city tours in philadelphia

THE 10 BEST Philadelphia Tours & Excursions

Philadelphia tours.

• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Walking Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Traditional)
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Philadelphia Old City Historic Walking Tour with 10+ Top Sites

2. Revolution and the Founders: History Tour of Philadelphia

3. Philadelphia Hop-On Hop-Off City Tour

4. Dark Philly Adult Night Tour

5. Flavors of Philly Food Tour

6. Philadelphia History, Highlights, & Revolution Walking Tour

7. Double Decker Hop-On Hop-Off City Sightseeing Philadelphia (1, 2, or 3-Day)

8. Half-Day American Revolution Tour in The Valley Forge

9. 4-Day New York Tour to Niagara Falls, Washington and Philadelphia

10. BYOB Historically Hilarious Trolley Tour of Philadelphia

11. A Day in Amish Country

12. Philly Ghosts: Phantoms of Philadelphia Tour

13. Philly By Night Double Decker Bus Tour

14. Best of Philadelphia Food Tour-Small Group Walking Tour

15. The Constitutional Walking Tour of Philadelphia

16. Washington DC and Philadelphia in One Day from NYC

17. Liberty History Tour Pub Crawl

18. The Ghosts of Philadelphia Tour

19. 3-Day US Niagara Falls,Washington DC&Philadelphia Tour from NY/NJ

20. Philadelphia Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self Guided Tour

21. Philadelphia Movie and Television Sites Walking Tour

22. Hop On Hop Off Double Decker Bus Tour of Philadelphia

23. Washington D.C,Niagara Falls,Boston 6-Day Tour from New York

24. See My Philadelphia: Private, Customized Tours

25. Museum of the American Revolution Admission Ticket with Audio Guided Option

26. The Italian Market & Beyond with Chefs & Journalists

27. Historic Philadelphia Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour

28. Half Day Private Philadelphia Driving Tour

29. Go City: Philadelphia All-Inclusive Pass with 30+ Attractions

30. Philadelphia and Amish Country Day Trip from New York City

What travelers are saying.

• Live Bus Tracking
• Horse Drawn Services
• Transportation Services

Our 90 minute Christmas Light tour takes you to all the best sites for viewing the holiday lights

Take the Philly By Night tour — an extension of the Big Bus Double Decker

Christmas Thru July Sale! Book now to save. Save 10% on Public Holiday Light Tours or Save $100 on Private Holiday Light Tours. Use Coupon Code "july23" during checkout. Offer Expires July 31st,2023

Allow Philadelphia's Premier Sightseeing Tour Company to show you the sights and tell you the tales of a city that forged a nation, cheered for Rocky, invented the soft pretzel, and is home to the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall!

Whether you enjoy one of our daily Hop On/Hop Off tours, a Philly by Night tour, a walking tour of Historic Old City, a majestic horse drawn carriage tour, or a private electric car tour, our highly trained staff will enlighten and entertain you with historical tales, cultural highlights, and engaging stories of the city's past, present, and future. To maximize your sightseeing experience, choose a 2 Day or 3 Day Hop On/Hop Off Pass, a combination tour, or a specialty tour from the options below.

Big Bus Hop-on Hop-Off Double Decker Sightseeing Tour Departs From SW Corner of 6th and Market Streets: 1 Day Pass

Experience Philadelphia from the top of a modern Double Decker Bus! See the cultural attractions and historic sites from one of our open top Double Decker buses. Professional Tour Guides bring old and new Philadelphia to life on our 90 minute fully narrated hop on/hop off tour.

Big Bus Hop-on Hop-Off Double Decker Sightseeing Tour Departs From SW Corner of 6th and Market Streets: 2 Day Pass

Big bus hop-on hop-off double decker sightseeing tour departs from sw corner of 6th and market streets: 3 day pass.

Philly By Night Sightseeing Tour Departs from 12th & Filbert Streets

Want a taste of Historic Philadelphia under a starry night sky? The Philly By Night tour — an extension of the Big Bus Double Decker tour from Philadelphia Trolley Works — takes off nightly for a city-wide tour of Philadelphia’s most notable attractions. Suggested Boarding Time 7:30pm

*** We offer Private Philly By Night Tours all year for groups of 20 or more! Call 215-389-8687 for pricing. ***

Philly By Night Sightseeing Tour Departs from 12th & Filbert Streets: 1 Day Pass/Philly by Night Combo

Philly by night sightseeing tour departs from 12th & filbert streets: 2 day pass/philly by night combo.

Holiday Light Tour – Individuals

Hop aboard our classic Victorian trolley to experience the holiday lights in style. Our 90 minute Christmas Light tour takes you to all the best sites for viewing the holiday lights. We are the city of Brotherly Love, and a city of neighborhoods, that celebrate the holidays with unique light displays. Sing along to seasonal […]

Holiday Light Tour – Groups

FranklinMobile Electric Car Tours

Philadelphia’s Only Climate Friendly Private Tour Electric Mobile Car Tours

Journey through Philadelphia’s history with a modern twist

Franklin’s Footsteps Walking Tour

Private Groups only! Please call 215-389-8687 for more information.

Walk in the footsteps of Benjamin Franklin and other Colonial Philadelphians who forged a nation. Walk along Philadelphia’s oldest streets and alleys and discover where the United States was born. The Franklin’s Footsteps Colonial Walking Tour is led by a professional guide in colonial dress and will take you past the Betsy Ross House, …

76 Carriage Company Horse Drawn Tours Temporarily Unavailable

*We are currently in the process of relocating the carriage operation. Our intention is to be back in service sometime this spring. You can refer to the announcements section of our homepage for updates.

Your Carriage Awaits! Sit back, relax, and experience Philadelphia’s history and other popular attractions aboard one of our stylish coaches. Journey back in time on an enchanting carriage ride through the tree-lined streets of Philadelphia’s Independence National Historic Park, Society Hill, and Old City. Your personal Guide will whisk you away on a leisurely ride through historic Philadelphia.

Go City All-Inclusive Pass

Discover over 30 top Philadelphia attractions and save with Go City. Your All- Inclusive Pass gives you 1, 2, 3, or 5 days to see and experience as much of the city as  possible. Visit the Betsy Ross House, get hands-on at the Franklin Institute of Science, hop on  an entertaining guided tour with Big Bus, meet the critters at Adventure Aquarium and so  much more! 

• Access to 30+ attractions for 1, 2, 3, or 5 consecutive days
• Must-do attractions in Philadelphia such as Eastern State Penitentiary and the Philadelphia Zoo
• All on one app – download to your mobile device and scan your pass for  admission

Please note: The Go City All-Inclusive Pass is only valid for a 1 Day pass on the Big Bus even if you have a multiple day Pass.

Sightseeing in Philly? Create your own Philadelphia experience, including a Big Bus/Trolley Works tour. Save 40% or more on admission and skip most ticket lines with Philadelphia CityPASS. Visit any 3, 4 or 5 of Philadelphia’s 12 most loved attractions over a 9-day period, in any order you wish. No need to decide now, choose the attractions as you go. Cost starts at $49 (adult); $34 (child 3-12). Purchase ONLINE today and you will immediately receive mobile and printable tickets by email.

Please note: The Philadelphia City Pass is only valid for a 1 Day pass on the Big Bus even if you have a multiple day Philadelphia City Pass.

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• Please Call : 215-389-TOUR (8687)
• Fax : 215-389-1279
• Email : [email protected] for general info, charter or special information
• Email : [email protected] for Public Big Bus Tour information
• transportation services
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9 best philadelphia tours: liberty bell, cheesesteaks & more.

Bus tours, walking tours and even "Rocky"-themed excursions are among the offerings.

The Best Philadelphia Tours

J. Smith | Courtesy of Visit Philadelphia

The "Rocky" statue is one of the sights you'll see along the Yo, Philly! Rocky Film Tour.

There are so many things to do in Philadelphia that the historic landmarks alone – Independence Hall , the Liberty Bell , the National Constitution Center , the Betsy Ross House – could fill an entire trip. To make the most of your time, consider a guided Philadelphia tour that covers a variety of attractions and experiences, from visiting lesser-known "Rocky" filming locations with a Sylvester Stallone look-alike to tasting your way through the city's best food markets with an expert.

Based on travel expert opinions and recent views from sites like Tripadvisor and Google, these are the best tours in Philadelphia.

The Yo, Philly! Rocky Film Tour

Price: From $350 Duration: 3 hours

Mike Kunda, a lifelong fan of "Rocky" and the winner of a national "Rocky" look-alike contest, leads private tours to "Rocky" filming locations throughout Philadelphia. You'll visit Rocky's apartment from the first movie, the Front Street Gym featured in "Creed," the infamous site of the Tommy Gunn fight in "Rocky V," the Rocky Steps and Statue and more. Kunda will share stories told to him by actor Sylvester Stallone from his time on set during the filming of "Rocky Balboa," "Creed" and "Creed II," and there will be plenty of "Rocky" trivia along the way. Participants praise Kunda's depth and breadth of knowledge and love his enthusiasm.

The tour is limited to private groups of up to seven people for a flat rate of $350. Tours must be booked in advance on the official website.

View & Book Tickets: The Yo, Philly! Rocky Film Tour

Philly by Segway – 1 Hour Segway Adventure of Philadelphia

Price: From $65 Duration: 1 hour

This short Philadelphia tour allows up to eight participants to see several of the city's top sights without exhausting themselves. Tour-takers will hop on Segways to glide through sections like Queen Village, Old City and Society Hill. Along the way, guides share information about Philadelphia's history and attractions, and even take photos, which are emailed to riders for free within two days after the tour. Tourgoers say the guides, who make everyone feel safe, are excellent.

Tours run daily at 10 a.m. and 12:30 and 3 p.m. There is also a seasonal 5:30 p.m. outing. Tickets start at $65 per person. Riders must be at least 12 years old, weigh between 100 and 300 pounds and wear a helmet. Philly by Segway also offers a cheesesteak tour .

View & Book Tickets:  Viator | GetYourGuide

B. Krist | Courtesy of Visit Philadelphia

Big Bus Philadelphia – 1-Day Tour

Price: Adults from $36; kids from $17 Duration: 90 minutes or more

If you're looking for a traditional hop-on, hop-off bus tour in Philly, climb aboard the Big Bus Philadelphia for an overview of the city. If any one of the landmarks along the route pique your interest, hop off to explore and hop back on when you're ready; buses frequent stops every 25 to 45 minutes and there's no limit to how many times you can board the bus over the course of a day. If you decide to stay on the bus, the tour lasts about 90 minutes. Stops along the blue route – Big Bus' only line – include the Betsy Ross House, LOVE Park and the Barnes Foundation . Experienced English-speaking guides offer a comprehensive commentary along the route. While this is the highest-rated Philadelphia bus tour, reviews are mixed. Some travelers note the bus is best for transportation only and not for learning about the history of the city, while others say they were pleased with their guide and the overall experience.

Buses run daily from approximately 9:30 a.m. to around 5 or 6 p.m.; hours may vary in the winter months. Tickets start at $36 for adults and $17 for kids ages 4 to 12. Two- and three-day bus tour tickets are also available.

View & Book Tickets: Viator | GetYourGuide

The Constitutional Walking Tour

Price: Adults from $23; kids from $17 Duration: 75 minutes

The Constitutional Walking Tour provides an overview of the Independence National Historical Park area, stopping by more than 20 of the city's historic locations on a 1.25-mile journey. Visitors will see and learn about important sights, including Independence Hall, the Betsy Ross House and Old City Hall, among other landmarks. Participants rave about the knowledgeable guides, who they say are excellent historians.

Tours are offered three times every day from April to November; exact times vary by day. Tickets start at $23 for adults and $17 for children ages 3 to 12. The company also offers a combination package, which includes the Spirits of '76 Ghost Tour.

View & Book Tickets: Viator

Grim Philly Twilight Tours – Dark Philly Adult Tour

Price: From $30 Duration: 2 hours

Enjoy nearly two tours of haunting history on the Dark Philly Adult Tour from Grim Philly Twilight Tours. Your expert guide – who is either a college professor or a history degree-holder – will take you on a historic sightseeing walk. You'll see the city's top sights – including the site of the first White House and homes of several Founding Fathers – illuminated as guides share stories of ghosts, executions and vampires, among other dark tales. Despite the spooky content, travelers say the guides are great storytellers and make plenty of jokes. The tour is not appropriate for young children, however.

Tickets start at $30 and tours run nightly at 8 p.m., with the exception of Tuesdays in the winter months. Grim Philly offers a variety of other tours, including haunted pub crawls and daytime history walks suitable for all ages.

View & Book Tickets:  Viator  |  GetYourGuide

City Food Tours Philadelphia – Flavors of Philly

Price: Adults from $49; kids from $44 Duration: 2.5 hours

Arrive with an empty stomach for the Flavors of Philly tour, which makes stops at five local eateries (including Reading Terminal Market ) over the course of about 2 1/2 hours. Guides will discuss Philly's food history and the origin of the city's iconic foods, all while participants nosh on local favorites like cheesesteaks, Cheez Whiz fries, tomato pie, soft pretzels and more. No one walks away hungry, according to reviewers. They also say the food is delicious.

The company advises that this tour is not designed for children younger than 5. Tours are offered Monday through Friday at 1:30 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays around noon. Other tours offered include Historic Old City and East Passyunk.

Founding Footsteps – BYOB Tours of Philadelphia

Price: Adults from $48.50; kids from $25 Duration: 2 hours

Bring your own beer or wine and hop aboard a trolley for a different kind of Philadelphia tour. You'll not only see the city's major attractions and learn insider knowledge of lesser-known sites, you'll get to sip your beverage of choice and listen to corny jokes. Travelers say the tour is a hilarious and fun way to see and learn about Philly; even locals say they enjoy the trip.

Tours last around two hours, but the length of the tour can depend on timing and how many stops the group decides to make. The tour is offered on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 1, 2 and 4 p.m. Tickets start at $48.50 for adults, with discounts for seniors and children. Keep in mind that though children are welcome on the tour, imbibers must be 21 or older. Founding Footsteps is also known for its Bad Things Happen in Philly tour.

View & Book Tickets:   Viator  |  GetYourGuide

K. Kelly | Courtesy of Visit Philadelphia

Mural Arts Philadelphia Tours

Price: Adults from $25; kids from $18 Duration: 1.5 hours

Aside from historic landmarks and good food, Philadelphia has myriad murals; in fact, it's known as the "Mural Capital of the World." You’re bound to see some of the city's more than 4,000 murals no matter where you go, but for a unique perspective, take one of the tours hosted by Mural Arts Philadelphia (the largest public art program in the U.S.). Typically available at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays, the tours provide an in-depth look at some of the city's most iconic murals, including the inspiration and artists behind them. Recent travelers say they enjoyed the experience and only wish they could have seen more murals on the tour.

Tour routes vary from week to week, and are either on foot or by trolley. Tickets for walking tours start at $25 for adults and $18 for kids 12 and younger; tickets for trolley tours cost more. Check the schedule ahead of your trip and note that tickets must be purchased in advance.

View & Book Tickets: Mural Arts Philadelphia

Free Tours by Foot – Independence Mall Tour

Price: $3 reservation fee; tips are encouraged Duration: 2 hours

This Philadelphia tour technically isn't free as advance reservations are required and include a $3-per-person booking fee – but it's still cheap and fun, according to reviewers. On the roughly two-hour jaunt, guides will walk you through historic Philadelphia and discuss the early history of the city with lighthearted humor and trivia. Some of the sights covered include Carpenters' Hall, Independence Hall, Congress Hall, Christ Church, Ben Franklin's burial site and City Tavern. The guides earn high marks from visitors, who applaud their vast historical knowledge and entertaining delivery.

Tours are offered at 10:30 a.m. daily as well as 2 p.m. on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays; winter hours may vary. Italian Market and Chinatown tours are also available, among other options.

View & Book Tickets: Free Tours by Foot

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

A former resident of Philly, Amanda Norcross now lives in the city's suburbs. She used her personal experiences and recommendations from other locals as well as reviews on Google and Tripadvisor to determine the best tours in Philadelphia.

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Hotels in Philadelphia
• The Best Places to Visit in Pe nnsylvania
• The Top Romantic Getaways in Pennsylvania

Tags: Philadelphia , Tours , Vacations , Travel , Pennsylvania Vacations , US Vacations , Mid-Atlantic Vacations

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City Hall Tower Tour

See the city from William Penn's point of view! The City Hall Tower Tour offers a panoramic view of Philadelphia's landscape from 548 feet above ground. Ascend to the top of the historic building via elevator to enjoy a spectacular view of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway and city skyline from the city’s highest open-air observation deck.

Tours depart from the City Hall Visitor Center.  

1 Penn Square Philadelphia , PA 19107 United States

Directions...

City Hall Visitor Center

City Hall Interior & Exterior Tour with Tower Tour

Philadelphia Tours

Tour philadelphia with a local expert guide, featured tours.

• Most Popular!
• Clock 10:30am , 2:00pm
• Ticket Walking
• Hour Glass 2.5 Hours

Philadelphia History, Highlights, & Revolution

View the most iconic historical sights of Independence National Park, admire beautiful architecture, and absorb the rich historical significance of landmarks.

• Clock Variable
• Ticket Driving
• Hour Glass 4-8 Hours

City of Philadelphia Private Driving Tour

Explore all of the Must-See spots of Philadelphia to their fullest! Choose from one of our pre-planned itineraries, or create your own.

Best of Philadelphia Food Tour

Philadelphia is a city rich in culture and cuisine. Join us on this walking tour where you’ll indulge in both the classic eats and undiscovered delights of Center City’s culinary scene! 

Rocky Movie Locations Private Driving Tour

Experience the best of Rocky’s Philadelphia with our half-day and full-day private tours! Visit iconic filming locations, dine at local hotspots like Pat’s King of Steaks, and strike a pose on the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Book now for an unforgettable cinematic adventure!

• Clock 9:00am
• Ticket Driving , Walking
• Hour Glass 4.5 Hours

Valley Forge: American Revolution Tour

Immerse yourself in the lives of American patriots and relive the American Revolution through your guide’s stories and the war artifacts.

• Hour Glass 8 Hours

A Day in Amish Country

Pennsylvania is home to a fascinating culture found in the rural farmlands outside of Philadelphia. Join our tour to understand the complex history and lifestyle of the Amish community and dispel the myths of a much-misunderstood people.

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• Clock 2:00pm
• Hour Glass 2 Hours

South Philly Art Tour

Head into the heart of the Queen Village and Bella Vista neighborhoods to explore beautiful and surprising pieces of public art, including breathtaking murals and mind-bending mosaics.

• Clock 10:30am

Italian Market Food Tour

Join us for a stroll through the Italian Market, among the vibrant fruit stalls, past the fragrant bakeries, into various shops and unique stores, and peeking down hidden alleys covered in fantastical street art.

Private Brandywine Valley and Longwood Gardens Driving Tour

Discover historic estates, museums, and art, complemented by wine tasting and a battlefield tour, all arranged for your private excursion from Philadelphia!

Private Countryside Driving Tour

Our Countryside Tour takes you out of Philadelphia to the best parts of the surrounding countryside – you’ll experience both Valley Forge National Park and Amish Country all in one epic day!

• Ticket Custom
• Hour Glass 4-10 Hours

Reimagined Spaces Custom Tour

Visit buildings and spaces that have been repurposed and given new life and discover the hidden history behind famous landmarks.

Food Sustainability Custom Tour

Focusing on food sustainability in Philadelphia, this tour showcases several aspects of promoting sustainable practices in an urban environment.

Conservation Custom Tour

Your tour focusing on conservation in Philadelphia can showcase several aspects of promoting conservation in an urban environment.

Why take a Philadelphia day tour with us? We give you the insider’s view of the city. We’re full of Philadelphia stories and trivia, good information, and useful tips. Let us impress you with our local knowledge of Philadelphia, the City of Brotherly Love.

Choose from our different sightseeing tours of Philadelphia and enjoy a few hours, half a day, or a full day with a friendly, personable, and knowledgeable guide and take home some of the stories, smells, tastes, and sounds of our wonderful city.

Request a Custom Private Tour

Want to customize your own tour? Fill out the form below to create your own private tour, and we will be in touch.

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• Most Popular!

Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour in Philadelphia

Experience Philadelphia with an expert-guided tour of the city on our hop-on, hop-off double-decker bus tours.

Quick Details

• Choose a ticket, select your date, and hop on!
• 90-minute Philadelphia tour, for the full loop, with 28 stops
• Expert live local guide commentary, and multi-language audio commentary in French, German, Mandarin, Spanish, Korean, Portuguese, Japanese, and Hindi
• Hop-on, hop-off service on a London-style double-decker bus
• All guests must check in and start at 21 S. 5th St. in front of the Bourse building
• Ticket vouchers can be purchased and redeemed at stops 1, 5, and 28
• See our FAQ for a detailed explanation of the difference between the 1/2/3 day and 24/48/72 hour tickets

Experience a Philadelphia Tour with an Expert Guide!

Our dedicated route provides locals and visitors with access to over 100 sites and attractions throughout Philadelphia. Travelling over 16 miles of the city, Philadelphia Sightseeing Tour buses provide the perfect combination of expert commentary and transportation so that our riders can gain a truly local experience when touring the City of Brotherly Love. You hear all about Philadelphias’ rich history and culture while traveling aboard an open-top double-decker bus. Our city tour is a must when you visit Philadelphia!

Philadelphia is a city of neighborhoods and many different experiences. Review our route map of Philadelphia Sightseeing Tours’ hop-on, hop-off services to see what Philadelphia landmarks you can easily visit via our 28 different stops along the way. The daytime hop-on, hop-off loops begin at the Bourse Building in the Independence National Historic Park, right across from the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. Multi-language audio commentary in French, German, Mandarin, Spanish, Korean, Portuguese, Japanese, and Hindi.

Top Sightseeing Spots in Philadelphia

Beginning at the Bourse Building right across from Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, plug into our multi-lingual headphone audio to discover the origins of America, since Philadelphia is where America’s Founding Fathers first declared independence from England, and then ratified the US Constitution and Bill of Rights to start the new nation. Along the way, enjoy stunning views of such historic landmarks including the Christ Church Burial Grounds, Elfreth’s Alley, the Betsy Ross House, and Independence Hall, to name just a few.

As you head west, see the Friendship Gate in Chinatown, be amazed by the architecture of Philadelphia’s City Hall, and be sure to explore the various museums along Benjamin Franklin Parkway, including the Barnes Foundation – known as the world’s largest collection of post-impressionistic art in the world. As you continue your journey, marvel at Philadelphia’s growing skyline and get a bird’s-eye view from atop the One Liberty Observation Deck. Your loop finishes up after touring through the charming neighborhood of Society Hill and a drive along the banks of the Delaware River.

Choose a ticket for your Philadelphia tour!

TICKET PRICE INCLUDES HOP-ON, HOP-OFF TOUR TICKET AND TAXES. ADMISSION FEES TO ATTRACTIONS AND HISTORIC SIGHTS NOT INCLUDED.

1-Day Open Top Tour

This 1-day ticket provides you access to all Philadelphia Sightseeing Tours double-decker buses operating on a 28 stop hop-on, hop-off city loop tour.

THIS TICKET IS VALID FOR 1 DAY. JOURNEY TERMINATES AT THE END OF BUSINESS DAY 1

2-Day Open Top Tour

There’s lots to see in Philadelphia – so we recommend purchasing our “Two-Day Open Top Tour” to ensure you have easy access to Philadelphia’s biggest landmarks. Perfect for weekend getaways and extended stays in Philadelphia, our 2-day ticket allows you to hop aboard Philadelphia Sightseeing Tours’ double-deckers for two consecutive days.

THIS TICKET IS VALID FOR 2 CONSECUTIVE DAYS. JOURNEY TERMINATES AT THE END OF BUSINESS DAY 2

3-Day Open Top Tour

Make the most of your visit to Philadelphia, the Birthplace of America and City of Brotherly Love. Our “Three-Day Open Top Tour” provides you with easy and convenient access to many of Philadelphia’s most famous historic and modern-day sights. Over the course of three consecutive days, you’re able to hop on and off at 28 stops to see the historic, cultural, artistic, and fun sides of Philadelphia.

THIS TICKET IS VALID FOR 3 CONSECUTIVE DAYS. JOURNEY TERMINATES AT THE END OF BUSINESS DAY 3

Our Philadelphia tours speak your language

Related Bus Tours

• Hour Glass 90 minutes

Founding Fathers and Mothers

Explore the Philadelphia of the people caught up in the world changing events of 1776. A professional tour guide will lead you on a one mile walking tour through Philadelphia’s most historic square mile in Old City to see some of the city’s most famous sights!

• Hour Glass 24 Hours

Night Tour of Philadelphia

See the dazzling lights of the city from atop a double decker bus! Learn about Philadelphia history, including iconic people and buildings, from a professional tour guide as the twilight turns to a starry sky above you. Recorded audio commentary is available in 9 different languages.

Philadelphia Tours

Explore the heart of philly on the original byob trolley.

Fun Tours In Philadelphia

Welcome to Founding Footsteps Tours! Our unique Philadelphia tours bring American history to life. Join us on a journey through historic Philadelphia. You'll see the sights and hear the stories as you walk in the footsteps of our founding fathers. We guarantee you'll have a whole lot of fun doing it!

For visitors as well as locals, we offer tours in Philadelphia with a unique twist. Join one of our trolley tours where it's always BYOB. Our Stand Up & Drink Tour includes a live comedy show. Take our Beer & Band tour with live music and stops at local breweries and beer gardens.

Looking for something new? Check out our food and history tour. We'll take you through Reading Terminal Market, the historic Old City, the Italian Market, and a few surprise stops. BYOB to drink on board the trolley, with stops to sample iconic food like cheesesteaks and pizza. Or check out our Bad Things Happen In Philly tour and hear about the most disturbing murders and misdeeds from the site where it all happened.

Explore our current activities

Punch Line Philly Presents: Stand-Up & Drink Tour

Indulge in a unique experience where you can sip your favorite beverages while we chauffeur you around the city on our BYOB trolley tour! Sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride as some of Philly's finest comedians take the stage onboard, keeping you entertained with their humor and wit throughout the journey. Leave the driving to us and let the laughter flow as we explore the sights and sounds of Philadelphia in style! Price of admission includes 1 single serviced cocktail, beer or non alcoholic beverage at Punch Line.

Old City Historic Walking Tour

Explore historic Philadelphia on this walking tour of the Old City District, a quick and convenient introduction for first-time visitors. See Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House, Ben Franklin Post Office, Carpenters’ Hall, and more. Then wander down Elfreth’s Alley, the nation’s oldest continuously inhabited residential street. Plus, choose from multiple departure times to suit your needs. Our storytelling guide will cover famous historic moments in American history as well as the history that you won't see in textbooks!

Our Old City Historic Walking Tour can also be booked as a private tour!

Historically Hilarious BYOB Tours of Philadelphia

An entertaining, comedic story-telling adventure through Philadelphia, covering the city's major attractions. Tours runs for 2 hours. All ages are welcome. 21+ to drink.

Tipsy Trolley 21+ BYOB Tours of Philadelphia

Experience an adult-exclusive, entertaining, comedic storytelling adventure through Philadelphia, exploring the city's major attractions. Tours run for 2 hours and participants must be 21 years old and above to enjoy drinks along the way. It's an adult-only fun-filled journey through the heart of the city! <><><><> 21+ only. <><><><>

School Tours for Students

At Founding Footsteps, we take pride in creating tours that are not only educational, but also immersive and captivating for students. Our tours are thoughtfully designed to bring Philadelphia's fascinating history and rich culture to life, providing students with an interactive learning experience that goes beyond the walls of the classroom.

We believe that learning should be engaging and memorable, and our tours are crafted with this principle in mind. We strive to make history come alive for students by incorporating interactive elements and engaging storytelling throughout our tours. By doing so, we hope to instill a lifelong appreciation for history and culture in our young learners.

We understand that budget constraints can be a major concern when planning school trips. That's why we offer competitive pricing options, making our tours accessible to as many students as possible. We believe that every student should have the opportunity to learn and explore outside of the classroom, and we aim to make that possible by providing affordable and high-quality tours.

At the heart of everything we do is our passion for education and our commitment to providing students with an unforgettable experience. We take great care in creating tours that are not only informative, but also engaging and fun. We believe that learning should be an adventure, and we invite students to join us on a journey through Philadelphia's vibrant history and culture.

Brewery/Bar & Restaurant BYOB Tour

An entertaining, 3 hour adventure through Philadelphia or surrounding areas, covering the city's breweries/bars/restaurants of your choice. You chose the destinations, and the time you spend there. Bring your playlist because we have speakers on the trolley! We will pick you up and drop you off! Tours runs for 3 hours+. 21+ to drink.

Book for your:

• Bachelor/ Bachelorette Party • Birthdays • Because it is Saturday and more...

Private Wedding

Private weddings trolley tours can be a unique and special way to celebrate your wedding day. Here are some reasons why you may want to consider a trolley tour for your wedding:

• Convenient transportation: Trolleys offer a convenient way to transport your wedding party and guests to different locations, without the hassle of driving or navigating unfamiliar streets.

• Unique experience: A trolley tour can provide a unique and memorable experience for your wedding guests, and is a great way to show off the city or local area to out-of-towners.

• Photo opportunities: Trolleys can provide a beautiful backdrop for your wedding photos, and offer a chance to capture memorable moments from your special day.

• Customizable tours: Trolley tours can be customized to suit the specific needs and interests of your wedding party, ensuring that everyone has a fun and enjoyable experience.

• Professional driver: Our professional drivers are knowledgeable and experienced, providing a safe and reliable way to transport you and your guests.

Overall, a private wedding trolley tour can be a fun and unique way to celebrate your special day, providing a convenient and memorable way to transport you and your guests. We love weddings and we love to be apart of your special day. Founding Footsteps would love the opportunity to provide transportation for your loved ones to your special occasion.

We are currently placing packages together now for 2023. If you are interested in learning more, please email us at [email protected].

Ghost Walking Tour

Unveil the eerie secrets and haunted history of Philadelphia on our Ghost Tour! Step into the shadows of the city's most haunted streets as we guide you through centuries of chilling tales and spine-tingling encounters.

Led by expert storytellers, our Ghost Tour takes you on a journey through Philadelphia's dark past, where legends of restless spirits and haunted locales come to life. From the cobblestone alleys of Old City to the dimly lit corners of Society Hill, you'll hear bone-chilling stories of paranormal activity and ghostly apparitions that lurk in the shadows.

Discover the haunted history behind iconic landmarks such as the historic Powel House, where spectral sightings have left visitors trembling in fear, and the eerie shadows of Independence Hall, where the echoes of the past still linger.

As darkness descends upon the city, prepare to encounter the restless spirits of Philadelphia's past, from colonial-era specters to legendary figures lost to time. Our Ghost Tour offers a captivating blend of history, mystery, and the supernatural, leaving you spellbound and haunted by the ghostly tales of Philadelphia.

Join us if you dare, as we venture into the haunted heart of Philadelphia on a journey you'll never forget. Are you brave enough to face the ghosts of the past?

Our Ghost Walking Tour can also be booked as a private tour!

Corporate Events

We offer fully customizable corporate tours to cater to your specific needs and preferences. Whether you're looking to kick off your corporate event with a fun and hilarious tour of Philadelphia or customize an itinerary for your team to experience while in the city, we've got you covered.

We can even stock the trolley with local foods and offer a selection of beers or wine to enhance your team's experience (optional). We understand that each corporate event is unique, and we're here to work with you to create a customized tour that meets your needs and exceeds your expectations.

Give us a call today, and our team will provide you with a personalized quote for your event. We're excited to collaborate with you to create a memorable and enjoyable experience for your team in Philadelphia.

Beer & Band Tour

A brewery tour of Philadelphia with live music on our BYOB trolley.

Why choose us?

Philadelphia Tours With Good Storytelling And Bad Jokes

We are a socially conscious company providing walking tours and bus tours onboard Philly's only BYOB trolley. Our knowledgeable local guides are passionate about sharing history through great stories, bad jokes, and cold beer. We are not another boring tour company, and we don't believe in conducting boring tours! Join a scheduled tour, or call us to customize a private tour. Let's explore the history, the grit, and the entrepreneurial spirit of Philadelphia together.

Actual Historian Guide

Our tour guides are not only extremely knowledgeable about the city's history but also have a talent for entertaining and captivating their audience. Their passion for Philadelphia and its rich cultural heritage shines through, adding a personal touch to the tour, and making it all the more enjoyable for participants. With their expert guidance and engaging storytelling, the tour becomes a truly immersive experience, leaving visitors with a deeper appreciation for the city's past and present.

Voted #1 Sightseeing Tour in Philadelphia on TripAdvisor

Visitors have consistently praised the tour's top-rated quality and highly recommended it to others. The high reviews are a testament to the tour's exceptional service, which includes knowledgeable and engaging tour guides who bring Philadelphia's rich history and culture to life. Participants have also appreciated the tour's attention to detail and excellent customer service, making for a memorable and enjoyable experience. Overall, the tour has earned a reputation as one of the best ways to explore Philadelphia's top attractions and hidden gems and is a must-do activity for any traveler to the city.

Supports Community

We not only provide an excellent opportunity for visitors to explore the city's history and culture but also gives back to the community through its charitable donations. By donating a portion of its earnings to various organizations, the tour supports important causes that help improve the lives of others. This commitment to community service is just one of the reasons why participants can feel good about their purchase, knowing that they are contributing to the betterment of society. By choosing to take the tour, visitors can enjoy an unforgettable experience while also making a positive impact on the local community. This reflects the tour's commitment to social responsibility and dedication to creating a better Philadelphia.

Visit The Only UNESCO World Heritage City In The US

In November 2015, Philadelphia received a high honor as the first UNESCO World Heritage City in the US. The city received this designation because of its many historical landmarks, cultural sights, and buildings. The most noteworthy is Independence Hall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution were signed.

Philadelphia's most famous founding father is Benjamin Franklin, a man of many great distinctions. Although he had little formal education, he became an author, publisher, scientist, inventor, diplomat, and statesman. As an entrepreneur, he began a successful printing business and published his annual “Poor Richard’s Almanack”. The same entrepreneurial spirit continues in the city today.

Frequently asked questions

Are all of your tours byob.

All of our tours, except our "Philly Phables" walking tour, are BYOB. We encourage that you bring your own bevarages, drink responsibly and have fun!

Where do your tours START and END?

Starting and ending location varies depending on the tour. Please check the tour pages on our website for more details.

Can I book a PRIVATE TOUR?

Yes! All of our tours can be turned into a completely customizable event for you and your group. Our connections to local bars, our excellent tour guides and talended musicians all go hand-in-hand with creating a truly unique and unforgettable experience.

How long do the tours LAST?

Our tours last anywhere from 90 minutes to three hours depending on the tour. Please check the tour pages on our website for more details.

COMMUNITY CONTENT

9 Fun Activities In Philadelphia For Adults For The Perfect Outing

Fun activities in Philadelphia for adults are abundant. Whether you’re searching for the perfect date night or fun things to do with a group, you’ll find it all. Explore the tourist attractions, indulge in Philly cheesesteak, and get lost in…

School Tours for the Kids

Why do we do what we do, well it is for the kids. We will put together a great walking/trolley tour for your students during the day, during the school year.   The tour would consist of 2.5 - 3…

We Do Weddings

We love weddings and we love to be apart of your special day. Founding Footsteps would love the opportunity to provide transportation for your loved ones to your special occasion.   We are currently placing packages together now for 2023.…

Book your next adventure .

Old City Bars Galore

Center city bars galore, historic square mile, cookies & cream.

• Rules and Refunds

BIG RED PEDAL TOURS

THE MOST UNIQUE AND FUN WAY TO EXPERIENCE PHILADELPHIA

What Makes Us Special?

The Big Red Pedicycle is a 15-guest bike. This open-air “tour bus” has 12 seats lining both sides for pedalers and a back bench for three riders to sit on. Riders work together to casually pedal the Big Red Pedicycle around Philly and stop at historic sites during the day and popular pubs at night. It is the perfect vehicle for historic tours, team-building events, school trips, pub crawls, bachelor/bachelorette parties, company outings, birthday parties, charity events and more!

Popular Tours Loved By Everyone

Welcome to our Center City Bars Galore Tour. Enjoy seeing beautiful Philadelphia on a leisurely pedal tour. This tour stops at 3 different locations with dozens of Philadelphia’s most amazing…

Welcome to our Old City Bars Galore Tour. Enjoy seeing beautiful Philadelphia on a leisurely pedal tour. This tour stops at 3 different locations with dozens of Philadelphia’s most amazing…

Cookies & Cream Tour Old City is truly a signature part of the Philadelphia experience. Explore our historic sites, stay in a great Old City hotel, dine in a wide…

Historic Square Mile Philadelphia is where the American Dream was founded. It’s where courageous visionaries crafted the model for modern-day democracy that inspires people globally to embrace the power of…

Big Red Pedal Tours offers a safe, green, healthy and fun way to explore one of America’s most exciting and historically rich cities.

- VisitPhilly.com

What you can expect.

• A unique pedal-filled tour
• Laughs, laughs, and more laughs
• Incredible food, amazing bars
• Site seeing along the way
• Knowledgeable, and friendly guides
• Memories that will make you want to come back

Hear From Our Customers

Our group of 8 celebrated a 50th birthday with a pub crawl tour. We had so much fun on the bike! We loved our guides were super friendly and made the trip even better! The bar stops were fun too. I highly recommend a Big Red Pedal Tour to anyone looking for a fun group…

My friends & I celebrated my 30th yesterday with Big Red Pedal Tours and we had a blast! The weather was freakishly hot for a February so we basked in it as we sang and pedaled around the city. Our guide, driver & DJ were awesome!! I highly recommend this experience and will definitely do…

A big group of us went for my mom’s birthday on June 22 (her birthday is June 26) and we had three bikes completely full. Our tour guides were amazing. We had so much fun and everybody, especially my mom really enjoyed herself. It was definitely a workout but a fun one and I can’t…

 13 of us just did the bar crawl last night for our friends Birthday. We had an amazing time & DJ continued to keep the party going throughout the tour. Wish we could have taken him with us afterward also. This company is very polite & all about having fun. If you are looking for…

I went on June 24th for Penny birthday. Pedal for Penny Birthday. Our tour guides were amazing. The bar crawl DJ even put on music of our preference. We had such a ball. We went in three groups. They had the groups interacting as if the faster we pedal the faster we would past the…

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Voted the #1 Tour in Philadelphia by  The Inquirer's  Philly Favorites 2024! 

PHILLY'S ORIGINAL FOOD TOUR

The city food tours experience means immersing yourself in philadelphia's culture while indulging in some of the best foods our city offers. our unmatched variety, top-notch guides, and a legacy of raving reviews make us the go-to destination for all food enthusiasts wit' an appetite for philly..

Flavors of Philly

Weekdays:  1:30pm - 4pm

Saturdays: 12pm - 2:30pm

Sundays:  12:30pm - 3pm

Highlights of East Passyunk

Saturdays: 3:30pm - 5:30pm

Locals' Favorites

Saturdays & Sundays: 3pm - 5:30pm

Tuesdays - Thursdays: 4:30pm - 7:00pm

Historic Old City

Reading Terminal Market

Everyday: 10:30am & 2:30pm.

Any day from anywhere! 

Self-Guided Food Tour

What we're about.

City Food Tours opened in Philadelphia in 2007, quickly becoming a top-rated choice for thousands of tourists, business travelers, and locals every year.

We share only the very best of Philadelphia's thriving food by providing an EATertaining way to explore the city and taste what makes this such an amazing place.

We offer food tours and private events for any taste or special interest.

Give the Gift of Philly

Food tours make the perfect gift for anyone no matter the occasion. Purchase a gift card today and give the gift of food to any prospective Philly phoodie!

Don't take our word for it

"Food tour was very nice! Owen, the guide, was personable and friendly. He is a local, born and raised in Philly, so he added personal history to the info he shared. Tour begins in Liberty Mall and ends in Reading Terminal Market. Food spots excellent and the sizes are perfect. Do not plan on eating beforehand or for quite a while afterwards!"

- Richard S

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A guide to Philadelphia, the northeast US city stepping out of NYC's shadow

With a growing reputation for its diverse food scene, this US city offers nourishment for both body and soul in its patchwork of muralled neighbourhoods.

Philadelphia is used to sharing the limelight. The birthplace of American independence, it was the United States’ first capital until Washington, DC claimed the honour in 1800. Then there’s the Big Apple, a hundred miles up the northeast coast, which has been stealing its thunder since, well, forever. But Philly is now taking centre stage. In the 2023 James Beard Foundation Awards — America’s ‘food Oscars’ — the city scooped more accolades than any other in the country.

Along Philadelphia’s grand, gallery-lined Benjamin Franklin Parkway boulevard, countless flags celebrate the many international communities represented within the city’s neighbourhoods — these days, many of these residents are New Yorkers, who are moving here in their droves. “In New York, a lot of people are trying to be something they’re not,” says local chef Peter McAndrews, emerging from his kitchen to shake my hand. “In Philly, you can be comfortable — it’s the place to find out who you really are.”

My own quest for self-knowledge begins with lunch at his sandwich shop, Paesano’s, in South Philadelphia. It has a timeless look, with black-and-white photos on the walls and a chalkboard menu. As it testifies, this city really loves a sandwich. Its best-known iteration is the Philadelphia cheese steak — a hoagie roll (sub) filled with sliced beefsteak and melted cheese — but you won’t find one on the menu here. People from this neighbourhood tend to prefer the ‘arista’: stuffed with roast suckling pig, broccoli rabe, ‘long hot’ peppers and provolone cheese.

“I enrich the sauce with anchovies, like the Romans used to,” says Peter. His menu is packed with Italian flavours, reflecting the heritage of the community it serves, while the restaurant’s name is a nod to the close-knit vibe of the area (‘ paesano ’ means ‘fellow countryman’). Immigrants from Abruzzo and Sicily established the outdoor Italian Market here on South 9th Street in the 1880s, and many neighbourhood businesses — like Di Bruno Bros deli — are owned by third- or fourth-generation Italians. Sitting alongside are Jewish shops and Asian supermarkets, the legacy of subsequent waves of immigration. “This area draws many different peoples and cultures together as one,” says Peter. “We’re a family.”  

Stepping outside, I’m struck by the contrast between this neighbourhood and the gridded streets of downtown I’d visited earlier, with their soaring glass tower blocks, stately civic buildings and wide, uncrowded pavements. Here, contrails of sweet-smelling smoke from a kettle corn (sweetened popcorn) vendor drift over the busy market. Passing stalls piled with rosy apples and gleaming aubergines, I watch nonnas select the best for their baskets. As I head south, shopfronts change, handwritten signs switching from Italian into Spanish. Instead of olive oil and balsamic vinegar, windows display frilly dresses for communion and quinceañera   — the Latin American party traditionally held when a girl turns 15.

The power of food

Every shared meal is a kind of celebration, says Cristina Martinez, owner of South 9th Street restaurant Casa Mexico, pulling up a chair. “When we gather to eat, our energies are united,” she says, beaming. “Family inspires all my cooking.” Spread before us on one of the brightly coloured tables are some of her favourites — homemade tortilla chips and guacamole, chicken served in a peanut mole   sauce. Ceramic dishes like the ones she’s used in their preparation are heaped on the floor in an informal display, while strings of Mexican flag bunting hang from the ceiling.

Food can also be political, as Cristina’s story shows. After arriving in the US undocumented, she sold tacos from a pushcart — a business that evolved into her first restaurant: South Philly Barbacoa. Its success — it featured on the Netflix series Chef’s Table — earned Cristina a platform to speak out on immigration issues. She went on to help set up The People’s Kitchen, which provides free, nutritious meals to Philadelphians experiencing food poverty.

Nowhere is Philadelphia’s cultural melting pot more apparent than at Reading Terminal Market. At the heart of the Center City District, it’s a United Nations of food; 75 stalls laid out, like the city itself, on a grid. Wandering the aisles the next morning in search of breakfast, I find my attention snagged by a cacophony of neon signs — everything from Cantonese cuisine to Filipino fusion food, Georgian breads to Indian curries. The busiest counter of all belongs to a diner tucked away at the back of the hall: Dutch Eating Place. Staff here are dressed in the traditional clothing of the Pennsylvania Dutch: simple shirts for men and, for women, long dresses and modest white caps. They belong to a community of conservative Christians living in Lancaster County, about 70 miles west of Philadelphia.

When I ask proprietor Javan Esh to explain the distinction between the Pennsylvania Dutch and the Amish, he reaches for a time-honoured food idiom. “Tomato, tomahto,” he says, with a boyish grin. Both are centred around faith and family; both avoid electricity and modern vehicles. “You can only go so far in a horse and buggy,” says Javan, who has the healthy glow of someone who spends a lot of time outside.

“It’s limiting, but it works as a safeguard — a way to preserve and protect our culture.” Javan welcomes respectful questions from curious diners like me. “Sharing our culture with our customers is important,” he says. “We’re all about bringing the country to the city and giving people an authentic experience.” Seasonal, farm-fresh produce is used to make carb-heavy dishes, served in portions intended to sustain people through manual work. After a mountain of eggs and rye toast, Javan insists I try their apple dumpling: a whole-baked fruit swaddled in pastry and served with thick cream. Philadelphia has long been known for high-quality dairy — it’s why Kraft stamped the city’s name on their cream cheese.

I walk west, and the skyscraper skyline of Center City gives way to the squat brownstones of Rittenhouse Square. Named after the pretty park at its heart, this is one of Philadelphia’s most upmarket areas. It comes alive in spring, when people gather for picnics or at outdoor tables spilling onto the sidewalks. I happily bypass them, because I’ve landed a reservation at Her Place Supper Club.

It’s a restaurant with a tiny space and a big reputation. “It’s a living room aesthetic,” says chef-owner Amanda Shulman as she finesses a dish in the open kitchen. “I want guests to feel like they’re at my house.” Vintage prints, the type you might find in a Parisian bistro or Milanese bar, hang from the walls. “Our food is French-Italian, with a nod to my Jewish upbringing,” says Amanda. “But really, we make exactly what we like. Our menu is driven by talking — to each other, to our producers.”  

The conversation started over a decade ago, when Amanda was a local student and began hosting elaborate dinner parties for her friends. “Everyone eating the same thing at the same time builds community,” she says, stepping out with a plate of tortellini filled with spinach and robiola cheese for me to try. “In Philadelphia, you can take risks and people are receptive. Our diners love supporting someone who’s trying something new.”  

One area of Philadelphia particularly well known for pushing the envelope is South Street, a 10-minute taxi ride away. The district spans around 14 blocks — I wander a few and find ample evidence of an alternative scene, including the work of local mosaic artist Isaiah Zagar, which spreads like tendrils between shops selling everything from fetish wear to bongs. In the midst of it all is Tattooed Mom: part bar, part club, part inclusive creative space. “Everyone should feel at home here, if we’re doing our job right,” says Robert Perry, who wears cool, thick-rimmed glasses and his grey hair in a quiff. He admits to being the owner only when pressed. “I’m the guy with the key to the door, but you’re the one making this space,” he insists.

Robert means this quite literally. The upstairs room at ‘TMom’s’ is decorated with 25 years’ worth of stickers and graffiti — everyone who’s ever partied here apparently having left their mark. Downstairs is ornately eclectic — a look Robert describes as “grandma on acid”.

Dodgem cars sit alongside palatial wingback armchairs, an octopus chandelier hangs from the ceiling. Moodily lit, it feels like a stage set for mischief. Events here like the ‘drag brunch’ showcase local performers, and even the cocktail list veers towards the theatrical — Pickletinis (vodka and pickle juice) come in labelled-and-lidded jars, and vodka-cranberry is poured into a candyfloss-filled martini glass to make the Cosmo Cloud. “The coolest thing about Philly is that it contains so many little worlds,” says Robert, sliding me a drink across the bar. “Ours is a city of neighbourhoods.”

There’s one more I want to visit — one that first captured my imagination aged 11, every time I heard Will Smith’s Fresh Prince of Bel-Air rap about “chillin’ out, maxin’, relaxin’, all cool” in West Philadelphia at the start of each episode. It still has that vibe today. Porched houses line wide, sleepy streets, where an occasional streetcar trundles past. Since the 1990s, the neighbourhood has acquired a new claim to fame: Afrocentric grocery store and cafe Honeysuckle Provisions, which opened last year and was almost immediately named one of the best new restaurants in the US by food website Eater. Chef-couple Omar Tate and Cybille St Aude-Tate are on a mission to celebrate Black culinary traditions and bring the best Black farmer-grown produce to West Philly. “We want to be intentional about food but make it relatable,” says Cybille, who has botanically tattooed forearms and a broad smile. “We’re not Black history experts but we teach people what we grew up with, helping to build connections between cultures.” Both have food memories evident on the menu — Cybille contributing a spiced bun made with chanm chanm , a classic street food from her native Haiti, made from ground corn and peanut powder; while Omar’s selection of ‘dolla’ hoagies are a love letter to the great Philadelphian sandwich.  

Although both are instinctive innovators, Cybille and Omar understand the power of nostalgia and ritual when it comes to food. Their fried fish hoagies are served only on Fridays, when people flock from all over the city to get their hands on one. I wait for mine at one of three tiny tables, my eyes roaming shelves lined with wooden sculptural heads and books, including one titled Food Power Politics . My sandwich arrives: a homemade seeded roll bursting with crispy, creole-fried whiting — lemon and herb remoulade spilling copiously onto my hands. Lunch has rarely made me muckier — or happier. In a city that prides itself on inclusion and authenticity, it’s a fitting last meal.

Related Topics

• CITY GUIDES
• IMMIGRATION
• MODERN HISTORY
• PEOPLE AND CULTURE

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Philly Phlash turns 30, PHL expects busy Memorial Day Weekend and more top stories | Digital Brief

THE 10 BEST Philadelphia City Tours

City tours in philadelphia.

• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Walking Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Traditional)
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers

• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Double Decker Hop-On Hop-Off City Sightseeing Philadelphia (1, 2, or 3-Day)

2. Philly By Night Double Decker Bus Tour

3. Washington DC and Philadelphia in One Day from NYC

4. 3-Day US Niagara Falls,Washington DC&Philadelphia Tour from NY/NJ

5. Washington D.C,Niagara Falls,Boston 6-Day Tour from New York

6. Private Shopping Tour from Philadelphia to Philadelphia Outlets

7. Half Day Private Philadelphia Driving Tour

8. Philadelphia and Amish Country Day Trip from New York City

9. Philadelphia Half-Day Small-Group Sightseeing Tour

10. The Great Comedy Magic Walk

11. Haunted Philadelphia: Spirits of '76 Ghost Tour

12. New York to Philadelphia Private Tour

13. Private Shopping Tour from Philadelphia to Gloucester Outlets

14. 7-Day Philadelphia, D.C, Niagara Falls, Boston Tour from New York

15. Private 2 hour Walking Tour of Historic Philadelphia

16. BEST Washington D.C.& Philadelphia 2-Day Tour from New York City

17. 4-Day New York Tour to Niagara Falls, Washington and Philadelphia

18. Philadelphia Tipsy Trolley BYOB Evening or Night Tour (Ages 21+)

19. 5 Days-Perfect East

20. 3-Day Bus Tour to Washington D.C., Niagara Falls, Watkins Glen from New York

21. City Sightseeing Philadelphia HOHO Bus Tour + Bookable Extras

22. Private Rocky Movie Locations 4 Hour Driving Tour

23. The Founding Fathers of Philadelphia: Private 2-hour History Tour

24. 3 Day Tour Gaithersburg and Niagara Falls in USA

25. Private Full Day City of Philadelphia Tour with Museum Admission

26. City Sightseeing Philadelphia Double Decker Hop-On Hop-Off (24, 48, 72 Hours)

27. 2-Day New York City and Philadelphia Tour from Washington DC

28. 8-day Tour to Visit Nine Top Schools in the East Coast from NYC

29. Private Shopping Tour from Philadelphia hotels to Tanger Outlets

30. Welcome to Philadelphia: Private Half-Day Highlights Walking Tour

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Childish Gambino Returns to the Global Stage With The New World Tour

Childish Gambino is set to take the global stage once again with The New World Tour produced by AEG Presents and will stop at Wells Fargo Center on August 21.

Alongside The New World Tour announcement, Gambino surprised fans with the release of Atavista (3.15.20 reimagined versions) via RCA Records, including 2 new tracks “Atavista'' and “Human Sacrifice.”

Additionally, he dropped the official music video for “Little Foot Big Foot,” directed by Hiro Murai, featuring Young Nudy.

The long-awaited U.S. leg kicks off on August 11 at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, OK with a stop at Philadelphia’s Wells Fargo Center on August 21. Gambino will then begin the European/UK and Australian/New Zealand legs of The New World Tour in Lyon, FR, on October 31 before concluding at RAC Arena in Perth, WA on February 11. WILLOW is confirmed as direct support for North America, and Amaarae is confirmed for Europe/UK as well as Australia and New Zealand.

Tickets go on sale to the general public beginning Friday, May 17 at 10am local time at thenewworldtour.com. Fans can also sign up for early access to tickets via the artist presale for all tour dates at thenewworldtour.com. American Express® Card Members can purchase tickets before the general public for North American, Australian and select UK dates. Presale start and end times will vary by market, check your local listings at thenewworldtour.com. Terms and conditions apply.

Childish Gambino

The new world tour.

City of Philadelphia

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Recap & Updates on the Lehigh Avenue Safety Study and Design Project

The Lehigh Avenue Safety Study and Design project is focused on making the corridor – between Kensington Avenue and American Street – safe for neighbors and travelers who walk, bike, roll, take public transit, and drive.  

There were 98 reported crashes between 201 8 -202 2 on this stretch of Lehigh Avenue. This places the corridor on City’s High Injury Network (HIN) – or the 12% of city streets with 80% of all traffic deaths and serious injuries. Lehigh Avenue has also been identified as a transit priority corridor in the Philadelphia Transit Plan – specifically, the goal would be to improve the service of SEPTA’s Route 54 and 57 buses.  

What Has Happened So Far  

Phase 1 of the project included a public engagement campaign in Summer/Fall 2023. The project team engaged more than 200 neighbors, businesses, and community stakeholders in a variety of ways, including:  

• Door-to-door canvassing (800 flyers distributed and over 50 conversations)
• Online survey (89 responses)
• Interviews with neighborhood businesses and organizations (10)
• Attending community events (5)
• Hosting a dedicated workshop at the Community Center at Visitation BVM last August

The project team also completed a morning walk audit to meet with stakeholders to observe safety challenges during the morning rush hour.  

At the City-hosted workshop, we reviewed a series of images with participants to discuss what street elements people liked and disliked regarding safety and transit access. An accompanying online survey allowed neighbors to provide input if they were unable to attend the workshop.  

From the workshop and online surveys, we gathered a lot of great neighbor input. Some highlighted feedback includes:  

• “More trees, designated lanes for public transit.”   
• “A safe way to cross the street – we lost a lot of people due to the dangers of crossing the street.”  
• “A bike lane and pedestrians separated from each other and the bikers not having to ride in the street.”  

With input from Phase 1, the City developed the following vision statement and goals for the project:

Vision Statement – The future vision for Lehigh Avenue is one where the street is safe, comfortable, and accessible for everyone who uses it, whether you’re walking, biking, taking transit, or driving.  

• Goal #1 – Make the Street Feel Safer.  
• Reduce speeding, red light-running, and aggressive driving behavior through design tools.  
• Goal #2 – Create Safe Crossings.  
• Reduce conflicts between modes by making it easier for people driving to see people crossing the street. Shorten the time it takes to cross the street.  
• Goal #3 – People-Friendly Placemaking.  
• Add trees and greenery, plan for trash cans and pickup, and improve lighting.  
• Goal #4 – Enhance Bus Facilities.  
• Make taking the bus enjoyable and convenient with enhanced bus stops, bus information, and reliable bus speeds.  
• Goal #5 – Make Biking Safer.  
• Create separation between people biking and driving to make biking feel safer and more enjoyable.  

How Can I Join the Conversation  

This month, the City will host the second public workshop for the project. We will be sharing conceptual designs with the public and soliciting feedback. Participants at the workshop will give ratings for each design alternative. This information will help the project team understand what the community wants from the project.  

Public Workshop #2  

• Date : Wednesday, May 22  
• Time : 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.  
• Location : Community Center at Visitation BVM (2646 Kensington Ave.)  
• Details: Attend the workshop to collaborate with fellow stakeholders and City staff on proposed concepts. We’ll discuss in costs and benefits of each design element, and invite participants to rate each concept. Snacks will be provided for your convenience!  

The project team and neighbors will be joined by Councilmember Quetcy Lozada’s Office and HACE CDC .  

At the meeting, consider sharing your email address with the project team at the sign-in table. Not only will you receive project updates, but five (5) people will be randomly selected to receive $25 gift cards as a thank you for your time and feedback.   

For those who cannot attend in-person, there will be an online survey. It will include the same questions as the in-person workshop survey. When available, we encourage you to share the online survey with less engaged neighbors. There will be $25 stipend awarded to four (4) random online participants!

Questions, Comments? Call or email the City’s Office of Transportation and Infrastructure Systems (OTIS) at 215- 686-5552; [email protected] .

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• street renaming

Germantown street renamed in honor of Philadelphia musical icon

PHILADELPHA (WPVI) -- Philadelphia musical icon Frankie Beverly received a huge honor Saturday when the city council ceremonially renamed the street he grew up on after him.

The ceremony took place at the Dell Music Center, a venue where Beverly has repeatedly performed for decades, entertaining generations of Philadelphians.

"You guys have taken me and made me what I am today," Beverly told the crowd.

"I can tell you where I was in stages of my life based on the Frankie Beverly songs I was listening to," said Mayor Cherelle Parker.

Fellow musicians and city dignitaries gathered at the venue to celebrate Beverly and unveil the 6000 block of Norwood Street in Germantown as Frankie Beverly Way.

"We don't do street renaming for everybody," said Councilwoman Cindy Bass. "This is something that's a signature accomplishment, a signature achievement, so we just wanted to say thank you for all you've done for Philadelphia, for putting us on the map musically and in so many other ways."

Fans traveled in from different states to support the musician.

"This is probably from the late '80s," said Denean Frazier of Maryland, showing off her Maze shirt. "Frankie Beverly: the myth, the legend. Frankie Beverly. That's my husband, in my mind."

The rainy ceremony allowed true fans to get up close and personal with the Philadelphia icon.

"I've been following him since I was a kid. That's why I'm glad to be here," said Mark from West Philadelphia. "I've listened to pretty much every song he made."

It's that sort of devotion and lifelong fandom that made Philadelphia officials so determined and excited to honor Beverly.

"He's someone who's been just instrumental in Philadelphia, in music, in the industry," said Bass. "His music really speaks to the soul of Philadelphians in a way that no other sound does."

Beverly is also in the middle of his farewell tour. He'll be performing at the Dell Music Center on July 6.

Related Topics

• COMMUNITY & EVENTS
• PHILADELPHIA
• STREET RENAMING
• PHILADELPHIA CITY COUNCIL

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Jaw-dropping views, hidden history: a visit to philly’s city hall, america’s largest municipal building is an architectural marvel that's worth exploring all the way to the top....

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Location & Contact:

• 1400 John F. Kennedy Boulevard Philadelphia, PA 19107
• 267-514-4757
• Visit Website

The elevator motor whirs as dusty scenes glide past the glass door. You catch glimpses of things you’d imagine would be inside a clock tower from the 19th century: plenty of bricks, arched windows and a smattering of tools.

Just as you begin to think about how old this elevator is, the doors open and you step out onto a 360-degree observation deck —  the only one in Philadelphia offering panoramic views of the city.

You’re in Philadelphia’s City Hall , home to 88 million bricks, 250 sculptures, 14.5 acres of floor space and one of Philly’s most iconic pieces of art: the 37-foot-tall statue of city founder William Penn.

Clocking in at 548 feet, City Hall was the tallest habitable structure in the world until 1908, and it remained the tallest building in Philadelphia until 1986 (a little more on that later). It’s still the largest municipal building in the United States today.

But numbers really don’t do this massive building justice. Built in the eclectic Second Empire style, City Hall’s beauty lies not in its size, but in the intricate details awaiting discovery around nearly every corner — and a view that can’t be beat.

The Experience

City Hall can (and should) be admired from the outside (which isn’t that hard to do, considering that William Penn and the building’s iconic clock can be seen from many spots throughout the city).

A view of City Hall from North Broad Street   — Photo by M. Edlow for Visit Philadelphia

But history buffs, architecture fans, folks who love a good story and anyone interested in a jaw-dropping skyline view (so, everyone?) should find time to hop on a guided tour of one of Philly’s most iconic buildings. Here’s how.

City Hall Tower Tours

Offered both as part of the interior and exterior tour (see below) and as a standalone option, the City Hall Tower Tour takes you to a glass-enclosed observation deck 500 feet above street level — and just a few feet below the massive bronze statue of William Penn.

  — Photo by M. Edlow for the Independence Visitor Center Corporation

The ascent is a bit of a rustic experience, with four visitors at a time joining an operator inside a small, 100-year-old elevator to reach the top.

The payoff is more than worth it as you take in rare, 360-degree views of Philadelphia from William Penn’s perspective.

Pro tip: After admiring the city view, be sure to look up through openings in the ceiling to examine details of the iconic statue up close.

Interior & Exterior Tours

In addition to the tower tours, guided tours offer a more comprehensive look at City Hall.

As you stroll around the perimeter of the building and through the center courtyard, tour guides offer insights and anecdotes about the history of the building, from its prolonged 30-year construction (1871 to 1901) to a gentlemen’s agreement among developers that kept William Penn as the tallest point in the city’s skyline until 1986.

(An ensuing Philly sports curse was reversed when a miniature William Penn statuette was placed atop the Comcast Center in 2007.)

As you listen, keep your eyes peeled and look up to examine some of the 250 sculptures designed by Alexander Milne Calder.

  — Photo by M. Edlow for Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation

Inside the building, you’ll explore the grandest of its more than 700 rooms. Stops on the tour include the ornate City Council Caucus Room where council members publicly debate and vote on bills — and the lavish Mayor’s Reception Room, which is lined with portraits of the previous mayors in the city’s history.

The tour ends with a trip to the top of the City Hall Tower, where you’ll experience sweeping, 360-degree views of the city from an enclosed observation deck.

Heads up: The building still serves as the official seat of Philly’s government, so expect a quick trip through a security checkpoint as you enter the building, and keep an eye out for busy staffers.

The History

In his original 1682 design for the city, William Penn planned five public squares, setting aside the Center Square for public buildings.

But it took 200 years before the square was used for that purpose.

The first City Hall was located at 2nd and Market streets, then moved to 5th and Chestnut streets when the Independence Hall complex was built.

Architect John McArthur, Jr. supervised the construction of the present-day City Hall on Center Square, which began in 1871 and took more than 30 years to complete.

The building’s exterior is covered with intricate sculptures representing the seasons and continents, as well as allegorical figures, animals and masks.

All of the sculptures were designed by Alexander Milne Calder, including the 27-ton statue of William Penn atop the tower.

Admission & Info

Both the City Hall Tower Tours and the Interior and Exterior Tour depart from the City Hall Visitor Center.

For more information on hours of operation and to purchase tickets, click the button below.

Things to Do Nearby

Self-Guided Tour

Can’t hop on a guided tour? No problem.

Philly’s Association for Public Art has an excellent self-guided tour featuring more than a dozen key artworks on and around City Hall.

A Quest for Parity: The Octavius V. Catto Memorial   — Photo by A. Rogers for the Association for Public Art

Click the button below to learn more about the self-guided tour.

Dilworth Park

Speaking of around City Hall, Dilworth Park — located on the building’s west side — is well worth a visit any time of year.

City Hall’s fantastic front yard has a retro-themed roller rink and tree-lined fountains (splashing encouraged) in warm weather, and an ice-skating rink with a ski chalet vibe in winter.

Fountains at Dilworth Park   — Photo by M. Fischetti for Visit Philadelphia

Also on-site: year-round pop-up concerts, fitness events, festivals, a cozy cafe and great access to public transit.

Click the button below for more about Dilworth Park.

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The Perfect Hotel Package for an Easy Philly Escape

The  Visit Philly Overnight Package — booked more than 190,000 times since 2001 — comes with free hotel parking (worth up to $100 in Center City Philadelphia), overnight hotel accommodations and choose-your-own-adventure perks.

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