Philadelphia is a city where history, culture, and even a touch of mystery collide. Known as the birthplace of America, it’s packed with iconic landmarks like Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, but it also offers some unique experiences beyond the usual sightseeing. Whether you’re interested in American Revolution history, exploring haunted sites, or diving into world cultures, Philly has a tour for you. We’re particularly fond of the Philadelphia: Revolution and The Founders History Tour for its engaging storytelling, and the Museum of the American Revolution Entry for an immersive dive into the nation’s early days. Both provide a deep understanding of what made this city a key player in America’s story.
If you’re looking for a spooky twist, the Philadelphia Ghost Tour by Candlelight and Ghosts of Philadelphia Walking Tour turn historic streets into a scene from a ghost story. For a more active experience, the Rail Park Public Three Mile Vision Tour offers insight into Philly’s urban revitalization, and the Whiskey Rebellion Trail Tasting Pass combines history with spirits. No matter your interest, Philadelphia’s tours promise memorable, authentic experiences that go beyond the standard guidebook.
1. Philadelphia: Revolution and The Founders History Tour
Exploring Philadelphia’s revolutionary sites with a historian makes this tour a standout for history lovers. For just $29 per person and lasting about two hours, you get a lively, informative walk through iconic landmarks like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence was signed. Your guide is a history expert, ready to answer all your questions about revolutionary figures such as George Washington and Benjamin Franklin.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on the impactful stories behind the buildings and monuments, not just their dates. The guide’s engaging narration helps bring the past alive, making complex history accessible. It also offers ample time to explore each site independently afterward. At a reasonable price, it’s perfect for first-time visitors wanting a solid overview of Philadelphia’s role in shaping America. Reviewers praise the guide’s knowledge and the tour’s balance of depth and fun. This tour is well-suited for history buffs, casual visitors, or families.
Bottom line: For a focused, educational introduction to Revolutionary Philadelphia, this tour hits the mark. It’s a cost-effective way to see the city’s most important sites with a knowledgeable guide.
2. Philadelphia: Museum of the American Revolution Entry
At number 2 on our list, the Museum of the American Revolution offers an in-depth exploration with immersive exhibits and digital displays. For $27 per person, you can spend two days wandering through galleries that detail everyday life before, during, and after the revolution, not just the battles and founding fathers. The museum’s collection includes antique firearms, George Washington’s war tent, and local currency, giving a tangible sense of the era.
The museum excels at interactive storytelling, making history accessible and engaging. The digital displays and immersive environments help visitors understand the varied experiences of ordinary citizens and soldiers alike. The reviews highlight the quality of the exhibits and the value of spending multiple days there. It’s ideal if you want a comprehensive understanding of the revolution rather than a quick overview. The museum’s focus on personal stories and artifacts makes it particularly compelling for history enthusiasts.
Bottom line: This museum offers a rich, immersive experience that deepens your understanding of America’s founding moments. It’s a perfect choice for visitors who want a thorough, self-paced exploration.
3. Philadelphia Ghost Tour by Candlelight
For around $24 per person and lasting 1.5 hours, the Ghost Tour by Candlelight takes you on an eerie walk through colonial-era streets and secret gardens. Led by a costumed guide, you’ll hear stories of haunted mansions, restless spirits, and hidden cemeteries in Independence Park and Society Hill. It’s the perfect option if you’re interested in combining Philadelphia’s historic sites with a spooky twist.
What makes this tour special is its atmospheric storytelling and focus on Philadelphia’s haunted past. The guide shares tales based on the book Ghost Stories of Philadelphia, adding a layer of authenticity and mystery. The one and a half hours fly by as you visit sites like the Liberty Bell and Washington Square, where ghostly legends linger. Reviewers love the immersive, eerie vibe, describing it as “history brought to life with a spooky twist.” It’s best suited for those who enjoy ghost stories or want an unusual evening activity.
Bottom line: This tour is a fun, spooky way to experience the city’s history and have a few chills along the way. It’s perfect for thrill-seekers and ghost-story fans.
4. Philadelphia: Guided Walking Tour of Historic District!
This guided walking tour offers the most sites covered—21 in total—on a 1.5-hour stroll through Philadelphia’s historic district for just $25 per person. Owned and operated by a teacher with a degree in history, this tour is honored, featured on NBC10, and recognized by the Philadelphia City Council for its quality.
Starting at the Independence Visitor Center, the tour hits major landmarks like Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, Carpenters’ Hall, and Franklin Court, plus lesser-known sights like the African American Museum and Betsy Ross House. The guide’s enthusiasm and expertise ensure you’ll learn fascinating stories behind each site. The itinerary includes stops at Mass graves, the American Philosophical Society, and Elfreth’s Alley, making it a rundown.
Guests consistently praise the guide’s knowledge and engaging style, calling it a “perfect tour with Tom.” It’s ideal for travelers who want a thorough, well-rounded experience in a short time, especially those interested in American history.
Bottom line: This walking tour provides maximum site coverage and expert narration, making it a top choice for history-focused travelers.
5. Philadelphia: Penn Museum Admission Ticket
For $18, the Penn Museum allows you to explore over one million artifacts from around the world. It’s the largest university museum in the US, featuring Egyptian sphinx, Mesoamerican sculptures, and Asian antiquities. This museum offers an opportunity to learn about different civilizations through interactive exhibits and cultural displays.
A highlight is seeing the largest Egyptian sphinx in the West, and the museum’s global collections give you a taste of history from Mesopotamia to Africa. The museum’s layout and exhibits are designed for self-guided exploration, making it flexible for your schedule. Visitors appreciate how it offers a world tour in one place, making it perfect for a rainy day or a break from historic sites.
While some reviews note it’s a smaller attraction, the quality of the artifacts and the variety of cultures covered make it valuable. It’s especially suitable for families, students, or anyone curious about world history.
Bottom line: The Penn Museum provides a broad, engaging cultural experience without requiring a full day, great for those interested in global civilizations.
6. Philadelphia: Ghosts of Philadelphia Walking Tour
Another ghost-themed option, the Ghosts of Philadelphia walk costs $25 and lasts 1.5 hours. It visits haunted locations in the historic district, with stories about Alexander Hamilton’s home and the Christ Church burial ground, where Benjamin Franklin is buried.
This tour emphasizes Philadelphia’s haunted legends with detailed storytelling. It’s a good pick if you want a spooky experience that also touches on historic sites. While it’s a shorter tour, the focus on ghostly legends and real history makes it both thrilling and educational. Reviews mention that the guide’s storytelling creates a creepy atmosphere while providing context.
Ideal for those wanting a dark twist on history and a more intimate, less crowded experience than some larger tours.
Bottom line: With its balance of haunted tales and historic sites, this tour offers a fun, spooky vibe for ghost story enthusiasts.
7. Philly Ghosts: Phantoms of Philadelphia Tour
At just $24 for a one-hour adventure, Phantoms of Philadelphia takes you through Philadelphia’s most iconic haunted locations like Independence Hall and Washington Square. Led by US Ghost Adventures, the tour covers mass graves, supernatural legends, and spooky stories of patriots and city legends.
This quick tour is ideal if you’re short on time but want a taste of Philly’s haunted past. The guide’s stories are well-crafted, with stops at museum shadows and ghostly legends. Reviewers note it’s a spine-chilling experience that blends history and supernatural tales effectively.
It’s suited for adventure seekers and those curious about the supernatural side of history.
Bottom line: A concise, hauntingly fun tour that’s perfect for a quick thrill and learning some ghostly stories.
8. Philadelphia: Whiskey Rebellion Trail Tasting Pass
This self-guided Whiskey Rebellion Trail pass offers three distillery visits over a month for $17 per person. You’ll sample small-batch spirits at Five Saints Distilling and Stoll and Wolfe Distillery, learning about early American spirits and the Whiskey Rebellion of 1794.
It’s a different kind of tour—focused on culinary history and spirits—and perfect for those interested in local craft distilleries and their stories. You get the flexibility to explore at your own pace, enjoying tastings and perhaps picking up some souvenirs. Reviews highlight the quality of the spirits and the educational aspect of learning how spirits were made then and now. It’s a good option if you’re a fan of spirits and history combined.
Ideal for adults seeking a leisurely, flavorful experience with a historical twist. Note that it’s a longer-term pass, so plan your visits accordingly.
Bottom line: This tasting pass blends history and spirits for a relaxed, self-guided adventure through Philadelphia’s distilling past.
9. Philadelphia: The Rail Park Public Three Mile Vision Tour
Finally, the Rail Park Tour covers the transformation of an industrial rail line into a public green space over two hours for $20 per person. This tour offers insights into urban renewal, community-led planning, and Philadelphia’s ecological future.
Walking through the Three Mile Vision, you’ll learn about the history of the rail yard, the ecological benefits of transforming old infrastructure, and the plans for future development. The tour is praised for its engaging narration and focus on sustainable urban design. It’s ideal for those interested in urban planning, environmental issues, or city revitalization.
While it’s less about traditional history, it offers a look at Philadelphia’s evolving landscape and how communities are reshaping their environments.
Bottom line: If you’re curious about green urban projects and city renewal, this tour provides an insightful and inspiring perspective.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Philadelphia
Philadelphia’s diverse options mean you can tailor your experience based on your interests and schedule. If history is your focus, the Revolution and Founders Tour or the Historic District Walking Tour are excellent choices for comprehensive, guided experiences. For deeper historical immersion, the Museum of the American Revolution offers detailed exhibits and artifacts.
Interested in ghost stories? The Candlelight Ghost Tour and the Ghosts of Philadelphia Walking Tour blend history with spine-tingling tales, perfect for an atmospheric evening. For a more modern, urban experience, the Rail Park Tour showcases Philly’s innovative spirit, and the Whiskey Rebellion Trail adds a flavorful twist to American history.
Practical considerations include budget, available time, and activity level. Walking tours are great for those wanting to see many sites in a short time, while the museum visit offers a flexible, self-paced option. Book early during peak seasons, especially for popular guided tours, and consider combining a couple for a well-rounded experience.
Final Thoughts
Philadelphia offers a wide range of tours and experiences—from historic walks and museum visits to ghost stories and urban renewal projects. For a deep dive into America’s revolutionary roots, the top picks are the Philadelphia: Revolution and The Founders History Tour and the Museum of the American Revolution. For something a bit different, the ghost tours and the Rail Park highlight the city’s mysterious and modern sides.
No matter what you choose, Philadelphia’s authentic stories and vibrant sites promise memorable adventures. To make the most of your visit, consider booking your tours early—these experiences tend to fill up, especially during peak travel seasons. Happy exploring in this historic city!