Deborah McCabePhiladelphia has a way of turning even a quick outing into an adventure. I’ve tried showing friends around on my own, but after repeating the same two fun facts and confidently walking the wrong direction (twice), I realized the pros do it much better.
That’s when I started paying attention to the tour operators who actually do this for a living. People who know the shortcuts, the good snacks, and the stories that don’t sound like they came straight off a souvenir mug.
And honestly? It makes exploring Philly so much better.
If you’re planning a visit or showing friends around, these best tour operators in Philadelphia can make your day easier and richer. They’ll also make the experience way more fun than doing it solo.
How much do tour operators charge in Philadelphia?
Tour operators in Philadelphia charge $35 to $75 per person for standard tours. Specialty or private experiences, from food to ghost tours, can range $100 to $200+, depending on length and style.
1. Founding Footsteps Tours
Address: 302 Arch St, 19106
Contact Details: +1 609-795-1776
Operating Hours: Open 24 hours
Founding Footsteps is best known for its BYOB Trolley Tours. It blends history, entertainment, and a drink as you ride through Philadelphia.
Most trolley and walking tours start at around $30, with more premium options, such as the Taste of History Food Tour, running closer to $75+.
On the True Crime Tour, I even found myself leaning in during stories of Prohibition-era gangsters and infamous local crimes. These themed BYOB tours typically range from $50 to $60, depending on the night and season.
They also run the Old City Historic Walking Tour, Holiday Light Tours, Tipsy Trolley Karaoke, and more. Walking tours are the most affordable, starting at $30.
Booking is straightforward, too. You choose a date on their online tour calendar, pay digitally, and receive an instant confirmation.
Although they offer plenty of options, their core tours, like the BYOB Trolleys and Old City walks, don’t change much. Repeat visitors may find the experience repetitive rather than exciting.
Full of interesting history and culture
“I just finished the Philadelphia Old City Historic Walking Tour with Seamus, and it was great! Seamus was really nice and always available to answer questions. The tour was full of interesting history and culture, and he even gave us tips on local food spots. I enjoyed every stop we made and found myself wanting to spend more time at each one. It was a fun way to learn about the city while staying active.
I highly recommend this tour!
Thanks, Seamus!”
– Oxana B, Google Review
Fantastic, knowledgeable, and personal tour guide
“Absolutely fantastic tour! Our group went on the old town tour and as someone who loves history I enjoyed every minute. Our tour guide Amanda was fantastic, incredibly knowledgeable and personal. I’ve been on tours in other cities that either felt rushed or very rigid and just like you were being talked at but this tour was so much better – you could tell there was genuine and authentic passion, which truly made the tour enjoyable and informative. It was all presented in such a flawless, natural, non-robotic way it made my day. A true model for what a perfect walking tour is.”
– Roope Hakanpää, Google Review
2. Beyond the Bell Tours
Address: 1315 Walnut St, 19107
Contact Details: +1 484-416-0140
Operating Hours: Open 24 hours
I recently took a Beyond the Bell Tours tour, and it completely changed how I think about exploring Philadelphia. Unlike the typical sightseeing tours that focus on famous landmarks, these tours dig into the stories you won’t find in guidebooks.
One thing I really appreciated is how flexible their tours are. You can join regular group tours, book a private tour tailored to you and your party, or request a custom experience tailored to your interests.
Their pricing reflects this range. Standard public tours start around $59 per person, while private tours for small groups begin around $490 total.
For example, Badass Women’s History Tour, for example, highlighted female pioneers, activists, and artists whom I’d never heard of. I genuinely felt inspired learning about their impact on the city.
The only drawback is that some tours charge higher rates for small groups, which could be a barrier for casual visitors.
Badass tour about badass women
“This tour was great for so many reasons. First off it was a great way to learn about Philadelphia and some incredible women that are never highlighted on other tours in the city. Our guide Joey knew his stuff and accommodated the needs of our group as well as gave time for questions and conversation. He did not just share stories with us- he took the time to get to know us as a group which made all of us feel welcomed seen and valued. It was a badass tour about badass women with some badass wonderful humans! (am I allowed to say that in a Google review?🙃) Ps – my British mum loved it!”
– Mike Plumton, Google Review
I loved learning about Philly’s Gayborhood
“This was such a fantastic tour! I loved learning about Philly’s Gayborhood and hearing stories of people and organizations that have shaped LGBTQ+ history in Philly and beyond. What I really appreciated about the tour was the blend of historical queer figures, as well as modern activists who are making change today. It was very story-forward, which I loved, showcasing individuals who have made a difference. I also loved the specific stories that were told – diverse, engaging, and inspiring. A must-do the next time you’re in Philly!”
– Michael Venturiello, Google Review
3. Grim Philly Twilight Tours
Address: 523 Market St, 19106
Contact Details: +1 856-829-3100
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday – 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Grim Philly Twilight Tours is not your standard history company. Known for its knowledge-driven approach, Grim Philly stands out by blending Philadelphia’s iconic landmarks with rarely heard tales of crime, scandal, and the supernatural.
Their national recognition, including TripAdvisor’s Traveler’s Choice BEST of the BEST, makes sense. Once you’re on a tour, you can tell they really know their craft.
I joined the Dark Philly Adult Night Tour and was hooked from the start. Walking through Old City while hearing about grave robbers, vampires, and scandalous political stories made the streets feel alive.
The Haunted Pub Crawl was a blast. Over three and a half hours, we visited historic bars, learned about Prohibition-era gangsters, and explored haunted taverns. Having a few drinks and small snacks along the way made it social and fun.
Just a heads-up, though: these tours are strictly for adults. They’re not suited for families or anyone expecting a traditional sightseeing stroll.
The tour guide had a master’s degree in history
“The tour was spectacular! Our tour guide, Wendy, had a masters degree in history and was so knowledgeable. Her storytelling skills were top notch and kept us interested the entire tour. We didn’t want it to end! And on top of all that, she made some great food recommendations in the area! We couldn’t have been happier with our experience and highly recommend it to all.”
– Lauren Miller, Google Review
Great way of sharing facts and stories
“I had such a great experience on the Revolution and Founding Fathers tour with Grim Philly! Our guide, Josh, was phenomenal, super knowledgeable and passionate about the history of Philadelphia. He had a great way of sharing facts and stories that made the tour feel like an interactive history lesson rather than just a walk around the city. What really stood out was how thoughtful he was. He made sure we stopped in shaded spots whenever possible, which was SO appreciated on a warm day. It showed he genuinely cared about our comfort while still delivering a rich and engaging experience. Highly recommend this tour, especially if you get Josh as your guide!”
– Sandra Martinez, Google Review
4. City Sightseeing Philadelphia
Address: 21 S 5th St, 19106
Contact Details: +1 215-922-2300
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday – 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM
If you want to see Philadelphia without stressing about maps or schedules, City Sightseeing Philadelphia is a solid choice. I hopped on their double-decker bus. Its hop-on, hop-off system lets you stay longer at your favorite stops and skip the rest.
The audio commentary in nine languages is a thoughtful touch. Plus, the guides sprinkled in stories that felt fresh rather than the usual tourist script.
I tried one of their seasonal tours, the Holiday Lights ride, and it completely changed my perspective of the city. Seeing historic streets and landmarks lit up at night was surprisingly magical.
On a walking tour through Old City, I got up close to the architecture and historic sites, and it was clear the guides really know their stuff.
For larger groups, their private tours are well organized and flexible, which makes planning much easier.
However, some areas of Philadelphia aren’t included on the standard bus route. You might miss key parts of the city unless you arrange additional transportation.
Wonderful tour of historic and current Philadelphia culture
“Great and reasonable tour! After navigating to the starting point to redeem my voucher we were treated to a WONDERFUL tour of historic and current Philadelphia culture. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable; the driver was kind and courteous as well! We purchased the two day package so we’re back today to get off the stops and explore more up close! I have done the same tour RED buses in other cities and this one did not disappoint! Excellent value for your money!”
– Doretha Pendleton, Google Review
Keep up the fun interaction with the guests
“We had a great time starting at the beginning with meeting Dave who gave us our tickets. He was funny and very nice…… seemed to really enjoy his job! Keep up the fun interaction with the guests Dave, you are absolutely the beginning and end of the trip. Thanks for your good nature! And Michael (the van driver) was great! Made sure I had a ride back to my vehicle since it was dark and provided me with a bottle of water. Everyone needs a Michael at their place of employment…… Keep up the great work Michael! Hassan (the driver) made the tour a very comfortable one. Have walked 6 miles to get to touri was able to see how crazy them Philly drivers really are……lol. Great job Hassan, thanks for being a patient driver in such a town that runs on no patience. Lastly, Nick (the tour guide). What can I say besides WOW, was a man filled of knowledge and added his own little spin to the facts he told. We’d definitely request whatever your he was on the next time! Thank you Nick for a good time! We will definitely be back for the Christmas Tour and I’m already looking forward to it!”
– Sharon Titus, Google Review
5. City Food Tours Philadelphia
Address: 51 N 12th St, 19107
Contact Details: +1 800-656-0713
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday – 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM
City Food Tours Philadelphia offers a deep dive into the city’s flavors and stories.
I joined their Flavors of Philly Walking Tour and loved how it combined iconic eats with insights into Philadelphia’s history and neighborhoods.
Each stop felt thoughtfully chosen, from soft pretzels at Reading Terminal Market to sweet treats that were perfectly sized to keep me going without feeling stuffed.
I also tried the Historic Old City Dine-Around, a longer tour featuring four curated courses and optional drinks. Walking cobblestone streets while enjoying local dishes truly brought the city’s history to life.
For those seeking flexibility, the self-guided Flavors of Philly Tour is ideal. For $16, you get app access with a detailed route, food recommendations, and discounts at select vendors.
However, I’ve heard from other clients that some tours have been canceled due to low group sizes. So, if you pick a less popular date, be aware that there’s a chance your tour could be canceled or rescheduled.
Perfect 45 minute-tour
“This tour was great! I am a local and I brought my parents. They loved hearing about the history and the unique food. Our tour guide, Kaitlin, was perfect! The tour only being 45 minutes was perfect for my parents. And after having the overview of the tour we were able to pick a few things we wanted to have for lunch after the tour. It was a really great day and one that I know my parents will remember for a long time.”
– Angela Grimley, Google Review
I would definitely recommend this tour to sample the deliciousness of Philly
“Karen gave a great tour. This was our first visit to Philly and she really gave us a “taste” of the city. We sampled classic foods like soft pretzels, tomato pie and of course cheesesteak. For desert we sampled made-from-scratch Amish doughnuts and delicious chocolate chip cookies. Best part was Karen giving us a lot of history about the food and architecture along the way! I would definitely recommend this tour to sample deliciousness of Philly.”
– Jason LaBenz, Google Review
