Before America The Making of Philadelphia

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2 hours (approximately)
Offered in: English

Welcome to the metropolis that built America before it was even a country. Join us for an insightful, raw, and story-driven walking tour of historic Old City to decode the DNA of Philadelphia’s first century. We will move beyond the myths to see how the collision of faith, power, and wealth fueled a startup city that outgrew its own boundaries through pure ambition and grit. We’ll trace the city's trajectory from its European origins through its explosive growth as a global power player, uncovering the unscripted events and accidental ego that gave Philly its unique look, feel, and attitude. On this journey, we will SEEK to understand the complex ideas and accidents that shaped this urban experiment, EXPLORE the iconic locations where colonial power was brokered, and WANDER through the cobblestone streets and hidden alleys to discover the famous and forgotten landmarks

If the tour starts less than 3 hours from now, please email us at info@seekexplorewander.com for availability

What's Included

Tour Admission

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point
Market St & 6th St

Meet outside of the main entrance to the Independence Visitor Center along Market Street. Look for a tall white guy with a blueish backpack and a flag.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 2 hours (approximately)
  • 1
    Independence National Historical Park

    We start and end in the heart of historic, Old City Philadelphia in the heart of Independence National Historical Park.

    5 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 2
    Elfreth's Alley

    Explore the oldest continuously inhabited street in America and dive into the daily life and routines of the people who built America's first international city.

    10 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 3
    Carpenters' Hall

    From the first bank robbery in American history, to the historic events that lead to the Revolution, your tour will help you understand the role that Philadelphia played in the years, months, and days leading up to July 4th, 1776.

    10 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 4

    Learn about the transformation of Philadelphia from a colonial city to a global industrial powerhouse, to a modern city leading the fields of healthcare, education, and more.

    5 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 5
    Betsy Ross House

    Quick stop to learn how history really works, with your choice of a quick ghost story or two OR a tale of accidents and unintended consequences

    5 minutes • Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by Seek-Explore-Wander

Tags

Private and Luxury
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Walking Tours
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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