Top Philadelphia Culture in 2026

Step into the captivating realm of illusions, where reality is never exactly as it appears. Museum of Illusions is a one-of-a-kind, visual, sensory, and educational experience designed to engage your sense of wonder and challenge perceptions through the science behind optical illusions. We offer over 50 immersive, hands-on exhibits to explore. Our illusion rooms, installations and holograms let you defy gravity, grow and shrink your body, walk into a life-size kaleidoscope, and play tricks on your senses at every turn. It’s a mind-bending journey that deceives the senses and reveals how the brain interprets reality.

Join us for a walking tour through the heart and soul of Philadelphia—South Philly! From Rocky Balboa to cheesesteaks, many of Philly’s most iconic symbols come from this vibrant neighborhood. On this 2-hour tour, we’ll explore the streets of South Philadelphia and dive into the stories behind its rich culture. You’ll visit locations tied to the Rocky movies, including Giordano’s and Victor’s Café, and learn about the origins of the city’s famous cheesesteak. Later, we’ll stroll through the historic Italian Market on 9th Street—America’s oldest outdoor market—where you’ll have free time to shop, grab a bite, or explore. Your guide will be on hand to answer questions and share local secrets. Along the way, you’ll also see some of Philadelphia’s most famous murals. South Philly’s vibrant public art is part of what makes this area so unique, and you’ll have plenty of chances to admire and learn about these colorful works.

Learn about Philadelphia’s history in the tastiest way possible during this history-filled, small-group food crawl. Enjoy a mix of sweet and savory treats paired with alcoholic drinks as you explore the city center. In between bites, listen to an in-depth history of Philadelphia’s colonial days and visit historic sights like Independence Hall.

See some of Philadelphia's top attractions at a discount with The Philadelphia Pass. Select your choice of three, four, five, or seven activities from a list of options and get direct entrance after you save your pass on your mobile device. Use your pass for touring options such as the Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus Philadelphia Tour, or for entrance tickets to venues such as the African American Museum or Betsy Ross House. Pass is valid for 30 days after the first use.

Explore the city with your own local guide.Step into the shoes of the heroes who shaped a nation on our tour. This journey isn’t just about seeing landmarks; it’s about experiencing the birth of American independence. Imagine standing where the Declaration of Independence was signed, walking the same cobblestone streets as the nation’s first leaders, and feeling the pulse of history in the air. Each step on this tour is a step back in time, offering you a unique chance to be part of America’s foundational story. Be the hero of your own historical adventure, discovering the places where freedom was fought for and won. Our expert guides will bring to life the tales of courage, struggle, and triumph that echo through these hallowed sites. Don’t just learn history, live it. Join us and walk in the footsteps of the founding fathers!

Philadelphia’s famous Seventh Ward was a thriving and bustling community populated by many Black Philadelphians as well as immigrants from the end of the 18th century until the 1960s. By 1900 the Ward was home to approximately 30% of Black Philadelphians. Boasting the largest Black population in the city, the Seventh Ward was the epicenter of Black culture and home to many past and present African-American schools, churches and institutions as well as abolitionists, educators, athletes and political and women’s civil rights activists. The Seventh Ward was so fascinating that W.E.B Du Bois traveled to Philadelphia to conduct his study of Philadelphia’s Black population residing in the ward. Staying in the Seventh Ward, Dr. Du Bois conducted door-to-door in-depth interviews with Black Philadelphians from all walks of life. This is your opportunity to join us as we explore this still fascinating community that played a significant role in Black Philadelphia history.

Philadelphia may be known as the City of Brotherly Love, but it’s also one of the street art capitals of the world. With statues, large-scale installations, intricate mosaics, bold graffiti, and more than 4,000 murals, the city has transformed its streets into an open-air gallery. On this vibrant walking tour, you’ll explore the creativity that defines Philly’s urban landscape. Dive into the stories behind world-famous murals, snap photos with playful public art installations, and even get up close with stunning mosaic creations that turn ordinary spaces into works of art. From powerful community murals to whimsical street sculptures, this tour offers a colorful, immersive experience that shows why Philadelphia is one of the most exciting places for public art in America.

There are over 340 years of triumph and tragedy that refuse to stay buried beneath Philadelphia’s cobblestone streets. On this chilling self-guided walking tour, you’ll explore the haunted corners of Old City and Society Hill. It’s a place where America’s founding fathers still linger, revolutionary soldiers still march, and centuries of restless spirits make their presence known through cold spots, phantom footsteps, and unexplained phenomena. This tour starts at Benjamin Franklin’s grave outside Christ Church Burial Ground, where visitors often report seeing a tall figure in 18th-century clothes pacing the fence line. You’ll weave through the historic streets of Old City, passing the Betsy Ross House where staff report ice-cold air in warm rooms and footsteps pacing empty floors. You’ll explore Elfreth’s Alley, America’s oldest continuously inhabited residential street, where British soldiers are still said to patrol and children’s laughter echoes across empty cobblestones.

Step into colonial Philadelphia and uncover a Founding Father with blood on his hands. A murder has rocked the 18th century—and only you can crack the case. Join a time-traveling Ben Franklin as you solve puzzles, decode clues, and unravel a mystery involving America’s earliest leaders. Using the Questo app, you’ll explore Old City at your own pace, passing iconic landmarks like Independence Hall and Franklin Court. With each riddle solved, you’ll dive deeper into the story—interacting with historical figures, unearthing hidden facts, and getting closer to the truth. It’s a blend of immersive fiction, local history, and hands-on fun. What makes this tour unique? It’s not just a walking tour—it’s a self-guided whodunit where the streets of Philadelphia become your game board and the suspects are straight out of the history books. Perfect for families, friends, couples, and curious minds who love mystery, humor, and a dash of time travel.

Are you looking for a way to discover Philadelphia’s Old City without joining a tour group? Explore at your own pace with this self-guided walking tour. • Find out about the individuals who shaped the city from its beginnings to American Independence like Benjamin Franklin and Alexander Hamilton • Hear from producer Reid Addis, a local architect and tour guide • Do it all in 120 minutes or linger at stops along the way with complete control over when you start and finish • Get unlimited use before your booking date and after it • Use the virtual tour option at home Once you’ve booked, you’ll receive a ticket with instructions and a unique code listed under “Before You Go”. Then simply install the Voice Map app and enter your code. The app displays directions to the starting point, and when you’re in the right place, pop in your headphones, and just tap start. Voice Map has automatic GPS playback, with turn-by-turn directions. It also works offline.

Philadelphia is known as the foundation of the nation. Its identity was shaped by the contributions of Black Americans whose stories go untold. On this walking tour, you’ll hear their powerful and inspiring stories. I’ll tell you about the lives of enslaved individuals who sought freedom, including Ona Judge, whose escape defied the odds. You’ll see iconic landmarks like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, and discover their connections to Black Americans’ fight for freedom and justice. This Black history tour offers a unique and engaging way to explore the city’s rich heritage. Walk in the footsteps of those who lived through struggle and triumph, and connect with Philadelphia’s legacy in a profound and personal way. This isn’t just a tour — it’s a celebration of resilience, a deep dive into history, and a must-do experience for anyone visiting Philadelphia.

Our Philadelphia Signature Brunch Cruise is an unforgettable experience. Dine and dance on the Delaware River with views of the city’s magnificent skyline on this casual afternoon out. Enjoy a delicious, chef-prepared buffet and gorgeous views of Philadelphia’s spectacular architecture. You’ll marvel at famed city landmarks, such as the Ben Franklin Bridge, from our cozy, climate-controlled interior, and open-air roof decks. We keep the spirits flowing with a fully stocked bar, games, and lively music from our DJ. Join us for a memorable, one-of-a-kind brunch cruise on the water

Experience an interactive app-based scavenger hunt through Philadelphia's top landmarks. Work within—or against—a team of your choice, with each player assigned a different role and set of challenges. Learn about the city’s dynamic history, including famous Philadelphians like William Penn and Benjamin Franklin, as you explore key sites such as Chinatown, the National Constitution Center, and the Liberty Bell Center.

Channel your inner Sherlock Holmes in this abduction mystery hunt around the historical city of Philadelphia! In ‘The Kidnapping by Independence Hall' you are taken back to the year 1932. You are a policaman in Philadelphia. A baby has been snatched from its pram and replaced with a doll. Now it is up to you to find the kidnapper and bring the baby back to its parents! After your purchase, you go to the designated pickup point and collect the mystery package containing everything you will need to solve this mystery. When you have collected it, you are free to begin whenever you want. Enjoy the flexibility of starting and stopping as you please. Solving this murder mystery is an exciting and challenging activity that you can try together with your family, friends, or colleagues. A good tip! We recommend 2-4 in a group. If you are more than 4 people, you can buy more mysteries and compete against each other. The winner is the group that solves the mystery the fastest.

Taste the heart of Philadelphia with a family-friendly breakfast food tour within steps of many Center City hotels. In only 75 minutes, you'll get a mix of iconic Philly breakfast items with some trendy flavors while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of one of the city’s top culinary destinations. Perfect for families with kids of all ages, cruise passengers, and travelers checking out of hotels, this eating adventure has constant motion strolling through the Reading Terminal Market's colorful aisles. All while indulging in a coffee smoothie, a savory breakfast roll-up, a retro dish with Millennial taste, a sweet dessert from a beloved bakery, and more! - 75-min guided breakfast tasting experience all within the Reading Terminal Market - Sample five delicious breakfast items, including local specialties - Easy walking level completely indoors - great for strollers and wheelchairs - Ideal for families with kids, food lovers, cruise passengers, and first-time visitors

Philadelphia has served as the backdrop for some of your favorite movies and television shows—and there’s no better way to see these famous locations than on this fully guided walking tour. Step behind the scenes of the city’s film history as you explore the streets and landmarks that have appeared on the big and small screen. Along the way, you’ll visit iconic Philadelphia locations like Philadelphia City Hall and LOVE Park, while hearing stories about the filmmakers who brought the city to life on screen, including directors like M. Night Shyamalan and Martin Scorsese. You’ll also stop by filming locations featured in hit shows such as It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia and Cold Case. Of course, no Philadelphia movie tour would be complete without paying tribute to the city’s most famous cinematic hero. You’ll visit several locations from the legendary Rocky franchise—including the world-famous Rocky Steps.

Philadelphia’s Center City West highlights come together on this guided walking tour. Visit Rittenhouse Square, Love Park, Logan Circle, Reading Terminal Market, and the Franklin Institute, with commentary from a local guide throughout. Pass landmarks rather than stopping for formal visits, from the Love sculpture to the Parkway’s cultural institutions, while hearing how Philadelphia’s neighborhoods, markets, and civic spaces reflect the city’s history.

In Philly for just a day? On a tight schedule or here for a conference? Join our 4-hour whirlwind tour and get a true taste of Philadelphia—from River to River, Old City to the Art Museum. On this “highlights” tour, you’ll learn about the American Revolution, pass key cultural sites, explore Chinatown, see City Hall and Love Park, and climb the iconic Rocky Steps. We’ll also pass by some of Philadelphia’s world-class museums and institutions—while we won’t go inside, we hope to inspire you to return and explore them further. Midway through the tour, we’ll stop at the famous Reading Terminal Market for a 30-minute lunch break (food not included), giving you time to browse, eat, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Perfect for first-time visitors or those short on time, this tour offers a fast-paced, fun overview of the city. Whether you're here for hours or days, we’ll leave you wanting more!

Discover Philadelphia's extraordinary revolutionary heritage and vibrant urban culture with the self-guided tour, allowing you to explore America's birthplace at your own pace. Stand inside Independence Hall where the Declaration of Independence was signed and the Constitution was drafted, then visit the Liberty Bell that cracked its way into legend. Walk the cobblestoned streets of Old City past Elfreth's Alley — America's oldest street since 1702 — and Christ Church where Washington and Franklin worshipped. Climb the 72 Rocky Steps at the Philadelphia Museum of Art for views, then explore the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, the Rodin Museum, the Barnes Foundation, and the Franklin Institute. Wander the haunting cellblocks of Eastern State Penitentiary where Al Capone served time. Browse Reading Terminal Market's 80 vendors beneath a Victorian train shed. Discover 4,000 murals making Philadelphia America's largest outdoor art gallery, and explore Fishtown's craft brewery and art scene.

Download GuideAlong's Valley Forge audio tour for the ultimate Revolutionary road trip. Here, a ragtag group of militias was shaped into the fighting force that beat the British. This 10-mile driving tour of Valley Forge leads through the park to sites from the 1777-78 army camp, including recreations of the soldiers’ cabins, General Knox’s cannons, Washington’s Headquarters, and earthwork defenses. Along the way, expert commentary points out the many monuments honoring famous figures and ordinary soldiers who all played a role in the Revolution and shows you where to stop for a closer look.

Escape the Park turns Valley Forge National Historical Park into three self-guided outdoor mystery games, played on your own phone with no guide and no fixed schedule. Pick one — you are buying the game you choose, not all three. Washington's Secret Soldiers is built for junior agents ages 6-12. Using a secret Spy Codebook, they crack messages left by Revolutionary War spies at five real landmarks to deliver Washington's lost battle order. Lafayette's Dispatch is the intermediate game. Play the Marquis de Lafayette, gather a letter at each monument across the encampment, and send the dispatch that wins a powerful ally. The Mystic Tie goes deepest, tracing the Freemason bonds among Washington's officers to decode the brotherhood's hidden word. Each game stands alone and runs 1.5 to 2.5 hours at your own pace, on foot or by car. Play one now and save the others for next time, or make a full day of it. Start anytime, play as a group, and bring the Revolution to life.

Experience Philadelphia on your own terms with complete freedom to explore at your preferred pace, lingering at attractions that captivate you most while skipping those that don't spark your interest. Our meticulously crafted audio experience delivers exclusive historical insights and hidden stories that even lifelong Philadelphians rarely know, providing an authentic local perspective that transforms ordinary sightseeing into extraordinary discovery. Unlike rigid traditional guided tours that rush you through predetermined schedules, this flexible adventure lets you choose your own attractions, create your own itinerary, and explore when it suits your schedule best. The superior narration quality features professionally produced content with crystal-clear delivery that's both intellectually engaging and effortlessly digestible, making complex historical narratives accessible and entertaining through compelling storytelling that keeps you captivated from start to finish.

Philadelphia has been burying its dead for 300 years, and then forgetting where it put them. On this self-guided audio tour, you'll trace what happened to the city's lost graveyards, from potter's fields and epidemic victims to graves discovered under parking lots. The tour starts at Washington Square, one of William Penn's original five parks, which holds an estimated 4,500–7,500 bodies beneath its manicured lawn. From there, you'll wind through the streets of Old City, past the site of Benjamin Franklin's grave and the National Constitution Center, before heading north toward Franklin Square, where an 1830s church cemetery and it's tombstones were just buried under the dirt. Along the way, you'll discover how a clandestine 1950s archaeological dig under Washington Square – kept secret for political reasons – unearthed a soldier who may or may not have been American. The tour ends at the site of the First Baptist Burial Ground.

An original walking tour through Historic Philadelphia, where the United States was born and where Alexander Hamilton laid the foundations of America's financial future. Together we'll explore the streets where history was made and discover how one immigrant helped shape a nation that would become a global superpower. Along the way, we'll meet Benjamin Franklin, George Washington, Betsy Ross, Robert Morris, Thomas Jefferson, and other Founding Fathers. We'll separate legend from history, uncover hidden stories, and discover why Philadelphia became the stage for some of the most important decisions ever made in America. Total walking distance: ~1.5 miles (2.4 km), mostly flat, with opportunities to stop, rest, and take photos throughout the tour. Walk through the birthplace of American independence as we uncover the stories behind the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the remarkable people who created a new nation.