Walking Tour of Historic Philadelphia
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 153 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Walking Tour of Historic Philadelphia worth booking?
Walking Tour of Historic Philadelphia is a 1.5-hour experience in Philadelphia, United States, from $25 per person. It scores 85 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 5/5 rating across 153 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 85 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (153)
- Duration
- 1.5 hours
- From
- $25 per person
Interested in touring Philly's Historic District? Great! Let us show you around. Be taken back in time as you are regaled about how the Liberty Bell worked (and cracked,) envision the founders debating inside Carpenters Hall and then Independence Hall as you learn about the issues they faced and gaze upon the building where Jefferson worked in solitude to write our Declaration of Independence. We provide the history, you supply the imagination. In 90 minutes you will see 21 sites (the most of any walking tour) from a guide with a degree in History and a passion for Philadelphia. We are an owner-operated small business & the best choice for a walking tour in Philly. See you on the tour!
What you get
About this experience
Interested in touring Philly's Historic District? Great! Let us show you around. Be taken back in time as you are regaled about how the Liberty Bell worked (and cracked,) envision the founders debating inside Carpenters Hall and then Independence Hall as you learn about the issues they faced and gaze upon the building where Jefferson worked in solitude to write our Declaration of Independence. We provide the history, you supply the imagination. In 90 minutes you will see 21 sites (the most of any walking tour) from a guide with a degree in History and a passion for Philadelphia. We are an owner-operated small business & the best choice for a walking tour in Philly. See you on the tour!
What's included
Included
- Participants will be part of a larger group of paying customers
- This is an overview tour. All sites are experienced from the outside
Not included
- We do not enter any historic sites. Admission not included.
- Foreign language tours (Spanish, French, Italian) require advanced notice
- Private tours available for an additional cost. Please contact us for details
- Tip or gratuity
What you'll see and do
Independence National Historical Park
Before beginning the tour there will be a welcome by the guide and an explanation about where the tour will go, some of the sites to be seen and information about the founding of Philadelphia. Learn why this park is "America's Most Historic Square Mile!"
10 minutes here
Independence Hall
Learn about the significance of Independence Hall. This is where the Declaration of Independence was signed. It's also where some of the famous founding fathers had some remarkable moments. Learn more on the tour!
5 minutes here
Liberty Bell Center
Learn the significance and history of the Liberty Bell. Learn why it no longer rings, how it earned its name and why the crack you see isn't what broke the bell. Learn more on the tour!
5 minutes here
Declaration House (Graff House)
Learn the significance and history of Declaration House. The name of the site tells you what was written here. But, find out why this house was chosen and who else helped Thomas Jefferson with his writing. Learn more on the tour!
3 minutes here
Congress Hall
Learn the significance and history of Congress Hall. Find out which states became part of the union in this building and where the two houses each met. Plus, learn why its most significant achievement can't be seen by the naked eye. Learn more on the tour!
5 minutes here
Old City Hall
Learn the significance and history Old City Hall. It actually was more than just the "old" city hall. It also included the Supreme Court, but not how you know it today. Learn more on the tour!
3 minutes here
Carpenters' Hall
Learn the significance and history of Carpenter's Hall, the place where, for all purposes, America's independence movement started. Learn what famous words were spoken, and by whom. Plus, learn about the conspiracy the took place on the second floor. Learn more on the tour!
8 minutes here
Franklin Court
Learn the significance and history of Ben Franklin's Home and workshops. Find out why his house no longer stands, and why the post office at the end of the court is so special in American history - even today. Learn more on the tour!
10 minutes here
Christ Church
Learn the significance and history of Christ Church, the onetime tallest building in America. It's not just a church, it's also a museum. One item in particular is easily overlooked. Learn more on the tour! Admission is $5.00 Adults, $2.00 Kids
5 minutes here · Admission not included
Elfreth's Alley
Learn the significance and history of Elfreth's Alley - the oldest continually lived on street in America. Find out how it earned its name, see the subtle amenities the homes have that go overlooked by the other tour companies and, literally, walk through history. Learn more on the tour! Museum Admission - $3.00 Adults, $2.00 Kids
8 minutes here · Admission not included
Betsy Ross House
Learn the significance and history of Betsy Ross and her surprising legacy. For example, did she really sew the first flag? The answer might surprise you. Learn more on the tour! Admission - $10.00 Adults, $8.00 kids
3 minutes here · Admission not included
Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia
Called the "Bank of Banks" the Fed is more than simply government building - in fact, you use it almost every day. It's true!. Learn more on the tour!
2 minutes here
The African American Museum in Philadelphia
The first museum of its kind in America, it's been leading the way in research and education since its founding in 1976. A fascinating building with thousands of exhibits - literally! Admission - $14.00 Adults, $10.00 Kids
3 minutes here · Admission not included
American Philosophical Society Museum
This building is where some of America's brightest and most renown scholars have (and still do) gather. All in an effort to make the world a better place. Some of the rarest antiquities in America are housed here.
3 minutes here
Library Hall
Learn some of what's inside and who specifically studied here for a rather important journey! Plus, the person who founded this building accidentally made the world a much smarter place. Let us tell you who!
3 minutes here
Second Bank of the United States
Wait, a SECOND bank? Yes! Find our why, and why the FIRST bank needed to be replaced. Plus, it wasn't just a bank. This building has had more than 1 very important role in America
3 minutes here
New Hall Military Museum
Did you know this was the colonial version of The Pentagon? It's true. Currently a museum with some fascinating military attractions from the 18th and 19th centuries, it should not be overlooked
3 minutes here
Arch Street Meeting House
While it might look plain, it's actually a house of worship. Seriously, it is! Let us explain why its plain appearance is so unique!
3 minutes here
United States Mint
Did you know almost half the coins jingling in your pocket are made here? But that's not all. This building makes some of the most famous and valued items in history.
2 minutes here
National Constitution Center
Want to be president? Take the oath here? Want to see how tall (or short) some of the founders were? Find out here. This is the only museum in the country dedicated solely to the constitution. Admission - $19.00 Adults, $15.00 Kids
2 minutes here · Admission not included
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Philadelphia
Outside the main entrance on Market Street. I'll be wearing a black polo shirt and red, white & blue lanyard!
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Outside the main entrance on Market Street. I'll be wearing a black polo shirt and red, white & blue lanyard!
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 20 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Tours By TR
Know before you go
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 150 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
5 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
5 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Traveler reviews
150 verified traveler reviews for Walking Tour of Historic Philadelphia. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Great Overview of Old City
Angus was a great tour guide! He was very personable and easy to converse with. The goal of the tour for us was to get an overview of the hot spots in Old City, and revisit anything we wanted to learn more about. We did just that as well as other activities he suggested outside of Old City. Thanks Angus, it was a pleasure. :)
via Viator
Excellent Tour
Our tour guide Brian did an excellent job of providing an overview of the Old City area and pointing out sites we might return to later. He was personable and knowledgeable...highly recommended!
via Viator
Memorable and informative tour
Brian was not only knowledgeable about the history and area as a native but was also entertaining. Who knew there would be a musical theatre thread to Philly. We enjoyed the private tour as it happened to work out since we booked our tour on a Monday afternoon.
via Viator
Well paced tour
Brian is a knowledgeable local and took us to many historical sites, adding his own experiences and educational background to the descriptions. We’d become friends if we lived here
via Tripadvisor
Brian was extremely...
Brian was extremely knowledgeable about the history of Independence Hall and Liberty Bell. My brother and I enjoyed the walking tour. An extra bonus is our tour guide Brian worked to keep the group in the shade on a sunny Philadelphia afternoon.
via Viator
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
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 54
- Verdict
- Exceptional
Why this scores 85
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Walking Tour of Historic Philadelphia: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Philadelphia.
How much does Walking Tour of Historic Philadelphia cost?
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Prices start at $25 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 Walking Tour of Historic Philadelphia 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 Walking Tour of Historic Philadelphia worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 85 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 153 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most highly reviewed in Philadelphia, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Walking Tour of Historic Philadelphia?
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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 Walking Tour of Historic Philadelphia 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 Walking Tour of Historic Philadelphia?
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Around 54 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 Walking Tour of Historic Philadelphia 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.
What is included in Walking Tour of Historic Philadelphia?
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Included: Participants will be part of a larger group of paying customers; and This is an overview tour. All sites are experienced from the outside. Not included: We do not enter any historic sites. Admission not included; Foreign language tours (Spanish, French, Italian) require advanced notice; Private tours available for an additional cost. Please contact us for details; and Tip or gratuity. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for Walking Tour of Historic Philadelphia?
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Outside the main entrance on Market Street. I'll be wearing a black polo shirt and red, white & blue lanyard! Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is Walking Tour of Historic Philadelphia offered in?
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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 Walking Tour of Historic Philadelphia?
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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.
Is Walking Tour of Historic Philadelphia wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Wheelchair accessible; Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; and Transportation options are wheelchair accessible. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Walking Tour of Historic Philadelphia if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Walking Tour of Historic Philadelphia?
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Across 153 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
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