Tours are always a great idea to get first-hand information on the history, layout, and important features of a major city.  Additionally, walking tours are one of the best kinds, because you're actually out on the street, moving at your own pace, and can fully appreciate that which you are attempting to learn more about.  This page contains some valuable information on three of our favorite Philadelphia walking tour groups.

 

Audio Walk and Tour
6th and Sansom Streets
(215)925-1234

Audio Walk and Tour provides visitors with a fully taped walking tour of the historic district, particularly the Independence Historical Park area.  It's of special interest because it delves into stories and music that are not well-known, so what you hear will probably be new to you.  Basically, when you start the tour, they'll give you a tape player, some instructions, and a map, and send you loose.  It's also a good idea to book with Audio because after you're all done walking around, you'll receive discounts good towards most of the major museums.  The tour desk is located inside the Norman Rockwell Museum, and the tour is $8.00 per person, although group rates are available.  All major credit cards are accepted, and equipment must be returned by 4:00PM each day.

 

Centipede Tours, Inc.
1315 Walnut Street
(215)735-3123

This tour group provides guidance through Society Hill, which is a beautiful area with strong resemblance to its Colonial days.  Your guide will be all decked out in costume, which will probably call attention to you, but it's all for the sake of history and education.  You'll learn about how the former residents of the community used to live, dress and make their livings, which is very interesting considering that they actually lived there once.  The tour leaves from the Thomas Bond House, which is located on 129 South 2nd Street between Chestnut and Walnut Streets.  There is a small fee associated with the tour, and reservations are necessary, so be sure to call ahead and book yourself a spot.  You won't be disappointed.

Foundation for Architecture
1 Penn Center
(215)569-TOUR

The Foundation for Architecture offers one-to-two hour tours of pretty much all of Philadelphia.  They tend to focus in on the areas of City Hall, Penn's Square, and the historic district.  As the title suggests, the emphasis is on architecture, and the guides are adept at telling you what style and significance each building has in Philadelphia's history.  One of the city's most enjoyable tours, and one of our most recommended.