Shopping and Food Walking Tour in Philadelphia with Guide

Discover Philadelphia with a Unique Shopping and Food Walking Tour

This 2.5-hour walking tour in Philadelphia combines vintage shopping, sweets, and local drinks for an engaging experience priced at $85 per person. Starting from Shane Confectionery, this tour offers an intimate look at Philadelphia’s historic Old City while exploring favorite vintage boutiques and sampling iconic delicacies.

What sets this tour apart is the blend of historic sights and modern treats, providing a well-rounded taste of the city’s charm. With a maximum group size of 20, it promises a personalized experience with guides who are both knowledgeable and friendly. The tour is ideal for those interested in both history and food, and particularly suited for adults 21 and over who enjoy alcoholic beverages and sweets.

A notable aspect is that most bookings occur 35 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. While the tour’s duration is around 2 hours 30 minutes, it covers key landmarks like Elfreth’s Alley, Betsy Ross House, and Independence Hall, as well as hidden vintage gems. The inclusion of tastings, spirits, and cocktails makes it a lively, flavorful journey through Philadelphia’s culture and history.

Key Points

• Combination of vintage shopping and historic landmarks offers a diverse experience.
• Includes three sweet treats, a savory snack, and a drink—all part of the tour package.
• Starts at Shane Confectionery and visits Reading Terminal Market and Chinatown.
• Guides are expert in both local history and food.
• Tour runs most days at 1:00 pm, with a maximum of 20 participants.
• Book early—average bookings are made 35 days in advance.

Starting Point at Shane Confectionery

The tour begins at the historic Shane Confectionery, located at 110 Market St. This oldest confectionery store in the United States provides a sweet welcome, setting the tone for the treat-filled journey ahead. The meeting point is easily accessible and offers a charming gateway into Philadelphia’s sweet traditions.

Walking Through Old City and Historic Landmarks

From the start, the guide leads through the Old City neighborhood, passing by Elfreth’s Alley, the Betsy Ross House, and Independence Hall. These landmarks are ideal for future exploration or simply to appreciate the historic ambiance. The focus here is on the vintage shops sprinkled along the streets, offering secondhand treasures with a secondhand vibe that appeals to all styles.

Visiting Reading Terminal Market: The Food Hub

A core part of the tour is the visit to Reading Terminal Market, one of Philadelphia’s top tourist attractions. The experience includes an overview from City Food Tours’ guides, highlighting desserts and off-menu surprises. Visitors enjoy stops at favorite vendors, sampling three sweet treats and a savory snack, all while absorbing the market’s lively atmosphere.

Exploring Chinatown’s Culinary Gems

Next is a quick walk into Philadelphia’s Chinatown, where the group visits a family-owned bakery. Here, tasting an authentic drink becomes a highlight, with options to purchase additional food items. This stop showcases the local culinary culture and offers a taste of traditional flavors in an intimate setting.

Vintage Shopping and Historic Passing

Throughout the walking portion, the guide emphasizes vintage shops scattered near key landmarks. These shops feature secondhand finds with a distinctive vibe, ideal for browsing or shopping. The tour balances historical landmarks with shopping, making the experience dynamic and diverse.

Sweets, Sips, and Spirit Tastings

The tour includes three sweet treats and a non-alcoholic beverage during the stops. Plus, two alcohol-based snacks or drinks are provided, with gluten and dairy options included. Travelers should note that additional purchases are possible at stops, but no bottled water is included, so bringing a water bottle is recommended.

Logistics and Group Size

Starting at 1:00 pm at Shane Confectionery, the tour concludes back at the same point. The group size is capped at 20 participants, ensuring an intimate experience. The tour is suitable for most people, but ages 21+ are required due to alcohol consumption involved.

Accessibility and Booking Details

The tour is offered through Sweet and Brite PHL with confirmation within 48 hours and free cancellation up to 24 hours before. It is near public transportation, making it easy to access. Since the tour requires a minimum of four guests to run, it’s advisable to book early and confirm availability.

Reviewer Feedback and Strengths

The two reviews highlight a 5-star rating and praise the friendly, knowledgeable guides, the delicious food, and the interesting mix of historic sites and shopping. One reviewer lauds the variety of sweet and savory bites, while the other appreciates the educational aspect of learning about historic sites and newer businesses.

Final Considerations for This Tour

This guided walking tour excels in offering a balanced mix of Philadelphian history, vintage shopping, and tasty treats. Its small-group format fosters a personalized experience, and the inclusion of alcoholic beverages adds a unique flavor component.

Ideal for visitors seeking a fun, relaxed exploration of Old City and Chinatown with culinary highlights. It suits adults who enjoy shopping, history, and food. The $85 price point reflects the comprehensive experience, including several tastings and guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
This tour is designed for ages 21 and over due to alcoholic beverages included.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours 30 minutes.

What stops are included in the tour?
Stops include Reading Terminal Market, Chinatown, and the Old City neighborhood, passing by landmarks like Elfreth’s Alley and Independence Hall.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes, gluten and dairy options are included; you can message the tour provider for specific accommodations.

Where does the tour start and end?
It departs and concludes at Shane Confectionery, 110 Market St.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to 20 travelers for a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Is transportation provided between stops?
No, this is a walking tour—comfortable shoes are recommended.

What is included in the price?
The price covers three sweet treats, a savory snack, a non-alcoholic sip, and two alcoholic drinks.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made around 35 days in advance, so early reservations are advised.

This Shopping and Food Walking Tour in Philadelphia offers a delightful mix of historic exploration, vintage shopping, and culinary delights, making it a memorable way to experience the city’s vibrant Old City and Chinatown neighborhoods.