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Article Last updated on July 18, 2025

40+ Guided Tours in Philly: History, Architecture, Eats, Ghosts & More

Quirky, classic and can't-miss guided excursions ...

The Black Journey: African-American History Walking Tour of Philadelphia Photo by Visit Philadelphia
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You can learn a lot about Philadelphia just by strolling around in one of the most walkable cities in the country.

But when you’re ready to dig deeper and learn a bit more, a guided tour is the way to go — and Philly offers options for every taste and interest.

A wide range of companies and organizations offer a variety of entertaining and informative forays, from must-see history and iconic food tours to fascinating architectural jaunts and colorful mural excursions. Listen as expert guides uncover hidden Philly during a walk — or via car, trolley, bus, bike or even kayak.

Then come back out at night for tours exploring true crime, scandals and even spirits from beyond (if you’re into that sort of thing).

Pick your favorites from the curated list below. Happy touring!

Note: Tours are arranged in alphabetical order by section.

Companies with Multiple Tour Themes

01

Founding Footsteps BYOB Trolley

The Founding Footsteps BYOB Trolley group runs historian-led tours that lean a little more sassy. Along with limited-run excursions like Bad Things Happen in Philly and Philly Mob tours, the company offers recurring selections including the Old City Historic Walking Tour and A Taste of History. These 90- to 180-minute expeditions offer “great stories, bad jokes and [BYO] cold beer” guided by charismatic characters.

Where: Tours depart from various locations including Betsy Ross House, 239 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA

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02

Tours by Foot

True to its name, Tours by Foot offers walking tours focusing on history (like Independence Mall), eats (the Italian Market and Chinatown), paranormal (Ghosts of Philly) and seasonal (Holiday Lights, see below). Outings run from 90 minutes up to four hours (that’s the Real Philly: Society Hill, Italian Market & Mural Mile Tour) and are guided by experts who also provide travel advice.

  • Must-book tour: Secrets & Scandals. This tour around Logan Square goes beyond the architecture and museums to the neighborhood’s eccentricities like the Battles of the Bone Wars, religious riots, public executions and legendary curses.

Where: Tours depart from various locations including Parkway Central Library, 1901 Vine Street, Philadelphia, PA

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03

WeVenture

A guide wearing a blue polo points to a large marble arch at Valley Forge National Historical Park. A guide wearing a blue polo points to a large marble arch at Valley Forge National Historical Park.
— Photo courtesy WeVenture

Tour operator WeVenture has transportation modes for any taste, including three electric cart tours, nine driving tours and over a dozen walking tours. These outings cover the gamut from Best of Philadelphia Food and South Philly Street Art tours to junkets through the Brandywine Valley and custom tours focusing on reimagined spaces and conservationism.

Where: Tours depart from various locations including outside of the Masonic Temple, 1 N. Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA

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Sightseeing Bus Tours

04

Big Bus Tours from Philadelphia Trolley Works & 76 Carriage Company

A double-decker open-air tour bus drives down Benjamin Franklin Parkway with the Philadelphia Museum of Art in the background. The parkway is lined with green trees and flags from around the world. A double-decker open-air tour bus drives down Benjamin Franklin Parkway with the Philadelphia Museum of Art in the background. The parkway is lined with green trees and flags from around the world.
— Photo by B. Krist for Visit Philadelphia

Board an open-top double-decker coach from Big Bus Tours for a ride to over 25 of Philadelphia’s most popular attractions. Sit back and enjoy the open-air city during the 90-minute ride narrated by a live tour guide. Hop off anywhere along the route and hop back on when the bus swings back around (every 20 to 25 minutes).

Where: Board anywhere along the route including Independence Visitor Center, 599 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA

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05

City Sightseeing Philadelphia

London-style bus operator City Sightseeing Philadelphia has been offering expert-guided Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour excursions for over a quarter-century. The open-top double-decker buses hit nearly 30 stops — covering the entire 16-mile route in 90 minutes — and feature plug-in headphone audio in nine languages. Start at the Bourse Building, but board and disembark anywhere on the loop (every 20 to 30 minutes).

  • Must-book tour: 2-Day Open Top Tour. Perfect for weekend getaways, a two-day ticket allows riders to take more time to hop off and explore the 100-plus attractions the bus swings past.

Where: Guests can hop on at one of 28 stops including Eastern State Penitentiary, 2027 Fairmount Avenue, Philadelphia, PA

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History Tours

06

Beyond the Bell Tours

A group of college students face a tour leader wearing an orange beanie while attending a tour of Philadelphia from Beyond the Bell Tours. A group of college students face a tour leader wearing an orange beanie while attending a tour of Philadelphia from Beyond the Bell Tours.
— Photo by J. Larson

Beyond the Bell Tours offers a number of fresh-take history journeys focusing on “movements, activism and resistance.” These professionally guided “social enterprise” walking tours are known for their diverse and inclusive subjects, highlighting marginalized communities and peoples, including women, LGBTQ+ and a specialty trans tour, along with hidden narratives, medical history and more.

  • Must-book tour: Badass Women’s History Tour. This two-hour walking tour covers 1.5 miles of stories highlighting women entrepreneurs, doctors, artists, activists and heroes — from Ona Judge to Barbara Gittings — who shaped the city.

Where: Tours depart from various locations including Rittenhouse Square, 210 W. Rittenhouse Square, Philadelphia, PA

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07

The Black Journey: African-American History Walking Tours of Philadelphia

Tour tour guides wearing all black lead a group in the The Original Black History Tour in Philadelphia. The group stops in front of the Liberty Bell Center. Tour tour guides wearing all black lead a group in the The Original Black History Tour in Philadelphia. The group stops in front of the Liberty Bell Center.
— Photo by Visit Philadelphia

Philadelphia history is African American history, from slavery and the Revolution through abolition, Civil Rights and into modern day. The Black Journey: African-American History Walking Tours explore the history of Black Philadelphia among the nation’s most important historical sites.

  • Must-book tour: The 7th Ward Black History Tour. Walk the streets that were home to one-in-three 19th-century Black Philadelphians and see the locations of African American schools, churches and homes of residents, abolitionists, educators and activists, plus where W.E.B. Du Bois penned The Philadelphia Negro in 1899.
Visit Philly staff says...

I don’t come across many tours told from the African American perspective — but The Black Journey Tour is one of the few. It walks you through the 7th Ward — once the thriving, economically booming center of Philly’s Black community before it was destroyed by race riots — sharing historically accurate stories about our history as Black people.

Places we pass every day — The President’s House at 6th & Market streets, Society Hill, Mother Bethel — have hidden (almost secret) histories that even locals don’t learn. This tour is so important for both visitors and Philadelphians, because if we don’t remember our history, we are doomed to repeat it.

Daecia Borgia,
External Affairs

Where: Tours depart from various locations including Mother Bethel AME Church, 419 S. 6th Street, Philadelphia, PA

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08

The Constitutional Walking Tour of Philadelphia

If you’re new to Philly or a first-time visitor, The Constitutional Walking Tour of Philadelphia is a great introduction to the city’s history. Tours, led by professional storytellers, take a 75-minute, 1.25-mile journey past 20 of the city’s most famous buildings around Independence National Historical Park, including the Liberty Bell, Christ Church Burial Ground and Independence Hall.

Where: Tour departs from National Constitution Center, 525 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA

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09

Founding Fathers and Mothers Walking Tour from City Sightseeing Philadelphia

Hop-on-hop-off double-decker bus tour company City Sightseeing Philadelphia (see above) also runs a single ambulatory history outing, the Founding Fathers and Mothers Walking Tour. Starting outside the Weitzman Museum and concluding near Penn’s Landing, the 90-minute, one-mile tour highlights the stories of everyday Philadelphians caught up in the world-changing events of 1776.

Led by a professional guide, the tour drops past spots where those who formed our early republic lived and worked like Independence Hall, the President’s House, Benjamin Franklin’s grave, Arch Street Meeting House, Elfreth’s Alley and Christ Church.

Where: Tours depart from Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History, 101 S. Independence Mall East, Philadelphia, PA

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10

Franklin’s Footsteps Walking Tour from Philadelphia Trolley Works & 76 Carriage Company

Tour operator Philadelphia Trolley Works & 76 Carriage Company (the Big Bus folks, see above) offers their signature sole on-foot outing, the Franklin’s Footsteps Walking Tour, exploring the changing world of Philly in 1776 through the eyes of Ben Franklin.

A comprehensive professionally-guided 90-minute private tour of America’s most historic square mile takes a route that stops by everywhere any Revolutionary history buff would desire to visit, including Franklin’s gravesite, Arch Street Meeting House, Betsy Ross House, Elfreth’s Alley, the President’s House, Christ Church and, of course, the iconic Liberty Bell and Independence Hall.

Where: Tours depart from Independence Visitor Center, 599 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA

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11

The Great Philadelphia Comedy Magic Walk from Philly Magic Tours

A man wearing a red baseball hat and red vest holds up a glass Coca-Cola bottle during a magic trick while the tour group around him claps. A man wearing a red baseball hat and red vest holds up a glass Coca-Cola bottle during a magic trick while the tour group around him claps.
— Photo courtesy of Philly Magic Tours

This magical history tour is waiting to take you away. The Great Philadelphia Comedy Magic Walk tour through Old City combines magic, comedy and mystery inspired by history from up-close magician and tour guide Robert Malissa.

The 75-minute entertaining walkabout stops at locations for songs (The True Story of the American Flag near the Betsy Ross House), performances (A Cure for the National Debt, outside First Bank of the United States) and stories (A Penny Saved Is a Penny Earned at Benjamin Franklin Museum). Note that the tour may not be appropriate for those under 13.

Where: Tour departs from the Bourse Building, 400 Ranstead Street, Philadelphia, PA

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12

The Official Historic Philadelphia Walking Tour from Philadelphia Visitor Center

A costumed reenactor leads a walking tour with a group through Old City Philadelphia A costumed reenactor leads a walking tour with a group through Old City Philadelphia
— Photo by M. Kennedy for Historic Philadelphia, Inc.

Take a civically authorized trek around the Independence National Historical Park area with The Official Historic Philadelphia Walking Tour. Each 45-minute tour — created by the Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation and Historic Philadelphia, Inc. — is led by an actor portraying a real-life Philadelphian from history, including colonial brewer Trooper Robert Hare, Mother Bethel A.M.E. Church founder Bishop Richard Allen and abolitionist and free Black man James Forten.

Tours depart Independence Visitor Center on seasonal Saturdays with stops outside The President’s House, the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, Congress Hall, Franklin Court and more.

Where: Tours depart from the Independence Visitor Center, 599 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA

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13

Philadelphia Day Tours & City Tours from Intrepid Urban Adventures

Worldwide organization Intrepid Urban Adventures operates a series of Philadelphia Day Tours & City Tours on public art, history, food, entertainment, food sustainability, conservation and reimagined spaces. Led by knowledgeable local guides, these tours — a rotating selection depending on the season you book — offer fresh insights into the city, its residents and attractions.

Where: Tours depart from various locations including Signer's Garden, 498 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA

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14

Philadelphia Historic African American Tours

On Charlene Palmore-Lewis’ step-on Philadelphia Historic African American Tours, you provide a vehicle and pick up your guide for an excursion around some of Philadelphia’s most important sites, focusing on the African American figures and stories key to each.

The reservation-only tour, customized to each group, visits locations like the Liberty Bell, the President’s House, the Philadelphia Museum of Art (and Julian Abele’s Rocky Steps), the African American Museum in Philadelphia, the National Marian Anderson Museum, stops along the Underground Railroad and even the legendary studios of Gamble & Huff.

Where: Tours depart from Independence Visitor Center, 599 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA

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15

Philadelphia: Walking Tour of Colonial Nonsense

On the irreverent Philadelphia: Walking Tour of Colonial Nonsense, guests experience a guided trek that delves into the city’s rich history like many tours, but with a blend of humor and candid storytelling, exploring not just educational pursuits but also the dramatics, gossip and antics of Philly’s famous figures.

The two- to three- hour production swings by Benjamin Franklin’s grave, the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, Washington Square Park, First Bank of the United States, Carpenters’ Hall, Betsy Ross House, Elfreth’s Alley and more, explaining each’s historical significance with a delightful mix of love and sass.

Where: Tours depart from Free Quaker Meetinghouse, 500 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA

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16

Philly Pigeon Tours

Ah, the humble pigeon. Led by local pigeon pals Aspen Simone and HM Brower, this brand-new 90-minute urban birding adventure guides you through Old City and the South 9th Street Italian Market to highlight the secret lives of pigeons.

Hone your binocular skills, learn some coo decoding, hear about history’s most famous pigeons and explore how these little misunderstood friends reveal big truths about nature, history and society.

Where: Tours begin and end at Washington Square, 7th & Locust streets, Philadelphia, PA

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17

Real Philly History Tours

An intimate experience is the vibe curated by guide Jim Murphy on his boutique Real Philly History Tours. The author of Real Philly History, Real Fast (featuring mini-profiles of key historical “heroes” and sites), Murphy narrates these two-hour walking or step-on bus tours which bring his stories to life, from tales of Philadelphia “superstars” Ben Franklin and William Penn to Philly’s forgotten naval heroes.

  • Must-book tour: 5 Philly-Tough Women. Through stories covering three centuries, Murphy brings to life the “guts, grit, perseverance and success” of a series of some of Philly’s most historical women.

Where: Tours depart from various locations including Society Hill, Philadelphia, PA

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18

Religion & History Tours from The Dialogue Institute

A tour group listens to a tour guide from the Dialogue Institute outside Christ Church Burial Ground in Philadelphia A tour group listens to a tour guide from the Dialogue Institute outside Christ Church Burial Ground in Philadelphia
— Photo courtesy Dialogue Institute

Curated by Temple University’s Dialogue Institute, this pair of Religion & History Tours are designed to advance dialogue about the history of religion in America and Philly’s place in the discussion, to spark open and honest conversations. Two tours are available, focusing on colonial religious freedom and the yellow fever epidemic of 1793.

  • Must-book tour: Religious Freedom in Early Philadelphia. Explore highlights of religious and cultural diversity of the city where the nation’s founding documents were written, with visits to houses of worship and public spaces where religion was practiced like Washington Square and Carpenters’ Hall.

Where: Tours depart from Welcome Park William Penn Statue, 129 Sansom Walk, Philadelphia, PA

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19

Veg History Walking Tour from American Vegan Society

Philadelphia was always a hip city for going veg. The 76-minute Veg History Walking Tour, organized by Philly’s American Vegan Center, focuses on the city’s deep ties to vegetarian and vegan lifestyles as tour guide and cartoonist Vance Lehmkuhl explores Philly’s history of meat-free living, which often intersected with abolitionist and women’s rights movements in the nation’s early days.

The leafy excursion stops at several locations where tourgoers learn about trailblazing pioneers of vegetarianism, including Benjamin Lay, Sylvester Graham and Benjamin Franklin, who promoted a vegetable diet and introduced tofu to America in 1770.

Where: Tour departs from the American Vegan Center, 17 N. 2nd Street, Philadelphia, PA

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Art & Architecture Tours

20

Mural Arts Philadelphia Tours

A tour guide leads a group on a walking tour. The group stops in front of a large mural on the side of the building while the guide talks. A tour guide leads a group on a walking tour. The group stops in front of a large mural on the side of the building while the guide talks.
— Photo courtesy Mural Arts Philadelphia

Over 4,000 paintings and installations curated by Mural Arts Philadelphia are splashed across the city, from giant building façades to intimate alleyway walls. The best way to view as much as possible is on one of 10 Mural Arts Philadelphia Tours, by foot or trolley. Most are centered on a specific neighborhood — like Bella Vista, South Philly or Germantown — and run 90 minutes.

Where: Tours depart from various locations including the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, 118-128 N. Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA

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21

Neighborhood Walking Tours of Philadelphia from Preservation Alliance

A group observes the historic homes on Elfreth’s Alley while on a Neighborhood Walking Tour of Old City. A group observes the historic homes on Elfreth’s Alley while on a Neighborhood Walking Tour of Old City.
— Photo courtesy Preservation Alliance for Greater Philadelphia

Discover anything and everything you would want to see during one of the 40-plus diverse Neighborhood Walking Tours of Philadelphia, programmed by the Preservation Alliance for Greater Philadelphia. These guided foot tours through specific neighborhoods interpret the past, present and future of the region through architecture, urban design and social history.

Where: Tours depart from various locations including Kahn Park, 11th & Pine streets, Philadelphia, PA

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22

Philadelphia Historic Architecture Tours

Known for short as “PHAT,” Philadelphia Historic Architecture Tours focus more on the memorable buildings, facades and styles that make up Philadelphia’s edificiary and the history surrounding it. Two- to three-hour tours through Old City and Philadelphia’s Historic District — inspired by legendary city planner Edmund Bacon and led by registered architect Reid Addis — are available.

Where: Tours depart from various locations including Independence Visitor Center, 599 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA

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23

Streets Dept Excursions

Philadelphia-based photo-blogger and podcaster Conrad Benner is best known for his Streets Dept social media platforms, which focus on Philly’s amazing public and street art. Benner also leads Streets Dept Excursions, a rotating variety of tours focusing on art and public spaces that change monthly. Tours are announced seasonally.

Where: Tours depart from various locations including Tamanend, 2 S. Front Street, Philadelphia, PA

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Pop Culture Tours

24

The Gang Goes to South Philly: An It's Always Sunny Tour of Philadelphia

Follow in the Paddy’s Pub quintet’s questionable footsteps during an afternoon of shenanigans across South Philly. The two-and-a-half- to three-hour The Gang Goes to South Philly: An It’s Always Sunny Tour of Philadelphia two-mile walkabout stops at recognizable It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia filming locations, including Dennis & Mac’s apartment, Sweet Dee’s house, “Cheesesteak Vegas,” The Waitress’s coffee shop and featured spots along South Street.

Experience the (organized) chaos of the two decade-old Philly-set TV show while learning Philly fun facts and answering trivia along the way. Tours meet outside Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens Museum.

Where: Tours depart from Magic Gardens Museum, 1020 South Street, Philadelphia, PA

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25

The Yo, Philly! Film Tour

People stand in line and pose for a photo with the bronze Rocky statue in Philadelphia. People stand in line and pose for a photo with the bronze Rocky statue in Philadelphia.
— Photo by Visit Philadelphia

Tour Philadelphia through Rocky’s eyes with The Italian Stallion himself … or a close facsimile at least. Stallone-endorsed Rocky expert (and part-time impersonator) Mike Kunda guides The Yo, Philly! Film Tour, visiting real-life sites from the Rocky film franchise on a private three- to four-hour van excursion.

Along the tour, Kunda shares Rocky and Creed trivia, anecdotes from his time on set and stories from Stallone himself while visiting shooting locations like Rocky’s apartment, the Lucky 7 Tavern, the Italian Market, the Front Street Gym, Mighty Mick’s and Adrian’s Pet Shop, concluding, of course, at the Rocky Steps.

Where: Tour stops at various locations including the Rocky Steps, 2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, PA

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Food & Drink Tours

26

City Brew Tours

You could visit all of the Philly area’s nearly 100 craft breweries on your own. Or you could just join a City Brew Tours’ guided journey to some of the best local outlets. Choose from a compact walking tour or a vast chauffeur-driven tour, each visiting handpicked locations.

  • Must-book tour: The Philly Signature Brew Tour. Expert beer guides transport you around the city for a three-and-a-half-hour curated saga offering up to a dozen samples from three rotating breweries (including Dock Street, Evil Genius, Love City, Yards Brewing and more) with behind-the-scenes access and a local snack.

Where: Tours depart from various locations including Edgar Allan Pоe National Historic Site, 532 N. 7th Street, Philadelphia, PA

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27

City Food Tours

A tour guide points to the Chinatown Gateway Arch while leading a group on food tour through Chinatown. A tour guide points to the Chinatown Gateway Arch while leading a group on food tour through Chinatown.
Uncovering Chinatown — Photo courtesy City Food Tours

Billed as Philly’s original food tour, City Food Tours offers a half-dozen guided foodie experiences which blend Philly culture with the city’s most iconic eats. Explore famous culinary locales like cheesesteak and Italian food haven East Passyunk and eclectic Reading Terminal Market or join specialty tours including Flavors of Philly and Locals’ Favorites.

  • Must-book tour: Uncovering Chinatown. Visit the locally owned restaurants, markets, bakeries and cultural shops that make up Philly’s world-famous Chinatown during a two-and-a-half-hour tour across multiple Asian cultures, with samplings of Peking duck, dumplings, boba tea and plenty more.

Where: Tours depart from various locations including Reading Terminal Market, 1136 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA

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28

Our Market Tours at the 9th Street Market

A tour guide wearing an orange t-shirt talks to a group while leading an Our Market Tour along South 9th Street in Philadelphia. A tour guide wearing an orange t-shirt talks to a group while leading an Our Market Tour along South 9th Street in Philadelphia.
— Photo courtesy Our Market Project

Get an up close look at South Philly’s world-famous 9th Street Market (aka the Italian Market) along the community-led Our Market Tours experience, operated in partnership with Beyond the Bell Tours. The immersive journey spotlights the rich history and cultural diversity of one of the oldest immigrant outdoor immigrant markets in the nation.

The two-hour guided strolls run less than a mile along South 9th Street between Christian and Federal streets, including the neighborhood’s dynamic public art. Tours are offered in multiple languages and are complemented by a digital free tour app.

Where: Tours start at South 9th and Christian streets, Philadelphia, PA

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29

Philadelphia Historic Donut Tour from Underground Donut Tour

Mmm, donuts. The Philadelphia Historic Donut Tour is a sweet adventure that captures the city’s vibrant food scene through the beloved treat. Tours begin at Federal Donuts, where you’ll enjoy tasty samples and learn how the chain’s donuts and fried chicken changed the local food landscape before rolling to Japanese-inspired Mochi Ring Donuts, featuring a discussion of Philly’s immigrant food traditions.

The final two destinations come inside the renowned Reading Terminal Market with swings by Miller’s Twist for soft pretzels and Beiler’s Doughnuts with a lesson on the historic market’s evolution. Tickets include all the donuts.

Where: Tours depart from Federal Donuts & Chicken East Market, 21 S. 12th Street, Philadelphia, PA

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30

Secret Food Tours: Philadelphia

Shhhhh, it’s a secret. The locations you’ll visit during Secret Food Tours: Philadelphia are kept under wraps, but you’ll love unwrapping them all. The three-hour gastronomy tour kicks off at Reading Terminal Market (RTM) for an inventive cheesesteak pretzel followed by a warm Pennsylvania Dutch whipped cream-topped spiced apple dumpling.

The trek then passes into Chinatown for a taste of Malaysian Nasi Lemak (and more) before a stop to sample Irish pie at an iconic Irish tavern. The day concludes back at RTM for a sourdough soft pretzel with fennel seeds and the special Secret Dish.

Where: Tours depart from Panera Bread, 48 N. 12th Street, Philadelphia, PA

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31

Tiny Table Tours

A group eats tacos and chips during a walking food tour with Tiny Table Tours in South Philly. A group eats tacos and chips during a walking food tour with Tiny Table Tours in South Philly.
— Photo courtesy Tiny Table Tours

Highlighting Philadelphia’s vibrant culinary community, Tiny Table Tours offers small-group behind-the-scenes walking strolls of Philly’s restaurant culture. Founded by local food writer Maddy Sweitzer-Lamme, the company features specialty excursions like chef tours and cocktail tours, along with their signature tour of the South Philly food scene.

  • Must-book tour: Beyond the Italian Market. Offered weekend afternoons, this two-and-a-half-hour small-group tour brings guests to some of the most beloved South Philly eateries serving up tacos, bánh mì, sweet treats, wine and more, covering two miles from East Passyunk’s Singing Fountain north into the famous market.

Where: Tours depart from The Singing Fountain, 1538 S. 11th Street, Philadelphia, PA

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Alternative Transportation Tours

32

Electric Car Tours from Franklin Mobile Tours

Grab up to four friends and explore Philadelphia’s history with a modern twist aboard Franklin Mobile Tours’ Electric Car Tours. Step inside an adorable cobalt blue transparent-roofed open-air buggy for climate-friendly narrated jaunts through Independence National Historical Park, Society Hill and Old City — or on specialty Taste of Philadelphia and Haunted tours.

Where: Tours depart from Franklin Mobile Tours, South 6th & Market streets, Camden, NJ

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33

Patriot Harbor Lines Cruises on the Delaware and Schuylkill Rivers

Step aboard a reproduced 1920s commuter yacht for Patriot Harbor Lines’ river cruises along the Delaware or Schuylkill rivers. Tours along the river’s east bank showcase the Benjamin Franklin Bridge and Battleship New Jersey, while the west bank tours swing by Greys Ferry Crescent, the Navy Yard and Schuylkill Banks. The 40-foot ship with a full bar departs from Independence Seaport Museum or Walnut Street Dock.

Where: Tours board at various locations including outside the Independence Seaport Museum, 211 S. Christopher Columbus Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA

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34

Philly Bike Tour Co. Tours

Touring the city by bicycle offers a more connected experience, which is what you’ll get from Philly Bike Tour Co., operating out of Fairmount Bicycles. Choose a Classic City Tour, jaunts around Fairmount Park or Fairmount-to-Manayunk mural art tours, plus brewery, bites and queer-focused treks. Most cover about 10 to 15 miles over about three hours, and include a bike, a helmet and a souvenir water bottle.

Where: Tours depart from Fairmount Bicycles, 2015 Fairmount Avenue, Philadelphia, PA

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35

Schuylkill Banks Tours from Hidden River Outfitters

Get closer to the tidal Schuylkill River than ever on a professionally guided kayak outing on Hidden River Outfitters’ Schuylkill Banks Tours. Depart Walnut Street Dock for a one-hour voyage to Fairmount Water Works and back as you paddle under bridges and past the skyline. All equipment and a half-hour of training are included.

  • Must-book tour: Sunset and Moonlight Tour. Let the moon and city lights guide you along the riverat night, departing at dusk (dependent on sunset time) for an excellent view of the twinkling skyline while leisurely paddling.

Where: Tours depart from Walnut Street Dock at Schuylkill Banks, 2501 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA

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36

Sea Philly Tours on the Delaware River

Private picnic boat tour operator Sea Philly offers passengers stunning six-person excursions down the Delaware River. Choose from 90-minute day and evening rides with spectacular sites and plenty of chances to spot wildlife aboard the 27-foot mahogany Argonaut. Longer four-to-six-hour luxury Expeditions on the 31-foot Phantom feature anchored time inside coves where passengers can swim or float among the tributaries.

  • Must-book tour: Sunset Cruises. Glide past the skyline at twilight while sipping on BYOB wine or cocktails and sampling the From Marjorie charcuterie or (optional) seasonal vegetarian and crudité boards.

Where: Tours board at Sea Philly, 215 S. Christopher Columbus Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA

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Ghost Tours

37

Adi-Kent Thomas Jeffrey Ghost Tours in New Hope

The lantern-lit Adi-Kent Thomas Jeffrey Ghost Tours — from the mind of the best-selling author and long-time paranormal investigator — are one-hour, one-mile ghostly ambles through the streets of eclectic New Hope in Bucks County, offering spirit-spotting opportunities, spooky locales and surprising stories of spine-tingling hauntings.

Public tours are available Saturday nights from June through November, plus Friday nights during October and Halloween night (with private excursions available year-round). Tours meet in front of the Parry Mansion Museum, reported to be haunted by a female figure dressed in a black-beaded dress.

Where: Tours depart from Parry Mansion Museum, 45 S. Main Street, New Hope, PA

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38

Grim Philly Tours

Historians and professors lead Grim Philly Tours’ series of highly researched, off-the-beaten-path walkabouts. A Dark Philly adult tour features risqué tales of sexual impropriety, blackmail and espionage from the days of the Founding Fathers, while a true crime tour spotlights the city’s dark, despicable past. A scare-free daytime tour takes an in-depth look at historical 1776.

  • Must-book tour: True Crime Philadelphia: Cemetery & History Tour. This R-rated foray mixes real-life crime stories and history lessons with tales of serial slayings and psychopathic killers, with stops at Revolutionary-era sites including Elfreth’s Alley and Ben Franklin’s grave.

Where: Tours depart from Independence Visitor Center, 599 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA

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39

Nightly Ghost Tours from Ghost Tours of Philadelphia

Independence Hall at night Independence Hall at night
— Photo by Visit Philadelphia

Do spirits really inhabit Independence Hall, St. Peter’s Cemetery, the Powel House, the USS Olympia and other historic landmarks? Decide for yourself as you wander the burial grounds, back streets and secret gardens of Philadelphia’s Historic District, Old City and Society Hill with Ghost Tours of Philadelphia’s candlelit Nightly Ghost Tours, based on the book Ghost Stories of Philadelphia, PA.

Hear chilling tales of villains, tragedies and plagues — and see where the bodies were (literally) buried — from the dark city’s eras from William Penn to the Founding Fathers to today, spun by costumed tour guides.

Where: Tours depart from Signer's Garden, 498 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA

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40

Philly Ghosts Tours from US Ghost Adventures

Person holding a lantern in front of a crowd Person holding a lantern in front of a crowd
— Photo courtesy US Ghost Adventures

Take a remorseless look at Philadelphia’s hidden past on Philly Ghost Tours through Old City. Hear haunting tales of dark secrets lying beneath the cobblestoned streets with options including a signature tour and daylight founders and patriots tour.

  • Must-book tour: Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl. Take a tipsy traipse past sites where the Founding Fathers once drank while learning fun facts about the nation’s origins on this over-21-only pub tour. The fiendish fun hits spots like Independence Beer Garden and the infamous JJ Bootleggers.

Where: Tours depart from various locations including Independence Beer Garden, 100 S. Independence Mall West, Philadelphia, PA

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41

Spirits of '76 Ghost Tour

A black and white image of the headstones at the Pine Street Cemetery in Philadelphia. A black and white image of the headstones at the Pine Street Cemetery in Philadelphia.
— Photo courtesy Spirits of ‘76 Ghost Tour

The paranormal stories heard along the Spirits of ’76 Ghost Tours are “one part history, two parts haunt,” with stops at nearly two-dozen (definitely) historic and (possibly) haunted sites to hear chilling tales from the city’s past.

The 75-minute outdoor walk uncovers the ghosts of Independence Hall, the dancing statue of Benjamin Franklin, paranormal Pine Street Church & Cemetery, and grim tales of long-time Philly resident Edgar Allan Poe and Leo Callahan (allegedly the only person to escape Eastern State Penitentiary). Also explore haunted film set locations from The Sixth Sense to National Treasure.

Where: Tours depart from PingPod, 325 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA

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Holiday Season Tours

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Holiday Lights Tour from Philadelphia Trolley Works & 76 Carriage Company

Long-running Philadelphia Trolley Works & 76 Carriage Company (the Big Bus folks, see above) offers a festive, reserve-ticketed Holiday Lights Tour each holiday season. Step aboard their classic Victorian trolley for a 90-minute tour of the region’s best colorful illuminations.

The excursion visits sites including the Miracle on South 13th Street, City Hall and Dilworth Park, the Comcast Holiday Spectacular, Franklin Square and Smedley Street (where the trolley stops for about 15 minutes). The tour is offered for revelers of all ages, but guests must be 21 and over to drink (beer and wine only).

Where: Tours depart from Philadelphia Marriott Downtown, 1200 Filbert Street, Philadelphia, PA

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Holiday Lights Tour from City Sightseeing Philadelphia

A white trolley is decorated with colorful string lights for the Holiday Lights Tour by Philadelphia Sightseeing Tours. The trolley is parked against a dark sky. A white trolley is decorated with colorful string lights for the Holiday Lights Tour by Philadelphia Sightseeing Tours. The trolley is parked against a dark sky.
— Photo courtesy Philadelphia Sightseeing Tours

Hop-on-hop-off City Sightseeing Philadelphia (see above) has been operating guided bus tours in Philly for over a quarter century. And come holiday time, the company offers a merry Holiday Lights Tour aboard its Victorian trolleys.

Each two-hour ride — decked out with colorful lights, holiday decor and singalong music — hits sites including LOVE Park, the Comcast Holiday Spectacular, Franklin Square and Smedley Street (with a 15-minute stop to wander around). The holiday lights trolley is for all ages, with BYOB (beer or wine only) for those 21 and over who wish to partake.

Where: Tours depart from the Bourse Building, 111 S. Independence Mall East, Philadelphia, PA

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The Original BYOB Holiday Lights Trolley from Events with Benefitz

National company Events with Benefitz offers guided tours in 10 cities every December, including Philly’s The Original BYOB Holiday Lights Trolley tour rolling party. The festively decorated and heated vintage trolley makes stops at Franklin Square, Christmas Village in Philadelphia, Smedley Street, Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest and more over a two-hour tour with trivia and prizes.

The fun begins an hour beforehand as attendees meet at Urban Village Brewing in Northern Liberties to check in, meet the tour guide, and receive a complimentary snack and souvenir gift. The tour is BYOB and for guests 21 and over only.

Where: Tour begins at Urban Village Brewing Company, 1001 N. 2nd Street, Philadelphia, PA

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45

Original Holiday Light Tour from Founding Footsteps Tours

People cheer and sing while on the Holiday Light Trolley Tour. The inside of the trolley is decorated with colorful string lights and ornaments. People cheer and sing while on the Holiday Light Trolley Tour. The inside of the trolley is decorated with colorful string lights and ornaments.
— Photo courtesy Founding Footsteps

Founding Footsteps Tours was founded in 2016 as a humble one-time fundraiser for family and friends before expanding into a year-round tour company. Luckily, the group still hosts that classic Original Holiday Light Tour at holidaytime, featuring on-board local live musicians serenading attendees with singalong tunes.

The two-hour tour begins in front of Craft Hall in Northern Liberties before rolling by a number of sites, with hop-off locations at Smedley Street and Franklin Square for strolling time. The tour is for all ages and BYOB (beer or wine only) for attendees 21 and over.

Where: Tour begins at Craft Hall, 901 N. Delaware Avenue, Philadelphia, PA

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Philadelphia Holiday Tour from Tours by Foot

If you’d rather enjoy your holiday experiences as a walking ramble, Tours by Foot (see above) offers one of the only available options on its Philadelphia Holiday Tour. Designed for those who most want to revel in the holidays, this one-and-a-half-mile tour immerses guests in the festive merriment.

Frolic through Philly’s most spirited holiday sites starting inside Reading Terminal Market, then to the Comcast Center for the Comcast Holiday Spectacular, before heading to the City Hall area for a wander through Dilworth Park and concluding with Christmas Village in Philadelphia at LOVE Park.

Where: Tour begins at Reading Terminal Market, 1136 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA

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Companies with Multiple Tour Themes

Founding Footsteps BYOB Trolley
Tours by Foot
WeVenture

Sightseeing Bus Tours

Big Bus Tours
City Sightseeing Philadelphia

History Tours

Beyond the Bell Tours
The Black Journey Walking Tours
The Constitutional Walking Tour of Philadelphia
Founding Fathers and Mothers Walking Tour
Franklin’s Footsteps Walking Tour
The Great Philadelphia Comedy Magic Walk from Philly Magic Tours
The Official Historic Philadelphia Walking Tour
Philadelphia Day Tours & City Tours
Philadelphia Historic African American Tours
Philadelphia: Walking Tour of Colonial Nonsense
Philly Pigeon Tours
Real Philly History Tours
Religion & History Tours from The Dialogue Institute
Veg History Walking Tour from American Vegan Society

Art & Architecture Tours

Mural Arts Philadelphia Tours
Neighborhood Walking Tours of Philadelphia
Philadelphia Historic Architecture Tours
Streets Dept Excursions

Pop Culture Tours

The Gang Goes to South Philly: An It's Always Sunny Tour of Philadelphia
The Yo, Philly! Film Tour

Food & Drink Tours

City Brew Tours
City Food Tours
Our Market Tours at the 9th Street Market
Philadelphia Historic Donut Tour
Secret Food Tours: Philadelphia
Tiny Table Tours

Alternative Transportation Tours

Electric Car Tours from Franklin Mobile Tours
Patriot Harbor Lines Cruises
Philly Bike Tour Co. Tours
Schuylkill Banks Tours from Hidden River Outfitters
Sea Philly Tours on the Delaware River

Ghost Tours

Ghost Tours in New Hope
Grim Philly Tours
Nightly Ghost Tours from Ghost Tours of Philadelphia
Philly Ghosts Tours from US Ghost Adventures
Spirits of '76 Ghost Tour

Holiday Season Tours

Holiday Lights Tour
Holiday Lights Tour from City Sightseeing Philadelphia
The Original BYOB Holiday Lights Trolley from Events with Benefitz
Original Holiday Light Tour from Founding Footsteps Tours
Philadelphia Holiday Tour from Tours by Foot

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