Philadelphia Historic Sites Self-Guided Walking Tour
Traveler rating
4.0/5
Based on 29 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Philadelphia Historic Sites Self-Guided Walking Tour worth booking?
Philadelphia Historic Sites Self-Guided Walking Tour is a 1-hour experience in Philadelphia, United States, from $15 per person. It scores 55 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 4/5 rating across 29 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 55 / 100
- Rating
- 4/5 (29)
- Duration
- 1 hours
- From
- $15 per person
Walk in the footsteps of Revolutionary War heroes, discover the iconic Liberty Bell, and relive the fight for American Independence with a self-guided audio tour! Journey back in time to historic Philadelphia in the days of George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, and their revolutionary collaborators. After booking, check your email/text for a special password and setup instructions. Download the Audio Tour Guide App by Action while connected to WiFi or mobile data. Enter the password, download the tour, and once it's complete, you can enjoy it offline. Just open the app, hit the road, and follow the audio instructions! New, Lifetime access, no expiry. Use it anytime, on any trip, as many times as you want. This isn't an entrance ticket. Check opening hours before your visit.
What you get
About this experience
Walk in the footsteps of Revolutionary War heroes, discover the iconic Liberty Bell, and relive the fight for American Independence with a self-guided audio tour! Journey back in time to historic Philadelphia in the days of George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, and their revolutionary collaborators. After booking, check your email/text for a special password and setup instructions. Download the Audio Tour Guide App by Action while connected to WiFi or mobile data. Enter the password, download the tour, and once it's complete, you can enjoy it offline. Just open the app, hit the road, and follow the audio instructions! New, Lifetime access, no expiry. Use it anytime, on any trip, as many times as you want. This isn't an entrance ticket. Check opening hours before your visit.
What's included
Included
- Support is available via chat, email, or phone if you need help.
- Planning tools, route maps, scenic stops, and area previews included.
- Just bring your phone and headphones; the app guides your walk.
- Lifetime access: use the tour anytime and keep it for future trips.
- Works offline with GPS route guidance and automatic audio stories.
- Flexible tour: start, stop, and pause anytime during your trip.
- Private walking tour experience for your family or group.
- Access your tour in our separate audio tour app after booking.
- Hidden gems and local stories included along the route.
Not included
- No live guide. Entrance fees, parking, food, and car rental are separate.
What you'll see and do
Liberty Bell Center
Next up: the Liberty Bell! We'll learn about what makes this bell iconic -- and what makes it so susceptible to cracks! As we explore its history and majesty, we'll also explore it's significance in later years as Americans fought for their freedom from slavery, for equal voting rights, and for true liberty. Note: The tour is over 1.5 miles long, with more than 30 audio stories, and takes about 1-2 hours to complete. New, Lifetime access, no expiry. Use it anytime, on any trip, as many times as you want. Your password can be used on the same number of devices as the travelers you have booked. Please enter the same password on each device.
10 minutes here
Betsy Ross House
Our trip jumps us back in time a bit -- to the birth of the American flag! The Declaration of Independence and the Constitution often overshadow this historic home but it's legacy is far more visible today! We'll learn all about Betsy Ross and her fateful meeting with George Washington one morning during Sunday service at Christ Church.
10 minutes here · Admission not included
Embark on this journey into America's past at Philadelphia's City Hall! As we make our way into the heart of Historic Philly, we'll dive into 1700s to explore the foundations of the Revolutionary War. George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, and other Founding Fathers had deep roots in Philadelphia, as we'll quickly discover. Then we'll We'll explore the events that led up to the revolt, including the catalyst: the Tea Tax.
10 minutes here · Admission not included
We're finally at Independence Hall, the birthplace of America. This is where the First Continental Congress unified the colonial states into one entity, working together. This is where military revolts and battles against the British were planned. This is also where the Second Continental Congress took place, when votes were gathered from across all the colonies. Ultimately, this is where the Declaration of Independence, and America, was brought to life. As we walk around this historic hall, we'll learn about additional American figures like John Hancock, Patrick Henry, and John Adams, and their contributions to the new nation. We'll also understand what this Independence Hall represented to colonial Americans -- and what it represents to modern Americans today. We'll also check out George Washington's statue out front, and dive into his backstory.
5 minutes here
At the corner of historic Washington Square, we'll catch a glimpse of where it all began: the site of the First Continental Congress. We'll explore the consequences of this historic conference before approaching the iconic Independence Hall.
5 minutes here
Then we'll head over to Ben Franklin's museum. This historic statesman figures heavily in America's past -- and we'll learn why. As we walk through the museum we'll also peel back the layers of his personality, learning about his vast store of knowledge and huge diversity of interests. Then, we'll jump to the anti-hero to Franklin's hero: the traitor Benedict Arnold. As we continue to walk, we'll learn all about what Arnold planned to do -- and how.
10 minutes here · Admission not included
The President's House
Next up, the very first White House! We'll explore the original presidental home of George Washington and then of John Adams. Here, we'll be able to dive into the history of the presidents' lives and better understand life during the colonia era.
5 minutes here
Then we'll head over to another unique historic home: the Graff House. This is where Thomas Jefferson wrote the Declaration of Independence, and where Ben Franklin helped him edit it. Walk in the footsteps of these earliest inklings of American freedom as you pass by this site! Plus, we'll take this opportunity to learn about Thomas Jefferson, and understand his life and contributions towards American independence.
5 minutes here · Admission not included
The African American Museum in Philadelphia
Philadelphia's history may be all about independence and freedom, but that didn't apply to African-Americans! As we pass this wonderful museum, we'll continue to explore slavery and it's impact of early America. We'll also learn about the historic contributions of African-Americans like Crispus Attucks and others.
5 minutes here · Admission not included
Our journey into America's past then brings us to Franklin Square, where we can rest up and catch up on everything else that Ben Franklin did -- other than driving independence of course! We'll learn about his many book, ideas, and of course... experiments!
5 minutes here
That brings us to this gigantic memorial to Franklin's most beloved discovery -- electricity! Here we'll explore what exactly Ben Franklin was discovering, why he wanted to try, and how exactly he planned to do it!
5 minutes here
National Constitution Center
Next up, we'll pass by the National Constituion Center. Just like with the Declaration of Independence, we'll learn about how the colonists gathered here in Philadelphia to formalize their union into a concrete nation: the United States of America. We'll explore how American citizens' most fundamental rights were guaranteed, laying the basis for the American society today.
5 minutes here · Admission not included
United States Mint
Our walk then brings us to the Mint! We'll learn about the gold and silver coins that formed the basis of the early American economy... and about the copper, nickel, and paper that makes our money today!
5 minutes here · Admission not included
Benjamin Franklin's Grave
We'll walk by Benjamin Franklin's grave and learn about an important part his legacy: the Ivy League University of Pennsylvania. We'll dicover how UPenn represented Franklin's ideals for the young nation's next generation and about how his legacy continues to shine through Philadelphia today.
5 minutes here · Admission not included
Elfreth's Alley
This brings us to Elfreth's Alley, the modern Instagram hot-spot of Philly and the historic origins of this great city. As the very first downtown, Elfreth's seen generations of changes... but has remained as quaint and colonial as ever!
10 minutes here · Admission not included
Christ Church
We'll then walk over to historic Christ Church, where George Washington, Betsy Ross, and plenty of other American revolutionaries worshipped. We'll pass by the Church, diving into it's historical significance and admiring it's soaring architecture.
5 minutes here
That brings us to the Museum of the American Revolution! Our journey ends near here, allowing you the opportunity to step inside if you didn't get quite enough revolutionary history already!
5 minutes here · Admission not included
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Philadelphia
Begin from 1400 John F Kennedy Blvd, Philadelphia, PA. After booking the tour, search your emails and texts for "audio tour". Your tour is VALID FOREVER, so follow these instructions NOW to finish setting up the tour while you have Wi-Fi/data. Do NOT wait until you are onsite.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Returns to the starting point
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Action Day Trips
Know before you go
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Easy to use: GPS-triggered audio plays automatically along the route for a hands-free experience.
- Private tour: Follow the route on your phone without an in-person guide or crowded group.
- At your own pace: Start anytime and pause for hikes, picnics, photos, or scenic stops.
- Works offline: Once downloaded, the tour works using GPS without Wi-Fi or cellular service.
- Multi-device access: Use the same password on one device for each traveler included in your booking.
- More ways to save: Choose a single tour, a nearby bundle, or access to 200+ tours.
- Download in advance: Download the Tour Guide app by Action and tour while connected to Wi-Fi or a strong cellular signal.
- Follow the route: Begin at the suggested starting point or join anywhere along the route shown in the app.
- Lifetime access: Preview the tour before your trip and revisit the stories, photos, and details afterward.
- Supported devices: iPhone with iOS 15+, Android with version 9+, or a GPS-enabled iPad/tablet with cellular capability.
- Savings tips: Walking tours: couples can share a tour by using separate earbuds. We recommend using headphones or earbuds for clearer audio and to avoid disturbing nearby guests.
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 29 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Knowledge and storytelling
6 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Traveler reviews
29 verified traveler reviews for Philadelphia Historic Sites Self-Guided Walking Tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Great tour of Philadelphia
This could be a 2 day tour. Lots of information about the history of Philadelphia and the American Revolution. Make sure to take time to do some of the tours along the way.
Response from the operator: Hi Jill, I love hearing that the Philadelphia tour had enough history to make you want to slow down and spend even more time along the route. If you're exploring more Revolutionary history, I have tours of the Boston Freedom Trail, Washington, D.C., Valley Forge, and more. Happy exploring!
via Viator
The overall route while...
The overall route while informative was a “one way”. Also it consisted of 5 miles of walking to do entire tour. Informative details however
Response from the operator: Jeri, I’m glad you enjoyed all the historic details along the walking path! For more historical adventures, check out my Ultimate Gettysburg Battlefield Self-Guided Audio Bundle Tour, featuring the Ghosts of the Battlefield, Seminary Ridge, and Devil's Den tours. Happy exploring!
via Viator
Highly Recommended
I found this an excellent way to "see the city" in an afternoon. I was in town for a conference and had one afternoon free to explore once the conference ended and I needed to head home. I really liked the convenience of the app using my location data to begin it's narrative. I liked that I could go at my own pace and jump around to shops/cafes along the way as I desired. The stories were interesting, I learned a lot and nearly a year later have not deleted this app from my phone yet as I intend on using it at other places I'm fortunate enough to visit.
Response from the operator: Hi there, thank you for taking my GPS walking tour of Philadelphia Historic Sites. I’m so glad it was a convenient way to explore the city during your free afternoon, with GPS-triggered stories, flexibility to go at your own pace, and time to stop at shops or cafés along the way. For more historical adventures, check out my Ultimate Gettysburg Battlefield Self-Guided Audio Bundle Tour, featuring the Ghosts of the Battlefield, Seminary Ridge, and Devil's Den tours. Happy exploring!
via Tripadvisor
Philadelphia: 1776-2026
The Fife and Drum of 1776,welcomes you as you enter Philadelphia-the city where Our Founding Fathers declared Independence from Britain and King George. My wife and I were here in the beginning of June-on the cusp of July 4th-the 250th Anniversary of Our Country. As you walk down the streets of this amazing city, especially the historic sections, you can feel the past intertwining with the present. If you close your eyes, for a brief moment, you can see Paul Revere riding through the streets, crying out, "The British are coming." You can hear Our Liberty Bell ringing, loudly, in its highest church. You can sit with Betsy Ross and watch as she diligently sews the 13 stars on Our Country's first flag. You can join the representatives of our 13 states sitting at there desks or standing tall, in Independence Hall, as they verbally share with one another why we need Our Freedom from Britain's tyrannical rule. For that brief moment in time, Our Country's history will come alive for you, in all its wonderful glory. If you are truly lucky to be in Philadelphia on July 4th,be ready to witness all the Reenactments of "1776" that will take place; all the Patriotism that will grab hold of you-making you feel proud to be An American and all the fireworks you'll see-as they light up the evening sky, in a multitude of magnificent colors with an emphasis on The Reds, The Whites and The Blues. Enjoy every moment! Noel M.
Response from the operator: Noel, thank you for sharing such a thoughtful reflection on Philadelphia’s history and patriotic spirit. I’m unable to find a booking connected to my Philadelphia Historic Sites GPS Walking Tour, so this may have been posted on the wrong listing. If you did purchase and use my audio tour, I’d love to hear more about your experience with the tour itself. If you haven’t tried it yet, you’re always welcome to explore it on a future visit — the self-guided audio tour is designed to make Philadelphia’s historic sites feel even more informative, engaging, and lively as you walk through the city.
via Tripadvisor
LOVED! LOVED! LOVED! seeing Philly this way
I absolutely loved this tour!!! The map was easy to follow. Each stop automatically started when it reached the location. It was easy to stop and restart if we needed to. I could not have asked for a better tour guide. HIGHLY Recommend this tour!
Response from the operator: Mirasol, glad to hear you LOVED seeing Philly this way with my walking audio tour guide! It’s fantastic that the map was easy to follow, the GPS-based audio started automatically at each stop, and you could pause and jump back in whenever you wanted. For more historical adventures, check out my Ultimate Gettysburg Battlefield Self-Guided Audio Bundle Tour, featuring the Ghosts of the Battlefield, Seminary Ridge, and Devil's Den tours. Happy exploring!
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 1 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 10
- Verdict
- Worth a Look
Who runs this experience
Operated by Action Day Trips, who run 20 experiences we rank across 7 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 57.0.
See everything Action Day Trips runsWhy this scores 55
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Philadelphia Historic Sites Self-Guided Walking Tour: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Philadelphia.
How much does Philadelphia Historic Sites Self-Guided Walking Tour cost?
+
Prices start at $15 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Philadelphia usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Philadelphia Historic Sites Self-Guided Walking Tour take?
+
Plan for about 1 hour from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Philadelphia is not rushed.
Is Philadelphia Historic Sites Self-Guided Walking Tour worth it?
+
It holds an Outty Ranking of 55 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (4/5 across 29 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Philadelphia, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Philadelphia Historic Sites Self-Guided Walking Tour?
+
Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Philadelphia Historic Sites Self-Guided Walking Tour suitable for kids and families?
+
Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 1-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Philadelphia Historic Sites Self-Guided Walking Tour?
+
Around 10 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Philadelphia can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
+
Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Philadelphia and add a light layer if any part of the 1-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Philadelphia Historic Sites Self-Guided Walking Tour start and how do I get there?
+
The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Philadelphia within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Philadelphia?
+
Philadelphia's core is walkable: Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell need timed entry, the mural arts programme runs the largest public art collection in the country, and the Reading Terminal and Italian Market food walks fill the middle of the day. Outty Ranking favours operators who secure Independence Hall tickets rather than sending you to the visitor centre queue. On Outty we rank every Philadelphia experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Revolution and the Founders: History Tour of Philadelphia, Dark Philly Adult Night Tour, Philadelphia Old City Historic Walking Tour with 10+ Top Sites. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Philadelphia?
+
April to June and September to October, mild weather and open patios. Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Philadelphia?
+
Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
+
Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Philadelphia Historic Sites Self-Guided Walking Tour?
+
Included: Support is available via chat, email, or phone if you need help; Planning tools, route maps, scenic stops, and area previews included; Just bring your phone and headphones; the app guides your walk; Lifetime access: use the tour anytime and keep it for future trips; and Works offline with GPS route guidance and automatic audio stories. Not included: No live guide. Entrance fees, parking, food, and car rental are separate. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for Philadelphia Historic Sites Self-Guided Walking Tour?
+
Begin from 1400 John F Kennedy Blvd, Philadelphia, PA. After booking the tour, search your emails and texts for "audio tour". Your tour is VALID FOREVER. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is Philadelphia Historic Sites Self-Guided Walking Tour offered in?
+
It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Philadelphia Historic Sites Self-Guided Walking Tour?
+
Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
What happens to Philadelphia Historic Sites Self-Guided Walking Tour if the weather is bad?
+
It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Philadelphia. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
What do travelers say about Philadelphia Historic Sites Self-Guided Walking Tour?
+
Across 29 reviews averaging 4.0 out of 5, recurring themes include knowledge and storytelling. Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Ready to lock in your spot?
Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Philadelphia Historic Sites Self-Guided Walking Tour.
Pick your date
