Explore Philadelphia’s rich revolutionary history on the "Revolutionary Walk Through Historic Old City." This engaging 1.5-hour guided tour retraces the steps of Benjamin Franklin and the Founding Fathers, showcasing key sites like the Betsy Ross House, Independence Hall, and the Liberty Bell. Led by a former teacher and stand-up comedian, the tour promises a fun and informative journey, uncovering the hidden stories that shaped America’s founding. At $35.50 per person, it’s an opportunity to dive into the city’s past and uncover its enduring legacy.
This experience made our article of 16 Most Highly Rated City Tours In Philadelphia.
Key Points
- A 1.5-hour guided tour retracing the steps of Benjamin Franklin and Founding Fathers through Philadelphia’s Old City.
- Key historic sites featured include the Betsy Ross House, Independence Hall, and the Liberty Bell.
- Betsy Ross House offers a glimpse into daily life during the Revolutionary era and the birth of the American flag.
- Independence Hall is the birthplace of the Declaration of Independence and U.S. Constitution.
- The tour features a comedic storytelling approach led by a former teacher and stand-up comedian.
Tour Overview
The "Philadelphia: Revolutionary Walk Through Historic Old City" tour is a 1.5-hour guided experience that allows visitors to retrace the steps of Benjamin Franklin and the Founding Fathers during the American Revolution.
Priced from $35.50 per person, the tour is conducted in English with a live guide. Customers can enjoy the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The tour covers key historic sites like the Betsy Ross House, Independence Hall, and the Liberty Bell, offering a comedic storytelling adventure led by a former teacher and stand-up comedian.
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Key Locations on the Revolutionary Walk
A total of seven key historic sites are featured on the Revolutionary Walk through Philadelphia’s Old City.
Guests will visit the Betsy Ross House, where the famous seamstress sewed the first American flag. They’ll stand before Independence Hall, the birthplace of the Declaration of Independence and U.S. Constitution.
The iconic Liberty Bell is another must-see, along with Elfreth’s Alley, the oldest residential street in America.
Christ Church, Carpenters’ Hall, and the Benjamin Franklin Post Office round out the tour, providing an immersive journey into the city’s revolutionary past.
Betsy Ross House
As visitors step through the unassuming wooden doorway of the Betsy Ross House, they’re transported back in time to the Revolutionary era.
This modest home was the workplace of the legendary seamstress who stitched the first American flag. Guests can explore the well-preserved 18th-century interior, the upholstery workshop, and the very room where Betsy Ross is said to have met with George Washington.
The tour provides a vivid glimpse into the daily life and historical significance of this iconic figure, offering a tangible connection to the birth of the nation.
Independence Hall
At the heart of Philadelphia’s Historic District stands Independence Hall, a stately Georgian structure that played a pivotal role in the American Revolution.
As the meeting place of the Second Continental Congress, this iconic landmark hosted the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution.
Visitors can:
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Tour the Assembly Room where the Founding Fathers debated and signed these historic documents.
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Admire the original Pennsylvania State House bell, later renamed the "Liberty Bell."
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Explore the surrounding Independence National Historical Park, a testament to America’s enduring democratic ideals.
Liberty Bell
The iconic Liberty Bell stands as a powerful symbol of American independence and freedom. This 2,080-pound bell was cast in 1753 and originally hung in the Pennsylvania State House, now known as Independence Hall.
The bell famously cracked in the 1850s, but its distinguishing features remain – the inscription "Proclaim LIBERTY throughout all the land unto all the inhabitants thereof."
Visitors can see the Liberty Bell and learn about its history and significance in the struggle for independence. Its message of liberty continues to resonate with people worldwide.
Fascinated by the past? Here are other historical experiences we've covered in Philadelphia
- Revolution and the Founders: History Tour of Philadelphia
- Philadelphia Old City Historic Walking Tour With 10+ Top Sites
- Old City Philadelphia History Tour With Washington Tent Show
- Philly Gayborhood and LGBTQ History Walking Tour
- Badass Womens History Walking Tour of Philadelphia
- Beyond the [Liberty] Bell History Walking Tour
Elfreth’s Alley and Christ Church
After exploring the iconic Liberty Bell, the tour continues down the charming Elfreth’s Alley, one of the oldest continuously occupied residential streets in the United States.
Visitors marvel at the well-preserved 18th and 19th-century colonial homes lining the cobblestone path.
The next stop is the impressive Christ Church, a National Historic Landmark where George Washington and Benjamin Franklin once worshipped.
Guests can:
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Admire the church’s stunning Georgian architecture.
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Learn about its role in the American Revolution.
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Discover the resting place of some of the Founding Fathers.
The tour offers a captivating glimpse into Philadelphia’s rich history.
B. Free Franklin Post Office and Carpenters Hall
Continuing the tour, visitors next explore the B. Free Franklin Post Office, where Benjamin Franklin once worked as the first U.S. Postmaster General. This historic site serves as a reminder of Franklin’s lasting impact on American postal services.
| Attraction | Key Information |
| — | — |
| B. Free Franklin Post Office | – Housed in an 18th-century building
– Showcases Franklin’s role in establishing the postal system
– Opportunity to send postcards with a historical stamp |
| Carpenters Hall | – Meeting place of the First Continental Congress in 1774
– Displays artifacts and exhibits about the country’s founding
– Guided tours provide insights into its historical significance |
The tour then moves to Carpenters Hall, the site of the First Continental Congress in 1774, providing a deeper understanding of the revolutionary events that shaped the nation.
Comedic Storytelling and Highlights of the Tour
One of the highlights of the Philadelphia: Revolutionary Walk Through Historic Old City tour is the comedic storytelling approach of the guide.
The tour is led by a former teacher and stand-up comedian who brings the history to life with entertaining anecdotes and humorous commentary.
Some key highlights of the tour include:
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Retracing the steps of Benjamin Franklin and the Founding Fathers on Philadelphia’s Road to the Revolution with insightful and engaging narration.
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Visiting iconic landmarks like the Betsy Ross House, Independence Hall, and the Liberty Bell while learning the hidden stories behind them.
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Experiencing a fun, informative, and memorable historical adventure in just 90 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the tour. The tour focuses on exploring historical landmarks, and for the safety and comfort of all participants, only service animals are permitted.
Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?
The tour is wheelchair accessible. The guided walk through historic Old City includes stops at locations like Independence Hall, and the live guide can provide accommodations for guests with mobility needs.
Will There Be Restroom Breaks During the Tour?
There are no scheduled restroom breaks during the 1.5-hour tour. However, the guide will provide recommendations on where to find restrooms along the route if needed. Participants should plan accordingly and hydrate before the start of the tour.
Can I Take Food and Drinks on the Tour?
According to the tour information, the tour does not include food and drink. Participants are expected to provide their own sustenance. Bringing food and drinks on the tour is not mentioned as an inclusion.
Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?
Photography is generally allowed during the tour, but travelers should be mindful of not obstructing the guide or other participants. It’s best to check with the tour operator for any specific guidelines on photography.
The Sum Up
The "Revolutionary Walk Through Historic Old City" offers a captivating journey through Philadelphia’s rich history. Blending informative insights with comedic storytelling, the tour immerses visitors in the footsteps of Benjamin Franklin and the Founding Fathers. From the Betsy Ross House to the Liberty Bell, this engaging 1.5-hour adventure uncovers the hidden stories that shaped America’s founding, making it a must-do experience for history enthusiasts and first-time visitors alike.
📍 This experience made our list of the 16 best City Tours in Philadelphia
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