15 Top Tours & Things To Do In Philadelphia (With Reviews & Prices)

Philadelphia is a city that wears its history, food scene, and lively neighborhoods on its sleeve. Unlike many big cities, Philly offers a mix of deeply historical experiences and fun, interactive activities that make it a great destination for all kinds of travelers.

Whether you’re interested in the birthplace of American democracy or want a delicious bite at Reading Terminal Market, Philadelphia’s diverse tour options ensure you’ll find something memorable.

We especially love the 2.5 Hour Philadelphia History Tour with Washington War Tent Show for its personal touch and focus on revolutionary landmarks, and the Inside the Italian Market: Chef-Led Tasting Journey for a tasty deep dive into Philly’s culinary soul.

Quick Overview: We’ve rounded up the best tours and activities that cover Philadelphia’s history, food, and unique neighborhoods. You’ll find walking tours, trolley rides, bike adventures, and even a day trip to Amish Country—all offering excellent ways to see and taste the city.

Each experience has something special, like the Historic Food Tour, which highlights Philly’s most beloved bites, or the Electric Cart Tour that zips through the city’s highlights in style. Keep reading to find the perfect way for you to explore Philly.

1. 2.5 Hour Philadelphia History Tour with Washington War Tent Show

At number 1, this small-group walking tour offers a comprehensive look at Philadelphia’s role in the American Revolution. The tour includes visits to Independence Hall, Congress Hall, and Old City Hall, providing a solid foundation of the city’s pivotal moments.

What makes it stand out is the inclusion of the Museum of the American Revolution, where you get discounted entry, and the chance to see George Washington’s tent—a rare and immersive experience.

The guide’s storytelling style makes history come alive, with reviews praising the knowledgeable narration and detailed artifacts.

Perfect for history enthusiasts who want a personal, engaging experience, this tour balances walking with storytelling, making it ideal for those wanting to grasp Philly’s revolutionary heart.

Bottom Line: An excellent, well-reviewed tour for history lovers seeking a personal and in-depth exploration of Philly’s founding.

2. BYOB Historically Hilarious Trolley Tour of Philadelphia

Number 2 on our list is a trolley tour that combines sightseeing with good laughs and BYOB fun. For around $48.50, you’ll enjoy a two-hour journey past landmarks such as City Hall, Love Park, and Betsy Ross’ House, all while sipping your own beer or wine. Led by a former comedian and history teacher, the guide injects humor into tales of Philly’s icons and secrets.

The stops include the Barnes Foundation and the Rocky Steps, making the tour both amusing and informative. Reviewers highlight how Warren and Sheila made the day memorable, with lots of laughs and interesting stories.

This is perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, humorous way to see the city and enjoy some drinks along the way.

Bottom Line: A lively, fun-filled tour ideal for groups looking for a mix of humor, history, and casual drinking.

3. Center City Philadelphia Food Tour with Reading Market

Number 3 is a food lover’s dream, showcasing Philly’s culinary delights in a relaxed walking format. For $59, you’ll explore the historic Reading Terminal Market and Sansom Street, tasting local favorites like cheesesteaks, tomato pie, and Afghan cuisine. The small group size (max 12) ensures a more personal experience, and your guide shares insider insights into Philly’s vibrant food scene.

Reviewers mention how the guide’s knowledge and the generous tastings make this a worthwhile experience, perfect for those eager to combine sightseeing with authentic bites.

This tour is especially good if you want a balanced mix of history and food, with plenty of time to chat and savor.

Bottom Line: A savory way to discover Philly’s culinary roots while learning about the city’s neighborhoods.

4. Philadelphia 2 Hour Electric Cart Tour

Number 4 offers an easy, eco-friendly way to see Philadelphia’s top sights. This electric cart tour covers Old City, Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and more in just two hours, with the comfort of a guided ride.

The tour’s highlight is passing by iconic sites like Betsy Ross’s House, the US Mint, and the Philadelphia Magic Gardens. Reviewers love the personal approach of the guides and the convenience of a short, rundown.

It’s well-suited for travelers who want a quick, informative tour without much walking and who appreciate a friendly, knowledgeable guide.

Bottom Line: A compact, accessible tour that packs history, culture, and fun into a short ride.

5. Flavors of Philly Food Tour

Number 5 is a culinary walking tour that takes you to five local eateries, sampling classic Philly eats like cheesesteaks and cheese whiz fries, plus desserts at Reading Terminal Market. For $65, you get a generous meal and stories about the city’s food history. The guide emphasizes authentic, local spots rather than tourist traps, and reviews praise the engaging guide and substantial tastings.

This tour is ideal for foodies wanting a relaxed, tasting-focused exploration that also provides insight into Philly’s diverse immigrant communities.

Bottom Line: A hearty, flavorful way to indulge in Philadelphia’s best bites and learn about its culinary origins.

6. True Crime Philadelphia and History Tour

Number 6 offers a dark twist on Philly’s history, exploring notorious serial killers and ghost stories. This 2.5-hour small-group tour visits Betsy Ross House, Christ Church, and Benjamin Franklin’s Grave, blending spooky tales with historic landmarks. Reviewers mention how the stories are engaging and the guides are passionate.

It’s perfect for those who enjoy a little scare with their history or want a different perspective on the city’s past.

The personal size of the group makes the experience more intimate and immersive.

Bottom Line: Unique for those interested in Philly’s darker stories, this tour combines history with a spooky edge.

7. Guided Day Trip to Amish Country from Philadelphia

Number 7 is an 8-hour Amish Country tour that takes you into Lancaster County’s Amish communities. With round-trip transport from Philadelphia, you’ll visit farms, Amish markets, and the Amish Village Museum. The tour emphasizes storytelling, and reviews praise the guide’s insights and the authentic experiences.

It’s suited for travelers wanting a full-day immersion in a different Pennsylvania culture without the hassle of planning.

The only downside is the length, which may be too long for those short on time, but the value in seeing Amish life firsthand makes it worthwhile.

Bottom Line: Ideal for cultural explorers eager to understand Amish traditions in a day.

8. Inside the Italian Market: Chef-Led Tasting Journey

Number 8 offers a culinary adventure through Philly’s famous Italian Market. Led by a chef guide, you’ll visit bakeries like Isgro Pastries, cheese shops like Di Bruno Bros, and enjoy a pizza lunch. For $89, this tour provides generous samples, shopping discounts, and a behind-the-scenes look at one of Philadelphia’s oldest neighborhoods.

Reviewers highlight the guide’s deep knowledge and the quality of the food samples. Best suited for foodies who want an intimate, flavorful experience combined with local history.

Keep in mind the tour’s pace is relaxed, and there’s plenty to eat.

Bottom Line: A gourmet journey into Philly’s Italian heritage, perfect for food lovers wanting insider tips.

9. Classic Philadelphia City Bike Tour

Number 9 is a guided bike tour that covers many of Philly’s top sights over 3.5 hours. Pedal past Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, Rittenhouse Square, and even the Rocky Steps with a knowledgeable guide. The small group and all necessary equipment make it accessible to most fitness levels. Reviewers praise the lively pace and the mix of historical and scenic stops, including the Schuylkill River Trail.

It’s best for active travelers who want a comprehensive, outdoor experience of the city’s highlights.

Bottom Line: An energetic way to see a wide swath of Philly, perfect if you like cycling and history in one package.

10. Driving Tour of Valley Forge National Park from Philadelphia

Number 10 is a half-day driving tour that takes you into Valley Forge. For $115, you’ll visit Washington’s Headquarters, the National Memorial Arch, and explore reconstructed huts. The guided narration makes history accessible without the physical effort of walking all day. Reviewers mention the quality of the storytelling and the convenience of round-trip transport.

This tour suits visitors wanting an overview of this key Revolutionary War site without much walking or planning.

Bottom Line: A comfortable, informative option for history lovers who prefer guided drives.

11. Liberty History Tour Pub Crawl

Number 11 combines Philadelphia’s history with its bar scene. You’ll visit four historic bars in Old City, sipping included beers and cider while hearing stories behind them. The tour is perfect for those who want a relaxed, social atmosphere while learning about Philly’s revolutionary past. Reviewers mention the friendly guides and the fun vibe.

It’s best suited for travelers interested in combining nightlife with history, and non-drinkers can join with a lower-cost ticket.
Bottom Line: A lively evening activity blending historic storytelling and local drinks.

12. Philadelphia Italian Market Public Food Tour

Number 12 is a small-group walking and tasting tour that explores South Philadelphia’s Italian Market. For $61, you’ll sample everything from bread to bahn mi, with stories about the immigrant neighborhoods.

The guide’s local knowledge shines, and reviewers love the authentic atmosphere and generous food portions. It’s ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, bite-filled introduction to one of Philly’s most characterful areas.

Expect to walk and taste your way through a lively historic market.

Bottom Line: Perfect for food lovers aiming to experience Philadelphia’s multicultural culinary scene.

13. The Constitutional Walking Tour of Philadelphia

Number 13 is a short but comprehensive 1 hour 15-minute stroll through the birthplace of America. Visiting sites like Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and the Graff House where Jefferson wrote the Declaration, it’s great for travelers short on time. The guide is praised for being engaging and knowledgeable, making history accessible and fun.

This tour is best for those who want a quick overview of the founding sites without too much walking or complexity.

Bottom Line: Ideal for a quick, informative introduction to Philly’s most iconic historic spots.

14. Philadelphia: History, Highlights & Revolution Walking Tour

Number 14 offers a 2.5-hour walking tour that combines key historic sites with a visit to the Museum of the American Revolution. The tour includes a stop at Betsy Ross House and Benjamin Franklin’s grave, perfect for history buffs who want a detailed look at Philly’s revolutionary past.

Travelers rave about the experienced guides and the well-paced itinerary, making it suitable for those interested in a full but manageable experience.

Bottom Line: A thorough and engaging way to learn about Philadelphia’s founding and revolutionary history.

15. Philadelphia: Double-Decker Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour

Number 15 is a flexible hop-on hop-off bus experience. With a 1-, 2-, or 3-day ticket, you can explore 26 stops, including the Liberty Bell, Betsy Ross House, and the Rocky Steps. This option is perfect for travelers who prefer to set their own pace, hopping off for detailed visits and re-boarding at your leisure.

It’s a cost-effective way to see many sights, especially if your schedule is tight or you want to focus on specific neighborhoods.

Bottom Line: The most flexible way to see Philly at your own pace, especially if you like planning your day.

How to Choose the Right Tour

When deciding between these options, consider your budget, time constraints, and what excites you most. For history buffs, the Philadelphia History Tour offers a deep dive, while food lovers might prefer the Flavors of Philly Food Tour or the Inside the Italian Market.

Active travelers will enjoy the bike tour or the electric cart tour, while those with limited time may opt for the short historic walk. Booking early is recommended, especially for popular tours like the day trip to Amish Country.

Philadelphia offers a broad spectrum of experiences, from immersive history walks to flavorful tastings, energetic bike rides, and relaxed trolley adventures.

For every type of traveler—whether a history enthusiast, foodie, or active explorer—there’s a memorable way to discover the City of Brotherly Love. We suggest choosing a tour that aligns with your interests and fitness level, and booking ahead to secure your spot.

With so many options, your Philadelphia visit will be packed with stories, tastes, and sights that you’ll remember long after you leave.