John PerryPhiladelphia is an incredible city packed with history, culture, and food that will ruin all other meals for you (yes, cheesesteak supremacy is real).
But if you’ve ever tried figuring out how to explore the city, you’ve probably run into the same dilemma: there’s so much to do that it becomes weirdly overwhelming.
If you’re not careful, you might end up wandering aimlessly or wasting precious time frantically googling “best places to visit in Philly” on the fly. I’ve definitely been there.
That’s exactly why I’ve put together a curated list of the absolute best tours in Philadelphia. These tours will not only show you the real magic of the city but also save you from decision fatigue (and maybe a few questionable Yelp detours).
- 1. Founding Footsteps Tours
- 2. Beyond the Bell Tours
- 3. The Constitutional Walking Tour
- 4. Tiny Table Philadelphia Food Tours
- 5. Betsy Ross House Tour
- 6. WeVenture Philadelphia
- 7. Liberty Bell Tour
- 8. City Food Tours Philadelphia
- 9. Big Bus Hop On Hop Off Tours
- 10. Sea Philly
- 11. Bow Tie Tours
- 12. Philadelphia's Magic Gardens
1. Founding Footsteps Tours
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Website: http://www.foundingfootsteps.com/
Address: 302 Arch St, 19106
Contact Details: (609) 795-1776
Operating Hours:
- Open 24 hours
Pricing: $$
Founding Footsteps Tours offers a creative and lively way to explore the city’s rich history and local culture, especially through their BYOB trolley tours that mix storytelling and a relaxed vibe.
I gave their BYOB trolley tour a shot—and honestly, it’s a vibe. Our guide, a local history teacher, somehow made the stories of Independence Hall and Elfreth’s Alley feel fresh and alive.
One of the best parts is how casual and flexible the tours are, perfect for large groups or even solo adventures. Whether you’re into quirky karaoke rides or true crime tales, Founding Footsteps delivers laugh-out-loud moments alongside genuine insight.
| Pro Tip: If you’re on one of the BYOB trolley tours, pay attention to the guide’s Philly-specific recommendations. They often slip in suggestions for off-the-beaten-path spots to explore after the tour ends. |
2. Beyond the Bell Tours
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Website: http://beyondthebelltours.com/
Address: 1315 Walnut St, 19107
Contact Details: (484) 416-0140
Operating Hours:
- Open 24 hours daily
Pricing: $$
Beyond the Bell Tours brings a refreshing spin to Philly sightseeing by focusing on stories that often get left out of traditional history books. The guides are knowledgeable and passionate, and they have a way of making history feel alive.
I went on their Beyond the (Liberty) Bell Tour, and it was such a unique experience. Sure, we walked by landmarks like Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, but the real highlight was hearing the stories of abolitionists and Indigenous leaders.
What I loved most, though, was the variety of tours they offer. I checked out their Badass Women’s History Tour and the LGBTQ/Gayborhood Tour, and each dives deep into communities and stories often left out of the mainstream narrative.
| Pro Tip: If you’re doing a Beyond the (Liberty) Bell Tour, be sure to ask your guide about the “hidden history” of Philly’s streets. Some of the side streets and alleys near Independence Hall have fascinating backstories tied to everyday people. |
3. The Constitutional Walking Tour
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Website: http://www.theconstitutional.com/
Address: 525 Arch St, 19103
Contact Details: (215) 525-1776
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Pricing: $
If you’re into U.S. history, The Constitutional Walking Tour is a solid way to see Philadelphia’s birthplaces on foot. This 75‑minute walk covers more than 20 of Philly’s most historic spots, from the Liberty Bell to Christ Church Burial Ground.
What’s really neat is how the tour combines history with storytelling. The guides are energetic and articulate, bringing what they call a High‑Definition Historical Experience™ to each stop.
I found the tour well-paced and welcoming for all ages. It’s a great way to get your bearings in Independence National Historical Park and dig deeper than just the surface-level stories. Plus, it’s more fun than wandering around aimlessly with a map.
| Pro Tip: Download the printer-friendly brochure before you go. It loads faster than the full site, works offline, and doubles as your map + cheat sheet when cell signal drops. |
4. Tiny Table Philadelphia Food Tours
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Website: https://www.tinytabletours.com/
Address: 1628 S Jessup St, 19148
Contact Details: (215) 278-9359
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Pricing: $$
Tiny Table Tours is all about diving deep into Philly’s food scene, particularly in South Philly and the iconic Italian Market area. This isn’t your typical food tour, as it focuses on small group experiences led by passionate guides who truly know the city.
What really stood out to me was the depth of connection the guides have with local businesses. You’re not just eating good food, you’re learning the stories behind it, the people who make it happen, and even little historical tidbits about the city along the way.
During my experience, they made recommendations so perfectly tailored to my preferences that I started wondering if they had mind-reading powers (spoiler: they’re just ridiculously good listeners!).
| Pro Tip: Talk to your guide about your favorite foods or dietary preferences at the start of the tour. The guides are incredibly knowledgeable and adaptable. They might tweak the stops or offer personalized suggestions tailored to your tastes. |
5. Betsy Ross House Tour
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Website: https://historicphiladelphia.org/betsy-ross-house/
Address: 239 Arch St, 19106
Contact Details: (215) 629-4026
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Pricing: $$
The Betsy Ross House offers a compact but lively peek into colonial life and the legend of the first American flag. Managed by Historic Philadelphia, Inc., it offers self-guided and audio-guided tours that provide a good mix of context and storytelling.
During my visit, one standout moment was the courtyard where Betsy Ross and her third husband are buried. It offered a quiet, reflective pause amidst the historical storytelling. Inside, the costumed interpreters were friendly and knowledgeable.
Accessibility is somewhat limited, with narrow staircases, but the first-floor tour with audio and photos worked well for me. Before leaving, I enjoyed browsing the small museum shop, which had neat books, crafts, and, of course, flags.
| Pro Tip: Before you leave, take a moment near the giant flagpole in the courtyard to listen to the daily reading of excerpts from the Declaration of Independence. It’s not heavily advertised, so it’s a delightful surprise that adds a powerful punch to your visit. |
6. WeVenture Philadelphia
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Website: https://we-venture.com/philadelphia/
Address: 7 N Christopher Columbus Blvd, 19106
Contact Details: (215) 280-3746
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Pricing: $$
WeVenture Philadelphia is a local tour company that delivers more than just the typical sightseeing experience. Their tour lineup is impressively flexible.
You can choose a walking history tour through Independence National Historical Park, explore Philly in a two-hour electric cart tour. You can even hop in a car for a private driving tour around the city.
Beyond the tours, one of the things I appreciated most was how the company ties its experiences to community impact. They partner with locally owned businesses, donate per guest to local non-profits, which makes the visit feel meaningful beyond sightseeing.
| Pro Tip: When booking, consider asking for a custom focus on a theme you’re curious about, like Philly’s revolutionary history or hidden architecture. WeVenture is flexible enough that guides can tailor the stories and stops to your interests. |
7. Liberty Bell Tour
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Website: https://www.nps.gov/inde/learn
Address: 526 Market St, 19106
Contact Details: (215) 965-2305
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Pricing: Free
Located in Philadelphia’s Independence National Historical Park, the Liberty Bell Center offers a free, self-guided tour perfect for history enthusiasts and curious visitors alike.
Surprisingly, the surrounding exhibits impressed me more than I anticipated. They don’t just focus on the bell’s crack or its surface history but dive into its role as a profound symbol of abolition, civil rights, and democracy.
The center is thoughtfully designed to make your visit smooth and enjoyable. Free Wi‑Fi is available, there’s a café for a quick break, and it’s fully wheelchair accessible.
| Pro Tip: Don’t skip the audio tour or ranger talks (they’re free!). They dive into lesser-known stories about the bell’s significance over time, such as its use during protests in the 19th and 20th centuries. |
8. City Food Tours Philadelphia
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Website: https://www.phillysfoodtour.com/
Address: 51 N 12th St, 19107
Contact Details: (800) 656-0713
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM
Pricing: $$
City Food Tours Philadelphia offers an immersive way to experience the city through its vibrant food scene. The tours combine food, culture, and history, making them perfect for anyone who enjoys discovering local flavors while learning about the city’s past.
On the Old City Food Tour, I wandered cobblestone streets and historic spots while sampling some of the best local bites. The little bakeries and specialty shops sprinkled throughout the route added a really personal touch to the experience.
What made the tour even better were the guides. They were knowledgeable and genuinely passionate about Philly’s food and history. Between bites, I found myself learning quirky historical facts, which made the tour feel both delicious and enlightening.
| Pro Tip: Book weekday tours for the best vibe. Weekdays mean fewer crowds at Reading Terminal Market and more room to enjoy each tasting without the weekend rush. |
9. Big Bus Hop On Hop Off Tours
Website: http://phillytour.com/
Address: 30 N 12th St, 19107
Contact Details: 215-389- (8687)
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Pricing: $$
The Big Bus Tour offers a flexible, top-deck, 90-minute loop to see the city’s highlights. The buses follow a set route that covers major landmarks, like the Museum of the American Revolution, with 25 convenient stops.
One standout feature is the flexibility. You can hop on and off at any stop to explore at your own pace, then catch the next bus when you’re ready to move on.
I loved how seamless this made things—zero stress about planning transportation. I was also genuinely impressed with the live guides on board. Their stories about Philly’s history felt like having a passionate local give you insider knowledge.
| Pro Tip: If you’re planning to make multiple stops, grab a map from the staff or download one beforehand—but don’t rely on it. Ask the onboard guide for personalized recommendations. They often offer unique insights, such as underrated stops. |
10. Sea Philly
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Website: https://www.seaphilly.us/
Address: The Estuary, 215 S Christopher Columbus Blvd, 19106
Contact Details: +1 267-899-2469
Pricing: $$$
Sea Philly Tours completely changed the way I think about exploring Philadelphia. Instead of the usual walking tours or bustling streets, this experience puts you on the Delaware River. And let me tell you, the views hit differently from the water.
Their private cruises and charters are designed for small groups (up to six people), offering an instant VIP invitation to Philly’s quieter, more scenic side. I went on the sunset cruise, and honestly, nothing beats watching the skyline glow.
One unexpected perk? It’s BYO! We brought along snacks and drinks, though they also offer catering options if you want to step it up. Our captain also pointed out landmarks, but left plenty of room for us to soak in the peaceful ride.
| Pro Tip: Ask the crew about their secret “sweet spots” along the river. These are areas or angles where the natural scenery looks particularly stunning for photos. |
11. Bow Tie Tours
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Website: https://www.bowtietours.com/
Address: 1800 John F Kennedy Blvd, Suite 300, 19103
Contact Details: +1 610-642-2410
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Pricing: $$
Bow Tie Tours is known for its Independence Walking Tours. These 90-minute explorations of the city’s Historic District dive into the events and personalities that helped shape the history.
You’ll walk in the footsteps of figures like Franklin, Adams, and Jefferson, guided by guides who bring the past to life. I especially appreciated how they avoided the usual monotone vibe, weaving in little-known stories that kept me engaged throughout.
If you’re looking to go beyond Philly, Bow Tie Tours also offers day trips to destinations like Gettysburg, Valley Forge, and Amish Country. These excursions are perfect for those who want to dig deeper into American history.
| Pro Tip: If you’re a history enthusiast, opt for the private tours instead of the standard group tours. Private tours can be tailored to your interests, allowing you to focus on specific historical events, figures, or lesser-known locations. |
12. Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens
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Website: https://www.phillymagicgardens.org/
Address: 1020 South St, 19147
Contact Details: (215) 733-0390
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Pricing: $$
Visiting Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens is the largest mosaic art environment by the artist Isaiah Zagar. It spans about 3,000 sq ft across indoor galleries and outdoor sculpture garden.
What I like most is that Zagar used wild mix of found and reclaimed objects: broken china, bicycle wheels, and more. What began as a private studio in the 1980s eventually grew.
| Pro Tip: If you want to capture unique photos without the crowds, spend a few minutes in the small courtyards and alleyways surrounding the main galleries. These spaces are part of the Magic Gardens experience but are often overlooked. |
