Colonial Philadelphia Tour: Old City In Context

Enrich your understanding of Colonial Philadelphia during the dawn of the American Revolution

$289 and up

Private

N/A

Small group

Tour Details

About the Tour

Category: History, Orientation
Duration: 3 hours
Location: Philadelphia

Photos & Highlights

Get the full picture of Philadelphia through social, architectural, and political lenses including insider tips along the way
Led by a local historian
St. Peter's Church, Christ Church, Powel House, and Independence Mall

Tour Description

Founded in the 17th century by William Penn as a haven for persecuted Quakers, Philadelphia quickly became the most important city in America. By the dawn of the revolution it was the largest English-speaking city in the world outside of London. Covering some of the most significant sites in Old City Philadelphia, this Philadelphia History Tour explores the social and political mechanisms that defined the city and set the stage for the Declaration of Independence and the Continental Congress.

Philadelphia History Tour

We begin our Philadelphia History Tour with the plan of the city and a discussion of the critical figure of William Penn, founding father of the colony of Pennsylvania and architect—in a very real sense—of the city of Philadelphia. Using the plaza-scale plan of the city located near Second Street as our reference point, we'll look at how Penn's rational plan set the stage for an explosion of commerce and trade and the influx of immigrants from all over the world. As we make our way through the well-preserved historic core of the city, past buildings that still stand after more than 200 years, we'll look at some of the key themes that defined Philadelphia in those early years including Quakerism, religious tolerance, and unfettered trade.

A Glimpse at the Past in Historic Philadelphia

Our Philadelphia History Tour will take us into several historic houses and house museums along streets dating to the 18th century, and into some of the churches that played a role in the founding of the U.S. These may include Carpenter's Hall, Old St. Mary's, St. Peter's, and Independence Mall. As we walk we'll move forward through history to discuss how the city evolved socially, architecturally, and politically through the colonial period until the dawn of the revolution. As this area of the city saw the construction of some of the largest houses, we'll focus specifically on the emergence of a wealthy merchant class in the 18th century and how they defined the city at the dawn of Independence and through the war. On occasion, we may gain access to one of these historic homes that is normally closed to the public.

Take Aways

We will typically end our Philadelphia History Tour at Headhouse Market in Society Hill, a historic center of trade in the city that is today the most vibrant farmer's market in Center City. This walking tour is a good introduction to Philadelphia during the colonial period and exploration of the major sites in Old City south of Market Street.

To explore colonial Philadelphia in even more depth, we recommend our Ben Franklin Tour. For a look at late-19th century opulence, try our Philadelphia Architecture Tour.

Where You'll Start

Tour Experts

Flora

After traveling and training as a historian of medieval art in Canada and Spain, Flora adopted Philadelphia as her new home. Drawn to the city’s complex past as well as its vibrant contemporary arts scene, she works as a tour guide, art writer, editor and teacher. Flora loves sharing her enthusiasm for Philadelphia past and present, with its unique character and delightful idiosyncrasies.

John

Reid

Reid Addis is a Registered Architect who has lived in the City of Philadelphia since 1978. While practicing architecture, he began teaching courses from 1980-1990 at Temple University, including a course on the History of Philadelphia Architecture. After taking a walking tour with famed City Planner Ed Bacon, Reid was inspired to give his students similar tours of the city. Currently residing in the Old City area of Philadelphia, Reid would love to introduce you to his city.

57 Reviews – (4.92)

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John was fantastic! Enthusiastic, very knowledgeable and a great sense of humour. We have now been on 7 Context Tours in Europe and North American John is one of the best guides so far. The subject matter was quite interesting, this was far More than a tour of Philly, it did a deep dive into Philadelphia’s role I. The formation of the foundation of the United States. Highly recommended.

Erik

Nov. 15, 2019

Joella was fantastic (extremely knowledgeable and and friendly)

Eyal

Oct. 29, 2019

Everything about the tour was perfect John met us early. He was extremely knowledgeable and friendly. We love the tour and would highly recommend. After the tour we mentioned that we would enjoy a Philadelphia cheese steak. He went above and beyond by walking us to his favorite restaurant.

Michelle

Oct. 28, 2019

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Colonial Philadelphia Tour: Old City In Context

Participants

Philadelphia History Tour

A Glimpse at the Past in Historic Philadelphia

Take Aways