South Philly Tour: Market, Cheesesteaks & Hidden Gems

Discover the vibrant neighborhood of South Philadelphia with this engaging 2-hour guided walking tour priced at $49 per person. Led by a knowledgeable guide from CARERI ENTERTAINMENT, this tour covers the city’s quintessential elements—from the legendary cheesesteak history to famous murals and hidden local spots. Starting at 13th & Reed Streets at Columbus Square Park, the tour offers a perfect blend of sightseeing, storytelling, and opportunities to shop for local treats.

This tour is ideal for those interested in Philadelphia’s cultural icons, its street art, and its culinary traditions—especially the Italian Market on 9th Street. While it doesn’t include food or shopping expenses, the $49 price provides excellent value for an immersive two-hour experience. Be prepared for comfortable walking shoes and bring a camera to capture murals and memorable sights.

Key Points

• Two-hour guided walking tour exploring South Philadelphia’s highlights
• Learn about the history of the cheesesteak and Rocky movie locations
• Visit Philadelphia’s Italian Market with time for shopping and sampling
• See famous murals and public art that decorate the neighborhood
• Meet at Columbus Square Park, with the option to learn secret local spots
• Wheelchair accessible and available in both English and Spanish

You can check availability for your dates here:

South Philadelphia’s Cultural Heart on a Guided Walk

This tour takes you through South Philadelphia, a neighborhood celebrated for its deep roots in food, film, and street art. It begins at Columbus Square Park, where a guide from CARERI ENTERTAINMENT awaits with a tour sign. Over two hours, you’ll explore the streets that have shaped Philadelphia’s identity, with a focus on the cheesesteak’s origins and iconic Rocky film sites, such as Giordano’s and Victor’s Café.

The tour offers a comprehensive look into South Philly’s influence on Philadelphia’s cultural fabric. Since it’s a walking experience, expect to enjoy outdoor sights and urban details, with time built-in for photo opportunities and local recommendations from your guide.

From the Italian Market to Local Treats

The Italian Market on 9th Street serves as a centerpiece of this tour. After walking through South Philly, the group gets ample time to browse local shops and grab a bite at eateries that serve up authentic Italian and Philadelphia specialties. Your guide will be available to suggest favorite secret spots and answer questions about shopping options in the market.

While the tour doesn’t include food or shopping costs, browsing the market offers a taste of local flavor and a chance to pick up unique treats directly from the vendors. The vibrant market stalls and street vendors create an energetic atmosphere that encapsulates South Philly’s culinary spirit.

Murals and Public Art in South Philly

A highlight of this tour is the chance to see several murals and public art pieces that define South Philadelphia’s visual landscape. These murals are part of Philadelphia’s street art culture, adding color and character to the neighborhood. The guide offers insights into the stories behind these famous artworks, making each mural a meaningful sight.

Participants will find the murals especially photogenic, with opportunities to capture vivid images of the city’s creative expressions. This element of the tour helps paint a picture of South Philly’s dynamic urban environment.

Rocky Films and Philadelphia’s Movie Scenes

Fans of the Rocky series will appreciate the locations associated with the movies, such as Giordano’s and Victor’s Café. These spots are integral to the neighborhood’s cinematic legacy, and the guide shares stories about their connection to the films. Seeing these famous sites in person adds a layer of pop culture to the tour.

The tour emphasizes Rocky’s significance to Philadelphia’s identity, making it a must-visit for movie buffs and fans of the iconic character. You’ll get a sense of how the film’s portrayal of Philadelphia has helped shape the city’s international reputation.

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Practical Details and Accessibility

The meeting point at 13th & Reed Streets at Columbus Square Park makes it easy to join the tour. The tour is wheelchair accessible, accommodating guests with mobility needs. It runs in both morning and afternoon sessions, providing flexibility for visitors.

Comfortable shoes are recommended due to the walking nature of the tour. While food and shopping expenses are not included, the tour’s focus on sights and stories offers excellent value for its $49 price.

The Guide’s Role and Local Recommendations

The guide plays a central role in enriching the experience, offering engaging storytelling and local insights. They are prepared to answer questions and recommend secret spots in South Philadelphia, helping to personalize the experience. The knowledgeable guides contribute significantly to creating an informative and entertaining atmosphere.

Participants appreciate the friendly and professional approach, which enhances the overall enjoyment of this compact but richly rewarding tour.

Comparing Similar Philadelphia Tours

This tour stands out for its focus on South Philadelphia’s cultural landmarks and local flavor. It offers a more neighborhood-centric experience compared to broader city tours like hop-on hop-off sightseeing or history-focused walks. For those seeking authentic local sights and streetside stories, this tour provides a personalized glimpse into a vibrant part of Philadelphia.

The Sum Up: Why Choose the South Philly Tour

This $49 guided tour delivers two hours of lively exploration through South Philadelphia’s most iconic locations. Its strengths lie in the expert guidance, insider tips, and coverage of key sights like the Italian Market and famous murals. Fans of film, food, and street art will appreciate the well-rounded nature of this experience.

While it doesn’t include food or shopping expenses, the value comes from the rich storytelling and opportunity to see Philadelphia’s authentic neighborhood. The wheelchair accessibility and flexible timing make it suitable for a variety of travelers. This tour offers a comprehensive taste of South Philly’s soul—perfect for those eager to see a less touristy side of Philadelphia.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome, but keep in mind it involves walking and outdoor exposure.

Are food and drinks included?
No, the tour fee does not include food or drinks, but there will be opportunities to purchase at the Italian Market.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

What languages are available for the tour?
The tour is offered in English and Spanish.

Where do I meet the guide?
You meet the guide at 13th & Reed Streets at Columbus Square Park, where they will be waiting with a tour sign.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How physically demanding is this tour?
It requires walking outdoors, so comfortable shoes are recommended; it’s suitable for most fitness levels.

What makes this tour stand out?
Its focus on South Philadelphia’s local arts, history, and film sites combined with expert storytelling makes it a distinctive experience.

Is this tour good for history buffs?
While it emphasizes popular culture and local sights, it also offers insights into Philadelphia’s neighborhood history through murals and landmarks.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby