philadelphia guided walking tour

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Philadelphia

See our Calendar Below for All Tours, as well as Things to Do & Travel Tips

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Independence Mall

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Free Tours by Foot is pleased to present the best name-your-own-price tours in Philadelphia.

These unique and entertaining city tours will take you through many of Philly’s most interesting neighborhoods.

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Our Favorite Philadelphia Tours

• For history buffs and the general tourist, our Independence Mall Tour explores America's most historic district.
• Take it further on our Real Philly 4.5 Insider Guide Tour
• For foodies, be sure to check out our Philadelphia food tours , which cover both Chinatown and the Italian Market.
• Come ready to be frightened and learn about the historical spooks on our Philadelphia Ghost Tour.
• Take a stroll through Logan Circle to learn about the darker side of Philly's dirty past (PG13).
• See the holiday lights and decorations on our Holiday Tour.

We provide a platform for local tour guides to give tours at no upfront cost, so that you may enjoy an engaging sightseeing experience. You determine what a tour was worth, if anything, after the tour.

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We also offer our guiding services for private groups where we can take you pretty much anywhere you want to go in the city.

Whatever your tour guiding needs are; we can hook you up. Need a bus? We will get you one. Want a multi-day tour with a full itinerary? No problem.

For more information, please visit our  private tours of Philadelphia .

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By foot isn't the only way to tour Philadelphia, you can check out bus tours or eat some authentic Philly eats.

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Historical Tours

Historic Old City

Join a 90-minute walking tour through Philadelphia's Old City, visiting key historic sites like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. Learn about the founding fathers and the Revolutionary War's impact, with stops at over 15 landmarks for a deep dive into America's heritage.

Revolution Tour

Uncover Philadelphia's history and flavors on a two-hour walking tour. See iconic sites like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, delve into the world of the founding fathers, and enjoy special discounts at local businesses. Gain a unique perspective on the city's rich heritage.

Founding Fathers Tour

Join a guided tour in Philadelphia to see key historic sites like Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, plus a special exhibit on George Washington at the American Revolution Museum. This small-group, eco-friendly tour ensures a personal experience as you explore America's founding history.

Constitutional Walking Tour

Explore Philadelphia's Historic Core: Independence Park & 20+ Sites Tour – Dive into America's birthplace with a guided 1.25-mile walk, covering Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and more in the nation's key historical area.

Ghost Tours

Philly adult night tour.

Explore Philly's darker side on an adult-only night tour. Discover haunted tales and R-rated history, from vampire legends to the red light district. Not suitable for children.

Phantoms of Philly Tour

Dive into Philadelphia's haunted history with a night-time ghost tour. Wander Old City's eerie streets, uncovering chilling tales of hauntings and historical landmarks.

Ghost Tour Philly by Candlelight

Unearth Philadelphia's spooky side by candlelight. Journey through historic streets with a costumed guide, hearing ghost stories and exploring haunted sites.

True Crime Philly Tour

Discover Philadelphia's grim tales on a true crime tour. Led by experts, this walk reveals ghost stories and notorious crimes alongside the city's famous landmarks.

Bar/Pub Crawl

Liberty Pub Crawl

Join a thrilling 2-hour Philadelphia pub crawl, uncovering hidden historical tales with drinks and laughs. Discover the city's secret past in a night to remember. Cheers!

Historic Pubs Tour

Step back in time and enjoy a drink at some of the oldest pubs in the city, each with its own story.

Craft Beer Journey

Explore the city's craft beer scene with visits to top-rated breweries and taste unique, locally brewed beers.

Rooftop Bars Night

Enjoy breathtaking views and exquisite cocktails at the most stunning rooftop bars in the city.

Flavors of Philly Food Tour

Enjoy a 2.5-hour Philly food tour with tastes of local favorites like cheesesteak and pretzels, plus desserts at Reading Terminal Market.

Philadelphia's Walking Food Tour

Join a 2-hour Philly donut tour, sampling treats from top spots and discovering highlights like South Street.

Locals' Favorites Food Tour

Enjoy a Philadelphia food tour at Reading Terminal Market, featuring diverse tastings and a cheese experience at Di Bruno Bros.

Tour with Top Philly Food Journalist

Experience South Philadelphia with Tiny Table Tours, offering a 2.5-hour journey with six tastings and local dining insights.

South Philly Art

Explore Philadelphia's famous murals on a guided walking tour through Queen Village and Bella Vista, ending with the Magic Garden's sculptures. Starts in the afternoon on South Street.

Philadelphia's Murals

Enjoy a 2.5-hour Segway tour of Philadelphia's murals across key neighborhoods, with included training, headsets, and photos. Dress appropriately with flat shoes.

Art & Romance in Philly

Discover love and art on our Philly tour through the Theatre of The Living Arts, South Street, and the Magic Gardens. An unforgettable evening of romance and beauty awaits. Book your magical experience now.

Philly Street Art Tour

Philly shines as a street art paradise, boasting over 4,000 murals, statues, and unique installations. Explore everything from meaningful murals to interactive mosaics on this exclusive Philadelphia art tour.

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Downtown Bar Hop

Philadelphia's delicious donut adventure & walking food tour, italian market food tour with top philly food journalist, art & romance in south philadelphia, philadelphia street art walking tour.

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• Tours: Our Audio Adventures!

Enjoy the Excitement of America’s Most Historic Square Mile Like Never Before With SelfTour’s Legendary Historic Philadelphia GPS Guided Walking Tour App.

Download the App and Go!

This Continuous, full-circle walking tour with turn-by-turn spoken directions and inspiring descriptions via GPS using your smartphone or tablet leads you on a  2 ½  mile adventure through the actual locations of America’s founding!

• Walk in the footsteps of America’s founders and hear their inspiring words spoken where it happened.
• Visit over 50 historically significant sites including the Betsy Ross House, Carpenters’ hall, Dolley Madison’s home, Franklin’s kite flying location, Christ Church, Franklin’s grave, and Elfreth’s Alley.
• Plus churches, museums, meeting houses, courtyards, mansions and even the locations of ghostly happenings.
• And hear a recreation of the sound of the Liberty Bell as last heard in 1846 – A SelfTour™ Exclusive!

Plus fascinating tales of the area’s historic characters and its over 250 year long history.

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A Delightful Experience!

The descriptions are performed by talented voice actors in an entertaining style, underscored with dramatic music and enhanced with photos.  The descriptions have been thoroughly researched providing accurate information about the history of the sites and the area’s role in forming a new Country.

Voice Actors and Narrators

We are proud to share with you information about our exceptional voice-over talent who have used their performance skills to bring our SelfTour Audio Adventures alive:

Em Eldridge

Em Eldridge is an ACX Audible narrator of over 25 audio books.  She is also an award winning filmmaker and accomplished classical singer and violinist.

Ralph Archbold

Actor and speaker, Ralph portrayed American Founding Father Benjamin Franklin for over 40 years in historic Philadelphia. In full costume, he could often be found in Franklin Court sitting on a bench entertaining visitors and posing for photos. He appeared in many films about Franklin and appointed by President George W. Bush to oversee the Franklin’s 300 th birthday celebration.

Tyler Rhoads

Tyler Rhoads  is both an actor and voice coach as well a voice performer.  His work in television includes the series Babylon Berlin , Hitting the Breaks and the voice of Rolo in the hit series Voltron among numerous other film and television projects.

You're in Control!

The easy-to-use hands-free exclusive SelfTour™ system ensures an enjoyable full-circle walking tour on your own schedule, at your own pace.  No waiting for others! You can join the tour at any location, stop anywhere along the way and continue again.  And it is a complete circle tour so you end up where you started.  The GPS always shows you where you are so you can’t get lost.   There are no advertisements and an internet connection is not needed.  Just download and go!

All this makes your personal tour an enjoyable experience.

If there’s a tour worth taking, it’s worth taking a SelfTour!

Now… walk through history!

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Philadelphia: A Self-Guided Walking Tour in History’s Footsteps

This article was updated in November 2023.

Take a walk through history in Philadelphia, and you’ll appreciate this vibrant city where much of our country’s early history began. The largest city in the mid to late 1700s, Philadelphia was colonial America’s commercial and social hub and the birthplace of the United States.

Your walk will cover about one square mile and focus mainly on Philadelphia’s historical contributions to establishing the foundation of America’s democracy in the late 18th century. Plus, you’ll get a small dose of public art along the way, creating a mix of yesterday and today. 

The walk can easily take 2-3 hours , assuming you’ll stop to ponder what you’re seeing, take some pictures, and spend a few minutes resting on a park bench under a shady tree. Add time to stop in at some of the destinations, and the walk can easily fill an entire day. Get an early start! 🙂

Philadelphia Guided Walk Map

This map gives an overview of the destinations on this walk. Detailed walking directions are included later in this post.

1. Love Park

Located just a short walk from City Hall, Love Park (also known as John F. Kennedy Plaza) features the highly recognizable Love statue created by Robert Indiana in 1976.  1599 John F. Kennedy Blvd.

Museums Galore (save for another trip) 

With City Hall behind you, look past the Love statue down Ben Franklin Parkway to the Philadelphia Museum of Art in the distance. If you continued down the parkway, you’d find The Academy of Natural Sciences and the Franklin Institute on your left;  the Barnes Foundation and the Rodin Museum would be on your right.

2. City Hall  

An iconic landmark, Philadelphia’s City Hall is crowned with a massive statue of William Penn, the founder of the colony and, later, the state. 

If you cannot take a tour of the interior (usually available twice a day), it’s still worth a look at the impressive exterior architecture, which features sculptures of seasons and the seven continents (along with other figures). Although not the original city hall, this building is on the site set aside for public buildings by William Penn in 1682. It took 30 years to build the present structure. 1 S. Penn Square .

Head north on N. Juniper St/Penn Square toward Market St. Take a sharp right on Market St. (less than 5-minute walk)

3. The Tree of Knowledge Mural

The Tree of Knowledge mural shows a tree with objects embedded in its branches that depict, according to its artist Michael Webb, “objects alluding to the breadth of human endeavor, knowledge, and perseverance.” You’ll notice an abacus, a book, a horn, a key, a lamp, a ruler, a sextant, and more. Philadelphia is sometimes dubbed the City of Murals, so you’ll probably notice quite a few during your visit.  1301 Market Street

Head north on N. Juniper St/Penn Square to continue the walk. Turn right on Filbert St. Turn left on N. 12th St. Reading Terminal Market is on the right. (about a 5-minute walk)

4. Reading Terminal Market

Constructed in the late 1800s, the Reading Terminal Market hosts many food stalls (over 70 stalls) and dining options today. You can pick up a picnic lunch to enjoy on a stop along your walk or simply browse the alluring treats. 51 North 12th Street

To continue the walk, head south on N. 12th St (for 0.3 miles); turn left on Walnut St.; continue for 0.5 miles. (about a 15-minute walk)

5. Dream Garden Mosaic

In the Curtis Center lobby is a beautiful, large Tiffany mosaic made of more than 100,000 pieces of glass in 260 colors. Its landscape scene, designed in 1916 by Maxfield Parrish, is almost 50 feet long.

The Dream Garden Mosaic is a fantastic piece of art that the Curtis publishing company commissioned in a quest to share art with the public. Enter the building on the 6th Street side to view the mural. No admission is charged. 601 Walnut Street

Back outside, proceed to Washington Square around the corner for a shady respite.

6. Washington Square

Shade trees and benches make this a perfect spot to relax and take a break from your wanderings. William Penn designed the city to have green oases for people to relax away from busy streets; today, this one honors George Washington.

A statue of Washington looks over a tomb of the unknown soldier — with an eternal flame — to remember the countless American lives lost during the War of Independence. Incidentally, thousands of other souls are at rest underground in mass unmarked graves, including convicts, slaves, and epidemic victims. Informational displays in the square provide more historical details of this site.

To continue the walk, head east on Walnut St. towards S. 6th St.; turn left on S. 6th St.; turn right on Market St. (about a 15-minute walk)

7. President’s House

Long before the White House became the executive mansion, this was the home of President George Washington and his successor, President John Adams. Today, it’s an outdoor venue with the original foundation and walls outlined so visitors can imagine the structure as it once stood.

Information panels and videos at the President’s House allow you to learn more about the people who occupied this site — including the enslaved people who served the first two presidents. This is part of Independence National Historical Park. 6th and Market Streets 

To continue the walk, head west on Market St.; turn left on 6th St.; turn left on Chestnut St. — or walk across the expansive lawn. (less than a 5-minute walk )

8. Independence Hall

One of the most popular sites in the Old City is Independence Hall . In this building, the two significant documents that defined the United States were debated and finalized: the Declaration of Independence in 1776 and the U.S. Constitution in 1787.

Here, you’ll learn about the building’s use as a city hall in colonial Philadelphia and how it became the meeting place for the country’s founding fathers. When you’re inside, you can almost picture the representatives from the colonies debating the issues while George Washington sat in the chair on the dais overseeing it all.

Adjacent to Independence Hall is Congress Hall, where the U.S. Congress met from 1790-1800 and George Washington and John Adams were sworn in as presidents. Chestnut St, between 5th and 6th Streets; check online for tour hours

Independence Hall is one of many properties in Independence National Historical Park, which is overseen by the National Park Service (NP S). The park is actually a huge L-shaped park that encompasses 55 acres and 20 city blocks. Download the NPS Independence app on your smartphone to help plan your visit and reference while walking through Independence National Historical Park.

Other attractions on these grounds include the Liberty Bell , the National Constitution Center , and the Independence National Park Visitor Center .

To continue the walk, head east on Chestnut St. toward S. 5th St. (1-minute walk)

9. Signer’s Garden

This statue, in a small garden across from Independence Hall, helps us remember the convictions of those who signed the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution of the United States. The nearby NPS plaque says it well: the statue “commemorates the courage of those who altered their lives, and ours, by affixing their names to these documents.” 

To continue the walk, head east on Chestnut St. (1-minute walk)

10. Portrait Gallery in the Second Bank of the U.S.

Stop in the Second Bank of the U.S. to see over 100 portraits of “worthy Personages” from the 18th century. Though most of the portraits were created by Charles Wilson Peale, there are also portraits by other artists featured here. The prominent “People of Independence” exhibit showcases those instrumental in helping create the United States as an independent entity from England. 

The portraits become an interesting history lesson as you move from one to another. Each portrait comes with a short synopsis of the notable contributions that person made to what became the United States of America. Those contributions cover political, philosophical, scientific endeavors, and more.

History in Art

Also, if you’re familiar with some well-known places in Philadelphia, you’ll likely see the link to history while visiting the gallery. For example, Rittenhouse Square is named after David Rittenhouse (whose portrait is prominently displayed here), a friend of the American Revolution, clockmaker, and renowned astronomer.

By some portraits sits a wooden contraption called a physiognotrace. Ask a nearby NPS ranger for a demonstration, and you’ll learn how this was used to create a person’s profile for a silhouette, a popular form of portraiture at the time. Even more interesting is the story that comes with this one. Moses Williams, Peale’s slave, was taught to work the physiognotrace and became quite adept at it. As time passed, he earned his freedom and continued creating silhouettes for customers in a shop set up in Peale’s Museum.

Don’t let the building’s imposing facade deter you from entering. Just walk up the steps, and National Park Service staff will welcome you into the portrait gallery. Most likely, you will not encounter crowds of people here, so you can take your time inside.  420 Chestnut Street; free; open daily 10-5

To continue the walk, head east on Chestnut St.; turn right and continue down the cobblestone path to Carpenters’ Hall. The building is facing but set back from the street. (about a 2-minute walk)

11. Carpenters’ Hall 

Initially, Carpenters’ Hall was constructed and used by the master builders and skilled craftsmen who made up the Carpenters’ Company, an association of master builders. It is the oldest craft guild in the country.

Since its creation in 1771, Carpenters’ Hall has been shared with various organizations, including Benjamin Franklin’s Library Company, Benjamin Franklin’s American Philosophical Society, and the First Bank of the United States. It was also an infirmary for disabled American soldiers at one point.

Colonial Discontent

Most importantly for American history, Carpenters’ Hall was the First Continental Congress meeting place in 1774. Delegates from 12 colonies (Georgia did not send a representative) voted to begin a trade embargo with England. This sent a clear message to King George III that the colonists would not tolerate being taxed to help the Crown pay for expenses it incurred in America.

Interestingly, this was the first time that many of the delegates (including John Adams, Ben Franklin, Patrick Henry, and Thomas Jefferson) met each other as each of the colonies, up until now, had conducted their business independently.

Colonial Collaboration

The general disgust with the king’s policies united these leaders to act as one unit. It was here that Patrick Henry stated that by meeting, they were no longer just men representing their colonies; instead, they were all Americans. This meeting set the stage for what was to come: the writing of the Declaration of Independence and, later, the American Revolution as well as the creation of the U.S. Constitution. 

Before visiting, check out the detailed history of this C-SPAN video . Also, there is a walking tour of nearby Old City and Society Hill sites associated with Carpenters’ Company members. Today, this building is part of Independence National Historical Park.

The building represents so much rich history, but your visit may just include the first floor; still, there are displays and related descriptive signs that help you imagine what life was like for our forefathers who gathered here. No admission is charged. 320 Chestnut Street; free; open Tues-Sun 10-4 most weeks

To continue the walk, head east on Chestnut St.; turn left on S. 3rd St. (about a 2-minute walk)

12. Museum of the American Revolution 

Philadelphia has many fine museums, but this fairly new one — originally opened in 2017 — is dedicated to the War of Independence. The Museum of the American Revolution boasts impressive exhibits and dioramas that explain the causes, the battles, and the lingering effects of the American Revolution still evident today. An excellent museum. This is on the grounds of Independence National Historical Park. Use my museum guide to plan your visit. Admission charged. 101 South 3rd Street

To continue the walk, head south on 3rd St. (less than a 5-minute walk)

13. Powel House 

Samuel Powel, a wealthy Philadelphian, was the last mayor of this colonial city and the first mayor after the American Revolution. He and his wife, Elizabeth, were prominent socialites and hosted George and Martha Washington numerous times in their home. During the American Revolution, British soldiers occupied the home. After Ben Franklin died in 1790, Powel was a pallbearer at his funeral. Check online for information on tours of the Powel House . Admission charged. 244 South 3rd Street

To continue the walk, head north on 3rd St.; turn right on Church St. (about a 10-minute walk)

14. Christ Church 

Dubbed “America’s Church,” this was a place where several American legends (including Ben Franklin, Betsy Ross, and George Washington) once worshipped. Founded in 1695, this was the colony’s first Church of England parish. Inside is a 14th-century baptismal font from the British church where William Penn was baptized. The church is in use today, and if you’re not visiting during services, you can livestream them from home. 20 N. American Street

NOTE: You will visit the Christ Church Burial Ground in a few more stops, a few blocks away. First, though, is the next closest destination on this tour: Elfreth’s Alley. Head north on N. 2nd St.; turn right onto Elfreth’s Alley. (about a 5-minute walk)

15. Elfreth’s Alley

This charming, picturesque lane is the oldest residential street in the U.S. and dates back to 1720. The alley was originally a cart path between properties that allowed access from 2nd Street down to Front Street by the Delaware River. Philadelphia was a busy port city at the time — a hub of commerce in the colonies.

The alley is named after Jeremiah Elfreth, a local land developer and blacksmith. Most of the well-tended row homes are still occupied today; there is a small museum in buildings #124 and #126.

To continue the walk, head west on Elfreth’s Alley; turn left on N. 2nd St.; turn right onto Arch St. (about a 5-minute walk)

16. Betsy Ross House 

Many tourists visit the Betsy Ross House to learn more about America’s first flag and enjoy discussing the process of creating the flag with “Betsy” herself, a costumed docent. There is some doubt that this is actually the house she lived in — it may be the one next door — but it’s an enjoyable visit nonetheless. Admission charged.  239 Arch Street

Now onto the Christ Church Burial Grounds! Head west on Arch St. (about a 5-minute walk)

17. Christ Church Burial Ground

Christ Church Burial Ground is the final resting place for 1,400 souls, including five signers of the Declaration of Independence (Benjamin Franklin, Joseph Hewes, Francis Hopkinson, George Ross, and Benjamin Rush). This is on the grounds of Independence National Historical Park. Limited hours; admission charged. 5th & Arch Streets

To return to City Hall on foot, head west on Arch St. for 0.8 miles ; turn left on N. Juniper St.; turn right onto Filbert St.; turn left on N. Juniper St. (about a 20-minute walk)

WATERFRONT DETOUR: If you’re interested in some time on the waterfront, consider visiting the Delaware River Waterfront. 

Penn’s Landing

This reclaimed area along the Delaware River waterfront is popular for recreation, festivals, and concerts. Here, you’ll find the Independence Seaport Museum, battleship Olympia, and places to relax and dine. N. Columbus Blvd on the Delaware River

Spruce Street Harbor Park is a seasonal venue offering relaxing spots while enjoying craft beer, wine, and food. You can also walk onto the Ben Franklin Bridge for a view of the city; enter at the pedestrian entrance on 5th Street. 

How to Plan Your Walk

You can begin your walk anywhere along the route. You can choose what you want to see and the order of the sites on your list.

1. Check Online First

Check online for the historical buildings and museums you want to visit. Then you’ll get an idea of the days and hours of operation. Also, some venues may suggest timed tickets that you must order beforehand.

2. Watch Videos Beforehand

Several of the destinations have videos to watch on their websites. View them before your visit; you will probably appreciate this walk much more. In addition, for more detailed historical background information, there are excellent resources on Khan Academy, such as this video that explains the issues that the founding fathers grappled with: The Constitutional Convention .

3. Use Apps as Helpers

Navigation Apps – Most of us use our favorite navigation apps when driving, but they are also beneficial when walking. Consider Apple Maps and Google Maps for walking directions. I sometimes preload the places I want to walk and go from stop to stop. However, many navigation apps have a fixed limit on the number of stops you can add, so I’d suggest combining some (like those adjacent to each other) so you don’t go past the limit.

SpotHero – This is a handy app to find parking options. Enter your destination, when you plan to use the lot/garage, and SpotHero will provide choices with the associated costs. (I don’t use the option to reserve a spot, but I use the app to find parking options.)

TripAdvisor/Yelp – Decide to grab a bite, but don’t know of any good nearby restaurants? TripAdvisor or Yelp will help you find a nearby restaurant for lunch or even another site to visit. Reviews will help guide your decision-making process.

For more electronic helpers, check out my full list of the best travel apps and websites .

Philadelphia’s Historic Highlights

• Philadelphia became the capital of the colony of Pennsylvania by William Penn in 1682 and was the largest city of the colonies.
• Representatives sent from the colonies met in 1774 at the First Continental Congress (in Carpenters’ Hall) to organize their resistance to English rule. During those sessions, delegates began to change the prevailing mindset of thinking as separate colonies to thinking as a united body of Americans.  
• The colonial delegates met in Independence Hall in 1775 at the Second Continental Congress to organize a governmental body to prepare for what became the American Revolution.
• Thomas Jefferson wrote the Declaration of Independence, later signed by representatives of the colonies in 1776.
• Philadelphia saw several significant battles nearby during the American Revolution.
• British soldiers took control of Philadelphia in 1777-1778, ousting patriots who opposed the king.
• After the American Revolution, the founding fathers met at the Constitutional Congress in 1787 to discuss — and later come to a consensus — the structure of the new American government.
• General George Washington was elected the first president of the United States of America in 1789 and was sworn in at Congress Hall, adjacent to Independence Hall.
• George Washington and John Adams lived in Philadelphia during their respective presidential terms. Today, the President’s House (near Independence Hall) shows the original placement of the home’s walls and provides informational displays.

Philadelphia’s Public Art

In addition to the history made here in the 18th century. Philadelphia is widely known as “The City of Murals.” Graffiti was a major issue years ago, and some properties became eyesores. In the 1980s, murals were viewed as an excellent way to beautify public spaces; they also helped to support local artists.

Since the program began, thousands of murals have been painted around the city. Check out the Mural Mile map, which highlights significant works of public art, to find the ones you want to include on your walk.

Nearby Attractions

Besides this self-guided walk, there are other fun things to do in the city . For another interesting place to visit just outside Philadelphia, consider Washington Crossing Historical Park , where George Washington’s troops camped several weeks before he led them across the Delaware River on Christmas Day, 1776.

If venturing to the other side of the state, check out the best of Pittsburgh and southwestern Pennsylvania . There you’ll find historic sites, forts, and museums documenting its place in history (notably the French and Indian War in the mid-1700s); two unique homes designed by Frank Lloyd Wright; and seemingly endless miles of hiking and biking trails along with some picturesque waterfalls (at Ohiopyle State Park).

Other great locations to explore in Pennsylvania are:

• Big Pocono State Park , Poconos
• Bushkill Falls , Poconos
• Colonial PA Plantation , outside Philadelphia
• Covered Bridge Driving Tour of Bucks County
• Covered Bridge Driving Tour of the Lehigh Valley
• Gettysburg Visitor Guide
• Hawk Mountain Sanctuary , Lehigh Valley area
• Hickory Run State Park , Poconos
• Housenick Park , Lehigh Valley
• Jacobsburg State Park , Pocono area
• John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge , outside Philadelphia
• Museum of the American Revolution , Philadelphia
• National Museum of Industrial History , Lehigh Valley
• Best Things to Do in Philadelphia
• Philadelphia: Fairmount Park’s Unique Colonial Mansions & Their Stories
• Pittsburgh and Southwestern Pennsylvania Guide
• Promised Land State Park , Poconos
• Ricketts Glen State Park , Poconos
• Ridley Creek State Park , outside Philadelphia
• Tyler State Park , Bucks County
• Valley Forge National Historical Park , outside Philadelphia
• Washington Crossing National Historical Park , in PA, outside Philadelphia

Final Thoughts

Walking through Philadelphia’s historic Old City – and stopping to view some statues and murals, visit some historical buildings, and take breaks in shady tree-lined parks – is a relaxing way to spend a few hours. Add visits to some historical buildings and museums, and you’ll quickly fill up a whole day or two. (But it’s so worth the time!)

While walking, you will undoubtedly ponder the amazing feats of our founding fathers, who navigated our country from a colonial power to an independent nation whose democracy has been a model around the world. Furthermore, you can enjoy the artistic treats for our eyes in the many sculptures and murals that adorn the Old City area of town. Overall, this walk is a nice blend of old and new.

Finally, remember to wear comfortable walking shoes. Bring water and wear sunscreen on sunny days. 

Please share your experiences and/or suggestions for other places to visit in Philadelphia and the surrounding area.  Your ideas could be helpful to other travelers. Thanks! 🙂

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3 thoughts on “philadelphia: a self-guided walking tour in history’s footsteps”.

I’ve lived in Philadelphia for over a decade and I find some of the legends about City Hall fascinating. There was an unspoken agreement not to build a structure in Philadelphia surpassing the William Penn statue on top of the city hall tower. When One Liberty Place was completed in 1986, surpassing City Hall in height, it brought a “curse” on Philadelphia sports teams which was only lifted in 2008 when a small William Penn statuette was placed on top of the Comcast Center (then the tallest building in Philadelphia) and the Phillies went on to win the World Series that year.

Thanks for sharing that interesting bit of Philadelphia lore, Dean!

I grew up in PA, but learned so much from this post. I will have to go back to Philadelphia and do this walking route. Thank you for the thoughtful and thorough info.

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Philadelphia Walking Tour: Self-Guided

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Welcome to the philadelphia walking tour.

Journey back in time. Relive the days of George Washington and his revolutionary collaborators! This Philadelphia walking tour begins at the beautiful City Hall and goes through the historic district while exploring the catalysts of the war.

This self-guided Philadelphia walking tour lets you explore the city’s historic past with maximum flexibility, safety, and value. Get the tour guide app set up on your phone, and get started. All audio plays automatically based on location.

About the Tour

We dive into the Declaration of Independence’s drafting, debating, and signing at the famous Independence Hall. From there, we explore George Washington’s legacy as a politician, general, and president. This leads us to the iconic Liberty Bell and the history behind its famous crack and its status as an abolitionist symbol. Then, on the self-guided walking tour, of Philadelphia, we explore the lives, museums, and homes of revolutionary figures like Ben Franklin, the diplomat, Benedict Arnold, the traitor, Thomas Jefferson, future president, and Crispus Attacus, the American hero.

We continue our journey past the famous African American Museum, Franklin Square, National Constitution Center, and the Mint. At the historic Betsy Ross House, we see the birthplace of the American flag, and in picturesque Elfreth’s Alley, we step back into a more quaint, cobblestoned era. Finally, our tour passes George Washington’s church and fittingly concludes at the Museum of American Revolution.

The Philadelphia walking tour is approximately 2 miles through the city’s Historic District.

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Where To Start?

Starting Point Address: Philadelphia City Hall, 1400 John F Kennedy Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19107

How Does It Work?

• Once you book a tour, you’ll get a text/email with instructions.
• Download the app (while in good wifi/signal) and use your unique password to access your tours. If there are multiple versions or entrances for your tour, be sure to download all audio guides.
• To begin touring, go to the starting point and launch the app.
• The audio starts automatically once you reach the starting point. Stick to the tour route and speed limit for the best experience.
• Please note that no one will meet you at the starting point.

What You'll See

Philadelphia City Hall boasts American history! Historic Philly explores 1700s Revolutionary War roots. Among them were Philadelphians George Washington and Benjamin Franklin.

First Continental Congress

We'll see the First Continental Congress site at Washington Square's corner. We'll examine this momentous conference's effects before visiting Independence Hall.

Independance Hall

This hall honors John Hancock, Patrick Henry, and John Adams' national achievements. See how colonial and modern Americans viewed Independence Hall.

Liberty Bell

Next up: the Liberty Bell! We'll learn about what makes this bell iconic -- and what makes it so suceptible to cracks!

Benjamin Franklin Museum

Then we'll head over to Ben Franklin's museum. This historic statesman figures heavily in America's past -- and we'll learn why.

President's House

Next up, the very first White House! We'll explore the original presidental home of George Washington and then of John Adams.

Graff House

Then we'll head over to another unique historic home: the Graff House. This is where Thomas Jefferson wrote the Declaration of Independence and where Ben Franklin helped him edit it. Walk in the footsteps of these earliest inklings of American freedom as you pass by this site!

African American Museum

African-Americans weren't free in Philadelphia, despite its independence! Our journey through slavery and early America will continue when we pass this amazing museum. Crispus Attucks and other African-Americans' contributions will also be discussed.

Franklin Square

Our journey into America's past then brings us to Franklin Square, where we can rest up and catch up on everything else that Ben Franklin did -- other than driving independence of course! We'll learn about his many book, ideas, and of course... experiments!

Bolt of Lightening

That brings us to this gigantic memorial to Franklin's most beloved discovery -- electricity! Here we'll explore what exactly Ben Franklin was discovering, why he wanted to try, and how exactly he planned to do it!

National Constituion Center

Passing the National Constituion Center next. Like the Declaration of Independence, we'll discover how the colonists met in Philadelphia to cement their merger into the United States.

United States Mint

Our walk then brings us to the Mint! We'll learn about the gold and silver coins that formed the basis of the early American economy... and about the copper, nickel, and paper that makes our money today!

Benjamin Franklin's Grave

We'll walk by Benjamin Franklin's grave and learn about an important part his legacy: the Ivy League University of Pennsylvania.

Betsy Ross House

Our trip jumps us back in time a bit -- to the birth of the American flag! The Declaration of Independence and the Constitution often overshadow this historic home but it's legacy is far more visible today!

Elfreth's Alley

This brings us to Elfreth's Alley, the modern Instagram hot-spot of Philly and the historic origins of this great city. As the very first downtown, Elfreth's seen generations of changes... but has remained as quaint and colonial as ever!

Christ Church

We'll then visit Christ Church, where George Washington, Betsy Ross, and other revolutionaries worshipped. By the Church, we'll explore its history and admire its grand architecture.

Museum of the American Revolution

That brings us to the Museum of the American Revolution! Our journey ends near here, allowing you the opportunity to step inside if you didn't get quite enough revolutionary history already!

Preview The Tour

  where does the revolutionary history of philadelphia walking tour begin.

The tour begins at the stunning City Hall in Philadelphia.

  Is this a self-guided walking tour, and how do I access it?

Yes, it’s a self-guided tour. To access it, simply set up the tour guide app on your phone, and the audio will play automatically based on your location.

  What historic sites related to the American Revolution are covered on this tour?

Visitors learn about the Revolution at Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, Betsy Ross House, Franklin Square, the National Constitution Center, and more.

  Is there a specific order in which the tour covers these historic sites?

The tour begins at City Hall and ends at the Museum of American Revolution, creating a fluid historical narrative.

  How long does the Revolutionary History of Philadelphia Walking Tour typically take to complete?

The 2-mile trip around Philadelphia’s Historic District can take a few hours, depending on your pace and time at each sight.

  Are there admission fees or tickets required for entry to the historic sites on this tour?

The tour includes site information, however some museums and attractions charge entry. Check entrance fees ahead of time.

  Can I take this tour at any time of year, or are there specific seasonal considerations?

This tour is available year-round, but guests should dress for the weather, especially in winter.

  Is the tour wheelchair-accessible?

Many sights on the tour are accessible, but antique characteristics like cobblestone streets may challenge mobility-impaired guests.

  Are there any additional resources or materials provided with the tour, such as maps or written guides?

The tour guide app usually provides audio commentary based on your location.

  Is there parking available near the starting point of the tour at City Hall?

When organizing a City Hall trip, look for nearby parking or public transit.

Inclusions and Exclusions

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About Philadelphia

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Self-Guided Walking Tour

Take a stroll through the neighborhood around Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens at your leisure and learn more about the incredible mosaic murals in our area. This self-guided tour will give you some insight into the history and stories behind some of Isaiah Zagar’s public mosaic works!

You can also view a map of Isaiah Zagar’s six fully-mosaicked Art Environments in Philadelphia .

For a full map of the mosaic murals in Philadelphia, check out our mosaic mural map .

Good Housekeeping

The 10 Best Cities For Walking

Posted: May 3, 2024 | Last updated: May 3, 2024

Even though putting one foot in front of the other is the easiest form of exercise there is, it's still hard to find the motivation to bypass the car and head out on foot in your everyday life. But with a couple of tools—including a visit to Walkscore.com which grades cities and neighborhoods on the ease of finding entertainment or provisions on foot, and Prevention.com's at-a-glance guide to the attractions that you'd never notice on a drive—you can get (ahem) one step closer to a more exciting pedestrian lifestyle. The closer a city on this list scores to 100, the better the walkability.

Whether you're in the market for a new 'hood or planning a trip, you can take advantage of these 10 cities where pedestrians give wheels a run for their money. Read on to learn what makes these metro areas walker-friendly.

MORE: 7 Incredible Results You'll Get From Walking 30 Minutes A Day

10. Long Beach, CA

Walk score: 69.9

Long Beach has numerous business and shopping districts, as well as parks and waterfront areas that are pedestrian-friendly. Take Shoreline Pedestrian Bikepath, for example, the 4-mile trail has gorgeous views of the water and is perfect for trying any of these

9. Oakland, CA

Walk score: 72.0

8. Seattle, WA

Walk score: 73.1

You know you're in a pedi-friendly city when the municipal government publishes a Seattle Walking Map , making it clear that creating a greener environment and a healthier population is a top priority. From the historic district surrounding Pike Place Market to the shops and eateries in Fremont, there are loads of places to explore on foot in picturesque Seattle. Other attractions include the Seattle Art Museum's Olympic Sculpture Park, the Myrtle Edwards Park, Elliott Bay Park, and the Graham Arboretum.

7. Washington, D.C.

Walk score: 77.3

Between D.C.’s National Mall, the Smithsonian, and the blocks of Pennsylvania Avenue, there are countless places to sneak in some steps in our nation’s capital.

6. Chicago, IL

Walk score: 77.8

From The Magnificent Mile to Millennium Park, anyone who's lived in the Windy City knows it's a walker's dream. First-time visitor? Check out the Chicago Greeter program for a free guided walking tour. You'll meet a Chamber of Commerce sponsored local for a free guided tour of a neighborhood.

5. Philadelphia, PA

Walk score: 79.2

Philly is so committed to keeping pedestrians safe that its Center City district boasts the largest comprehensive pedestrian sign system in North America. The city also has more than 10,000 acres of pedestrian-friendly parks.

4. Miami, FL

This oceanfront city is a flat belly factory—whether you choose to walk on the beach, or burn off the yummy lunch you enjoyed on pedestrian-friendly Lincoln Road.

3. Boston, MA

Walk Score: 80.9

While the Freedom Trail has long been a way to stay fit while learning about the birth of our nation, Boston has seriously stepped up its efforts to create a citywide walker's paradise. To wit, WalkBoston —an initiative to make the city safer, easier to navigate on foot, greener, and more community-based, which they do by encouraging businesses and individuals to create a pro-walking atmosphere. They also offer awards to businesses that create inviting parks and seating areas, or individuals who advocate for increased pedestrian safety measures. WalkBoston's initiatives create a sort of universal access—with more than just a nod to citywide mobility for individuals of all incomes and abilities.

2. San Francisco, CA

Walk Score: 86.0

Hilly reputation notwithstanding, the city has serious walking cred in neighborhoods like Chinatown and the Financial District. San Francisco has also just launched a city-sponsored program called WalkFirst , which works to improve pedestrian safety and walking conditions with sidewalk buffers, revamped intersections, and better lighting in key pedestrian areas citywide. Walk San Francisco , an advocacy group that promotes pedestrian activity and safety, offers group walks as well.

New York, NY

Walk Score: 89.2

New Yorkers have long used their own two feet to book it around town. But recent pedestrian-friendly enhancements all over the city have considerably upped how pleasant that experience can be. Two favorites: The High Line—which transformed 1.45 miles of long-neglected elevated freight train tracks into a birds-eye-view promenade above the shore of the Hudson River—and a more walkable Times Square.

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Philadelphia Named 'Most Walkable City to Visit' for Second Consecutive Year by USA TODAY

Philadelphia tops national walkability rankings, surpassing other metropolitan areas like new york, boston and chicago..

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PHILADELPHIA, June 26, 2024 – F or the second consecutive year, Philadelphia has been voted the “Most Walkable City To Visit” in the 2024 USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards contest.

Walkability is a key factor for travelers when choosing a destination and offers significant benefits for city residents. In Philadelphia, visitors and residents can explore the city’s neighborhoods on foot, enjoying sights ranging from public art installations and premier cultural institutions to vibrant green spaces and historic landmarks.

Philadelphia was nominated for its walkability by a panel of experts, including editors from USA TODAY and 10best.com, who selected 20 cities with a variety of activities, dining options and accommodations, all linked by pedestrian-friendly streets. The public then voted Philadelphia the No. 1 city on the list of the 10 most walkable cities to visit in the U.S.

“Being recognized as the most walkable city in the U.S. for the second year in a row is a testament to the accessibility and connectivity of Philadelphia’s neighborhoods. It’s wonderful to see visitors and residents exploring our city on foot, discovering local businesses and experiencing the vibrancy of our communities,” said Angela Val, president & CEO of Visit Philadelphia. “As we move towards celebrating America’s semiquincentennial and the national spotlight on Philadelphia grows, this accolade reinforces our commitment to maintaining a pedestrian-friendly environment.”

”This title underscores our city of neighborhoods, offering a pedestrian-friendly environment where visitors can effortlessly experience the charm, culture, and convenience that define Philadelphia,” said Gregg Caren, president and CEO of the Philadelphia Convention and  Visitors Bureau. “Our walkable streets connect international travelers and convention attendees alike to an array of hotels, restaurants, and attractions, making Philadelphia a standout destination for visitors seeking an engaging and accessible travel experience.”

Center City Philadelphia’s easy-to-navigate corridor spans 26 blocks from the Delaware River on the east to the Schuylkill River on the west. Only 2.4 miles separate Penn’s Landing and the Schuylkill River Trail, with the ability to walk from one end of Center City to the other in just 50 minutes.

Getting around Philadelphia with ease allows both first-time travelers and returning natives to discover and rediscover the city’s history, culture, cuisines and hidden gems. Visitors can also take advantage of self-guided walking tours and tour experiences spanning a wide range of interests.

About Visit Philadelphia:

VISIT PHILADELPHIA® is our name and our mission. As the region’s official tourism marketing agency, we build Greater Philadelphia’s image, drive visitation and boost the economy. On Greater Philadelphia’s official visitor website, visitphilly.com, visitors can explore things to do, upcoming events, themed itineraries and hotel packages.

Compelling photography and videos, interactive maps and detailed visitor information make the site an effective trip-planning tool. Visitors can also find loads of inspiration on Visit Philly’s social media channels.

Note to Editors: For high-resolution photos and high-definition B-roll of Greater Philadelphia, visit the Photos & Video section of visitphilly.com/media-center .

About the PHLCVB:

The Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau (PHLCVB) creates positive economic impact across the Philadelphia region, driving job growth and promoting the health and vibrancy of our hospitality industry by marketing the destination, the Pennsylvania Convention Center, and attracting overnight visitors. The PHLCVB’s work engages our partners, the local Philadelphia community as well as culturally and ethnically diverse regional, national and international convention, sporting event and tourism customers. The PHLCVB is also the official tourism promotion agency for the city of Philadelphia globally and is responsible for growing the number of international leisure visitors who come to the region each year. To learn more, visit DiscoverPHL.com.

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A gastronomic guide to Philadelphia, the USA's historic hotspot

This eclectic East Coast city is enjoying its moment in the spotlight. Come for its political history, but stay for its vibrant melting pot of cuisines, culture and creativity.

“Welcome to the original White House!” my tour guide Mijuel K Johnson enthuses, his arms outstretched like a conductor frozen in motion. We’re standing on historic ground, in the heart of Philadelphia’s leafy Independence National Historical Park. Looming beyond Mijuel’s shoulder is the terracotta facade of Independence Hall, known as the birthplace of the USA due to the Declaration of Independence having been signed here in 1776. Nearby, a queue of tourists are waiting to pay their respects at the small but mighty Liberty Bell, a longstanding symbol of USA freedom, first rung when the declaration was initially read to the public.  

Yet Mijuel, a young historian who leads The Black Journey walking tour, is quick to add that there are elements of the city’s past still being uncovered. “We’re standing on the site of the President’s House, which served as the original capital of the United States from 1790 to 1800, while Washington DC was under construction. You see, Philadelphians have long been the OGs!” Mijuel laughs, as we peer at the remains of the mansion, unearthed during a planned extension of the Liberty Bell Center in 2007. Part archaeological dig, part period reconstruction, this is the spot where George Washington and, later, John Adams lived. It’s also where nine enslaved people served the first president, Mijuel adds.  

Philadelphia’s storied past, particularly when it comes to the American Revolution, has long been the key draw of Pennsylvania’s most populous city, honoured as the first World Heritage City in the US. But these days, the city’s diverse food and arts scenes are stepping up to take centre stage.

From history to hoagies: discover street eats in Philadelphia

With the city home to the second-largest Italian and Irish, and the fourth-largest African-American communities in the country, it’s no wonder that its cuisine is something of a smorgasbord. Visitors to Philadelphia can enjoy French fine dining at the beloved bistro Parc , browse stalls serving everything from soul food to shawarmas at the historic Reading Terminal Market , sample street tacos at Casa Mexico and slurp fragrant noodle soup at Vietnam — the latter both low-key eateries recently crowned James Beard Foundation Award winners. I bid Mijuel farewell, craving a taste of the city’s legendary foodscape for myself.  

Meandering a couple of blocks southwards, neighbourhoods of tree-lined boulevards and handsome brownstone houses gently unfold. On the corner of South 9th Street, I meet Jacqueline Kelly, owner of StrEATS of Philly Food Tours , standing at the frenetic mouth of the Italian Market , one of the oldest and largest al fresco markets in the country. The Italian-American chef and tour guide grew up just a stone’s throw from the market and seems to remain on first-name terms with almost everyone on the 10-block street.  

She guides me past ramshackle food stalls selling juicy oranges and football-sized artichokes, all stacked in the shade of a patchwork of corrugated iron and canvas awnings. As we duck into vintage delicatessens to nibble on punchy chunks of artisan cheese and plump Sicilian olives, Jacqueline explains that the neighbourhood gets its distinctive zest from three significant waves of immigration: Southern Italians at the end of the 19th century, Vietnamese in the 1970s and Mexicans in the 1990s.  

These diasporas have created some unexpected fusions, Jacqueline tells me. This becomes immediately clear as we dip into Lupita’s Grocery, a Mexican-owned convenience store. Like a charmingly chaotic souk, the walls are stacked with towers of crisp packets and household mops, while at the lunch counter, hulking slabs of meat compete for space with Latin American licuados (milk-based smoothies). We order monstrously large hoagies — a traditional Italian-American sandwich that can trace its roots to the early immigrants who worked the nearby shipyards. It’s made by piling a bread roll high with finely sliced meat, cheese and salad. As we navigate each protein-packed bite, a spirited soundtrack of Mexican ranchera music pumps through the store’s speakers.  

“Many Mexican immigrants started as dishwashers in the Italian restaurants here and worked their way up to become chefs. The outcome has been a crossover in the dishes, with restaurants like Franco Fusion serving tacos with Italian fillings, or Italian pasta stuffed with spicy Mexican ingredients,” Jacqueline says, as we head back out into the sunshine. We pass windows where diners slurp steaming bowls of pho, before emerging back onto the main street under a rainbow flutter of Mexican fiesta bunting.

A cultural kaleidoscope

The following day brings the opportunity to take the city’s creative pulse. Considered one of the finest destinations for free public art in the USA, Philadelphia is home to countless sculptures and around 4,000 vibrant murals, with colourful sweeps of the city operating much like an outdoor gallery. On a walk towards the South Street neighbourhood, I pass artworks including Robert Indiana’s iconic Love sculpture, Claes Oldenburg’s supersized Clothespin sculpture and a dazzling mural of the Fresh Prince of Bel-Air himself, West Philadelphia born-and-raised Will Smith.  

It’s early on a Sunday, but Philadelphia’s South Street district, spanning roughly 14 blocks, is already limbering up for the day. I wander past beatnik coffee houses bustling with dog-owning locals, hole-in-the-wall pizza joints and a labyrinth of secondhand clothing emporiums stuffed with quirky goods. My destination is Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens , a former abandoned lot that’s been reimagined as a folk-art masterpiece by Isaiah Zagar, a local resident now in his 80s.  

It’s a staggering sight to behold — every inch of the treasure trove grotto and courtyard painstakingly adorned. The walls, floors and maze-like tunnels are a kaleidoscope of found curiosities, mosaics, bejewelled tiles and glinting mirrored shards. Isaiah has lent his maximalist vision to several public murals throughout the district, too, many of which I pass while strolling towards the Tattooed Mom dive bar to finally sample the one and only Philly cheesesteak.

The more-is-more aesthetic continues at this eclectic institution, where the walls are decked out in a riot of graffiti tags, stickers, memorabilia and painted artworks. Owner of 26 years, Robert Perry greets me at the bar, overlooked by twinkling fairy lights and a kitschy bust of Elvis in his Las Vegas heyday. “This area has a long history of counterculture, from its roots as an immigrant Black and Jewish neighbourhood, to the Sixties, when the hippies settled and then the punk rockers,” Robert says, as he slides the house special Philly cheesesteak across a Formica table towards me, ribbons of glistening beef smothered under a gooey blanket of hot, melting cheese.  

Despite evidence of gentrification, the district remains a haunt for folks of all stripes, he continues. “Today, South Street is a place where people come to discover their creative selves, to gather and exchange ideas,” he tells me, as across the room a floral, Barbie-themed installation is being constructed to coincide with the annual Philadelphia Flower Show — a 195-year-old horticultural celebration that sees the city set abloom in spring.  

I press on towards the revered Philadelphia Museum of Art , where — despite galleries packed with globe-trotting artworks from the likes of van Gogh, Picasso and Duchamp — the real action is underway outside. A busker on a saxophone has struck up a rousing rendition of Gonna Fly Now, the theme tune from the film Rocky , as tourists puff their way up the 72 famous steps to the museum. They stop at the top for a champion’s photo call, poses mirroring the bronze statue of Balboa below.

It would be easy to while away a warm spring afternoon watching this street theatre play out, but I have one final menu to enjoy, at Wilder , near Rittenhouse Square. This laid-back neighbourhood hotspot was opened by a chef and artist couple, who transformed a bygone dance studio into a cosy three-floor bar and restaurant. Inside, I join locals perched on leopard-print stools at the candle-lit bar, shucking oysters and feasting on unexpected dishes such as savoury cannoli — a sweet potato shell filled with salmon and lashings of creme fraiche.  

Heading home, I pass a towering statue of Pennsylvania’s founder, William Penn, looking down at this buzzy metropolis from atop City Hall. Philadelphia may have its roots in the nation’s past, but right now, it’s the city’s bright future that’s holding the attention.  

Three more Philadelphia city tours

1. Yo, Philly! Rocky Film Tour Best for: the cinema lover

The popular Yo, Philly! Rocky Film Tour is led by heavyweight guide Mike Kunda, the city’s most devoted Rocky impersonator. The three-hour tour takes in various filming highlights and has even been endorsed by Sylvester Stallone himself.  

2. Constitutional Walking Tour Best for: history buffs

Take a deep dive into Philadelphia’s storied past as the birthplace of the USA with this 75-minute Constitutional Walking Tour. Covering just over a mile, the tour takes in over 20 significant sites, including the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall.  

3. Philly by Boat Best for: a new perspective

Built on the meeting point of two large rivers, the Schuylkill and the Delaware, Philadelphia has a rich maritime history. See the bright lights of the city from a different angle with a one-hour sunset cruise on the Delaware River, sailing under the magnificent Ben Franklin Bridge and soaking up the city’s industrial waterfronts.  

Related Topics

• CITY GUIDES
• FOOD TOURISM

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