Carpenters' Hall, Philadelphia

Discover Philadelphia history beyond what the textbooks tell you! View the most iconic historical sites of Independence National Historical Park, admire beautiful architecture, and absorb the rich historical significance of the American Revolutionary War. During our historic Philadelphia walking tour, we’ll pass by Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution were created. You will also view the iconic Liberty Bell, one of the most recognizable symbols of American freedom. You’ll feel transported back in time as you stroll down Elfreth’s Alley, the nation's oldest continuously inhabited residential street. Take a memorable picture at the home of Betsy Ross, the famed upholsterer who is credited with creating the first American flag. Pay respects to Benjamin Franklin as you pass by his burial site. We’ll make our way up the steps and into the recreated site of the President’s House, where you’ll learn not only about the lives of the two leaders who lived here, but the often untold stories of individuals who had their own key roles to play in the founding of our nation. Our tour includes a special presentation at the Museum of the American Revolution that features the tent that George Washington lived in during the war. You will also receive discounted admission into the museum that you can redeem after the tour. This Philly history tour is for everyone, whether you’re an American history novice or a true history buff! Come join a local tour guide to hear the fascinating story of a fledgling United States, get to know our historic and modern-day city, and enjoy the top historical sites in Philadelphia!

Interested in touring Philly's Historic District? Great! Let us show you around. Be taken back in time as you are regaled about how the Liberty Bell worked (and cracked,) envision the founders debating inside Carpenters Hall and then Independence Hall as you learn about the issues they faced and gaze upon the building where Jefferson worked in solitude to write America's Declaration of Independence. We provide the history, you supply the imagination. In 90 minutes you will see 21 sites (the most of any walking tour) from a guide with a degree in History and a passion for Philadelphia. We are an owner-operated small business & the best choice for a walking tour in Philly. See you on the tour!

Philadelphia may be the Cradle of Liberty, but it's also a city spooked by true ghastly stories of the town that inspired Edgar Allen Poe to write "The Murders of Rue Morgue" and "The Raven." A city frightening enough to contain Bram Stoker's research for "Dracula" and inspire David Lynch's "Eraserhead." Possible sightings include desecrating German Soldiers, the tragic Edgar Allen Poe, Bishop White's murderous cook, and maybe even a dancing Ben Franklin! Betsy Ross House: Our first stop is the Betsy Ross House, where the spirit of Betsy Ross herself is said to roam. Witnesses have reported seeing her ghostly figure stitching the first American flag in the dead of night. Independence Hall: Stop outside Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were debated and adopted. But did you know that it's also a hotspot for paranormal activity? Many have reported hearing whispers of the Founding Fathers and the echo of footsteps in its historic halls. Christ Church: Meet Benjamin Franklin at his place of burial, where he is said to steal the pocket change of visitors and throw pennies at them! Carpenter's Hall: Carpenter's Hall was the meeting place of the First Continental Congress, but it’s also known for its paranormal occurrences. Walk through its hallowed halls and listen to stories of ghostly figures who still attend secret meetings. Pennsylvania Hospital: Founded in 1751, Pennsylvania Hospital is America's oldest hospital. Beyond its medical significance, it's a place of numerous ghost sightings and unexplained events. Discover the tales of restless spirits wandering its corridors, seeking eternal peace. Bishop White House: Stop at the Bishop White House, where the spirit of Bishop William White is said to dwell. From flickering lights to mysterious footsteps, this house offers many paranormal experiences that will leave you spellbound. Washington Square: This historic square is not just a serene park; it’s also a mass burial site with a spectral reputation. Learn about the ghostly apparitions and eerie sounds visitors and locals report. We will talk about but do not see: Dr. Physick's House: Known as the "Father of American Surgery," Dr. Physick’s house is a hub for ghostly activity. Hear the unsettling stories of phantom patients and eerie occurrences that make this home a ghost hunter's dream. Powell House: The Powell House is known for more than its Federal-era architecture. Reports of chilling apparitions and unexplained phenomena make this mansion a must-see for ghost enthusiasts. Eastern State Penitentiary: The Eastern State Penitentiary in Pennsylvania holds a reputation for being one of the most haunted places in America. Once an imposing and expensive prison, its abandoned halls now echo with eerie tales and ghostly encounters.

“To believe all men honest is folly. To believe none is something worse.” - John Adams We all know George Washington didn’t really chop down a cherry tree, so why do we keep telling that story? Americans love telling stories about the Founding Fathers that make us feel proud to be a part of their legacies. Behind the grand stories of brilliance and triumph though, we find imperfect people who were only human. They were humans who were kind, cruel, funny, and very rarely chopping down trees. This tour doesn’t just show you America’s Most Historic Square Mile (though it does that too,) it is a journey through who the Founding Fathers were, who they were not, and who we wish they would have been. No axe wielding required. Our first stop will be Benjamin Franklin's grave before seeing the exteriors of the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. Then head to Washington Square Park, one of William Penn's five original parks, which contains both serene memorials and less serene stories. We will then continue through the colonial days with the Carpenters Hall, Benjamin Franklin's print shop, Betsy Ross' house, and lots of fun stops in between.

Embark on an enriching tour of Philadelphia and Princeton University, two of America’s most historically and culturally significant locations. Begin your journey in Philadelphia, a city brimming with revolutionary history and modern vibrancy. Walk through Old City, where you’ll visit iconic landmarks like Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were signed, and see the famous Liberty Bell, symbolizing freedom. Don’t miss the Philadelphia Museum of Art’s “Rocky Steps,” where you can take in panoramic views of the city and strike the famous Rocky pose. After exploring the heart of Philadelphia, take a short, scenic drive to Princeton, New Jersey. Princeton University, an Ivy League institution founded in 1746, welcomes you with its lush, historic campus and beautiful Gothic architecture. Wander through notable spots like Nassau Hall, which once served as the nation’s capital, and admire the peaceful courtyards and grand libraries that have inspired countless minds. Learn about Princeton’s rich academic and cultural legacy. This tour provides a perfect blend of history, education, and architectural beauty, leaving you inspired by the stories and achievements of two remarkable places in American heritage.

Enjoy an exciting and fact-filled 90-minute adventure in the city of Philly. With a focus on the city's early history, this Black history walking tour explores the role of Black Americans in America's foundation. Start the tour with a journey to Congo Square and visit the unmarked graves of free and enslaved victims of the yellow fever epidemic. Learn about the Quaker school where both Black and White students were educated together. See where the Fugitive Slave Act was passed in 1793. Hear about Martha Washington’s enslaved handmaiden who emancipated herself and others who traveled along the historic "Underground railroad". Learn about the Old London Coffee Shop where humans were inspected and sold into slavery. Walk in the footsteps of enslaved people, abolitionists, slaveholders and founding fathers as you hear about prominent early African-Americans. Also visit: Independence Hall, The President’s House, Congress Hall, Old City Hall, the First U.S. Supreme Court Building, the American Philosophical Society Museum, Library Hall, Thomas Jefferson Garden, the First and Second Bank of the U.S., Carpenter's Hall, New Hall Military Museum, Independence Square, Washington Square, the Tomb of the Unknown Revolutionary War Soldier, Bicentennial Moon Tree, John Todd House, Bishop White House, Kidd House, Dock Creek, the 18th Century Gardens, the Merchant's Exchange, and the U.S. Customs House. The guided tour will also identify the former locations for a number of historical locations of importance including Philadelphia Prison Site, Benjamin Rush House Site, Quaker Meeting House Site, Quaker School Site, Abolitionist’s House and more.

Immerse yourself in the world of Alexander Hamilton on this tour designed especially for Hamilton lovers. Discover the places where he had a direct impact on the shape and functions of the newly-formed United States of America and visit the real-life locations featured in the hit Broadway Musical. Enjoy short excerpts of music throughout the tour. Start your walking tour at the President's House where George Washington and John Adams spent most of their presidencies. From here, head to Independence Hall, where the U.S. Constitution was written. Next, head to the 2nd Bank of the United States, created by President James Madison, followed by a visit to Carpenter's Hall, home of the 1st Continental Congress. Visit the home of Alexander Hamilton's mistress Maria Reynolds and the 1st Bank of the U.S. building. Finally, arrive at Robert Morris' grave, your last stop. Your guide will be happy to point you in the direction of the nearest subway station or bus stop. Or feel free to ask them for local recommendations on great places to eat or drink nearby. 

Step back in time as your guide tells you carefully crafted stories about Philadelphia's dark past. Learn about the founding fathers and delve into the less pleasant aspects of the city's medical history. Meet your guide at Washington Square Park Fountain in the heart of the city. Follow your guide to locations where eerie events once took place. Enjoy hearing lesser-known stories that are for an adult audience . Hear about scandalous affairs perpetrated by Philadelphia’s founding fathers. Listen as your guide reveals fascinating discoveries and fatal errors in the development of America’s healthcare system.

Experience a captivating tour through Philadelphia and Princeton University, where history, culture, and academic prestige come alive. Begin in Philadelphia, the birthplace of American democracy, where you’ll explore iconic landmarks like Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and the vibrant streets of Old City. Climb the famous “Rocky Steps” at the Philadelphia Museum of Art for a stunning view of the city. Then, venture to nearby Princeton, New Jersey, to stroll through the picturesque Princeton University campus, known for its Gothic architecture, lush green spaces, and rich history. Discover Nassau Hall, learn about the university’s notable alumni, all while soaking in the charm of this renowned Ivy League town. Embark on an enriching tour of Philadelphia and Princeton University, two of America’s most historically and culturally significant locations. Begin your journey in Philadelphia, a city brimming with revolutionary history and modern vibrancy. Walk through Old City, where you’ll visit iconic landmarks like Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were signed, and see the famous Liberty Bell, symbolizing freedom. Don’t miss the Philadelphia Museum of Art’s “Rocky Steps,” where you can take in panoramic views of the city and strike the famous Rocky pose. After exploring the heart of Philadelphia, take a short, scenic drive to Princeton, New Jersey. Princeton University, an Ivy League institution founded in 1746, welcomes you with its lush, historic campus and beautiful Gothic architecture. Wander through notable spots like Nassau Hall, which once served as the nation’s capital, and admire the peaceful courtyards and grand libraries that have inspired countless minds. Learn about Princeton’s rich academic and cultural legacy. This tour provides a perfect blend of history, education, and architectural beauty, leaving you inspired by the stories and achievements of two remarkable places in American heritage.

Embark on a journey through the heart of American history with our tour. This immersive walking tour invites you, the hero of your own adventure, to explore the pivotal landmarks where the United States was shaped. From the humble Betsy Ross House to the mighty Independence Hall, you’ll walk in the footsteps of the nation’s founders. Witness the enduring Liberty Bell, and meander down the time-capsule street of Elfreth’s Alley. Each site tells a story of courage, vision, and the pursuit of freedom. As you marvel at these historical treasures, you’re not just observing history – you’re becoming a part of it. Join us for an unforgettable experience that brings the spirit of Philadelphia’s past to life, making you the centerpiece of a truly American tale. Your journey into the heart of the nation’s birthplace awaits!