True Crime Philadelphia and History Tour

The True Crime Philadelphia and History Tour offers a compelling mix of historic landmarks and mysterious serial killer tales in the heart of Center City, Philadelphia. Priced at $44 per person and lasting approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, this tour provides an engaging way to explore the city’s famous sites and its darker past. Led by knowledgeable guides, either college professors or trained historians, the tour combines historic sightseeing with spooky stories that keep the atmosphere lively and intriguing. The small-group format ensures a more intimate experience, and reviews consistently highlight the guides’ expertise and engaging storytelling.

This tour is ideal for history buffs who appreciate true crime tales, dark history enthusiasts, or anyone seeking a unique perspective on Philadelphia’s past. Please note that Saturday tours are for adults only and children must be accompanied by an adult due to adult content. While the tour ends at a cozy cultural tavern with a complimentary beverage, it does not include food or drinks during the walk.

Key Points

• Affordable and comprehensive: The tour costs $44 and covers many famous landmarks in Old Philly.
• Expert guides: Led by college professors or trained historians, ensuring accurate and interesting stories.
• Dark tales and historic sites: Combines serial killer stories with visits to Betsy Ross House, Christ Church, Benjamin Franklin’s Grave, and more.
• Small-group experience: Limited to 30 participants, creating a more personalized and interactive environment.
• Flexible cancellation: Full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance; refunds are unavailable for cancellations within 24 hours.
• End location: The tour concludes inside a cultural tavern, offering a relaxed atmosphere to unwind.

Meeting Point and Duration Details

The tour departs from the Independence Visitor Center at 599 Market St at 2:00 pm. The full experience lasts approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, making it a manageable activity for an afternoon. The tour ends in the Old City neighborhood, inside a cultural tavern where a complimentary beverage awaits. The mobile ticket system ensures a smooth check-in process, and the small-group size enhances interaction with guides.

Exploring Philadelphia’s Historic Landmarks

The tour begins at the Betsy Ross House, famous as the purported home of the American flag creator. From there, it moves on to significant sites like Elfreth’s Alley, one of the oldest residential streets in America, and the Christ Church, notable for its historic significance and architecture. The walk also includes stops at Benjamin Franklin’s Grave and the Arch Street Meeting House, both steeped in patriotic history.

At each location, guides share fascinating anecdotes and historical details that bring the sites to life. The White House, where George Washington and John Adams once served as presidents, is also part of the itinerary, offering insight into early American leadership. The tour concludes at the Christ Church Burial Ground, where signatures of signers of the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution are buried, including Benjamin Franklin himself.

The Spooky Side: Serial Killers and Legends

A signature aspect of this tour is the combination of historic sightseeing with dark stories. Guides narrate tales of notorious serial slayings and psychopathic killers such as H.H. Holmes, the Corpse Collector, and the Frankfort Slasher. These stories are woven into the fabric of the tour, adding a macabre twist that leaves a lasting impression.

The tour’s focus on true crime stories is often highlighted in reviews praising guides’ storytelling skills. The burial ground tour segment, in particular, receives high marks for being entertaining and highly relevant to each location. The stories are delivered with a blend of humor and intrigue, making the historical and macabre elements equally compelling.

The Guides and Their Storytelling Style

Joseph and Ted are among the top-rated guides, according to reviews. They blend humor, expertise, and enthusiasm to ensure the tour remains engaging and informative. Joseph is noted for deep knowledge and passion for Philadelphia’s history, while Ted earns praise for his storytelling and entertaining approach.

Guides are also flexible, adjusting the tour based on interests when possible. They use anecdotes and personal stories to make the history more relatable, often including fun facts like old Quaker stories. Their approach keeps the group entertained and eager to learn more.

Logistics and Accessibility

The tour starts at the Independence Visitor Center and is suitable for most travelers, provided they can walk for about 2.5 hours. The group size is limited to 30, allowing for personal interaction and easy navigation through historic streets. Service animals are allowed, and the tour is near public transportation, making access straightforward.

It is important for children to be accompanied by an adult, especially since adult content is part of the storytelling. The Saturday tour is exclusively for adults, ensuring a more mature atmosphere.

The End Point and Extra Perks

The tour concludes inside a cultural tavern, which offers a complimentary beverage or sampling. This provides a relaxed setting for further conversation and reflection on the stories and sites explored. While food and drinks are not included during the walk, this end point offers a nice way to unwind after the sightseeing.

Pricing and Cancellation Policy

The $44 fee includes all sightseeing and story-telling, with no hidden costs. The full refund policy allows cancellations up to 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind for travelers who may need to reschedule. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable, so planning ahead is recommended.

Final Words on the True Crime Philadelphia and History Tour

This tour offers a unique blend of historic landmarks and chilling stories, making it perfect for adults interested in America’s dark side. The expert guides and small-group setting mean you get a personalized experience packed with entertaining and educational content. The cost-effective price, combined with high praise in reviews, confirms its status as a top choice for exploring Philadelphia’s hidden stories.

While it’s not suited for very young children or those sensitive to adult themes, history enthusiasts and true crime fans will find it remarkably engaging. The end-of-tour tavern adds a convivial touch, making this a memorable afternoon exploring the city’s fascinating and spooky past.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children should be accompanied by an adult, and Saturday tours are adults only due to adult content in the stories.

What landmarks will I visit?
The tour visits Betsy Ross House, Elfreth’s Alley, Christ Church, Benjamin Franklin’s Grave, Arch Street Meeting House, and the White House where early Presidents served.

How long does the tour last?
The experience runs for about 2 hours 30 minutes, ending inside a cultural tavern with a complimentary beverage.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the start time. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Who are the guides?
Guides are either college professors or trained historians known for their knowledge and engaging storytelling.

Is the tour accessible?
It is suitable for most travelers who can handle a 2.5-hour walk; service animals are permitted.