Let’s look at my favorite Philadelphia tours in detail:
Key Points
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The Philadelphia Old City Historic Walking Tour provides a 90-minute guided experience highlighting Revolutionary-era landmarks with positive traveler reviews.
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The Center City Philadelphia Food Tour offers a small-group culinary heritage exploration, combining history and local delicacies for an immersive experience.
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The Ocean City Crusade, NJ Amazing Race & Tour provides a team-based interactive adventure with challenges and clues to explore hidden gems.
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The City Sightseeing Philadelphia Tours offer unlimited hop-on hop-off access to 21 stops and 29 points of interest with audio commentary.
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The Night Tour Overview showcases Philadelphia’s skyline and landmarks on a double-decker bus, providing expert local guides and scenic views.
Philadelphia Old City Historic Walking Tour With 10+ Top Sites
This engaging Philadelphia Old City Historic Walking Tour offers travelers the opportunity to explore the city’s rich Revolutionary-era past.
During the 90-minute guided tour, visitors will discover over 10 significant landmarks, including the Betsy Ross House, Elfreths Alley, and the Liberty Bell.
Led by knowledgeable local guides, the tour provides a unique blend of humor and historical insights, bringing the city’s history to life.
With 1,666 reviews and a 99% traveler recommendation, this tour is a must-do for anyone interested in Philadelphia’s pivotal role in the American Revolution.
The convenient meeting and departure locations, as well as the tour’s accessibility features, make it an excellent choice for both visitors and locals alike.
Read our full review: Philadelphia Old City Historic Walking Tour With 10+ Top Sites Review
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Ocean City Crusade, NJ Amazing Race & Tour
Experience the thrill of an Amazing Race-style adventure in the seaside town of Ocean City, New Jersey.
The Ocean City Crusade, NJ Amazing Race & Tour takes you on a 2-hour journey filled with clues, challenges, and hidden gems. Work as a team to score points and climb the leaderboard while exploring this family-friendly destination.
With a mix of indoor and outdoor activities, you’ll interact with locals to solve puzzles. This experience is suitable for corporate groups, travelers, locals, and more.
All you need is a charged smartphone, internet access, and GPS. The virtual game can be replayed with regular updates, making it a versatile and engaging option for your city adventure.
Read our full review: Ocean City Crusade, NJ Amazing Race & Tour Review
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Center City Philadelphia Food Tour With Reading Market
Visitors to the vibrant Center City neighborhood of Philadelphia can embark on a delightful food tour that showcases the city’s rich culinary heritage.
This highly-rated, small-group tour takes participants on a journey through Reading Terminal Market and Sansom Street, where they’ll sample classic Philly staples like cheesesteaks, soft pretzels, and donuts, as well as unique local delicacies.
With knowledgeable guides providing insights into the city’s food culture, the tour offers a blend of history and flavor.
Accessibility features, flexible booking policies, and overwhelmingly positive reviews make this tour a standout option for experiencing the best of Philadelphia’s vibrant food scene.
Read our full review: Center City Philadelphia Food Tour With Reading Market Review
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Philadelphia: Private Electric Car Tour of the City
Explore the historical streets of Philadelphia aboard a private electric car tour. Priced at $150 for up to 4 participants, this 1-hour guided experience showcases the city’s top landmarks.
See the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and Betsy Ross House. Stroll through the charming Society Hill and Elfreth’s Alley neighborhoods. Visit the Philadelphia Mint and pay respects at Benjamin Franklin’s grave.
Suitable for children 8 and up, the tour’s electric vehicles provide a climate-friendly way to discover the city. While the overall rating is 3/5 based on one review, the customer noted a positive experience.
With free cancellation and a pay later option, this tour offers a convenient way to explore Philadelphia’s rich history.
Read our full review: Philadelphia: Private Electric Car Tour of the City Review
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Classic Philadelphia City Bike Tour
Travelers seeking an immersive way to discover Philadelphia’s rich history and vibrant culture can embark on the Classic Philadelphia City Bike Tour.
Operated by Philly Bike Tour Co., this well-reviewed 291-tour experience offers an informative and engaging way to explore the city. With a maximum of 12 travelers, the tour provides personalized attention from knowledgeable guides like Joe and Zach, who receive high praise for their expertise.
Covering significant territory, the tour highlights the city’s art, culture, and history, while offering positive feedback on bike quality and comfort. Priced at $79 per person, this tour is a must for both visitors and locals looking to experience Philadelphia on two wheels.
Read our full review: Classic Philadelphia City Bike Tour Review
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Philadelphia Hop-On Hop-Off City Tour
The Philadelphia Hop-On Hop-Off City Tour offers a convenient and flexible way for visitors to explore the city’s top attractions.
Operating daily with a 20-minute frequency, the tour covers 21 stops and 29 points of interest, including the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
With live onboard commentary, a route map, and the flexibility to hop on and off as desired, the tour is ideal for first-time visitors.
Customers generally praise the knowledgeable tour guides and the city views, though some note issues with bus frequency and customer service.
Visitors should plan their stops carefully to make the most of the 1.5-hour experience and enjoy local food along the way.
Read our full review: Philadelphia Hop-On Hop-Off City Tour Review
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City Sightseeing Philadelphia HOHO Bus Tour + Bookable Extras
Philadelphia’s City Sightseeing HOHO Bus Tour offers visitors a convenient way to explore the city’s top attractions at their own pace.
With unlimited hop-on hop-off access for 1, 2, or 3 days, travelers can discover the city’s highlights, including audio commentary in multiple languages.
The tour also includes freebies like headphones, a map, and a booklet with local discounts.
For those seeking an extended experience, the company offers a Panoramic Night Tour and a Founding Fathers & Mothers Walking Tour.
While the tour generally receives positive feedback, some customers have reported inconsistent guide quality and attraction closures.
Travelers are advised to plan ahead and use the company’s app to stay informed.
Read our full review: City Sightseeing Philadelphia HOHO Bus Tour + Bookable Extras Review
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Private Full Day City of Philadelphia Tour With Museum Admission
Offering a comprehensive exploration of Philadelphia’s rich history and vibrant culture, this private full-day tour welcomes up to six participants to discover the city’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems.
With a 100% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, the tour provides a flexible itinerary tailored to personal interests, covering historic neighborhoods, traditional markets, essential foods, and the arts scene.
Highlights include admission to the Museum of American Revolution, as well as hotel pickup and drop-off services.
Praised for their knowledge and friendliness, the tour guides ensure a memorable experience, catering to both history buffs and casual explorers alike.
Read our full review: Private Full Day City of Philadelphia Tour With Museum Admission Review
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Old City Philadelphia Private Guided Tour
A private guided tour of Old City Philadelphia takes visitors on a captivating journey through the birthplace of the nation.
Priced at $250 per person, this 5-star rated walking tour offers a personalized experience with only your group participating. The tour departs from the Independence Visitor Center and covers the area’s historic landmarks, with knowledgeable and entertaining guides tailoring the stories to your interests.
Guests praise the tour’s ability to engage all ages with informative and humorous anecdotes. Accessible for wheelchair users and strollers, this highly recommended tour provides a rundown of Philadelphia’s rich history and culture.
Read our full review: Old City Philadelphia Private Guided Tour Review
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City Sightseeing Walking Tour – Founding Fathers and Mothers
The City Sightseeing Walking Tour – Founding Fathers and Mothers takes visitors on an immersive journey through Philadelphia’s Old City, the birthplace of the American Revolution.
This 4.5-star rated tour explores the city’s significant landmarks, including the Betsy Ross House, Liberty Bell, Elfreth’s Alley, and Independence Hall. Guided by knowledgeable local experts, the walking format allows for a deeper connection with the city’s ambiance and history.
While entry tickets aren’t included, the tour provides insider stories and historical context that bring the Founding Fathers and Mothers to life.
With a maximum group size of 50, the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it suitable for a wide range of travelers.
Read our full review: City Sightseeing Walking Tour – Founding Fathers and Mothers Review
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City Sightseeing Philadelphia (Night Tour) on Double Decker Bus
Immersing visitors in Philadelphia’s shimmering skyline and iconic landmarks, the City Sightseeing Philadelphia (Night Tour) on Double Decker Bus provides an enchanting glimpse into the city’s illuminated splendor.
Offering expert commentary from local guides, the tour highlights over 100 popular attractions, including the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Comcast Center, and the Liberty Bell.
With hassle-free hotel pickups and a maximum of 67 travelers per tour, the experience is both convenient and intimate.
While the open-top double-decker design offers unobstructed views, reviews note the need for cleaning and caution on the upper deck.
Read our full review: City Sightseeing Philadelphia (Night Tour) on Double Decker Bus Review
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Recap
Philadelphia offers a diverse range of city tours, from historic walking tours to food tours, bike tours, and private electric car tours. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s colonial past or experiencing its vibrant food scene, there’s a tour to suit your interests. With so many options, you’re sure to find the perfect way to discover the City of Brotherly Love.