philadelphia free city tours

The Ultimate List of Completely Free Things to do in Philadelphia

Philadelphia is one of my favorite places in the world to visit. And, while there are many great tours, historical sites, and museums in Philly that cost money, there are also a ton of great things to do for free!

When I’m planning my trips to Philadelphia, I’ve found that there isn’t a complete list of free things to do in Philly. Some sites list a handful of free activities, while others pad their list with a few “cheap” things to do.

However, this list that I have made up has more than 70 completely free things to do in Philadelphia. Look below for fun things to do in Philadelphia for couples, unusual things to do in Philadelphia, things to do in Philadelphia at night, and more.

So, whether you are looking for a free museum, a free outdoor activity, or free things to do with kids in Philly , there’s something for everyone on our list.

So, without further ado, here’s UncoveringPA’s ultimate list of free things to do in Philadelphia:

Independence Hall  – Not only is Independence Hall one of Philly’s most well-known buildings, but it’s completely free to visit! Tour the building and learn about the Founding Fathers who once roamed its halls and the Declaration of Independence which was agreed to in this very building. Find out more about visiting on UncoveringPA .

Free Tours of the Kimmel Center – The Kimmel Center is one of Philadelphia’s most well-known and beautiful concert venues. If you want to learn a bit more about the history and architecture of the building, the Kimmel Center offers free tours of the building everyday at 1pm. Tours last one hour and include visits to many of the theaters inside the center. More information can be found here .

John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum – Philly might be one of America’s largest cities, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t have several excellent outdoor spaces. Located near Philadelphia International Airport, this wildlife refuge is an oasis in the midst of urban sprawl for more than 300 bird species, as well as numerous mammals and reptiles. For human visitors, 10 miles of hiking trails, great bird watching, and even canoeing/kayak opportunities await. For more information, check out our article on hiking at the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge .

Mount Moriah Cemetery – At one point in time, Mount Moriah Cemetery was ownerless and abandoned. However, with more than 80,000 people buried here, this couldn’t last forever. While there is a cleanup effort underway at the cemetery, much of it is still being reclaimed by nature. Click here to find out more about how you can visit Mount Moriah Cemetery .

Student Recitals at the Curtis Institute of Music – Don’t let the thought of going to a student recital remind you of some horrid concert for elementary students. The student recitals at the Curtis Institute of Music are put on by some of the country’s most talented music students. Featuring primarily classical music, the recitals are a great option for those looking for high-quality music on the cheap. Concerts are held most Monday, Wednesday, and Friday nights during the school year. Click here for a full schedule .

Edgar Allan Poe House – Did you know that author Edgar Allan Poe spent six of his most productive writing years in downtown Philadelphia? Tour the home where he lived during his time in the city. Poe actually lived in several homes during his time in Philly, which is often described as the happiest years of his life, but only one building remains standing. Visit this home to learn about Poe’s life, writing, and legacy. Click the link  for more information.

Dream Garden – One of Philadelphia’s coolest public art pieces is shamefully under-visited despite being just a block from Independence Hall. Crafted of over 100,000 pieces of Tiffany Glass, the Dream Garden sits in obscurity in the lobby of the Curtis Center along Washington Square. At 15×49 feet, the Dream Garden is one of America’s most exquisite glass murals. More information about visiting the Dream Garden can be found here.

The Mummers Museum – The Mummers are one of Philly’s strangest traditions. Part social club and part performing artists, the Mummers put on a show every New Years’ Day. You can learn more about their history and legacy at the fantastic Mummers Museum in South Philly. This museum is definitely one of the most offbeat free things to do in Philadelphia. Find out more in our full article about the museum .

Ice Skating at a Public Skating Rink  – Like ice skating and have your own skates? Visit one of the city’s many public ice skating rinks during the winter months and skate ’til your heart’s content without paying a penny (If you don’t have ice skates, there is a fee to rent them. However, skating on the rink itself is completely free). For more information on skating in Philadelphia, click here .

Fireman’s Hall Museum – Located in a restored turn-of-the-century fire hall, the Fireman’s Hall Museum focuses on the rich history of firefighting in Philadelphia. Click the link for more information about visiting.

Liberty Bell – Located next door to Independence Hall might be Philly’s most famous item: the Liberty Bell. While it once hung in the bell tower of Independence Hall, it now has a place of honor inside its own building. Stepping inside to see this iconic bell is completely free for anyone. Click here to find out more about visiting.

Tours of Philadelphia Brewing Company – Want to learn how beer is made? Tours of the Philadelphia Brewing Company are offered for free on Saturdays between noon and 3pm. Visit to learn about the brewery and sample some of their great brews (unfortunately not free). Click here for information .

Awbury Arboretum – Once the home to a large Quaker family, the 55-acre grounds of the Awbury Arboretum have been opened free to the public for nearly 100 years. Stroll through the beautifully manicured gardens or take some time to study the large variety of shrubs and trees on the arboretum’s grounds.

Elfreth’s Alley – As America’s oldest, continually-inhabited residential street, Elfreth’s Alley already has an amazing amount of history along its narrow cobblestone street. While the street itself might be short, the beauty of the houses and its history make it a great destination for any history lovers visiting Philly. Click here for my full review of Elfreth’s Alley .

Cira Green – Cira Green is one of the most unique parks in the region. Located on the roof of a parking garage, 95 feet above the ground, this urban oasis is an amazing place to visit. Enjoy a picnic on the grass or enjoy breathtaking views of the skyline of Philadelphia from this amazing free space. Find out more here about Cira Green .

Smith Memorial Playground and Playhouse – Located in a purpose-built mansion and surrounding park, Smith Memorial Playground and Playhouse looks like one of the most amazing play areas for children anywhere. If you have kids in Philadelphia, this is a must-visit destination. Click here to read more about this great park .

Carpenter’s Hall – Carpenter’s Hall is one of Philadelphia’s most historic buildings. The site of the First Continental Congress in 1774, a Revolutionary War hospital, the 1st and 2nd banks of America, and Benjamin Franklin’s first library, Carpenter’s Hall has more history than most buildings twice its age.

Reading Terminal Market – If you’re looking for a unique shopping experience in downtown Philadelphia, look no further than Reading Terminal Market . Home to everything from Amish produce stands to authentic Asian cuisine, the market has something for everyone. True, it costs money to buy something from the shops and restaurants, but wandering through and experiencing the sights and smells of the market is completely free.

Jefferson’s Walking Tour of Philadelphia – Want to know more about the places that Thomas Jefferson frequented while he lived in Philadelphia? Check out this great free walking tour put together by the American Philosophical Society. Get some exercise and check out some of Jefferson’s favorite haunts at the same time. Click here to download the walking tour guide.

Ellen Phillips Samuel Memorial   Sculpture Garden  – The Ellen Phillips Samuel Memorial Sculpture Garden features 17 sculptures that showcase American life. The garden in itself is definitely worth visiting, however, it also has one more feature that is sure to intrigue: a whispering bench. Sit two people on opposite sides of the bench, roughly 50 feet apart, and they can hear each other whisper.

Science History Institute – Located in the heart of Philadelphia’s Old City, the Science History Institute (formally known as the Chemical Heritage Foundation Museum) looks not at the history of America, but at the history of chemistry. Going back to the days of alchemy, the museum looks at how chemistry and the work of chemists have changed our lives. Click here for my full review of the museum .

Institute of Contemporary Art – This gallery that featured Andy Warhol’s first solo museum exhibition, so you never know what future megastar you might encounter at the Institute of Contemporary Art. Located on the grounds of the University of Pennsylvania, the museum features 12 shows a year, so there is always something new to see in their rotating display. Information about what’s currently on display can be found on the museum’s website .

TUSPM Shoe Museum – Run by the Temple School of Podiatric Medicine, the TUSPM Shoe Museum features hundreds of pairs of shoes from every conceivable era and interest. Shoes on display date back as far as Ancient Egypt, and there are many shoes from famous celebrities including Reggie Jackson, Ella Fitzgerald, Joan Rivers, and several former presidents and first ladies. Admission to the museum is free, but needs to be scheduled in advance. Go to their website for more information.

Congress Hall – Another of the fantastic historical buildings in downtown Philly, Congress Hall was where the House of Representatives and the Senate met from 1790-1800. Site of the inauguration of two Presidents, along with many other events that shaped the founding on the country, Congress Hall is a fantastic and free thing to do in Philadelphia. Click here for information about visiting.

Polish American Cultural Center Museum – Whether you are a Polish American, or you just happen to be interested in the subject, the museum at the Polish American Cultural Center gives you the opportunity to learn about Polish culture and its history. For more information about visiting, check out their website .

Sedgley Woods Disc Golf Course – One of the oldest existing disc golf courses in the country, Sedgley Woods is a 27-hole course located in Fairmount Park. While you must provide your own discs, the course is completely free to play. Click here for more information.

Rocky Steps – The 72 steps at the entrance to the Philadelphia Museum of Art was made famous by Sylvester Stalone in the movie Rocky. Today, thousands of people visit the steps each year to recreate Rocky’s famous run. Before leaving, make sure to get a photo with the statue of Rocky near the bottom of the stairs.

Money in Motion Exhibit – Located within the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia, the Money in Motion Exhibit offers a fantastic look into the history of currency and banking in the country. There are also some really fun interactive elements in here that make it a great spot for families. You can even take home a free bag of shredded money when you leave.

Ryerss Museum – The Ryerss Museum is housed in a former mansion that was built in the 1860s on the outskirts of the city. Today, it is home to a fantastic collection of Asian and European art, Native American objects, and a vast collection of paintings of the family that used to live in the home, as well as their pets. Find out more in our piece about the Ryerss Museum .

Public Art of Isaiah Zagar – While Isaiah Zagar’s most well-known work, the Magic Gardens , isn’t free, the artist has also created dozens of murals, both large and small, around the city that are free to visit. You can find out their location on the Magic Garden’s website .

Self-Guided Mural Mile Tour – In an effort to combat graffiti in Philadelphia, the city began what would later be known as the Mural Arts Program in 1984. Since then, over 3,600 murals have been painted all throughout the city of Philadelphia. Spend some time learning about some of them by taking the self-guided walking tour of the “Mural Mile” from the Mural Arts Program. Click here to download the tour and find out more.

Fabric Workshop and Museum – Despite its name, the Fabric Workshop and Museum doesn’t just focus on fabric. Instead, they encourage artists to use new mediums to express themselves. The museum’s collection includes a permanent exhibit of contemporary art as well as preliminary sketches of projects and videos of artists talking about their work. More information about visiting can be found here .

The Love Sign – Outside of a photo with the Rocky Statue, a photo with The Love Sign in Love Park might be the most iconic shot of Philadelphia. The Love “sign” is actually a piece of Pop Art by Robert Indiana. And, while the art piece can be found in other cities around the world, it’s most synonymous with the City of Brotherly Love.

Thaddeus Kosciuszko National Memorial – Though not well known today, Thaddeus Kosciuszko was a hero of the American Revolutionary War, as well as a freedom fighter in his home country of Poland. Kosciuszko lived in this home while recovering from injuries received while fighting in Poland. During his time in the house, he was visited by many dignitaries, including Thomas Jefferson. The Thaddeus Kosciuszko National Memorial also has the distinction of being the smallest national park in the country, as well as the fourth-least visited. Click here for more information about visiting.

SEPTA Transit Museum – Located in the SEPTA Store at the 13th Street Station, the SEPTA Transit Museum features information about the 100+ year history of public transit in Philadelphia. On display are a rotating selection of model subway engines and rolling stock, as well as information and memorabilia chronicling the history of SEPTA. For more information, go to their website .

Christ Church – Opened in 1695, Christ Church was the first Anglican Church in America, and years later, was the birthplace of the US Episcopal Church. During the time that Philadelphia was our nation’s capital, Christ Church featured a who’s who of founding fathers in their membership and regular attendance. If you visit today, you can still see where George Washington sat during his time as president. Also make sure to find the baptismal font, which was the same one used to baptize William Penn as a child in England.  More information about visiting Christ Church can be found here .

Once Upon a Nation Storytelling and Reenactments – During the summer months, Once Upon a Nation has storytellers and reenactors stationed at various places around Philadelphia’s Old City that will help history come alive. The storytellers aren’t dressed in period garb, but do sit at various “storytelling benches” around the area telling the stories of less well-known people that shaped history in Philadelphia. The reenactors are stationed at places like the Independence Visitor Center and help bring history to life. For more information and a full schedule, check out their website .

US Mint – Ever wondered where the money in your pocket comes from? A visit to the US Mint in Philadelphia gives you a great chance to see how coins are made. The self-guided tour starts with a bit of history about the US Mint before walking you through the process of making a coin. The highlight is the windows that give you the ability to look down on US coins being made. Click the link for my full review of  visiting the US Mint in Philly .

Tomb of the Unknown Revolutionary War Soldier  – Located in Washington Square near Independence Hall, the Tomb of the Unknown Revolutionary War Soldier honors the many soldiers, both British and American, that are still buried in this park. The memorial was completed in 1957 and features an eternal flame above the grave site. More information on the tomb can be found here .

Thomas Mill Covered Bridge – Located in the northwest corner of Philly, in Fairmount Park, is Philadelphia’s only remaining covered bridge. The 86-foot long bridge crosses Wissahocken Creek and is located in a quiet, remote spot of the park. Click for more information about how to get to Thomas Mill Covered Bridge .

Free Concerts at the Kimmel Center – The Kimmel Center might be one of Philadelphia’s best performing arts venues, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t see some of their shows for free. Several times a month, the Kimmel Center puts on free shows encompassing many different musical styles and tastes. A full calendar of free concerts can be found here .

Hike through Wissahickon Gorge – Wissahickon Gorge is one of the city’s best outdoor areas. Featuring more than 50 miles of trails in the park’s 1800 acres, visitors can truly feel away from the city in this amazing landscape. In addition to hiking, many of the trails are also open to mountain bikers and horses. Click the link to find out more about visiting Wissahickon Gorge .

Public Swimming Pools – Philly is home to over 70 outdoor swimming pools, all of which are free to swimmers during the summer month. To find out the location of Philly’s free pools, click here .

Taller Puertorriqueño – This Latin American cultural center showcases art by Puerto Rican and Latin American artists. Exhibitions change yearly and provide a great look at a little-seen artistic perspective. For more information, visit  the center’s website .

Bartram’s Garden – The 46-acre Bartram’s Garden is the oldest surviving botanical garden in America. Featuring meadows, nurseries, and an arboretum, the garden is a great place to go for a stroll and learn about botany. It’s also a great place to visit to gaze on Philly’s skyline. For more information about visiting, check out our review of Bartram’s Garden .

Fairmount Water Works   – The Fairmount Water Works were once the most advanced water works in the country. Today, visitors can step inside and explore this beautiful water facility and learn about its history and how it revolutionized Philadelphia. Find out more about their museum on the water works’ website .

Take a Stroll Through Chinatown – I was quite surprised when I first discovered that Philadelphia had a Chinatown. Located in Center City near Reading Terminal Market, this heavily Chinese section of the city feels very different from the surrounding neighborhoods. Walking through this section and seeing the sights and sounds of Chinatown can be a fascinating experience for anyone not familiar with Chinese culture.

Second Bank of the United States – The building that was once home to the 2nd Bank of the United States is now an art gallery that features an exhibit called the “People of Independence”. Featuring over 180 portraits of Revolutionary War soldiers, politicians, scientists, and many more, the exhibit gives visitors a great chance to learn about many of the lesser-known people who shaped American Independence. More information can be found on the National Park Service’s website .

Check Out Philly’s Squares – When William Penn founded Philadelphia, he created a grid system designed to give the city many parks and public squares. And, while development may have thwarted some of his plans, Philadelphia still has many great parks and squares. Whether you are looking to people watch, go for a walk, or for a place for the kids to play, there’s a great public square for you in downtown Philadelphia.

Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul – Located on Logan Square is one of America’s most beautiful churches: the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul. The exterior of the building might look a bit drab, despite being the largest brownstone building in the city, but the interior is absolutely breathtaking. For those looking to learn more about the building, their website offers a free audio tour that you can download. Click here to read my full review of the basilica .

The Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education – Designed to be an “island of green,” The Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education is one of the country’s first urban environmental education centers. The museum’s 400 acres include several miles of hiking trails, a children’s museum, seasonal butterfly house, and an art gallery. More information can be found on their website .

Philadelphia Center for Architecture – The Philadelphia Center for Architecture is the city’s hub for architects, and it features a rotating collection of free exhibitions. While the exhibitions do loosely relate to architecture, they cover a range of subjects that should interest most. Currently on display is a collection of vintage neon signs, beautiful photos of Philadelphia’s most stunning buildings, and a scale model of the city. Click here for more information about visiting.

Laurel Hill Cemetery – Visiting a cemetery might sound strange, but Laurel Hill Cemetery is more of an outdoor art gallery than a cemetery, at least as far as its living visitors are concerned. As one of the few cemeteries in America to be named a National Historic Site, it’s a great place to admire the lengths some will go to to be remembered after their deaths, and there are also many influential people buried in the cemetery. More information can be found in my full article on the cemetery .

Self-Guided Philadelphia in the Movies Tour – Want to see where some of your favorite movies were filmed? This self-guided tour from Discover Philadelphia is perfect! Featuring the locations of movies such as The Sixth Sense, Silver Linings Playbook, Trading Places, Philadelphia, and many more, this walking/driving tour will take you around to some places that might already look very familiar to movie buffs. Click here to find out more information about this free, self-guided tour.

Pizza Brain – Home to the Guinness Book of World Records-certified largest collection of pizza memorabilia and collectibles in the world, Pizza Brain isn’t your normal pizzeria. The museum has a little bit of everything including a collection of music about pizza, pizza-related toys, and even a pizza cutter shaped like the USS Enterprise from Star Trek. Unfortunately, pizza isn’t free when you inevitably get hungry, but the museum costs nothing to check out. Visit their website for more information.

Wanamaker Organ – Located in the middle of a Macy’s Department Store, the Wanamaker Organ is the world’s largest, functional pipe organ. Simply gazing upon the organ’s large pipes is quite impressive, however, visiting during one of the twice-daily concerts will leave you speechless. For more information, click the link to read my full write up about hearing the Wanamaker Organ

Wissahickon Environmental Center – The Wissahickon Environmental Center is another of the city’s great public outdoor spaces. The center features several miles of hiking and walking trails, especially good for bird watchers. The environmental center building is open during the week but is often filled with school groups during the year. When it’s open to the pubic, there’s a children’s library, a 200-gallon aquarium, and other events (some of which have a small fee). For more information about visiting, click here .

Benjamin Franklin’s Grave – In some senses, Benjamin Franklin’s grave isn’t free to visit. However, for those looking to quickly pay their respects and move on, there’s no reason to pay the admission fee to enter the cemetery. Located in the corner closest to the Constitution Center, Benjamin Franklin’s grave sits right next to the cemetery’s fence (so close that you could probably touch it if you want). While there are many interesting people buried in the cemetery, there’s no need to pay if you only want to see Franklin’s grave.

Dr. and Mrs. Edwin Weaver III Historical Dental Museum – Part of the Temple School of Dentistry, the Dr. and Mrs. Edwin Weaver III Historical Dental Museum features a collection of antique dental equipment that has been mostly donated by the school’s alumni and faculty. If you think going to the dentist is bad in the 21st-century, you should see what it used to be like. Visit their website for more information.

Declaration House – Many visitors to Philadelphia stop by Independence Hall to see where the Declaration of Independence was ratified, but few visit the nearby Declaration House. It was here, during the summer of 1775, that Thomas Jefferson wrote the draft of the famous document. The house is now set up as a museum to tell more about Jefferson’s time in the home.  Click here for more information.

The Thinker Statue and Rodin Museum Garden – The Rodin Museum is one of Philadelphia’s best art museums. And, while it costs to get inside, many of the museum’s best pieces sit outside. The most recognizable piece is a cast of “The Thinker” that sits outside the museum’s gates along Benjamin Franklin Parkway. The garden area outside the museum is also free to visit during museum hours and features another handful of beautiful sculptures from French artist, Auguste Rodin. Visit their website here .

Philadelphia’s War Memorials – While small war memorials dot the city, two of the largest and most well done are located near Penn’s Landing. The two memorials honor those from Philadelphia who lost their lives in the Korean War and the Vietnam War. The monuments sit next to each other and honor the more than 1,200 soldiers from the Philadelphia area that lost their lives in these two conflicts. For more information on visiting, check out the websites for the Korean War Memorial and Vietnam War Memorial .

Free Outdoor Movie Screenings – During the summer months, multiple venues set up large screens and host free outdoor movies. Some of the movies are a bit old, but some are newer, and most are great films for the whole family. Here’s a list to give you an idea what was offered during the summer of 2014, but simply do a Google search to find the current listing of movies and locations.

The Comcast Experience HD Video Wall – Located in the lobby of the Comcast Center in downtown Philly is the Comcast Experience. The screen is the largest four-millimeter LED screen in the world. At over 2,100-square feet, the screen’s clarity is something that has to be seen to be believed. Video programming is shown 18-hours a day, but the most popular time to come is during the Christmas season. More information can be found here .

Gloria Dei Church – Gloria Dei Church, also known as Old Swedes, is a National Historic Site in south Philadelphia. Having held its first service in July 1700, it is the oldest church in the city and still functions as a place of worship. Visitors can take a free tour of this church to learn about its history and connection to the city. Find out more about the church in our article about the most interesting churches in Philadelphia .

Visit the Graves of Baseball Hall of Famers – There are two Baseball Hall of Famers buried within the city limits of Philadelphia (Harry Kalas and Louis Santop), along with another five that are buried just outside the city limits. For baseball fans, visiting these graves is a great way to learn about the history of the sport. For more information, check out our article about the Baseball Hall of Famers buried in Philly .

Philadelphia’s Skateparks – There are eight free skate parks in Philadelphia that offer a chance for skateboarders to get out and enjoy the beauty of the city in a well-designed space. For more information, check out this site .

Boathouse Row – Visitors traveling into Philly from the west often drive by the beautiful Boathouse Row along the banks of the Schuylkill River. All 15 boathouses are over 100 years old and are still home to rowing clubs and other boating facilities. While the boathouses are unfortunately closed to the public, the buildings are unique enough to make a walk past them a worthwhile activity for anyone looking for something free to do in Philly.

Franklin Court – Franklin Court stands on the grounds where Benjamin Franklin’s Philadelphia home once stood. The excellent Benjamin Franklin Museum costs money to enter, but the courtyard is free. Inside the courtyard, you’ll find a metal frame that stands where Franklin’s house once stood. Several glass boxes allow you to peer down to the foundations of the old home. The printing office is also worth checking out. Park Service employees regularly operate the machinery and print out period manuscripts. More information about visiting can be found here .

Waterfalls near Philly – If you are looking for great waterfalls near Philadelphia , we’ve put together a list of some of the closest falls to the city.

Do you know any more free things to do in Philadelphia? Let us know in the comments below.

(Looking for more free things to do in PA? Check out our list of free things to do in Pittsburgh ,  free things to do in Lancaster, PA , and the best free things to do in Harrisburg . You can also read our list of 51 facts about Philly that you weren’t taught in school .)

Great places to stay in Philadelphia

• Loews Philadelphia Hotel - A historic hotel with fantastic views
• Hotel Monaco - A dog-friendly hotel in the heart of Old City
• The Rittenhouse Hotel - The city's highest rated hotel on Trip Advisor.
• Wyndham Historic District - A great value with a rooftop pool
• Find more great places to stay on Airbnb

Click the map to see more nearby things to do

More nearby places worth exploring

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Overlooking Philly From the Observation Deck at Philadelphia’s City Hall

51 Philadelphia Facts that You Weren’t Taught in School

Hiking Through the Beautifully Unique Nottingham Serpentine Barrens of Nottingham County Park

Find more things to do in the philly region.

Jim Cheney is the creator of UncoveringPA.com. Based in Carlisle near Harrisburg, Jim frequently travels around Pennsylvania and has visited, written about, and photographed all 67 counties in the state. He has also traveled to more than 30 different countries around the world.

48 thoughts on “The Ultimate List of Completely Free Things to do in Philadelphia”

Great list! I may use this as my free Philadelphia bucket list!

On Sundays, the Philadelphia Art Museum is free! (excluding the special exhibits!) Donations accepted, but none required!

That is true, Kylie, but since it’s “Pay What You Wish” and not actually free, I didn’t include it. Everything on this list is advertised as completely free.

I believed they changed that…I think it’s now the first Tues. of the month…I remember taking my kids between 11 and 1 on Sunday when it was free.

Great list! Thank you!

Great list. Now I just need to get busy and start seeing some of these great things.

Don’t forget that Taller Puertorriqueño’s galleries are always free- come by and support Puerto Rican and Latino arts and culture in Philly! http://www.tallerpr.org

Fabulous!Great! Muy bien!Me gusta!

If you do the Rocky steps at the Museum of Art, you may be able to get your photo of more than just the Rocky statue, as these guys discovered this past week… https://lancasteronline.com/news/local/strasburg-man-has-surprise-encounter-with-rocky-star-sylvester-stallone/article_6dc86294-a1d2-11e4-9e69-ab6175edb261.html

Very nice piece about things to see in Philidelphia.

Thanks, Marsha! It was fun to put together such a complete list of free things to do in Philadelphia.

Yes – the Dream Garden sits in obscurity in the lobby of the Curtis Center ! But this helps to enlighten folks – and if they can’t visit they can see it in M. Night Shyamalan’s 2000 movie Unbreakable – he uses it as a backdrop in a romantic restaurant scene with Bruce Willis and Robin Wright Penn.

Unfortunately the Drexel School of Medicine is hardly in downtown Philly. It’s actually in East Falls, which is easily a 15 minute drive from downtown

Not all the things in this list of free things to do in Philly are in the downtown area, but rest assured, they are all in confines of “Philadelphia.”

Jim, I like the list but is there some way to map the stops on google ?

I don’t have a map of the places, Tony. That’s a good idea though. I’ll think about putting something together at some point.

One of the most fascinating museums that I visited in Philadelphia is the Waterworks (located behind and down from Art Gallery on the river). A good part of it was free and so interesting. People forget that Phila. was the most populous city in America in 1800 and the first to pipe water to homes. It shows the original wooden pipes (hollowed out logs) and diagrams of the original system. Engineers came from all over the world to study it.

That sounds really interesting, Gail. It’s amazing how many free things there are to do in Philly!

Great List….. Thank You!!!!!

A friend and I want to explore these and check out her connections with family history. I am writing a children’s book set in Colonial times to present day.

Stoked to see Sedgeley Woods Disc Golf Course on the list. I highly recommend disc golf to any and every one. To clear any questions up… Yes Discs cost money, as you can play with a standard frisbee, discs are weighted and cut much differently, in order to maximize glide, speed, fade, etc, that will frustrate you with the most addictingly fun challenge in a non competitive atmosphere… Other than that,food/beverage..it a free! If you’ve never played before all you will need your first few times is a mid range disc or a putter. And there are usually discs for sale in the afternoons. The only thing you have to do is have fun and #letitfly I have been throwing for 8 years, have played hundreds of Disc Golf courses the east coast to CA and Hawaii. Sedgley is a truly unique course, that will make you forget you’re in city limits. You will see a community of individuals, united by the disc, always willing to help a New thrower. A series of individuals that ranges from the young to the old, of all walks of life, from all parts of the greater Philadelphia area and beyond. From the banker to the union worker, the student to the homeless, the hipster to hippie, to the every-man, woman, child, dog….it doesn’t matter, all that matters is that everyone is smiling, forgetting their daily worries and having fun. Fairmount Park is full of awesome places to go for free and make your own fun. No other city park has more to offer, even with very little imagination…you will find yourself exploring and having fun, reminded that your in Philadelphia, only when the majestic skyline presents itself in your adventures. Make your own fun!

Now you need to make us a list of where to park free in Philly!

Great list. Good advice about Ben Franklin’s grave, though my husband and I paid to tour since it helps upkeep. We ways looked for the free and have fond memories of Philly free …just a walk along the pier, around South Street or through City Hall was a treat.

HEADHOUSE MARKET SUNDAY MORNINGS 10-2 MAY-DEC.!!!!!!

At the Pennsylvania Hospital at 8th St, ask to see the Operating Thester & Library. There is a cell phone tour of the great stuff there, and it’s free M-F.

Great list Jim! Many places I enjoy…Wanted to just add to as to have folks enjoy our urban haunts …North Philly -Stephen Girard “America’s First Tycoon” left us a great gift -The college his estate created has a museum in Founder’s Hall – Free Tours on Thursdays- Mrs. Laurent is great! While in the area,also visit The Wagner Free Institute of Science… Ask about Free Adult classes … Connection ,William Wagner worked for Stephen Girard and was one of his closest proteges…Near by is Temple University Paley Library Urban Archives are available to view for Free ! I love Philadelphia! So much to do- Fairmount Park, just take a walk…ala Philly Girl, Jill Scott Free!!! Thanks Jim !

Nevermore shall you spell Edgar Allan Poe’s middle name “Allen”

Love, BALTIMORE the real home of the Raven

Whoops! Thanks for pointing that out, Pat. It’s been changed.

I am sure you get lots of these comments, but don’t forget the Fairmount Waterworks Interpretive Center. Free, great exhibits, and a fascinating look into the history of Philadelphia, and its water provision.

Thanks for the suggestion, Ray. I’m always looking for more free things to do in Philly. Hoping to expand on this list one day.

Great list, but please let me add the James Turrell Skyspace at the Chestnut Hill Friends Meetinghouse https://chestnuthillskyspace.org/ You’ll never look at the sky again in the same way.

Somewhere I read about a garden boasting a variety of treehouses, playhouses throughout the grounds for children, but haven’t been able to locate it ever since. I believe it was in or around the Philadelphia area. Does anyone have an idea what I might be talking about?

Probably Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square, Chester County. It’s not free, but does have tree houses and some play areas. If you are looking for free playgrounds in Philly, Smith Memorial Playground is listed above and supposed to be great.

You may be thinking of the Morris Arboretum in Chestnut Hill.

Maybe the Tyler Arboretum in Media.

Great list. Coming in May for our visit. Hope to include many of these places. Thanks for the heads up!

I hope you enjoy your visit and have a chance to check out many of the great free things to do in Philly.

Great list. Looking for things to do with family… Money is tight.

Also the Shrine of St. Rita de Cascia on Broad Street. Breathtaking and contemplative, all in one.

As a newcomer to Philly, I wish I could find locals interested in checking out these experiences with me! My local peeps just seem to be into eating and drinking 🙁

Am saving this list, as I’ve visited some of the locations, but definitely want to go back to see more as I’ve been visiting Philadelphia half of my life.

The Ryerss Museum in Burholme is FREE! It’s located right next to Fox Chase Cancer Center and Jeanes Hospital. It’s open every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday 10am-4pm. Plus it hosts year round events for all ages. Check it out on Facebook or its website at http://www.Ryerssmuseum.org

Thanks for mentioning this. Looks like a great free thing to do in Philadelphia. I’ll have to check it out sometime.

Excellent list! Many of these I’ve visited and many more I didn’t know about and look forward to visiting.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia, next to the Constitution Center, has a free hands-on exhibit. Plus, you get a bag of shredded $ and can exchange quarters for the most recently minted ones.

The mint tour is on the list. Definitely a great tour, though I don’t believe they do free bags of shredded money unless they’ve added that recently.

Great list! Thanks!

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Philadelphia Historic District

Philadelphia played an instrumental role during the time of the American Revolution including events such as the First Continental Congress in 1774, the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776 at the Second Continental Congress, and the creation of the US Constitution at the Constitutional Convention of 1787. The city served as the United States capital for 10 years (1779-1790) while Washington DC was under construction.

This tour starts at the Independence Visitor Center and then proceeds to the following locations: the President's House Site, the Liberty Bell Center, Declaration (Graff) House, Congress Hall, Independence Hall, Old City Hall, Philosophical Hall the American Philosophical Society Museum, Washington Square & the Walnut Street Prison, Second Bank of the United States, Carpenters' Hall, the First Bank of the United States, Museum of the American Revolution, Franklin Court, the Benjamin Franklin Museum and the Franklin Court Printing Office, Christ Church, the Betsy Ross House, Christ Church Burial Ground (Benjamin Franklin’s Grave). The tour moves in a large loop and ends back almost where it started at the National Constitution Center.

If walked directly point to point this walking tour would take about 40 minutes over a 2 mile path.

Start Philadelphia Historic District Walking Tour

Google Maps Version of Tour

Stop 1.  Independence Visitor Center

(599 Market Street,  phlvisitorcenter.com, Open daily 9-5pm)

The Independence Visitor Center is the Official Visitor Center for the Greater Philadelphia Region.  It has staff who will help with free trip planning advice, provides discounted tickets for local attractions and tours, has a digital wall that allows one to explore things to do and provides an 8min video overview of Philadelphia (also located here - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LUwoH5KmZfE&feature=youtu.be ). This is the place to pick up free timed tickets to Independence Hall.

The outdoor Liberty View Terrace provides a good picture taking site with Independence Hall in the background

Public restroom facilities are located near the main entrance. Free wifi.

Stop 2.  The President's House Site

(6th & Market streets located in the Independence Park between the Independence Visitor Center and the Liberty Bell Center. Open air exhibit so available any time the park is open.)

Philadelphia was the US Capital between 1789 and June 1800 while George Washington was President (1789-1797) and for a time while John Adams was the 2nd US President (1797-1801). Both Presidents resided in a small house located at this site which was torn down in 1832 but an outline of the building remains.

The site also hosts an outdoor exhibit – “Freedom and Slavery in the Making of a New Nation”- which tells the story of the 9 enslaved members of George Washington’s household who lived at this site.

During the Revolutionary War’s British Occupation of Philadelphia (1777-1778) the house was the headquarters of General Sir William Howe and the British Army. Later the house was headquarters for the Military Governor Benedict Arnold who from here started his secret correspondence with the British which resulted in his committing treason.

Stop 3.  The Liberty Bell Center 

(526 Market Street, open daily 9-5, no tickets required, entrance on a first-come, first-served basis.

up to 20 people per time.)

The Liberty Bell, or what was then known as the State House Bell, was the official bell of the Pennsylvania State House (now known as Independence Hall). It was commissioned from a London bell foundry to be used to draw attention to public announcements. When the bell arrived in 1752 when it was first rung the bell cracked and two local workmen recast the bell twice before it began its everyday use. It may have rung on July 8, 1776 to announce the first public reading of The Declaration of Independence.  The bell’s inscription reads: "Proclaim Liberty throughout all the Land unto all the Inhabitants thereof" - Leviticus XXV, v.10, The Bible.

It is unknown how and when the bell again became damaged but in 1846 reports were published that the bell’s cracks were extensive enough that it was not to be rung. The first time the bell was identified as “the liberty bell” was in an 1835 anti-slavery journal but an 1847 story by George Lippard about the bell being rung on July 4 1776 to help congress announce the Declaration of Independence helped to make the bell forever linked to the War for Independence.

Today the 2,000 pound Liberty Bell is housed in the Liberty Bell Center which features a number of exhibits about the history of the bell including its use as a symbol of liberty by abolitionists, women's suffragists, and the civil rights movements.

Stop 4.  Declaration (Graff) House

(700 Market Street, entrance door is through the courtyard on 7th Street)

This was the home of bricklayer Jacob Graff and where Thomas Jefferson rented a room during the summer of 1776 while attending the Second Continental Congress. The house was located at what was then the outskirts of town surrounded by fields and where Jefferson spent 3 weeks writing the Declaration of Independence.

There are exhibits about the Declaration of Independence on the first floor of the building, along with a brief video shown in the theater. On the second floor is a recreation of the two rooms that Jefferson rented during that summer. The house was demolished in 1883 but the National Park Service reconstructed it in 1975.

Stop 5.  Congress Hall

(At the intersection of Chestnut and 6th Streets. Opened daily between 9-5pm. Free.)

Built in 1789 this building was originally the Philadelphia County Court House. It became the seat of the US Government when Congress met here while Philadelphia was the US Capital between 1789-1800 before it’s final move to Washington DC. During this time three new states were admitted (Kentucky, Tennessee, Vermont), the Bill of Rights from the US Constitution was ratified and the first US Presidential Inaugurations were held (George Washington’s 2nd inauguration and John Adams inauguration as the 2nd US President).

The first level of the building was used for the House of Representatives and its 106 members and the 2nd floor housed the 32 members of the US Senate (28 out of the 32 desks in the chamber are originals). The first and second floor locations generated the term lower and upper chambers for Congress which is still in use today.

After the capital moved to Washington, the building converted back to its earlier use as the Philadelphia County Court House. In 1976 the building was restored to its original appearance.

Stop 6.  Independence Hall

(520 Chestnut Street, between 5th and 6th streets. Open daily 9-5. March to December timed tickets are required which can be obtained free at the Independence Visitors Center.)

The Pennsylvania State House (what would later be known as Independence Hall) was built in 1732 and served as the capital of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania until the state capital moved to Lancaster in 1799. From 1775 to 1783, the Hall served as the primary meeting place of the Second Continental Congress which was made up of delegates from each of the 13 States. This Congress nominated George Washington as the head of the Continental Army and approved the Declaration of Independence (the colonies announcement and justification of independence from England). After the Revolutionary War during a hot summer of 1787 Congress met in secret and created the US Constitution in this building.

From 1802 to 1826 the US artist Charles Peale housed his museum of natural history specimens on the 2nd floor, which was one of the first museums in the United States. In 1948 the interior of the building was restored to its original appearance and Congress later that year established an organization to maintain and preserve the Revolutionary War era historical sites around this area.  

The Liberty Bell had hung in Independence Hall until the mid-1840s, was then displayed on the ground floor until 1976 and now resides across the street in the Liberty Bell Center.

The West wing of Independence Hall contains original printed copies of the Declaration of Independence, the Articles of Confederation, and the U.S. Constitution. Also displayed is the Syng inkstand which is believed to be the silver inkstand which was used by the signors of the Declaration of Independence.

Stop 7.  Old City Hall

(At the intersection of Chestnut and 5th Streets. Opened daily between 9-5pm. Free.)

Built in 1790 the building was intended to be Philadelphia’s city hall but it served as the home of the US Supreme Court from 1791 to 1800 while Philadelphia was still the US Capital. 3 Supreme Court Justices officiated here – John Jay, John Rutledge and Olive Ellsworth. After 1800 when the US Capital moved to Washington DC, the building became Philadelphia’s City Hall and stayed at this location until 1854.

Stop 8.  Philosophical Hall the American Philosophical Society Museum

(104 South Fifth Street, open to the public April to December, 10-5 thur to sun. Free)

The American Philosophical Society was founded in 1743 by a group including Benjamin Franklin to promote knowledge in the sciences and humanities through research, professional meetings, publications, library resources, and community outreach.  It is considered the first learned society in the United States. This building was building in 1789 to house the society and is now a museum that exhibits parts of its collection of 3,000 artifacts and fine art objects.

Stop 9.  Washington Square & the Walnut Street Prison

(210 W. Washington Square)

Washington Square was one of the five original open-space parks planned by William Penn when he laid out the city of Philadelphia. In the 18th century the park was used to graze animals, as a cattle market and as a cemetery (by the city's African American community, as a potter's field, for soldiers during the Revolutionary War and for victims of Philadelphia’s bouts with yellow fever).

In the 19th century the park was improved as the surrounding neighborhoods were developed and a monument was proposed for George Washington but in 1954 it instead became a tribute to all soldiers and sailors of the Revolutionary War, designated as the "Tomb of the Unknown Revolutionary War Soldier."

At the corner of Sixth and Walnut Street, the Walnut Street Prison was built in 1776 and in 1790 constructed one of the first penitentiary buildings in the US (using individual cells and work detail) which lasted until 1838. In 1793 on the grounds of the prison the first human flight by hot air balloon was launched by Jean Pierre Blanchard.

Stop 10.  Second Bank of the United States

(420 Chestnut Street , free)

5 years after the War of 1812, President Madison signed a bill establishing the Second Bank of the United States (the First Bank lost its charter in 1811) to help deal with the war debt and federal financial disarray.  The bank handled all fiscal transactions for the U.S. Government, and was accountable to Congress and the U.S. Treasury. After 20 years, Congress did not renew its charter and it became a private bank.

The building, built in 1824, was designed by architect William Strickland in the Greek Revival style and was based on Greece’s Parthenon.

Today the building is part of the Independence National Historic Park and serves as a portrait gallery with portraits of prominent citizens many painted by 18th century artist Charles Willson Peale. Restrooms are available in the basement.

Stop 11.  Carpenters' Hall

(320 Chestnut Street, carpentershall.org, free)

Completed in 1775, the two-story brick meeting hall designed by Robert Smith in the Georgian Style, was built for and is still privately owned by the Carpenters' Company trade guild, the country's oldest craft guild still in existence.

The First Continental Congress met here in 1774 in response to British Parliament's passage of the Intolerable Acts against the colony of Massachusetts and drafted a petition to King George III asking for his assistance. It was also the location of the Pennsylvania Provincial Conference in June 1776 which declared Pennsylvania’s independence from the British Empire. In later years it served various other functions– served has a hospital for both Continental and British troops during the Revolutionary War, was home to Franklin's Library Company, The American Philosophical Society, and the First and Second Banks of the United States.

The Hall contains various items such as a model of Carpenter’s Hall illustrating the 18th century building methods, the officer’s furniture from the 1890s, the original Speaker’s chair used by President of the First Continental Congress Peyton Randolph, displays of a variety of carpenters' tools.

Stop 12.  The First Bank of the United States

(3rd Street between Walnut and Chestnut, closed to the public)

Alexander Hamilton, the first Secretary of the Treasury, established the First Bank of the United States in 1791 in order to help deal with the great debt load that the United States carried over from the Revolutionary War. His plan was for this national bank to help stabilize and improve the new nation's credit, and to improve handling of the financial business of the United States government under the newly enacted Constitution. It faced great debate within Congress about how to interpret the Constitution but Hamilton’s argument won and Congress granted the bank a 20 year charter.

At this time each State could print their own banknotes, but the First Bank’s notes became the closest thing to a national currency since they were the only ones accepted when paying federal taxes, which the First Bank was in charge of collecting. Congress did not renew the charter and the bank became a private bank, Girard Bank.

In 1791 the bank started operations in Carpenters Hall but moved into its current location in 1797 in a building that is known as a masterpiece of Classical Revival design designed by architect Samuel Blodgett, Jr. The building is closed to the public.

Stop 13.  Museum of the American Revolution

(101 S. 3rd Street, amrevmuseum.org)

The museum provides a chronological journey from the roots of conflict in the 1760s to the rise of armed resistance, the Declaration of Independence of 1776 through the final years of the war. Besides the many artifacts displayed in the various exhibits some of the particularly interesting exhibits include a full-scale replica of Boston's Liberty Tree, the recreation of an Oneida Indian Council, the Battlefield Theater featuring the Battle of Brandywine, a recreation of Independence Hall, and a large model of an 18th-century privateer ship. And a dedicated theater houses an iconic surviving artifact of the Revolution: General Washington's Headquarters Tent, which served as both his office and sleeping quarters throughout much of the war

Stop 14.  Franklin Court, the Benjamin Franklin Museum and the Franklin Court Printing Office

(317 Chestnut Street, Franklin Court and the Printing Office are free)

Benjamin Franklin built his house in this courtyard in 1763 which was connected to Market Street via an alleyway. While this was his house Franklin was overseas for much of the rest of his life but was home here during his time in the Second Continental Congress and the United States Constitutional Convention and moved permanently back into this house in 1785 where he lived until his death in 1790.

In 1787, Franklin built a print shop within the lot for his grandson Benjamin Franklin Bache, who would publish the Philadelphia Aurora there.

The house and most likely the print shop were demolished in 1812 and only the foundations are left. In 1974 a “ghost” outline of the house was built that provides an approximation of the building since there was inadequate historical information to rebuild the house accurately. There are concrete hoods that allow visitors to view the archaeological remains beneath.

The Benjamin Franklin Museum is located underground underneath the outline of his house. Exhibits include short films and interactive displays that allow one to explore Franklin’s life and legacy through some of his character traits.

The Franklin Court Printing Office contains several exhibits including a typesetting area, two reproduction 18th century presses, a bindery, and the newspaper office of Franklin's grandson, Benjamin Franklin Bache. Park rangers demonstrate typesetting and use of the 18th century printing press to visitors.

Stop 15.  Christ Church

(20 N. American Street, christchurchphila.org)

Christ Church was founded in 1695 by members of the Church of England who built a small wooden church on this site. By 1744 the current church was built and when the 196 foot steeple was added in 1754, the church became the tallest structure in the 13 colonies.

Known as “the Nation’s Church” many prominent leaders of the Revolutionary War time were members including George Washington, John Adams, Robert Morris, Benjamin Franklin and Betsy Ross. The church played an integral role in the founding of the Protestant Episcopal Church in the United States. Visitors can site in the same pews as these historical figures (brass plaques mark where they sat).

The church’s burial ground is located 2 blocks away at the corner of Arch and N Independence Mall although 2 signors of the Declaration of Independence were buried at the church - James Wilson and Robert Morris.

Admission $5 adults, $2 children. Sundays donate as you wish.

Stop 16.  The Betsy Ross House

(239 Arch Street)

Purported to be the site where the seamstress and flag-maker Betsy Ross (1752-1836) lived when she is said to have sewed the first American Flag. Historians now are uncertain this past but her house is a popular destination for tourists. Betsy Ross’ grave site is located in the courtyard.

Admission: $7 adults / $6 children for self guided tour.

Stop 17.  Christ Church Burial Ground (Benjamin Franklin’s Grave)

(5th and Arch Street, christchurchphila.org)

Christ Church (located 2 blocks away at 20 N. American St) the “Nation’s Church” located its burial ground here in 1719. Four signors of the Declaration of Independence are buried here - Benjamin Rush, Francis Hopkinson, Joseph Hewes and George Ross – along with one of Philadelphia’s most famous residents, Benjamin Franklin. Franklin’s grave is located at the corner of 5th and Arch so even if the burial ground is closed, visitors can still see the grave site through the gates. It is a tradition to place pennies on Franklin’s grave.

Admission: $5 adults/$2 children.

Stop 18.  National Constitution Center

(525 Arch Street, constitutioncenter.org)

The National Constitution Center is an interactive museum that dramatically retells the story of the Constitution from its beginnings here in Philadelphia to present day. There are a variety of exhibits designed to provide information about constitutional issues including a a 360-degree live theatrical production Freedom Rising and being able to walk amongst 42 life-size bronze statues of the Founding Fathers. The museum does not house the original Constitution, which is instead located at the National Archives Building in Washington, D.C., but does have an original copy of the first public printing of the constitution. The building was designed by the architectural firm of Pei Cobb Freed & Partners.

Admission:  adults $14.50 / children $11.

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The 21 best free things to do in Philadelphia

Walking America's oldest botanical garden and gazing at murals are some of the best free things to do in Philadelphia

The best free things to do in Philadelphia range in genre and scope: from a walk through some of the most beautiful parks in the area to completely-gratis visits to top Philly museums and attractions , the City of Brotherly Love promises to expand your horizons culturally, culinary and in just about any other way possible.

You might want to spend the day at the Barnes Foundation (free entry on the first Sunday of each month) to gaze at one of the leading collections of works by Pablo Picasso or, instead, visit America's oldest living botanical garden (a 45-acre landmark!). Whatever you opt for, get ready to see a side of Philly you'll likely never have experienced before—without even having to take your wallet out.

RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best  things to do in Philadelphia

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Best free things to do in Philadelphia

1.  Philadelphia Museum of Art

• Art and design
• Ben Franklin Parkway - Kelly Drive

Inside this 100-year-old building, find a stunning collection of over 240,000 pieces of original art, ranging from sculpture and paintings to collections of historic furniture and armory. There’s lots to do with kids here, too, including the Family Art Cart in the galleries, where kids can sketch from the masterpieces, and Sunday Family Tours. Although the museum does charge admission, you can snag pay-what-you-wish prices on the first Sunday (10am–5pm) of the month and every Wednesday night (5–8pm).

2.  Reading Terminal Market

• Attractions
• Greater Philadelphia

More than 100 vendors in individual stalls offer goods ranging from artisan cheeses to Amish shoo-fly pies in this 200-year-old indoor market housed in the bottom floor of what was once the Philadelphia and Reading Railroad Company. While you’re there, grab a cone of Bassett’s famous ice cream, the oldest ice cream vendor in the country.

3.  The Barnes Foundation

The Barnes Foundation features the immense art collection of Albert C. Barnes, who managed to amass one of the leading collections of works by impressionist and modernist masters such as Vincent Van Gogh, Paul Cézanne, Pierre-August Renoir, Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse and Henri Rousseau. Founded in 1922, the Barnes Foundation’s mission is to make art more accessible, so they open up the museum free of charge on the first Sunday of each month. Take advantage of the free day to get up close and personal with these masters.

4.  First Friday in Old City

• Things to do
• Late openings

From 5 to 9pm on the first Friday of each month, Philadelphian art lovers take to the streets of Old City to browse over 40 galleries, which all stay open late to debut their latest exhibitions. Cafés and restaurants also get in on the fun, serving up food and drinks, and neighborhood boutiques put on sales for those looking to do some late-night shopping. The streets come alive with the sounds of live music, and local artisans set up makeshift booths to sell wares on the sidewalks. It’s a quintessential Philadelphia experience—and one of the best free things to do in Philadelphia.

5.  Historical Sites

• Historic buildings and sites

There is plenty of history to see free of charge in Philadelphia. To see the Liberty Bell, all you have to do is walk through a security check and then you’re in. Similarly, Independence Hall is open to the public after you procure the required free tickets at Independence Visitors Center. (Pro tip: Go early; tickets are limited.) While the Betsy Ross house does charge a nominal fee to go in, there’s lots to do on the grounds, including visiting her burial site, watching the seasonal outdoor performances, and listening to roving storytellers who wax historic all around Old City at the Once Upon a Nation Storytelling Benches .

6.  Free Concerts at the Kimmel Center

• Music venues
• Avenue Of The Arts - South

The Kimmel Center offers a vast array of free concerts and events throughout the year. Bring the kids to one of their hands-on demonstrations or bring the whole family to any of a number of classes, festivals, and showcases. Click “ Free Events ” at the Kimmel Center website to see the current offerings.

7.  Institute of Contemporary Art

• University City

A small museum with a big resumé on the University of Pennsylvania’s campus, the Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA) has been mounting exhibitions of major contemporary artists since its opening in 1963. Determined to present what was “new and happening,” it brought Andy Warhol to Penn’s campus for his first-ever solo museum show in 1965. Since then, the ICA has presented artists such as Robert Mapplethorpe, Laurie Anderson, Glenn Ligon, Agnes Martin, Damian Ortega, Pepon Osorio and Lisa Yuskavage. ICA doesn't cost a dime to tour, so stop in and get your gratis culture fix.

8.  Franklin Square

• Parks and gardens

One of Philadelphia’s five original squares is Franklin Square, located right in the historic part of the city. This park is fully outfitted with a carousel, fountain, playground and mini-golf course. After you spend the afternoon, walk a couple of blocks to nearby old-fashioned ice cream shop Franklin Fountain to top off the day.

9.  Spruce Street Harbor Park

• price 2 of 4

Join the warm-weather party (May through October) at Spruce Street Harbor Park along the Delaware River. Free features and activities include a regular lineup of live musical performances, bocce, ping pong and shuffleboard courts. Or you could just snag one of the highly coveted hammocks and watch the whole scene unfold. 

10.  Mural Mile

Mural Arts Philadelphia has managed the creation of more than 4,000 gorgeous murals around the city. In 1984, in an effort to clean up Philadelphia and remove unwanted drawings from buildings, artist Jane Golden commissioned local graffiti artists to create public art. Since then, murals have been popping up everywhere, brightening city blocks and bringing more attention to otherwise overlooked neighborhoods. Take one of two self-guided walking tours —Mural Mile North and Mural Mile South—to learn about the history of this groundbreaking project. The former goes north of Market Street, winding through Old City before dipping into Chinatown and finishing at City Hall. The Mural Mile South tour takes guests south of Market Street, concentrating mainly along the recently revitalized 13th Street corridor.

11.  Sister Cities Park

• Logan Circle

Located at the midpoint of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway and in front of the stunning Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, this relatively new park celebrates Philadelphia’s 10 “sister cities” across the world. Let the kids run wild in the Children’s Discovery Garden, which mimics elements of nearby Wissahickon Park with a trickling stream and scalable rocks. They can also splash around in the Sister Cities fountain or sail miniature sailboats on the nearby boat pond. Art lovers will notice Robert Indiana’s AMOR sculpture, which was presented to the city to commemorate Pope Francis’s historic visit here in 2015. To round out the day, grab a bite to eat at Logan Square Café, which serves soups, sandwiches, pizza and more from 8am to 5pm every day.

12.  Bartram’s Garden

• Kingsessing

America’s oldest living botanical garden is a 45-acre landmark that offers visitors the opportunity to browse a selection of native plants, pore through the archives in the library, or take a luxurious walk through the eight-acre garden. While there is an opportunity to purchase guided tour tickets, admission to the grounds is always free of charge.

13.  Yards Brewing Company

• Club District

Yards Brewing Company, affectionately known as “Philly’s Hometown Brewery” has offered year-round small-batch brews since 1994. Any guest 21 years or older is welcome to take a free tour of the brewery any Saturday or Sunday between noon and 4pm. Check the website before you go to see what’s on tap.

14.  Performance Series at Curtis

• Rittenhouse

On Monday, Wednesday and Friday evenings from October to May, the Curtis Institute of Music holds free concerts in its 250-seat Field Hall. The Performance Series—which amounts to around 200 performances each year—not only offer its students ample opportunity to perform for the public as part of their education, but also offer the public an opportunity to listen to a vast array of talented, up-and-coming musicians without having to buy expensive concert tickets. Choose from a selection of family shows, opera, orchestra and more.

15.  Outdoor Public Art

If museums aren’t your style—or if it’s too gorgeous of a day to be inside—consider taking a self-guided tour of Philadelphia public art. Start at the iconic LOVE statue, then head across the street to stand at the foot of Claes Oldenburg’s 45-foot steel  Clothespin in Centre Square. At the Muncipal Services Building across from City Hall, you can relive your childhood among sculptures of giant game pieces such as checkers, Bingo tiles and mammoth dice. For a full list of where to find more public art in Philadelphia, consult the Association for Public Art's website here . 

16.  Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens

• Bainbridge St Booksellers Row

This nonprofit Isaiah Zagar museum and gallery on South Street showcases bits of colored glass and shards of broken pottery embedded into the walls and nooks of the building. There is a nominal fee to go inside the museum, but much of it can be viewed from the street free of charge. There’s also plenty to see on the rest of the block, as many of the buildings surrounding the Gardens also boast facades of Zagar’s work.

17.  The Rocky Statue and the Rocky Steps

• Monuments and memorials

The artwork isn’t the only thing worth seeing at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. The bronze statue of the iconic Rocky Balboa was originally cast in 1980 for use in Rocky III and was donated to the city of Philadelphia by Sylvester Stallone once the movie wrapped. Grab a selfie with the statue and then re-enact one of America’s favorite movie scenes by running up the museum steps and raising your fists in triumph.

18.  Boathouse Row

It’s gorgeous any time of day, but to get the full effect, visit this charming row of 19th-century boathouses along the Schuylkill River once the sun has set. Located just west of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, this group of boathouses are meticulously lined with tiny, perfect glittering lights which reflect off the water at night. Bring your camera to capture this iconic Philly view. 

19.  Fireman’s Hall Museum

• Elfreth's Alley

Just outside of Old City, this restored firehouse offers close-up looks at antique firetrucks as well as artifacts rescued from some well-known fire events. Upstairs, look through old ship registers and get up close with some of the many antique fire extinguishers on display. This is a free self-guided tour not to miss—especially if you have little ones in tow. 

20.  United States Mint

Philadelphia’s mint does not print paper money, but it does stamp coins by the tens of millions per day. The free self-guided tour explains what the process entails from start to finish as well as how the process of making money has changed from the very early days of the nation. Along the way, kids will get to design their own virtual coins, try to lift a sack of nickels and see what happens to all the money that falls off the conveyor belts.

21.  Benjamin Franklin’s Grave

If you want to go all the way into the cemetery where this historical Philadelphian is buried, you will need to pay admission ($2). However, it’s free to stop and pay your respects from just outside. The corner location of Benjamin Franklin’s grave—located near 5th and Arch streets—makes it easy to see through the wrought iron gate as you’re passing by.

Have the little ones in tow?

Discover things to do in Philly with kids

Our guide to the best things to do in Philadelphia with kids includes visits to museums, zoos and tons of outdoor fun

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

2. Philadelphia Hop-On Hop-Off City Tour

3. Revolution and the Founders: History Tour of Philadelphia

4. Dark Philly Adult Night Tour

5. Philadelphia History, Highlights, & Revolution Walking Tour

6. Flavors of Philly Food 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. BYOB Historically Hilarious Trolley Tour of Philadelphia

10. A Day in Amish Country

11. Interactive Mystery Hunt by Independence Hall in Philadelphia

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. Liberty History Tour Pub Crawl

16. The Constitutional Walking Tour of Philadelphia

17. Washington DC and Philadelphia in One Day from NYC

18. 3-Day US Niagara Falls,Washington DC&Philadelphia Tour from NY/NJ

19. The Ghosts of Philadelphia Tour

20. Philadelphia Movie and Television Sites Walking Tour

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

22. 4-Day New York Tour to Niagara Falls, Washington and 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. Historic Philadelphia Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour

27. The Italian Market & Beyond with Chefs & Journalists

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

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

30. Founding Phantoms Adult's Only Walking Tour

What travelers are saying.

• Natalia F 1 contribution 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles Walking tour Bill was extremely knowledgeable about Philadelphia’s history and the history of the American Revolution. I did enjoy it very much. Read more Review of: Revolution and the Founders: History Tour of Philadelphia Written May 19, 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

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Independence Hall Independence Hall free

It is in this red-brick, Georgian-style building that the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were debated, drafted and signed by our forefathers, and those who visit Independence Hall can see surviving copies of the documents. Visitors can also see the Assembly Room where George Washington was appointed commander in chief of the Continental Army. Recent reviewers agree this is a must-see in Philadelphia.

Located in Independence National Historical Park in Old City, Independence Hall is just steps from the Liberty Bell Center , making it convenient to visit both landmarks in a morning or afternoon.

Liberty Bell Center Liberty Bell Center free

No matter your interests or intentions for a visit to Philadelphia, the Liberty Bell is a must-see. This 2,080-pound piece of history was once mounted in the belfry of Independence Hall , where it was used to mark important historic events, most notably the first public reading of the Declaration of Independence.

It's unknown why or exactly when the Liberty Bell was damaged, though historians believe the first crack developed in the early 1840s. Metal workers were soon tasked with repairing the bell in anticipation of George Washington's birthday in 1846, but the repair was unsuccessful and the bell ceased to chime again.

Rocky Statue and Steps Rocky Statue and Steps free

Created for a scene in "Rocky III," the Rocky Statue sits at the bottom of "The Rocky Steps" at the Philadelphia Museum of Art , where the fictional boxer trained in the original movie.

For the full "Rocky" experience, run up the 72 steps of the museum – don't worry, you can stop for breaks along the way – so you can take in the views of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway (often compared to the Champs-Élysées in Paris) at the top, just like Sylvester Stallone did in the film. Snap a photo with "Rocky" before or after the trek – previous visitors agree the fun photo op alone is worth a visit. They also warn of queues to take pictures.

Reading Terminal Market Reading Terminal Market free

One of the most fun (and delicious) things to do in Philadelphia is taste your way through Reading Terminal Market. Located beneath the Reading Railroad's 1891 train station (a National Historic Landmark) in Center City, Reading Terminal Market houses more than 70 vendors. Sample food from around the world – including Greek, Thai, Mexican and Indian specialties – while perusing homemade crafts and jewelry. Recent visitors agree there's something for everyone at Reading Terminal Market, noting that any lines you encounter are well worth the wait. 

With so many merchants, the market can feel overwhelming so it's best to have a shortlist of places to visit before you head inside. Some of the best food options include:

South Street South Street free

This quirky neighborhood is practically synonymous with Philadelphia. Spanning roughly 14 blocks (it depends who you ask), South Street offers an eclectic variety of independent gift shops, boutiques and thrift stores, many of which are women- and Black-owned. It's also home to Philadelphia's Magic Gardens .

There's no shortage of dining options, either. In fact, Jim's Steaks on South Street (expected to reopen in late 2023 following a fire) serves some of the city's best cheesesteaks. Brahaus Schmitz (German), Tattooed Mom (vegan-friendly bar), and Pumpkin BYOB (top-rated) are also favored by locals and tourists alike.

Italian Market Italian Market free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Make sure Sarcone's Bakery will be open during your visit (and go early for the best selection). It might actually be a sin to visit the Italian Market without buying a few loaves of their fresh bread. – Amanda Norcross, Content & SEO Strategist

In addition to visiting Reading Terminal Market , both locals and tourists agree a visit to the Italian Market on South Ninth Street is an essential food experience in Philly. One of the oldest open-air markets in the country, the Italian Market features a multitude of gourmet food vendors selling imported goods, cheeses, meats, freshly roasted coffee beans, homemade chocolates and more. Travelers appreciate the variety of delicious food and recommend visiting when hungry.

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Spruce Street Harbor Park Spruce Street Harbor Park free

Spruce Street Harbor Park is a summertime favorite in Philly, with hammocks, a beer garden, an arcade, lawn games and a boardwalk on the Delaware River. It's the ultimate place to relax and the closest you'll come to a beach in Philadelphia (though the Jersey Shore beaches aren't far).

There's also a variety of food vendors on-site, and visitors have the option to enjoy their meal on a floating river barge. Spruce Street Harbor Park is especially pretty at night, when the trees are illuminated by multicolored lights.

Fairmount Park Fairmount Park free

Fairmount Park is the largest landscaped urban park in the world – it’s bigger than Central Park in New York City – with more than 2,000 scenic acres affording opportunities for hiking, off-road biking (permit required) and even horseback riding in the city. There are also picnic tables throughout the park, available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Also considered a neighborhood in Philadelphia, Fairmount Park houses popular attractions including The Philadelphia Museum of Art , the Philadelphia Zoo , Boathouse Row , and the indoor-outdoor Mann Center (one of the best live music venues in Philly). Other noteworthy landmarks include Fairmount Water Works, the Philadelphia Water Department's former engine room-turned-event center and a National Historic Landmark, and the Shofuso Japanese Cultural Center, complete with a ceremonial tea house and koi pond. The park begins near the Benjamin Franklin Parkway and extends to the northwest.

Rittenhouse Square Rittenhouse Square free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Make a reservation for breakfast or brunch at Parc, a French-style bistro with great food, ambiance and people watching. – Amanda Norcross, Content & SEO Strategist

This ritzy neighborhood is one of the best places to eat and shop in Philadelphia, with some of the city's top-rated restaurants, high-end shopping and trendy nightlife venues on offer. Many of the best hotels in Philadelphia are also located here.   

Franklin Square Franklin Square free

When William Penn imagined the city of Philadelphia, he planned five open-square parks. Franklin Square, located in Independence Hall National Historical Park, is one of them (along with Rittenhouse Square , Logan Square, Washington Square and Centre Square).

Close to historical landmarks like the Liberty Bell and especially fun for families, Franklin Square offers a carousel and an 18-hole miniature golf course that looks like a pint-size version of Philly. At the center of the square, a 180-year-old fountain puts on a (free) seasonal water show every 30 minutes. When you get hungry, head to SquareBurger for a bite to eat and the Original Cake Shake, made with Philly's own Tastykake Butterstoch Krimpets.

LOVE Park LOVE Park free

LOVE Park, which was designed by city planner Edmond Bacon (father of actor Kevin Bacon), is where you'll find Robert Indiana's world-renowned LOVE statue, one of the most popular spots for a photo in Philly. There's also a welcome center, walking paths, plenty of green space and a fountain (fun for toddlers to splash through on a hot day).

Visitors agree a photo in front of the LOVE sign is a must, though they caution there's almost always a line. Several travelers also suggest visiting the adjacent Philadelphia Holocaust Memorial Plaza. And if you enjoy holiday markets, time your visit around Christmas when the park transforms into Christmas Village, an event inspired by German Christmas markets with dazzling decor and vendors selling authentic European food, handmade ornaments and more.

Rail Park Rail Park free

Unused rail lines are being reimagined as this 3-mile trail in Philadelphia. Once finalized, the Rail Park will not only connect 10 neighborhoods, but will also offer a variety of locally inspired art installations and amenities for the public to enjoy.

Phase 1 (called The Cut), which is fully complete, offers swings, bike racks, and an electric platform for events. You'll also spot one of the city's many murals, a story wall depicting Philadelphia's Industrial era, and a variety of plants that are native to Pennsylvania. The current iteration of Rail Park can be accessed at two entrances: 1300 Noble St. and Callowhill Street between 11th and 12th streets.

Wissahickon Valley Park Wissahickon Valley Park free

No, you don't have to drive to the mountains to go hiking near Philadelphia (though the Poconos region and its many things to do aren't far). About 5 miles northwest of downtown, the 1,800-acre Wissahickon Valley Pack offers more than 50 miles of hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding trails. Plus, visitors can go bird-watching, picnicking or fishing along the Wissahickon Creek. For some of the park's best panoramas, visitors suggest strolling along the vehicle-free Forbidden Drive trail. They also note it ca be a popular place to visit, so expect some crowds on pleasant days.

As you trek through the park, you'll notice its historical architecture, which includes a covered bridge built in 1737 and the historic Valley Green Inn, where you can grab a bite to eat.

Dilworth Park Dilworth Park free

One of Philadelphia's many public outdoor spaces, Dilworth Park appeals to locals and tourists alike – especially with its location at City Hall (above Suburban Station, a hub for public transportation) and close proximity to popular LOVE Park .

Features at this park include the Albert M. Greenfield Lawn, a computer-programmable fountain and Pulse, an art installation that sprays colorful mist whenever SEPTA trains pass through the station below. There's also an outdoor cafe, restaurant and Starbucks on-site.

Boathouse Row Boathouse Row free

U.S. News Insider Tip: For the best views of Boathouse Row, look for the pullout near the Fish Ladder on Martin Luther King Drive. If you go a little further north, you can get past the netting that runs across the river and also get away from the big fence that's set up in front of the fish ladder. – Binh Nguyen, Senior Director of Communications at Visit Philly

Boathouse Row is one of the most famous landscapes in Philadelphia; however, the only attraction available to visitors is the Lloyd Hall Recreation Center, which offers bike rentals, a visitor center, cafe, and public restrooms, as well as indoor basketball courts. The other historic buildings belong to local rowing clubs, and you'll often see rowers training or competing in regattas on the Delaware River.

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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.…

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Frequently asked questions.

GuruWalk is an international community for pay-what-you-please walking tours that connects tourists with tour guides all around the world. Our mission is for you to be able to enjoy this type of tour in any place you can imagine.

The GuruWalk community is formed by "gurus" (local guides) who are open, attentive, fun people with great knowledge of the city and who will be your friends wherever you travel.

The other part of the community are the "walkers," or tourist who opt for this type of tour over the more traditional tours, who enjoy unforgettable experiences and most importantly, love to travel around the world doing guruwalks.

A "free walking tour" is a guided tour at a travel destination, where a local guide explains history, culture, and lifestyle. Currently, it is the first option that tourists choose when they visit a new city.

The concept can be a little confusing since "free" in English is a word that immediately makes you think free of cost. While becoming a part of the community, making a booking, or setting up a tour on the platform is 100% free, the traveler has to pay the guide at the end of the tour based on his experience. This concept is commonly referred to as a pay-what-you-please walking tour, because it empowers the client to pay based on their satisfaction with the tour and encourages the guide to always do their best.

At GuruWalk, we call them "guruwalks" so our walkers don’t get confused with the concept. Our intention is for them to understand the concept better and then give a fair remuneration to their Guru, so that we can all keep enjoying this type of tour all across the world.

Look for the city that you want to visit and then choose from all the guruwalks that are available, the different themed experiences, the different neighborhood and the various types of activities to find the best option for you. Book the tour for free through the online platform, receive the email confirmation with all the info and you’re ready to go!

All that’s left to do is show up to the guruwalk to enjoy and learn about other cultures in a fun and entertaining way. Don’t forget to tip your guru’s good work and have a great time.

The star question that the walkers always ask! You choose how much to give, you can take into consideration how satisfied you were with the tour and how much you can afford.

Our gurus are the best tour guides who are at it day after day, who are creating fun and entertaining tours so you can get to know the most important aspects of a city, they know a lot about the city you’re visiting and they’ll help you to have the trip of a lifetime.

This is why most walkers on GuruWalk generally give between 10 o 20€ per person, but as we said, you can choose to give more or less depending on your experience.

If you’d like to join our community of international gurus, all you have to do is click the link here. We’re waiting to get to know you!

Work as a free tour guide in GuruWalk .

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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

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Independence Mall Tour

Tour Information

Independence mall, independence mall highlights.

Our Independence Mall tour is a two-hour tour that takes you through the cradle of American Democracy entertaining you and revealing hidden secrets, fun trivia, and light-hearted anecdotes.

We focus on interesting and fun stories of the men and women who defined Philadelphia so many years ago.

Use our Guide to Visiting Independence Mall for directions and more information on the area.

Join Free Tours by Foot on this two-hour, family-friendly "pay-as-you-wish" adventure as we walk through historic Philadelphia and chronicle the early history of America's first city.

This tour includes many famous names, including George Washington, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, Ben Franklin, and Alexander Hamilton, and the sights where they made history.

It's the best US history lesson you will ever have and we aim to keep you laughing the whole time.

Sights we cover on the tour:  Most sights are covered from outside. We enter if time permits. We do not enter sights that require tickets or security checkpoints . 

• President's House Site
• Liberty Bell *
• Independence Hall**
• Congress Hall*
• 1st and 2nd Banks of the United States
• City Tavern
• Christ Church
• Elfreth Alley
• Ben Franklin Burial Site
• Franklin Court
• Carpenter's Hall
• Old City Hall
• Betsy Ross House *
• and much more!

*Sights we cover from outside only.

**Entry into Independence Hall requires a timed-ticket from the National Park Services. YOU DO NOT NEED INDEPENDENCE HALL TICKETS TO TAKE OUR TOUR, WE DO NOT ENTER WHILE ON TOUR.

We suggest visiting the Independence Hall before or after our tour since we are not able to enter while on tour.  If you plan to enter before our tour, give yourself at least one hour so you can enjoy the building without rushing. If booking after our tour, give yourself a minimum of 45 minutes to use the restroom before getting into the security checkpoint line since there are none inside the building.  

The National Park Service requires visitors to Independence Hall to arrive 30 minutes before their scheduled appointments.    

From March through September, it is also recommended that you reserve your tickets in advance.  For more information, please visit Independence Hall .

Tour information

Reservations:  REQUIRED.  Click here to reserve . Groups of 6 or more must  contact us  before booking.

Tour Start:  Tour begins from the  OUTSIDE at 239 Arch St. on the sidewalk in front of  Betsy  Ross House

Look for your guide  Free Tours by Foot Sign and/or wearing orange.

Tour End:   Ben Franklin Burial Site , located at the Southeast Corner of 5th and Arch Street, across from the Mint and National Constitution Center  (MAP)

Duration:  Approximately 2.5 hours. Tour distance is approximately 1.5 miles (2K).

When:  Please check our full  calendar  for the most up-to-date information!  Reservations are required for all tours.  Do not see a time that works for you?  Book a private tour !

Cost:  This tour is free to take, and you get to decide what, if anything, the tour was worth when it's done. A  name-your-own-price tour  is a tour for anyone's budget.

And much, much more

North america, united kingdom & ireland, middle east & india, asia & oceania.

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Philadelphia Sightseeing Tours

Touring the city’s top attractions for more than 25 years

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Location & Contact:

• 111 S. Independence Mall East Philadelphia PA 19106
• (215) 922-2300
• Visit Website

Explore dozens of Philadelphia’s top attractions aboard the colorful double-decker buses of Philadelphia Sightseeing Tours .

The popular 28-stop tour includes stops at the Liberty Bell , City Hall , the Philadelphia Museum of Art  and loads of additional locations across the city. Tours offer hop-on, hop-off access and guided commentary. All tours leave from the historic Bourse Building on Independence Mall.

Available tours include the 24-Hour Hop On-Hop Off Pass, the 48-Hour Hop On-Hop Off Pass, Twilight Philly and many others. Advanced registration is required for groups and special events.

• For Kids & Families
• Parks & Outdoors
• Tours in Philadelphia
• Center City
• Philadelphia Neighborhoods

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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Let music ring! Philadelphia Orchestra taking stage for 3 free concerts this summer

A pride concert, a north philadelphia celebration and a wawa welcome america concert are all being offered for free by the philadelphia orchestra this summer, published may 15, 2024 • updated on may 15, 2024 at 2:27 pm.

The award-winning Philadelphia Orchestra is hoping you will join the party at three free concerts this summer.

On Tuesday, May 14, 2024, the orchestra announced three free June community performances, including one that's part of Wawa Welcome America festivities and another geared toward Pride.

24/7 Philadelphia news stream: Watch NBC10 free wherever you are

Here is your guide to the free summer music:

Pride Celebration and Concert (June 25, 2024)

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The orchestra will be joined by " RuPaul’s Drag Race " star and opera singer Sapphira Cristál , principal guest conductor Designate Marin Alsop and others on Tuesday, June 25, at 7 p.m. at Marian Anderson Hall at the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts in Center City for the third-annual Pride Celebration and Concert .

"The ANNA Crusis Feminist Choir, Philadelphia Gay Men’s Chorus, and Philadelphia Voices of Pride will join the Orchestra for works by Bernstein, Copland, Tchaikovsky, Higdon, and more," the orchestra said.

Tickets are free and will be available here starting on June 6.

Our City, Your Orchestra (June 26, 2024)

The orchestra heads up North Broad Street to Temple University's Performing Arts Center for a North Philadelphia community festival and performance on Wednesday, June 26, 2024, at 7 p.m.

The performance will include works by Adolphus Hailstork, Joseph Bologne, Chevalier de Saint-Georges, Scott Joplin, Florence Price, Duke Ellington, Jessie Montgomery and William Grant Still. 

"Led by Assistant Conductor Austin Chanu, the Our City, Your Orchestra Live performance will bring the spirit of the free digital series Our City, Your Orchestra—which uncovers and amplifies the voices, stories, and causes championed by Philadelphia organizations and businesses—to in-person audiences with the full Orchestra.

"As part of the Orchestra’s ongoing exploration of the works of Black American composer Still, Principal Librarian Nicole Jordan and Chanu have created a new set of definitive orchestral materials of his 'Wood Notes' that will be used for the first time in this performance, made possible by a generous grant from the Pew Center for Arts and Heritage."

Tickets are free and reservations are encouraged starting on May 30 on this page .

Patriotic concert and Party on the Plaza (June 29, 2024 )

Ensemble Arts Philly has teamed with Wawa Welcome America to bring a party to the Avenue of the Arts on Saturday, June 29, 2024, starting at noon. The orchestra will perform in Marian Anderson Hall during the larger event.

Culture, hoagies and music: Mark your calendar for these 5 big Wawa Welcome America events

Kesha, NE-YO to headline 2024 Wawa Welcome America Concert on July 4th in Philly

"Guests can take a break from the heat of the annual Avenue of the Arts Block Party to hear conductor Jeff Tyzik lead the Orchestra in Sousa’s 'The Stars and Stripes Forever' and 'Liberty Bell' marches, selections from John Williams’s scores for 'The Patriot' and 'Lincoln,' and more works honoring our nation and service members," the orchestra said. "The performance will include the world premiere of Tyzik’s 'Lift Off,' which was commissioned by Bravo! Vail in honor of Tyzik’s 30th year at the Festival."

Army veteran and Philly TV reporter Hank Flynn and seeing eye puppies from The Seeing Eye will also take part in the show.

Tickets are required and will be available here starting on May 17. "Seating is general admission and on a first-come, first-served basis," the orchestra said.

Click here for the full scoop on the Wawa Welcome America Party on the Plaza.

Sign up for our Wawa Welcome America newsletter to get the latest on all the events.

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Childish Gambino Has Unveiled A Bunch Of Dates For ‘The New World Tour’ In 2024 And 2025

Today is a big one for Donald Glover fans: He just released Atavista , a new Childish Gambino album, and now he’s announced tour dates, too.

The New World Tour kicks off in August in North America before going to Europe, the UK, Australia, and New Zealand between then and early 2025. Willow will open the North American shows while Amaarae will support for the international dates.

The general on-sale for tickets starts May 17 at 10 a.m. local time. Fans can also sign up for early access via the artist pre-sale, and there’s an exclusive American Express pre-sale as well for North American, Australian, and select UK dates. The start times of those pre-sales vary by market, so find more information about tickets via the tour website .

Check out the list of tour dates below.

Childish Gambino 2024 & 2025 Tour Dates: The New World Tour

08/11/2024 — Oklahoma City, OK @ Paycom Center * 08/12/2024 — Kansas City, MO @ T-Mobile Center * 08/14/2024 — Milwaukee, WI @ Fiserv Forum * 08/15/2024 — Columbus, OH @ Schottenstein Center * 08/17/2024 — Detroit, MI @ Little Caesars Arena * 08/18/2024 — Toronto, ON @ Scotiabank Arena * 08/20/2024 — Pittsburgh, PA @ PPG Paints Arena * 08/21/2024 — Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center * 08/23/2024 — Boston, MA @ TD Garden * 08/24/2024 — Uncasville, CT @ Mohegan Arena * 08/26/2024 — Brooklyn, NY @ Barclays Center * 08/27/2024 — Brooklyn, NY @ Barclays Center * 08/29/2024 — Washington, D.C. @ Capital One Arena * 08/30/2024 — Raleigh, NC @ PNC Arena * 09/01/2024 — Nashville, TN @ Bridgestone Arena * 09/02/2024 — Atlanta, GA @ State Farm Arena * 09/04/2024 — Tampa, FL @ Amalie Arena * 09/05/2024 — Sunrise, FL @ Amerant Bank Arena * 09/07/2024 — New Orleans, LA @ Smoothie King Center * 09/08/2024 — Houston, TX @ Toyota Center * 09/10/2024 — Austin, TX @ Moody Center * 09/11/2024 — Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center * 09/13/2024 — Denver, CO @ Ball Arena * 09/14/2024 — Salt Lake City, UT @ Delta Center * 09/16/2024 — Phoenix, AZ @ Footprint Center * 09/18/2024 — Los Angeles, CA @ Crypto.com Arena * 09/19/2024 — Los Angeles, CA @ Crypto.com Arena * 09/21/2024 — San Francisco, CA @ Chase Center * 09/23/2024 — Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena * 09/24/2024 — Portland, OR @ Moda Center * 09/25/2024 — Seattle, WA @ Climate Pledge Arena * 09/27/2024 — Calgary, AB @ Scotiabank Saddledome * 09/29/2024 — Edmonton, AB @ Rogers Place * 10/02/2024 — St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center * 10/03/2024 — Chicago, IL @ United Center * 10/31/2024 — Lyon, FR @ LDLC Arena # 11/02/2024 — Milan, IT @ Unipol Forum # 11/04/2024 — Cologne, DE @ Lanxess Arena # 11/06/2024 — Hamburg, DE @ Barclays Arena # 11/08/2024 — Oslo, NO @ Oslo Spektrum # 11/10/2024 — Copenhagen, DK @ Royal Arena # 11/12/2024 — Prague, CZ @ O2 arena # 11/13/2024 — Berlin, DE @ Uber Arena # 11/19/2024 — Paris, FR @ Accor Arena # 11/21/2024 — Munich, DE @ Olympiahalle # 11/23/2024 — Brussels, BE @ ING Arena # 11/24/2024 — Amsterdam, NL @ Ziggo Dome # 11/26/2024 — Manchester, UK @ AO Arena # 11/28/2024 — Glasgow, UK @ OVO Hydro # 11/30/2024 — London, UK @ The O2 # 12/01/2024 — London, UK @ The O2 # 12/03/2024 — Birmingham, UK @ Utilita Arena # 12/05/2024 — Dublin, IE @ 3Arena # 01/28/2025 — Auckland, NZ @ Spark Arena # 02/01/2025 — Brisbane, QLD @ Brisbane Entertainment Centre # 02/04/2025 — Sydney, NSW @ Qudos Bank Arena # 02/07/2025 — Melbourne, VIC @ Rod Laver Arena # 02/11/2025 — Perth, WA @ RAC Arena #

* with Willow # with Amaarae

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Parents, staff spar with Washington Township School Board officials over budget cuts

Washington Township Public Schools and dozens of other school systems across New Jersey are currently facing a financial storm.

WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP, New Jersey (WPVI) -- Parents and staff expressed their displeasure at an hours-long board meeting Monday night over cuts made in the Washington Township Public Schools' budget for the 2024-2025 school year.

The Gloucester County school board said the district was facing a roughly $7 million budget shortfall for the next school year, which required the board to make some tough decisions.

That included the elimination of more than 100 jobs district-wide.

Officials say they cut 36 certified staff and teaching positions, 55 support staff, four administrators, five administrative assistants, and 12 support staff were reduced to part-time positions.

At the school board meeting, Dr. Eric Hibbs explained to dozens of people in attendance that the board tried everything that it could to not eliminate staff.

He added that the board looked at eliminating line items across all categories, but even that wasn't enough to balance the budget.

"There was truthfully no way that we could've not looked at some form of staff in these reductions," said Hibbs.

Washington Township Public Schools and dozens of other school systems across New Jersey are currently facing a financial storm brought on, in part, by the loss of COVID relief funding and, in some cases, reduced state funding.

Governor Phil Murphy has proposed record spending for public education in his 2025 fiscal year budget. Despite that, more than 130 schools across the state are set to lose money based on the state's funding formula.

The formula assesses, among other things, property values to determine how much a locality can contribute to education funding and enrollment.

Washington Township Public Schools is set to receive more than $1.5 million in additional funding next school year compared to this year.

However, the district said that money only prevented it from having to make more cuts. It still had to account for increased salary obligations, benefits, tuition, and transportation costs.

Parents like Lauren Longo, who is a school teacher, said the cuts have her concerned about her special needs son's education.

With fewer supporting staff, she said she was worried her son wouldn't get the attention he requires in the classroom.

"All children have different needs," said Longo. "All children need to be supported whether they're identified or not and it's just sad to pull anything from children."

Angela Terruso, president of the Washington Township Supportive Staff Services Personnel Association, said the board needed to look harder at alternative options.

"We have a lot of administrative costs. There's a lot of other places they could look," said Terruso. "To panic an entire district of 200-plus assistants that work with special needs children, that's just not the way to do it."

The board has until May 14 to adopt a budget to be submitted to the state.

It said it hoped to hire back some of its support staff based on the needs of students, but it's unclear when that might happen.

Related Topics

• GLOUCESTER COUNTY
• SCHOOL LAYOFFS
• BUDGET CUTS

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7 Detroit tours that tell a deeper story of the city: What to know

A s a little boy, about 8 years old with his brown hair spiked in the late ‘90s style, Gabriel Gutierrez would take his brother’s hand and cross the street from his parents’ tortilla business, enter a heavenly smelling donut shop, pass the lively store patrons, and order a coffee for his mom or their employees.

For himself, he’d order a white cream Long John, somewhat like an éclair, just to eat the cream.

These days, Gutierrez owns that hand-cut donut shop, Donut Villa, in southwest Detroit, which has ties not only to his personal history but that of his family, whose first southwest Detroit business opened in the 1940s. It is part of the greater fabric of community histories that make up Detroit’s story, as told by the City Institute on one of their "Detroit in Context Learning Journey" tours.

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The City Institute is one of a number of organizations to offer tours that go a bit deeper than sightseeing and basic headlines in Detroit. The groups seek to give context to where Detroit is now, where it is going, and often to correct the record on where it’s been.

Some tours explore the once prominent Black Bottom neighborhood, some explore Detroit’s history with the Underground Railroad, some explore Corktown, and ones like the City Institute’s "Learning Journey" also bring the city’s story forward to today and look to the future.

Though not a definitive list of all the tours in Detroit, here are some tour groups and guides to help deepen your knowledge:

City Institute

The "Learning Journey," on which Gutierrez’s business was featured , is a yearly, all-day bus tour that goes neighborhood by neighborhood so that attendees can hear from business owners, investors, and nonprofit and city leaders on the history of the neighborhoods, what’s currently offered there, how it supports itself, and future projects. A shorter version of the tour is also offered, primarily for private tour groups.

The City Institute’s mission is to equip residents and stakeholders to build an inclusive, equitable and thriving future for Detroit. Southwest, with its shifting demographics over the last century, is just one neighborhood that can serve as a foundation for those seeking to understand the city a bit better, said Gutierrez.

“There's a lot of history and a lot of stories,” Gutierrez said of the city. “Not always great, right? And for people to just understand that the communities that they are involved with, they have extensive roots and histories of their own that can provide context.”

Learning the city’s wins also encourages retention and keeps energy to fight for Detroit’s future, by the telling of Jeanette Pierce, founder and president of the City Institute.

“We believe it's important for people to understand how we got to where we are … then come to today, where we actually meet and hear about and talk to people doing amazing work in the city,” said Pierce.

• Topics: Public tours include a virtual one on redlining, a form of housing discrimination, walking ones on architecture, specific neighborhoods including New Center and Black history, as told by those who lived it
• Cost: Public tours - free (with donations welcome) - $20, with "Learning Journey" tours $125 including meals; Private tours and private "Learning Journey" tours: $20 -$100 per person
• Length: 1.5 hours for virtual redlining history tours; generally 2 hours – all day for others
• Mode of transportation: Walking, bus or virtual
• Where to register: thecityinstitute.com/public-tours

(Note: Tour costs, lengths and topics vary for most organizations named in this story. Many are open to creating special programs upon request. Contact each tour guide and group for further details)

Black Scroll Network History & Tours

Jamon Jordan, Detroit’s first official historian, was appointed to his role in 2021 by Mayor Mike Duggan. Before that, however, he was already known as a prominent unofficial historian of the city, founding the Black Scroll Network History & Tours.

While Jordan said he encourages folks to do the tours that exist on restaurants, bars, the auto industry and the like, he said he realized they were leaving out a big part of the Detroit story – African American history.

On his various tours, Jordan may point out the neighborhood where three Detroit music legends grew up or talk about the presence of Black people in the region in 1700s. Some tours also explore the once thriving Black neighborhood and business district that were destroyed through racist officials, urban renewal and highway building , with Jordan pointing out the still present apartments, townhouses and school building that were given the space instead.

“A big portion of Detroit’s history is invisible, and you have to have someone help you see what is no longer present,” he said.

• Topics: Motown, slavery, African origins, Black Bottom, the Underground Railroad, the 1967 rebellion and more
• Cost: Generally $5 - $50 for walking tours, $60 per person for bus tours, and $50 for virtual tours
• Length: 2 hours for most
• Mode of transportation: Walking, bus and virtual
• Where to register: Black Scroll Network's Eventbrite page for public tours, and [email protected] or blackscrollnetwork.weebly.com for private tours

Wheelhouse Detroit

Another way to get a deeper knowledge of the city? By bike.

Wheelhouse Detroit is a bike shop along Detroit’s riverfront, but tours have been a part of its mission since its opening in 2008 thanks to owner Kelli Kavanaugh and her founding partner’s backgrounds in community development.

“It was important for us to tell a story of Detroit that isn’t necessarily the one that the masses hear or understand to be true,” she said, later adding: “We’re not cheerleaders, we’re trying to tell a real story of a very interesting and complicated city.”

This story includes discussion of history and current developments. On the Corktown tour she gives, Kavanaugh delves into how freeway development, urban renewal, and parking for Tiger Stadium shaped the neighborhood as it is now, along with gentrification there. She also uses history to counter any belief that it only got “cool” now.  

• Topics: Poletown churches, Eastern Market, Hamtramck, the auto industry, techno and more.
• Cost: $30 for shorter, weekday tours ($40 including bike rental), $45 for 3-hour tours ($55 with rental) and private tours starting at $200-$250 for up to six people.
• Length: 2 hours for shorter, weekday tours, 3 hours for others
• Mode of transportation: “Pedal power,” using bikes or e-bikes, used manually. Attendees can bring bikes or rent from Wheelhouse Detroit
• Where to register: wheelhousedetroit.com

Ken Coleman

As a Detroit historian, journalist and communications professional, Ken Coleman likes to say he’s been dedicated to chronicling Black life in Detroit since 1991.

His extensive historical knowledge goes back way further, of course, and it’s his passion to share Black history as an independent tour guide, covering whatever topics in that area a client may want.

Some favorite stops include the Gateway to Freedom International Memorial along the Detroit riverfront which pays homage to those who used and were involved in the Underground Railroad . There’s also the Second Baptist Church of Detroit, which lays claim to being the oldest religious institution owned by the Black community in the Midwest, a former station on the Underground Railroad and establishing the city’s first school for Black children.

• Topics: Motown, the Underground Railroad, Black Bottom and more
• Cost: Prices starting at about $50 per hour per small group, and generally $300-$500 for a 3-4 hour tour for a larger organization
• Length: 1-2 hours for walking tours, 3-4 for bus tours
• Mode of transportation: Walking or bus, if provided
• Where to register: Email Coleman at [email protected] or call him at 313-551-1304

Preservation Detroit

Preservation Detroit was founded in 1975 as a student organization fighting the demolition of historic campus buildings at Wayne State University. These days the group works to preserve historic sites throughout Detroit, and it hosts tours on the history of architecture, sculptures and more to educate the masses.

A high point of downtown tour coordinator Davis Zaleski’s walking excursion is a visit to the Guardian Building, the 1920s, cathedral-like, Art Deco skyscraper. There’s also a quick stop by the recently reopened 38-story, Italian Renaissance-style Book Tower.

“During the early part of the 20th century, with the advent of the auto industry and all the other industries, they built like crazy and they built some of the most beautiful buildings in the country,” Zaleski said.

Some of that history has been torn down or poorly developed, but preservation has increased over the years, Zaleski said. Preservation Detroit likes to emphasize good development, and Zaleski said he hopes attendees walk away with an appreciation for what Detroit was and could be.

• Topics: Ferry Street, Midtown, Eastern Market, downtown, public art, cemeteries, churches and more
• Cost: $15 for members, students and seniors; $18 for all others on public tours; private tours, per the website, can be arranged for $100 for groups of five people or less and rates of $20 per person for larger groups
• Length: Between 2 and 2.5 hours
• Mode of transportation: Walking
• Where to register: preservationdetroit.org or through Eventbrite

Detroit History Tours

Detroit History Tours, along with the Detroit History Club, serves several purposes, said Bailey Sisoy-Moore, executive director of the two. Key among its motivations are the ideas that Detroit’s history should be written by Detroiters and that it’s hard to defund or vote to implode historic sites that are fully understood.

“History education helps make sure that the important parts of our history don't disappear quietly,” Sisoy-Moore said.

The tour group tells the history of the city starting with the Native American tribes that were here first through to present day and even future development plans.

• Topics: Suffragettes, the Detroit People Mover transit system, cops and mobsters, LGBTQ history and more
• Cost: $27 for walking tours, $30-$65 for bus tours, $5 - $20 for self-guided mobile app tours with lifetime download; food tours are $80 - $120, including the meals and tips. Private tours start at $250 if transportation is provided, $450 for walking and $1,525 for tours with the van or bus provided by Detroit History Tours.
• Length: 2 hours for walking tours, 90 minutes to 3.5 hours for bus tours
• Where to register: detroithistorytours.com

Detroit Historical Society

Founded in 1921, the Detroit Historical Society now boasts tours at not only the Detroit Historical Museum and the Dossin Great Lakes Museum, but also at locations throughout metro Detroit.

Guided tours at the historical museum take groups of 15 or more people through the indigenous populations that were here, auto history, culture and more, said Kimmie Dobos, manager of education and public programs. There are also tailored museum tours that dive deeper into the African American experience and what led to the 1967 rebellion.

The Great Lakes museum, on Belle Isle, also features a maritime history tour exploring Detroit’s long history on the water from canoes to freighters and more.

For some off-site explorations, there are “Behind The Scenes” tours of historic locations including neighborhoods, a gallery, and a battlefield.

• Topics: The summer of 1967, Temple Beth El, Boston Edison, Eastern Market, tiny homes and more
• Cost: Guided tours at the museums are $11 for adults and $10 for seniors, the 1967 rebellion tour is $12 for adults and $11 for seniors, and the “Detroit’s African American Perspectives” tour with Jamon Jordan is $300 for up to 20 people.“Behind The Scenes” tours are $25 for members and $35 for nonmembers.
• Length: Generally 1- 1.5 hours
• Where to register: detroithistorical.org

Of course, these are just some of the tour offerings in the city. You also can see the sights with a Segway tour , by boat and there’s even a tour to learn some Detroit history on a historic bar tour , among others.

Did we miss your favorite tour? Email [email protected] and you might see it in a future story.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: 7 Detroit tours that tell a deeper story of the city: What to know