The Ghosts of Philadelphia Tour

If you’re looking for an evening adventure that combines history with a touch of the supernatural, the Ghosts of Philadelphia Tour offers just that. As a carefully curated walk through the historic Old City, this experience promises a mix of fascinating stories, eerie legends, and impressive landmarks—all wrapped up in a family-friendly, accessible package.

From the moment you meet at the lively City Tavern, you’re transported back to colonial times with a dash of ghostly mischief. We love how this tour blends authentic Philadelphia history with ghostly tales that are perfect for all ages. The small-group format (capped at 15 people) ensures an intimate experience, and the accessible route makes it suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.

One thing to keep in mind is the price point of $24.99 per person, which we find offers excellent value given the quality of storytelling, the knowledgeable guides, and the conveniently walkable itinerary. If you’re a history enthusiast, a family looking for a fun night activity, or a tourist wanting a different perspective on Philly’s past, this tour is likely to hit the mark.

Key Points

• Balanced mix of history and ghost stories makes it engaging for all ages
• Small group size creates personalized, less rushed interactions
• Family-friendly and accessible for strollers and wheelchairs
• Cost-effective at under $25 for an hour and a half of entertainment and education
• Guides like Claire, Roux, and Jonathan are praised for their storytelling skills and knowledge
• Stops at major landmarks like Independence Hall and the Bishop White House offer cultural and spooky insights

A Closer Look at the Experience

The Ghosts of Philadelphia Tour clocks in at about 90 minutes and takes you through some of the most iconic spots in Old City, all with a spirited twist. We’ll break down each stop and what you can expect, along with insights drawn from actual reviews to help set your expectations.

Meeting Point & Start Time

The tour kicks off at 138 S 2nd St at 8:00 pm. Starting in the evening is perfect for setting a spooky mood, and the cool night air adds to the atmosphere. The fact that it’s a mobile ticket means you can store your pass on your phone, making check-in smooth and contactless.

Bishop White House: Colonial Roots with a Ghostly Twist

Your first stop is the Bishop White House, where you’ll learn about Reverend William White. Here, the tour offers a fascinating story about his life—how his world was turned upside down by mosquitos and the lingering spirits supposedly left behind. Reviewers mention that this stop is a free, 20-minute visit and a good way to set the historical scene. One reviewer noted that the story about the spirits left from the events involving White is “all about the spirits left behind from these events,” giving a spooky, historical flavor.

American Philosophical Society Museum: Benjamin Franklin’s Afterlife

Next, the tour visits the American Philosophical Society Museum, a favorite among history buffs, especially those who love Franklin. The guide shares stories of Benjamin Franklin’s lively spirit and the antics he’s said to get up to in this building. With most reviews praising the guide’s storytelling, this stop offers a playful look at one of Philly’s most iconic figures—both in life and after. The museum itself is an engaging stop, with free admission, so the stories about Franklin’s afterlife add a fun layer.

Independence Hall: The Historic & Haunting Heart of Philadelphia

The final major stop is Independence Hall, the birthplace of American independence. The tour explores the second-floor hauntings, which are linked to the stories of oppression and the fight for freedom. One reviewer noted that this stop reveals “a haunted history of how the fight for liberty was also a site of ghostly activity.” Expect to learn about the vile acts that took place here, which are believed to have left some spirits behind. The familiar surrounding architecture and the echoes of history make this a thrilling, thought-provoking end to your walk.

Guides and Their Impact

Throughout the reviews, guides stand out as one of the tour’s biggest strengths. Claire, Roux, and Jonathan receive high praise for their storytelling prowess, friendliness, and historical knowledge. One reviewer exclaimed that Claire was an “amazing storyteller,” and others appreciated Roux’s engaging manner and her ability to make the stories exciting and understandable for all ages.

The guides’ ability to blend humor and history keeps the tour lively and engaging, even when recounting darker tales. Their attentiveness to questions and their personable approach create a relaxed atmosphere, making the experience enjoyable for families and solo travelers alike.

Tour Size and Accessibility

With a cap of 15 to 30 travelers, this tour avoids the chaos of large groups, allowing for more interaction and personalized storytelling. It’s also stroller and wheelchair accessible, which is a big plus for families or visitors with mobility needs. Several reviewers mentioned that guides are accommodating and engaging even with children, making this a genuinely family-friendly activity.

Cost and Value

At $24.99 per person, this tour offers solid value. For 90 minutes of guided walk through historic landmarks sprinkled with ghost stories, the price feels reasonable—especially considering the small-group intimacy and quality of guides. Since admission fees for the stops are free, the cost largely goes toward the storytelling and experience itself.

Timing & Weather Considerations

The tour runs most nights at 8 pm, ideal for experiencing Philly by night, which adds to the spooky vibe. Keep in mind that good weather is required, and cancellations due to weather are fully refunded or rescheduled, which gives travelers peace of mind.

Authenticity & Review Insights

Many reviewers mention that the guides are well-versed and bring historical figures to life, with anecdotes that make the stories memorable. One comment about tour guides being “very knowledgeable” and “engaging” highlights the importance of storytelling skills for such themed tours.

A common praise is for the balance between historical facts and ghostly tales. Several reviews mention that the stories are “heavier on history,” which makes it meaningful rather than just spooky for the sake of spooks. The tour’s ability to educate while entertain is a significant selling point.

There are a few minor critiques—some found the narration a bit “long winded” or wished for more “compelling storytelling,” but overall, the feedback leans positive, emphasizing the friendly guides and interesting stops.

Final Thoughts

The Ghosts of Philadelphia Tour offers an engaging way to explore Philly’s historic Old City with an intriguing supernatural twist. It’s a well-paced, family-friendly experience that balances educational content and spooky stories in a small group setting. At just under $25, it’s a budget-friendly option for travelers wanting a memorable evening activity.

Whether you’re a history lover, a thrill-seeker, or visiting with children, this tour provides a captivating mix of landmarks and legends. The guides’ stories, combined with the atmospheric night walk, create an experience that’s both fun and enlightening.

If you enjoy stories that bring history alive—sometimes with a ghostly nudge—this is a tour you shouldn’t miss. Just be prepared for some spooky tales and a good dose of Philly’s haunted past!

FAQs

Is the Ghosts of Philadelphia Tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is described as family-friendly, and guides are appreciated for engaging with kids. It’s also stroller and wheelchair accessible.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 138 S 2nd St and ends back at the same location, making it easy to plan your evening.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, the tour is typically booked about 11 days in advance, and it’s recommended to reserve early to secure a spot.

How much does the tour cost?
The price is $24.99 per person, which includes all fees and taxes.

Are the tickets mobile?
Yes, the tickets are mobile, making check-in quick and contactless.

Is the tour conducted rain or shine?
Good weather is required, and if canceled due to rain or weather issues, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund.

Is there a limit on group size?
Yes, the tour caps at 30 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted on the tour.

The Ghosts of Philadelphia Tour provides a charming, informative, and slightly spooky way to see some of Philly’s most revered landmarks. It’s perfect for history buffs who enjoy supernatural stories, families seeking a fun evening outing, or anyone curious about the city’s darker legends. The small group size and knowledgeable guides make it a standout experience, delivering both entertainment and education in a lively nighttime setting.

For those interested in a unique, affordable, and family-friendly way to explore Philadelphia’s historic core, this tour is a worthwhile choice. Just remember to dress warmly for the evening walk and keep an open mind for some ghostly tales—after all, history can be pretty haunted in Philly.