Philadelphia’s walking tours offer direct access to America’s best-preserved colonial history. The Old City tour stands out, connecting visitors to essential sites like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall in a meaningful, efficient way. The Founding Fathers tour brings revolutionary-era Philadelphia to life through stories and stops at key 18th-century locations. For food lovers, the Italian Market tour showcases authentic flavors and local vendors in America’s oldest outdoor market. We especially appreciate the Badass Women’s History tour for highlighting often-overlooked perspectives, and the evening Founding Phantoms tour for mixing historical facts with spooky legends. Let’s explore our favorite Philadelphia walking tours in detail.
Key Points
- Philadelphia offers a diverse range of historical, cultural, and thematic walking tours, catering to various interests and experience levels.
- The tours feature knowledgeable local guides, providing valuable insights and immersive experiences at iconic landmarks and hidden gems.
- Accessibility features, such as wheelchair and stroller-friendly accommodations, and customization options ensure a personalized and inclusive experience.
- Visitor feedback indicates high satisfaction with the tours, highlighting engaging content, entertaining elements, and the ability to explore Philadelphia’s rich history and culture.
- The tours cover a wide range of themes, including founding history, ghost stories, food, and entertainment, allowing visitors to tailor their experiences to their preferences.
Philadelphia Old City Historic Walking Tour With 10+ Top Sites
Immersing oneself in the historic charm of Philadelphia’s Old City district is at the heart of this engaging walking tour.
Led by a knowledgeable local guide, the 90-minute excursion showcases over 10 iconic sites, including the Betsy Ross House and the Liberty Bell.
With a maximum of 20 travelers, the tour provides an intimate and personalized experience, allowing guests to explore the city’s Revolutionary War history.
Praised for its blend of humor and historical insight, the tour concludes at Independence Hall, leaving participants with a deeper appreciation for Philadelphia’s rich past.
Accessible and suitable for all fitness levels, this highly-rated walking tour is an excellent way to explore the city’s Old City neighborhood.
Read our full review: Philadelphia Old City Historic Walking Tour With 10+ Top Sites Review
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Historic Philadelphia Walking Tour
The Historic Philadelphia Walking Tour provides a comprehensive exploration of the city’s rich Colonial heritage. Priced at $395 for a group of up to 10 participants, the 3.5-hour tour is led by a retired history teacher with over 30 years of experience.
Visitors will discover major sites like the Independence Visitor Center, the Presidents House, the Liberty Bell, and Elfreth’s Alley, the oldest residential block in British North America.
The knowledgeable guide is known for being articulate, educated, friendly, and fun, and the tour can be customized to suit participants’ interests and time frame.
With free cancellation and a reserve now, pay later option, this walking tour offers an engaging and informative way to explore Philadelphia’s storied past.
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Explore Philadelphia: Founding Fathers Walking Tour
Explore Philadelphia’s founding history on this captivating Founding Fathers Walking Tour.
Over 2.5 hours, you’ll explore the city’s revolutionary past, stopping at iconic sites like Independence National Historical Park, the Museum of the American Revolution, and Elfreth’s Alley.
Your local, English-speaking guide will share engaging anecdotes and insights, bringing the era to life. The tour includes the museum entrance fee and a donation to a community organization.
With a maximum of 16 travelers, you’ll enjoy a personal experience. While you won’t enter Independence Hall or the Liberty Bell Center, you’ll get to see them and learn about their significance.
This highly-rated tour offers an immersive introduction to Philadelphia’s founding fathers.
Read our full review: Explore Philadelphia: Founding Fathers Walking Tour Review
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Philadelphia: Historic Italian Market Walking Tour
Discover the vibrant history and flavors of Philadelphia’s renowned Italian Market on this captivating 2-hour walking tour. Priced at $35 per person, this English-language tour takes visitors on a journey through 150 years of immigrant history in one of the city’s most dynamic neighborhoods.
Along the way, you’ll sample local specialties like tomato pie, Italian pastries, gourmet vinegar, and cheese, all while exploring top shops and restaurants. The tour is wheelchair accessible and includes a local guide, food and drinks, and tips.
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 experience the Italian Market.
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Philadelphia History, Highlights, & Revolution Walking Tour
This captivating walking tour immerses visitors in Philadelphia’s rich Revolutionary history. Covering essential landmarks like Independence Hall and the Museum of the American Revolution, the tour provides a personal experience for up to 12 participants.
Highlights include a presentation on George Washington’s tent and a stroll down one of the oldest residential streets in America. With wheelchair and stroller accessibility, and near public transportation, the tour is designed for convenience.
Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides and engaging storytelling, creating an emotional and informative experience. Priced from $55, the tour offers free cancellation and a reserve now, pay later option, making it an accessible way to explore Philadelphia’s Revolutionary past.
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Philadelphia: UPenn Campus Walking Tour & Museum Ticket
Enjoy the vibrant academic culture of the University of Pennsylvania with this captivating campus walking tour. Priced at £25.10 per person, the 1-hour English-language tour is wheelchair accessible and offers free cancellation.
Led by knowledgeable UPenn students, the experience highlights iconic landmarks like the Love Statue and Wharton Business School, while delving into the university’s history and traditions.
Entrance to the renowned Penn Museum is included, providing an opportunity to explore its rich collection.
With positive reviews praising the insights on student life, this tour is a must for those interested in UPenn or considering applying to the prestigious institution.
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Founding Phantoms Adults Only Walking Tour
As night falls over Philadelphia, the Founding Phantoms Adults Only Walking Tour beckons curious explorers to uncover the city’s dark history.
This 90-minute tour, starting at 9 PM, takes guests on a chilling journey through the streets of Philadelphia, revealing the ghostly tales and haunting secrets that have shaped the city.
With a maximum of 30 participants, the tour offers an intimate experience led by knowledgeable and engaging guides. Guests can expect a mix of historical insights and spooky stories, creating a fun and informative atmosphere.
While the tour has generally positive reviews, some have noted issues with cancellations and lack of refund support.
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Philadelphia: Phantoms of the Founding Fathers Walking Tour
Seeking to uncover the dark history that has long haunted Philadelphia, the Philadelphia: Phantoms of the Founding Fathers Walking Tour invites guests on a 1.5-hour journey through the city’s spookier past.
Priced from €33.15 per person, this guided walking tour explores the shocking affairs and deadly errors of America’s early healthcare system, providing an adult-oriented glimpse into the lesser-known, spine-chilling tales of the Founding Fathers.
Limited to just 9 participants, the tour is wheelchair accessible for those aged 16 and above.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, it’s a uniquely thrilling way to discover the darker aspects of Philadelphia’s history.
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Philadelphia: Italian Market Food – Small Group Walking Tour
For those looking to savor the flavors of Philadelphia’s vibrant immigrant communities, the Philadelphia: Italian Market Food – Small Group Walking Tour offers an immersive culinary experience.
The 2.5-3 hour tour takes participants through the historic Italian Market, where they’ll enjoy 6 diverse dish tastings, including tacos, banh mi sandwiches, and the quintessential Philly tomato pie.
Led by knowledgeable local guides, the tour provides insight into the market’s history and evolution, as well as the cultural diversity of the surrounding neighborhoods.
With a maximum of 10 travelers, the small-group format ensures an intimate and personalized experience.
Highly rated by past participants, this tour is a must-try for food lovers visiting Philadelphia.
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Philadelphia: Street Art Walking Tour With a Local Guide
Immersing oneself in Philadelphia’s vibrant street art scene is a captivating experience offered by the Philadelphia: Street Art Walking Tour With a Local Guide. Priced from $35 per person, the 2-hour tour allows guests to explore over 4,000 murals and unique installations.
Travelers will take selfies with colorful graffiti and giant board game pieces, while visiting iconic landmarks like Love Park and Philadelphia City Hall. Led by a local expert, the tour provides guided interpretation of commissioned murals and mosaic art.
While some have noted issues with missed tours and lack of assistance, others have enjoyed the experience. The tour operates rain or shine and includes a local expert guide and tips.
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Philadelphias Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour
Philadelphia’s Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour takes visitors on an indulgent exploration of the city’s renowned donut scene.
Rated 5.0 out of 127 reviews, this 2-hour tour showcases four top donut locations, including Federal Donuts and Beiler’s Donuts.
Guests will stroll through notable areas like South Street and Reading Terminal Market while learning about Philadelphia’s history and savoring unique and traditional donut flavors.
The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with a maximum of 20 participants.
While some guests suggest reducing extra walking and improving donut sharing, the overall experience is praised for its knowledgeable guides, generous portions, and fun atmosphere suitable for families and foodies alike.
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Philadelphia: Comedy Magic Walking Tour With a Guide
Blending comedy, magic, and Philadelphia’s rich history, the 75-minute Comedy Magic Walking Tour offers an engaging and immersive experience for visitors.
Led by an award-winning magician, the tour takes guests on a journey through the city’s Old City neighborhood, visiting iconic landmarks like Franklin’s House, Christ’s Church, and the City Tavern.
Along the way, guests will be treated to captivating magic shows and comedic performances that bring the city’s past to life.
With a focus on cultural insights and hidden gems, the tour is a unique and memorable way to explore Philadelphia’s history and architecture.
Priced at €30.70 per person, the tour is a must-do activity for those seeking a fun and engaging way to discover the city.
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Beyond the [Liberty] Bell History Walking Tour
![Beyond the [Liberty] Bell History Walking Tour](https://powertraveller.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/1_beyond-the-liberty-bell-history-walking-tour.jpg)
This comprehensive walking tour takes visitors on an enlightening journey through Philadelphia’s rich history, venturing beyond the iconic Liberty Bell.
It explores the city’s Old City and Independence Park, visiting key sites like Independence Hall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Betsy Ross House.
Along the way, travelers learn about the contributions of women, people of color, indigenous groups, and LGBTQ individuals.
Knowledgeable local guides provide insider tips and engaging historical insights, while ensuring a maximum group size of 30 for a personalized experience.
The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with a convenient meeting point near public transportation.
Read our full review: Beyond the [Liberty] Bell History Walking Tour Review
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Philadelphia: Reading Terminal Market Walking Tour
Situated in the heart of Philadelphia, the iconic Reading Terminal Market offers visitors a vibrant and immersive culinary experience.
The 45-minute walking tour is a must for foodies, providing an insider’s look at the market’s rich history and diverse offerings. Led by an experienced guide, you will sample a famous Philly pretzel and an Amish-inspired sweet treat while learning about the market’s family-owned merchants.
With over 80 vendors to explore, the tour promises a delightful taste of the city’s culinary diversity.
Wheelchair accessible and with a flexible cancellation policy, this tour is an excellent way to discover the heart of Philadelphia’s food culture.
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The Great Comedy Magic Walk
Although a stroll through Philadelphia’s historic Old City neighborhood might seem like a typical sightseeing tour, the Great Comedy Magic Walk offers a delightfully unique experience that captivates visitors of all ages.
This 1- to 1.5-hour tour combines comedy, magic, and sightseeing, allowing participants to discover the city’s top landmarks while enjoying interactive magic tricks based on local history.
With a 99% recommendation rate from previous travelers and a Badge of Excellence, the tour provides an engaging, educational, and fun experience for groups of up to 40 people.
Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly activity or a one-of-a-kind way to explore Philadelphia, the Great Comedy Magic Walk is sure to impress.
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Philadelphia: Movie and Television Sites Guided Walking Tour
Discover Philadelphia’s captivating connection to the silver screen and television with the Philadelphia: Movie and Television Sites Guided Walking Tour.
Priced from $35 per person, this 2-hour English-language tour takes visitors on a wheelchair-accessible journey through the city’s iconic filming locations.
Led by an expert local guide, the tour highlights sites from popular shows like “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia” and “Cold Case,” as well as the Rocky franchise.
With small group sizes and hotel pick-up/drop-off, the tour provides a personalized experience.
While reviews are generally positive, some critiques suggest room for improvement in tour preparation and location selection.
Reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
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Private 2 Hour Walking Tour of Historic Philadelphia
Immerse oneself in the rich history of Philadelphia with the Private 2 Hour Walking Tour of Historic Philadelphia.
This private tour showcases the city’s key landmarks, including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and the Betsy Ross House.
Led by knowledgeable, multilingual guides, the tour provides an engaging and educational experience for guests.
With a 90% traveler recommendation and a walking distance of approximately 1.5 miles, the tour is accessible for those of moderate fitness levels.
Visitors can optionally add on a sightseeing driving tour for a more comprehensive exploration of the city.
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Philadelphia: Revolutionary Walk Through Historic Old City
The Philadelphia: Revolutionary Walk Through Historic Old City offers a captivating 1.5-hour journey through the city’s pivotal role in the American Revolution. Priced at $35.50 per person, the tour retraces the steps of Benjamin Franklin and other founding fathers, visiting iconic landmarks like Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell.
Led by a knowledgeable and engaging guide, the experience highlights America’s history with a comedic and passionate twist. With a remarkable 4.9/5 rating from 187 reviews, the tour provides excellent value, as it includes live guidance, Independence Hall tickets, and gratuities.
Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking an immersive cultural experience, this Revolutionary Walk is a must-do in Philadelphia.
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Badass Womens History Walking Tour of Philadelphia
Traversing the cobblestone streets of Philadelphia, the Badass Women’s History Walking Tour offers an immersive exploration of the city’s unsung female heroes.
With a 5.0 rating from 74 reviews, the 2-hour tour is recommended by 100% of travelers and proudly wears a Badge of Excellence.
Led by knowledgeable and passionate guides, the small group experience delves into the untold stories of Philadelphia’s inspiring women.
Covering a route from the historic Visitors Center to Bud and Marilyn’s, the tour provides a unique perspective on the city’s rich history.
Wheelchair and stroller accessible, the tour is a must for both travelers and locals seeking an insightful and thought-provoking adventure.
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Fans of the hit TV show “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia” can embark on an engaging walking tour that transports them through the iconic locations and characters’ hangouts in South Philadelphia.
The 2-hour tour, limited to 10 participants, explores the Italian Market, South Street, and other key filming sites, all while learning about the show’s history and the city’s culture.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour offers a unique experience for fans, including photo opportunities at Geno’s Steaks.
With an overall 5/5 rating based on 12 reviews, this wheelchair-accessible tour is a must-do for any “Always Sunny” enthusiast visiting the City of Brotherly Love.
Read our full review: Its Always Sunny Shared Walking Tour of South Philly Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Restroom Breaks During the Walking Tours?
Most walking tours in Philadelphia include scheduled restroom breaks to ensure participants’ comfort and convenience throughout the tour. Tour guides typically plan for these stops at appropriate intervals, allowing walkers to refresh themselves during the experience.
Can I Bring My Pet on the Walking Tours?
Most walking tour companies don’t allow pets due to safety and liability concerns. However, some may make exceptions for service animals with proper documentation. It’s best to check with the tour operator before booking to ensure your pet can be accommodated.
Is There an Option to Rent Audio Guides for the Tours?
Many walking tour companies in Philadelphia offer audio guides that visitors can rent or download to their smartphones. These allow for a self-guided experience, providing commentary and historical information at your own pace.
Do the Tours Accommodate Visitors With Mobility Limitations?
Many walking tour companies in Philadelphia offer accommodations for visitors with mobility limitations, such as wheelchair-friendly routes, electric scooter rentals, and guides trained to provide assistance. Visitors should inquire about accessibility when booking their tours.
Are the Walking Tours Available in Languages Other Than English?
Many walking tour companies in Philadelphia offer tours in languages other than English, such as Spanish, French, and Mandarin, to accommodate visitors from diverse linguistic backgrounds. Availability may vary, so it’s best to inquire with the specific tour provider.
Recap
Philadelphia is a city rich in history, culture, and sights to explore. From the iconic Old City and its Revolutionary War-era landmarks to the vibrant Italian Market and the charming South Philly neighborhoods, these walking tours offer a diverse and immersive experience for visitors. Whether you’re interested in the Founding Fathers, influential women, or just a slice of everyday Philly life, there’s a tour that’ll suit your interests.