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Philadelphia History, Highlights, & Revolution Tour

Philadelphia History, Highlights, & Revolution Tour

Overview

Philadelphia is widely regarded as one of America’s most historically significant cities, and for good reason! This is the city where the Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution were born. It was Philly that served as America’s capital before Washington DC even existed. Here is where the American flag was created, where Ben Franklin proved that lightning was electricity, and where the iconic Liberty Bell rang and cracked but endures as a symbol of freedom. These are just a few examples of how Philadelphia has helped shape the United States of America. Come and take a guided stroll through Independence National Park, along the cobblestone streets of Old City, past buildings, statues, and monuments, and through the history you think you know. Your local guide will separate the fact from the fiction and you will be amazed by Philadelphia’s remarkable past.

City: Philadelphia

Thu 26 Dec

Other dates

You can choose the date already on the booking website

Starting at $59.00

Make a reservation

Thu 26 Dec

Starting at $59.00

Make a reservation

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What's Included

A donation to a local community organization.

National Park Service Fee for guided groups.

Admission to a demonstration at the Museum of the American Revolution.

Local, English-speaking guide.

Additional Info

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
Guides required to regularly wash hands

What To Expect

The Signer

Your tour starts in the Signer’s Garden at the statue of The Signer. This statue celebrates and represents all of the signers of the Declaration of Independence and US Constitution and the spirit of freedom that they continue to embody into modern day!

Independence National Historical Park

In this park you'll get to see a plethora of historical landmarks such as Independence Hall, Congress Hall, and Old City Hall. Your guide will talk you through the history of them all and highlight the significance of their role in the development of modern-day Philly, the United States, and global democracy.

Independence Mall

Independence Mall is home to the National Constitution Center, Independence Visitors Center, and many of the highlights of Independence National Park. As you walk through and absorb the atmosphere, our guide will keep you posted on its history - and fill you in on all the useful info while you're in the park and surrounding neighborhoods.

Independence Hall

This iconic building (and image on the $100 bill) is a beacon of democracy to Americans and other nations around the world. On our tour, we'll see Independence Hall from outside, as we encircle it and talk about the philosophies, trials, and triumphs of the Founding Fathers who worked here when our nation was born.

Congress Hall

The original home for the United States Congress, this building is one of the adjoining buildings of Independence Hall.

Old City Hall

Hear stories about this magnificent building, its role in building modern-day democracy, and the founding members and philosophies of our country.

Liberty Bell Center

Learn about the history (and dispel some of the myths!) of Liberty Bell and how it has been used over the years - inspiring everyone from abolitionists, to suffragettes, to the civil rights movement.

Carpenters' Hall

We’ll see the iconic Carpenters Hall - where the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania was founded. This location also holds immense importance to American Independence, as it was where the first Continental Congress was held. You’ll hear plenty of stories about this cornerstone of American history as we admire the building from the outside.

Museum of the American Revolution

One of the newest museums in Philadelphia offers an incredible look at the stories, artifacts, and people that shaped the American Revolution. We’ll go inside to see a presentation of George Washington’s War Tent - which was present during many critical moments during the Revolutionary War. When your tour is over, you’ll be able to get a discounted ticket to see the rest of the museum.

Elfreth's Alley

As the oldest continuously-occupied residential street in the entire United States, this street is a gorgeous vision of history and its architecture dates back to the early 1700s. The unique brick work, narrow homes, and unique features are truly what make it a national treasure.

Betsy Ross House

You'll pass by Betsy Ross House, named after a famous seamstress and flag maker who is said to have sewn the first ever American flag! We'll certainly set you straight about the many myths surrounding this "Founding Mother."

Benjamin Franklin's Grave

Wander past the burial site of the most renowned inventor in American history, while you walk down Arch Street.

The President's House

Our next stop is nearby, at the President's House! This is where legendary American icons like George Washington and John Adams lived while President. You'll also learn about some of the slaves that lived at this location and how it's still an active archeological site - not too common in a city's downtown area.

Show 10 more stops

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Traveler Photos

Reviews (161)

Liora_H

Sep 2022

Carla was our tour guide and she did an amazing job explaining all the historical sights we’ve seen. While we didn’t see all the major sights PA has to offer, it was a good in depth tour for some of the major sights. My 10 years old was very engaged :) thanks again Carla!

Whittier-Jazz

Sep 2022

She started out with, What the Founding Father's meant was, Freedom for rich, white men--not freedom for all. Which I felt was very disingenuous. She isn't realizing that those were radical ideals, breaking away from British royal rule. But I guess she expected everything done in one fell swoop through the Articles of Confederation at the 1st Continental Congress! That just tainted the rest of the entire tour for me.

Response from Host

Sep 2022

Thank you for leaving this feedback. Please be assured that your guide was not "downing" our Founding Fathers. Our tour looks at the idea of liberty through a very wide lens. Discussing this topic is complex. Our guides take a deep look at our history and discuss the intricacies of "liberty" during the founding of our nation. As with many of our tours, we strive to offer many different perspectives on a given topic. This gives the guest a full view, which is something we pride ourselves on.

LeslieattheBeach

Sep 2022

Wanted a fun way to learn about Philadelphia’s history. Chose this 2.5 hour walking tour around Old City. Tour guide Carla was terrific. I preferred the smaller group. Took us to many highlights, sharing lots of detail and points of interest. There was a surprise stop that included a short film with an ending I did not know about or see coming. Enjoyed the morning tour, with plenty of time in the day to get lunch after and visit museums for in depth look.

Response from Host

Sep 2022

Thank you for joining us and for leaving this wonderful review! We like to think that this tour is a great introduction to Old City Philly. Not only does it give you deep insight into the neighborhood and its historic significance, but it also helps you plan the rest of your stay in Philly.