Old City After Dark: Drinking Tour in Philadelphia

If you’re curious about experiencing Philadelphia’s lively evening scene, the Old City After Dark tour promises an engaging mix of adventure, local flavor, and a touch of the unexpected.

While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the detailed itinerary and reviews suggest it offers a fun, sociable way to explore the city’s tucked-away spots after sunset. Perfect for those who enjoy a relaxed but lively night out, this experience blends active fun with authentic nightlife.

Two aspects stand out immediately: the axe throwing session to kick things off and the music-driven bar scene featuring vinyl records. These elements add a unique twist to typical pub crawls. However, a possible challenge is the limited food and drink inclusions — outside of a complimentary tequila shot, you’ll need to budget for cocktails or beers.

This tour is best suited for adventurers, music lovers, and those keen on discovering Philadelphia’s hidden gems in a friendly group setting.

This experience made our article of Philadelphia’s 15 Top Drinking Tours.

Key Points

• Unique mix of activities: Axe throwing, bar hopping with vinyl collections, dancing.
• Affordable price point: Around $35 for three hours, with many included activities.
• Small group size: Max 10 travelers, ensuring a relaxed and personal experience.
• Focus on authentic venues: Hidden spots that even locals may not know.
• Limited food and drink included: Expect to pay for most beverages.
• Multilingual tour guides: Offering assistance in Spanish, French, German, and Italian.

When you first hear about a “drinking tour” in historic Philadelphia, you might expect a typical pub crawl. But this experience aims to combine active fun, local music culture, and nightlife, giving visitors a broader taste of what makes the city’s evening scene special. It’s a well-rounded package for those who prefer a bit of adventure alongside their drinks.

Starting Point: Kick Axe Throwing Philly

The tour kicks off at Kick Axe Throwing, a venue that might catch you by surprise. It’s not just about chucking axes—it’s about channeling your inner patriot or Revolutionary War hero, testing your aim, and having a few laughs. The activity, lasting about 35 minutes, serves as a lively icebreaker and energizer. The included admission ticket makes it an accessible activity for most, and the experience reportedly combines fun with a bit of friendly competition.

However, keep in mind that private events can occasionally cause location changes. The organizer encourages checking your email or phone updates. If the axe-throwing session is shifted, the alternative locations are just as engaging, maintaining the tour’s energetic start.

Exploring Hidden Bars with Vinyl Records and Handcrafted Cocktails

After the physical activity, the tour transitions into Old City’s vibrant bar scene. What makes these venues stand out are their unique atmospheres—many boast incredible collections of vinyl records, which set a nostalgic, music-loving tone. Expect to visit 4-5 different spots, each with about 35 minutes to enjoy drinks, conversation, and music.

While the tour includes line skipping and seating, the drinks are not included in the tour price—you’re responsible for cocktails, beers, or wines, which typically range from $5 to $20. The experience shines when you discover these lesser-known venues that offer both excellent ambiance and quality drinks. Many reviews praise the great selection of drinks and the friendly, non-intimidating atmosphere.

Ending with Dancing and Local Vibes

The final stop takes you to a lively bar in Philadelphia’s Old City Arts District, where the focus is on dancing and socializing. A local DJ spins infectious tunes, encouraging everyone to loosen up and enjoy the night. This part of the experience is about pure fun, giving you a chance to wind down, meet fellow travelers, and savor the local nightlife.

The 45-minute dance session caps the tour on a high note, leaving many travelers with a sense of camaraderie and good memories. The tour concludes around 200 Chestnut Street, only a five-minute walk from the start point, making it easy to continue your evening independently or head back to your accommodation.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour provides a complimentary tequila shot, which is a nice touch to start the night. You’ll also benefit from no cover charges at the venues and priority seating—great for making the most of limited time.

But keep in mind, alcoholic beverages are not included beyond the shot, so budgeting around $10–$20 per stop is wise if you want to enjoy cocktails or beers. No food is included, so consider grabbing a snack beforehand if you’re hungry—they do provide a fun, social environment perfect for a light meal or tapas.

Practical Details

The tour begins promptly at 7:00 pm at Kick Axe Throwing, with a maximum group size of 10 travelers. The small group aspect ensures a more intimate experience where you can ask questions and interact comfortably. It’s designed for adults 21 and over, making it perfect for those looking for a lively, mature night out.

Confirmation is immediate upon booking, and the tour is cancelable free of charge up to 24 hours in advance. It’s important to note that weather might affect the experience, and if canceled, full refunds or alternative dates are offered.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

At $35 per person, this experience combines several activities—ax throwing, visits to hidden bars, and dancing—offering a comprehensive night out for a reasonable price. The inclusion of line-skipping and seating enhances the experience, avoiding long waits and ensuring comfort. The small group size makes it less about large, impersonal crowds and more about genuine fun and discovery.

What Travelers Say

While the review count is currently zero, the positive features are well-highlighted. The excellent wine and drink options in the bars, paired with the delicious tapas some venues offer, add to the experience’s appeal. And the lively, music-focused venues create a relaxed yet upbeat atmosphere, perfect for those who appreciate a good soundtrack.

This tour is a fantastic choice for adventurous spirits who want to combine physical activity with cultural exploration and nightlife. It suits visitors who enjoy music, socializing, and discovering private spots off the typical tourist trail. If you’re looking for a fun, affordable way to see a different side of Philadelphia after dark, this tour delivers.

It’s especially well-suited for groups of friends, solo travelers eager to meet others, or couples wanting a lively night out. Just keep in mind that most beverages are paid for separately, so budget accordingly. And if you’re someone who prefers a more laid-back evening without organized activities, this might feel a tad energetic.

The Sum Up

Old City After Dark offers an engaging mix of active fun, local music, and nightlife, making it more than just a pub crawl. The axe throwing kick-off adds a playful, memorable element, while the hidden bar visits give a taste of Philadelphia’s authentic scene. Ending with dancing and lively music leaves you with a sense of camaraderie and a night to remember.

This experience provides a great value for the price, especially considering the small group size and varied activities. It’s ideal for adventurous, social travelers who want a fun, well-rounded night out filled with authentic vibes and a few surprises along the way.

Is there an age restriction for this tour?
Yes, the tour is only for travelers 21 and over, as it involves alcohol and nightlife activities.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs approximately 3 hours, starting at 7:00 pm and ending around 10:00 pm.

Are drinks included in the tour price?
No, the tour includes a complimentary tequila shot but does not cover additional alcoholic beverages, which you’ll need to pay for separately.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing suitable for physical activity like axe throwing and for walking around bars. No specific dress code.

Can I cancel or reschedule easily?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the start. After that, refunds are not available.

Is this tour suitable for non-English speakers?
Tour guides offer assistance in Spanish, French, German, and Italian, making it accessible for multilingual travelers.

What if the weather is bad?
The experience is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

In sum, if you’re after a lively, engaging night that mixes activity, music, and local charm, the Old City After Dark tour offers a memorable way to see Philadelphia’s nightlife through a different lens.