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GuruWalk Original
Free tour

The Essentials: The Best Free Highlight Tour and More of Historic Philadelphia

Duration: 2h
Languages: English
Guru: Thomas
Quality Verified Registered on July 29, 2022

My name is Tom and I am History Swiftly. I am a U.S. history teacher in a local, suburban school district and am passionate about teaching history and sharing that love of history. Over the last 20+ years as a teacher, I’ve taken students from Quebec City to Boston to Gettysburg to Annapolis to Washington. Philadelphia is always a favorite tour. I enjoy sharing all of the wonderful history and fun Philadelphia has to offer and offer recommendations on how best to see the city!

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GuruWalk Original

GW Originals free walking tours are chosen by our staff among the best and are unique tours that you will only find on GuruWalk.

  • No minimum number of attendees
    No minimum number of attendees is required for the tour
  • Free booking and cancellation
    Free payment tour, no set price, booking and cancellation are free
  • Accepts electronic payment
    This tour allows payment by electronic means or credit card

Tour description

Highlight Tour of Historic Philadelphia:
Join this walking tour to see the important sites in historic Philadelphia: Independence Mall, Washington Square Park, parts of Society Hill and Old City.  This will be the BEST highlight tour of the historic area in Philadelphia that you will find!  


See More History:
You will see more, learn more, and have laughs while listening to stories on this guided walking tour of historic Philadelphia!  You will see all the essential spots in early Philadelphia history and a several bonus spots, too that other tours don't visit.  


Group Size:
Because I enjoy engaging with everyone on the tour, when possible, I attempt to cap group size for smaller groups to provide the best tour possible.  I am always happy to offer personal suggestions on the best sites to see in the city to make your visit to Philadelphia a great memory.  If you are interested in a large group tour, please feel free to contact me and I will work with your group to find a solution that benefits everyone.

The tour usually lasts about 2:00 hours. 

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Highlights

What will we visit on this tour?

  • Meeting point:
    101 S Independence Mall E, Philadelph...
    101 S Independence Mall E, Philadelphia, PA 19106, USA
    View on map

    I will meet you by the big yellow "YO" art display in front of the National Museum of American Jewish History- directly across 5th street from the Independence Hall. I will be carrying a green backpack and I usually wear a baseball hat.

  • 1
    Outside visit
    Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History Museum Store
  • 2
    Outside visit
    President's House Site
  • 3
    Outside visit
    Liberty Bell Center
  • 4
    Outside visit
    Independence Hall
  • 5
    Outside visit
    The Curtis Center & Dream Garden
  • 6
    Outside visit
    Washington Square
  • 7
    Outside visit
    Second Bank of the United States Portrait Gallery
  • 8
    Outside visit
    Carpenters' Hall
  • 9
    Outside visit
    First Bank of the United States
  • 10
    Outside visit
    Welcome Park
  • 11
    Outside visit
    Christ Church
  • 12
    Outside visit
    Elfreth's Alley
  • 13
    Outside visit
    Betsy Ross House
  • 14
    Outside visit
    Christ Church Burial Ground
  • 15
    Outside visit
    Independence Hall Visitors Center

How much does this tour cost?

Free tours do not have a set price, instead, each person gives the guru at the end of the tour the amount that he or she considers appropriate (these usually range from €10 to $50 depending on satisfaction with the tour).

Tour opinions

4.99
Excellent
(511 ratings)
By category
Professionalism
5.0
Fun
4.98
Expression
4.99
Quality
5.0
Route
4.97
TABISH (1 Rating)
Glasgow

Verified booking
Travelled in group - Jul 2024
Absolutely delightful tour and great sense of humour!!
David (2 Ratings)
Bangkok

Verified booking
Travelled in family - Jul 2024
This tour with Thomas is a must-do tour when in Philadelphia. Thomas is clearly an expert in local history and shares his knowledge in a fun and understandable way. Thank you Thomas for the tip on the pipe organ concert at Macy’s. We really enjoyed it. We have been on many walking tours, and Thomas is first guide to have brought lovely flavoured water for us all. Great idea during these hot days. In summary, join Thomas’ walking tour when you visit Philadelphia. You will not regret it.
Alison (2 Ratings)
Rockville

Verified booking
Travelled in group - Jul 2024
Fantastic tour experience - The best thing we've done in Philly. Thomas was informative, enthusiastic and professional. He had many behind the scenes history stories, gave our Starburst for correct (and sometimes just the best guess) answers to pop quizzes. Engaging for all ages and backgrounds.
Audris (1 Rating)

Verified booking
Travelled alone - Jul 2024
I enjoyed Thomas's walk very much. He is clearly very passionate and knowledgeable about Philadelphia's history. He kept us engaged throughout, made an effort to meet everyone, and provided little treats. I highly recommend Thomas to anyone visiting!
Kelly (1 Rating)
Washington

Verified booking
Travelled in couple - Jul 2024
Excellent tour across the board!
Show 511 reviews

Who is this tour for?

Accessibility
Suitable for people with reduced mobility.
Groups
Accepts reservations up to 25 people.
Pets
Suitable for carrying pets.

What should you know?

Minimum of attendees
There is no minimum number of people required for the tour.
Additional costs:
The tour does not require the payment of entrance fees or additional expenses.
Free cancellation
If you will not be able to attend the tour, please cancel your booking, otherwise the guide will be waiting for you.
Payment methods
Electronic or credit card payment is accepted.
When do you want to go?
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