Philadelphia Murder Mystery: Ben Franklin Detective Game
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September 2026
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Adults
Age 13 and over
Children
Age 12 and under
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Free cancellation up to 24 hours before. Same price on Viator, Outty earns a commission.
Traveler rating
3.2/5
Based on 5 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Philadelphia Murder Mystery: Ben Franklin Detective Game worth booking?
Philadelphia Murder Mystery: Ben Franklin Detective Game is a 1.5-hour experience in Philadelphia, United States, from $7 per person. It scores 51 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 3.2/5 rating across 5 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 51 / 100
- Rating
- 3.2/5 (5)
- Duration
- 1.5 hours
- From
- $7 per person
Step into colonial Philadelphia and uncover a Founding Father with blood on his hands. A murder has rocked the 18th century—and only you can crack the case. Join a time-traveling Ben Franklin as you solve puzzles, decode
What you get
About this experience
Step into colonial Philadelphia and uncover a Founding Father with blood on his hands. A murder has rocked the 18th century—and only you can crack the case. Join a time-traveling Ben Franklin as you solve puzzles, decode clues, and unravel a mystery involving America’s earliest leaders. Using the Questo app, you’ll explore Old City at your own pace, passing iconic landmarks like Independence Hall and Franklin Court. With each riddle solved, you’ll dive deeper into the story—interacting with historical figures, unearthing hidden facts, and getting closer to the truth. It’s a blend of immersive fiction, local history, and hands-on fun. What makes this tour unique? It’s not just a walking tour—it’s a self-guided whodunit where the streets of Philadelphia become your game board and the suspects are straight out of the history books. Perfect for families, friends, couples, and curious minds who love mystery, humor, and a dash of time travel.
What's included
Included
- Mobile access code for the Questo app
- Flexibility to pause/resume the quest anytime
- 11 themed puzzle challenges
- Immersive storyline content (Ben Franklin & mystery)
- Built-in GPS navigation map
Not included
- Live tour guide
What you'll see and do
A symbol of affection in the City of Brotherly Love, JFK Plaza—better known as Love Park—is home to the iconic LOVE sculpture that draws visitors from around the world. Once the grand entrance to the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, this vibrant square blends modern art, city history, and skyline views. As part of your Questo quest, you’ll follow clues that bring you to this famous photo spot. Solve a puzzle tied to its cultural legacy, uncover a hidden story beneath the sculpture, and continue your mystery-filled journey through Philadelphia.
10 minutes here
At the foot of Philadelphia’s majestic City Hall, Dilworth Park is where history meets modern life—fountains dance, skaters glide, and the towering statue of William Penn watches from above. Once a transit hub, now a vibrant gathering space, it pulses with the spirit of the city. On your Questo quest, clues will lead you through this dynamic plaza. Once there, solve a puzzle tied to the park’s political past, uncover a hidden story beneath City Hall’s stone gaze, and continue your adventure through Philadelphia’s storied streets.
Pass by without stopping
Mysterious and majestic, The Masonic Temple in Philadelphia is a masterpiece of architecture and symbolism, often overlooked by casual visitors. With its ornate rooms and secretive past, it feels more like a castle than a city landmark. As part of your Questo quest, you’ll follow intriguing clues to uncover this hidden gem. Once there, solve a puzzle inspired by its Masonic lore, reveal a secret tied to its founding members, and continue your immersive journey through the most curious corners of historic Philadelphia.
Pass by without stopping
A feast for the senses and a cornerstone of Philly culture, Reading Terminal Market has been serving up local flavor since 1893. From Amish baked goods to world-famous cheesesteaks, it’s a vibrant mix of tradition, taste, and community. As part of your Questo quest, you’ll follow clues that guide you through the bustling aisles of this historic market. Once there, solve a puzzle inspired by its flavorful past, uncover a hidden story behind the stalls, and continue your delicious journey through Philadelphia’s iconic landmarks.
Pass by without stopping
Blending modern style with Philly’s historic heart, the Fashion District Mall is more than just a shopping center—it’s a symbol of the city’s ever-evolving spirit. Built on a site once filled with train tracks and department stores, it now buzzes with retail, art, and urban energy. As part of your Questo quest, you’ll follow clues that lead you through its sleek corridors. Once there, solve a puzzle linked to its transformative past, uncover a hidden story beneath the storefronts, and continue your adventure through Philadelphia’s layered landscape.
Pass by without stopping
Declaration House (Graff House)
Tucked quietly along a bustling street, Declaration House is where Thomas Jefferson drafted one of history’s most powerful documents—the Declaration of Independence. Though modest in size, this restored site echoes with revolutionary ideas and bold visions. As part of your Questo quest, you’ll follow clues that bring you to this historic landmark. Once there, solve a puzzle inspired by Jefferson’s words, uncover a hidden story from America’s founding moments, and continue your journey through Philadelphia’s revolutionary heart.
Pass by without stopping
Once home to Presidents George Washington and John Adams, the President’s House site in Philadelphia reveals a powerful, complex chapter of American history. Today, it stands as an open-air exhibit honoring both the nation’s founding and the enslaved people who lived and labored there. As part of your Questo quest, you’ll follow clues that lead you to this historic space. Once there, solve a thought-provoking puzzle, uncover a hidden story beneath the foundations, and continue your journey through the city’s layered and evolving past.
Pass by without stopping
Cracked but unbroken, the Liberty Bell is one of America’s most iconic symbols of freedom. Once rung to mark important events, it now rests in quiet dignity, drawing millions with its powerful legacy and mysterious fracture. As part of your Questo quest, you’ll follow clues that guide you to this legendary landmark. Once there, solve a puzzle inspired by its storied past, uncover a hidden tale behind the bell’s enduring message, and continue your journey through the heart of revolutionary Philadelphia.
Pass by without stopping
The birthplace of American democracy, Independence Hall is where the Declaration of Independence and U.S. Constitution were debated and signed. Its brick walls have echoed with bold ideas, heated arguments, and the dreams of a new nation. As part of your Questo quest, you’ll follow clues that lead you to this historic landmark. Once there, solve a puzzle inspired by the founding fathers’ decisions, uncover a hidden story from within its chambers, and continue your thrilling journey through the revolutionary heart of Philadelphia.
Pass by without stopping
Tucked within Franklin Court, the Printing Office brings to life the bustling workshop where Ben Franklin helped shape a revolution—one printed word at a time. With clattering presses and the scent of ink, it offers a hands-on glimpse into 18th-century publishing and propaganda. As part of your Questo quest, you’ll follow clues that lead you to this historic print shop. Once there, solve a puzzle inspired by Franklin’s craft, uncover a hidden story between the lines, and continue your adventure through Philadelphia’s revolutionary legacy.
Pass by without stopping
Step inside the legend at the Betsy Ross House, the quaint colonial home where America’s first flag is said to have been sewn. Full of 18th-century charm and patriotic lore, it offers a glimpse into the life of a revolutionary craftswoman. As part of your Questo quest, you’ll follow clues through Old City to find this historic gem. Once there, solve a puzzle stitched into its story, uncover a hidden tale of resilience and rebellion, and continue your immersive journey through Philadelphia’s founding moments.
Pass by without stopping
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Philadelphia
To begin, make sure you've activated the quest using the instructions and link we sent by e-mail after purchase. Next, download the app, create and account, and head to the starting point at LOVE Park. Once there, follow the app.
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
- Questo
Know before you go
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 5 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Knowledge and storytelling
2 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
The guide
1 mentionTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Pace and timing
1 mentionSeveral reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.
Traveler reviews
5 verified traveler reviews for Philadelphia Murder Mystery: Ben Franklin Detective Game. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Big waste of a day.
It was horrible there was no explanation on how to get started we wasted our whole day. There's nowhere to get help there's nobody to talk to you're on your own and they just don't care
via Viator
bad
didn’t get one. starts in love park but no specific instructions how to start the game and nobody i asked knew
Response from the operator: I'm really sorry to hear you couldn't get the game started. I checked your booking, and the step-by-step instructions on how to download the app and start were sent to your email, TripAdvisor inbox, and are also available directly on your ticket. Since everything is self-guided inside the app, there isn't any on-site staff at Love Park to assist. Since you already have the game unlocked, you can open the instructions on your ticket and play anytime you like!
via Viator
Murder mystery in Philly
It was a fun way to explore the city and learn some history all the while, figuring out the murderer
Response from the operator: So glad you enjoyed solving the mystery while uncovering Philly's history! It's great to hear you had fun exploring the city this way. Hope you'll join us for another adventure soon!
via Viator
Fun way to explore the city
A great way to explore Philadelphia's history at your own pace without tour guides or crowds. Best to hit the streets early, before the malls open.
Response from the operator: Thank you for the review. We’re glad you enjoyed discovering Philadelphia’s history at your own pace, and that the experience felt relaxed and crowd-free. We appreciate the tip about going early as well.
via Viator
Really Fun Historical Mystery with a Twist!
SUPER FUN! I learned a ton about the city and it was a really cool mystery with fun mini games throughout. The twist at the end got me!! 10/10
Response from the operator: Thank you for the wonderful feedback! We’re thrilled you enjoyed the mystery, learned more about Philadelphia, and had fun with the mini-games along the way. Delighted the twist caught you by surprise—we’d love to have you try another Questo adventure soon.
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 1.5 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $7 to $9
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 2
- Verdict
- Worth a Look
Why this scores 51
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Philadelphia Murder Mystery: Ben Franklin Detective Game: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Philadelphia.
How much does Philadelphia Murder Mystery: Ben Franklin Detective Game cost?
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Prices start at $7 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 Murder Mystery: Ben Franklin Detective Game take?
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Plan for about 1.5 hours 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 Murder Mystery: Ben Franklin Detective Game worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 51 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (3.2/5 across 5 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 Murder Mystery: Ben Franklin Detective Game?
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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 Murder Mystery: Ben Franklin Detective Game suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 1.5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Philadelphia Murder Mystery: Ben Franklin Detective Game?
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Around 2 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?
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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 1.5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Philadelphia Murder Mystery: Ben Franklin Detective Game start and how do I get there?
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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?
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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?
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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?
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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?
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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.
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