Philadelphia, a city steeped in history, offers a wide variety of tours and events to help you explore its rich past and vibrant present.
Popular Tours
Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an art lover, there’s a tour for you in Philadelphia.
- Historic Walking Tours: The city’s colonial past is its most famous draw. Tours like The Constitutional Walking Tour, Founding Footsteps, and Real Philly History Tours take you to iconic sites such as the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and the Betsy Ross House. Some tours offer unique perspectives, like those focusing on women’s history or African American history.
- Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tours: For a comprehensive overview of the city, a double-decker bus tour is a great option. Companies like Big Bus Tours and City Sightseeing Philadelphia offer routes that stop at more than 25 of the city’s top attractions.
- Food and Drink Tours: Philadelphia is a culinary hub. You can take a food tour to experience the famous Reading Terminal Market, the historic Italian Market (made famous by the movie “Rocky”), or a tour that focuses on the city’s classic cheesesteaks. There are also brewery and pub crawls that combine history with local brews.
- Ghost and Dark History Tours: For a different kind of experience, you can explore the city’s spooky side with a ghost tour. These tours delve into the city’s darker past, including tales of public executions, religious riots, and curses.
- Art and Mural Tours: Known as the “Mural Capital of the World,” Philadelphia offers tours dedicated to its public art. Mural Arts Philadelphia provides an in-depth look at some of the city’s most stunning murals.
- Cruises: For a unique view of the city, consider a cruise on the Delaware River. City Cruises offers various options, including brunch, lunch, and dinner cruises with live entertainment and stunning skyline views.
Events and Festivals
Philadelphia hosts a diverse range of events throughout the year.
Ongoing and Annual Events:
- Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival: An annual festival in Franklin Square.
- Center City District SIPS: A summer happy hour promotion at various Center City bars and restaurants.
- Festival of Fountains at Longwood Gardens: A dazzling display of fountains and horticulture.
- Philadelphia Eagles Training Camp: Public practices for the city’s beloved football team.