Philadelphia: Colonial Philadelphia Walking Tour

Exploring the roots of America’s founding has never been easier. The Philadelphia Colonial Walking Tour takes history enthusiasts on a 2-2.5 hour journey through the city’s early colonial past. Led by knowledgeable architect-historians, you will discover iconic landmarks like Elfreth’s Alley and Independence Hall. With a focus on architecture and events, this $40 per person tour provides an immersive outdoor experience that’s perfect for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of America’s origins. What secrets might this tour unveil about Philadelphia’s pivotal role in shaping the nation?

Key Points

• A 2-2.5 hour walking tour of colonial Philadelphia’s historic sites, including Elfreths Alley, Christ Church, Franklin Court, Carpenters Hall, and Independence Hall.
• Tour is priced at $40 per person, with free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.
• Tour is led by knowledgeable architect-historians and provides a comprehensive outdoor experience, rain or shine.
• Participants should wear comfortable shoes and be moderately fit for the moderate activity.
• Key sites include the oldest continuously inhabited residential street in the U.S., burial sites of notable figures, and pivotal American Revolution locations.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The colonial Philadelphia walking tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the founding era’s historical buildings, architectural styles, and significant events.

Offers a comprehensive exploration of the founding era’s historical buildings, architectural styles, and significant events in colonial Philadelphia.

Priced at $40 per person, the 2-2.5 hour tour is available in English for private or small groups. Cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance, and a reserve now, pay later option is offered.

The tour starts at Elfreths Alley, the oldest continuously inhabited residential street in America, and ends at Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and Constitution were signed.

Moderately fit participants require comfortable shoes and outdoor attire.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins at Elfreths Alley, the oldest continuously inhabited residential street in America. Guests spend 40 minutes exploring its colonial-era homes.

Next, they visit Christ Church Philadelphia, the burial site of notable figures. After, they head to Franklin Court, where Ben Franklin’s house once stood.

The tour then stops at Carpenters Hall, the site of the first Continental Congress. Guests also see the First and Second Banks of the United States before ending at Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and Constitution were signed.

Key Sites

Elfreths Alley stands as the oldest continuously inhabited residential street in America, captivating visitors with its well-preserved colonial-era homes.

Elfreths Alley, the oldest continuously inhabited residential street in America, captivates visitors with its well-preserved colonial-era homes.

The tour then heads to Christ Church Philadelphia, the burial site of notable figures like Benjamin Franklin.

Next, Franklin Court offers a glimpse into the life of the founding father, with his former residence and the remains of the printing shop.

Carpenters Hall, the site of the 1st Continental Congress, showcases the city’s pivotal role in the American Revolution.

The tour concludes at Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and Constitution were signed.

Elfreths Alley

Nestled in the heart of historic Philadelphia, Elfreths Alley stands as a captivating relic of colonial America. As the oldest continuously inhabited residential street in the United States, this quaint alleyway offers a glimpse into the past:

1. Lined with 18th-century rowhouses, the alley’s charming architecture reflects the Georgian and Federal styles that defined the colonial era.

2. Visitors can explore the homes of prominent early American figures, including silversmith Philip Syng Jr., who crafted the inkstand used to sign the Declaration of Independence.

3. The alley’s cobblestoned path and gas lamps evoke a sense of timelessness, transporting guests back to the days of America’s founding.

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Christ Church Philadelphia

Towering above the surrounding historic buildings, Christ Church Philadelphia stands as a testament to the city’s colonial heritage.

For 25 minutes, visitors explore this renowned Episcopal church established in 1695. They’ll see the burial sites of notable figures like Benjamin Franklin, learn about the church’s Georgian architectural style, and discover its role in the American Revolution.

With its steeple and bell tower, Christ Church remains an iconic landmark that played a crucial part in shaping the nation’s founding.

Christ Church’s steeple and bell tower stand as an iconic landmark that played a crucial role in the nation’s founding.

The tour provides a glimpse into Philadelphia’s storied past and the significance of this revered religious institution.

Franklin Court, Philadelphia

After exploring the historic Christ Church, the tour continues to Franklin Court, the former residence of Benjamin Franklin.

At this site, visitors learn about the influential Founding Father’s life and legacy.

Key highlights include:

1. The archeological remains of Franklin’s home, which provide a glimpse into his daily life.

2. The Benjamin Franklin Museum, which offers interactive exhibits on his inventions, scientific discoveries, and political contributions.

3. The adjacent Franklin Court Printing Office, a reconstruction of Franklin’s print shop where he published the Pennsylvania Gazette.

Carpenters Hall, Philadelphia

From Franklin Court, the tour then leads participants to Carpenters Hall, an iconic landmark that played a pivotal role in the American Revolution.

This Georgian-style building, constructed in 1770, was the meeting place for the First Continental Congress in 1774. It’s where the delegates gathered to discuss grievances against the British Crown and take the first steps towards independence.

Today, visitors can explore the hall’s well-preserved interior and learn about its significance in the nation’s founding.

The tour allows guests to enjoy this historic site and envision the momentous events that transpired within its walls.

Tour Experience

The Colonial Philadelphia Walking Tour is led by knowledgeable architect-historians who bring the city’s rich history and architecture to life.

The focus of the tour is to:

Explore historical buildings, discuss significant American history events, and experience an outdoor tour rain or shine.

1. Explore historical buildings from the founding era, including Georgian, Federal, and Revival architectural styles.

2. Discuss significant American history events that took place at sites like Carpenters Hall and Independence Hall.

3. Provide a comprehensive outdoor experience that operates rain or shine, requiring comfortable shoes and a charged smartphone.

Participants should be prepared for a moderate level of physical activity during the 2-2.5 hour tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Kind of Transportation Is Provided for the Tour?

No transportation is provided for this tour. It’s a walking tour that explores the historical sites and architecture of colonial Philadelphia. Participants must be able to walk moderate distances on their own.

Are There Any Restroom Breaks During the Tour?

The tour does not have scheduled restroom breaks, but participants are encouraged to use restroom facilities as needed during the walk. There are public restrooms available along the tour route that can be accessed during free time.

Can We Take Photos During the Tour?

Yes, participants are encouraged to take photos throughout the tour. The guide will provide helpful tips on capturing the best shots of the historical buildings and sites along the way.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, there is an option to extend the tour duration. Participants can inquire with the tour operator about extending the tour beyond the standard 2-2.5 hours to explore additional sites or spend more time at the key highlights.

Is the Tour Guide Able to Provide Recommendations for Dining or Other Activities?

The tour guide can likely provide recommendations for dining and other activities in the area. They are knowledgeable about the local attractions and amenities, and may be able to offer suggestions to enhance the visitor’s experience.

The Sum Up

The Philadelphia Colonial Walking Tour offers an immersive journey through America’s formative years. Guided by knowledgeable experts, participants explore iconic sites like Elfreths Alley, Christ Church, and Independence Hall, delving into the rich historical architecture and events that shaped the nation. Whether a history enthusiast or a curious explorer, this tour promises an engaging outdoor adventure that brings the past to life.

You can check availability for your dates here: