3-Hour Private Favorite & Secret Bars Walking Tour Philadelphia

Discover Philadelphia’s Hidden Nightlife on a Private Bar-Hopping Tour

If you’re planning a night out in Philly and want something more personal than a typical bar crawl, this 3-hour Private Favorite & Secret Bars Walking Tour could be just what you need. It’s designed for groups who want to explore the city’s vibrant, lesser-known drinking spots with a guide who knows the ins and outs of Philly’s bar scene. While it’s not a tour packed with history, its focus on fun, discovery, and exclusive spots makes it ideal for celebrating special occasions or just unwinding with friends.

What we really appreciate about this experience is its customizability—you get to choose which neighborhoods to explore, whether it’s the lively Fishtown, historic Old City, or the bustling Center City. Plus, the promise of visiting a secret speakeasy or hidden gem that even many locals don’t know about adds a layer of intrigue. Another highlight is the personalized approach; this isn’t a one-size-fits-all tour, but rather a private experience tailored to your group’s preferences.

That said, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour is non-refundable and requires booking at least a week in advance—something to consider if your plans might change. If you’re someone who enjoys curated nights out and discovering new spots with a friendly guide, this tour is likely to hit the mark. It’s especially suited for groups celebrating a special occasion or those simply wanting a relaxed, fun evening without the hassle of planning a bar crawl on your own.

Key Points

• Private and customizable experience tailored to your group’s interests and preferred neighborhoods
• Visits 4-5 unique bars, including a secret speakeasy or hidden gem
• Flexible options include party bus rentals and surprise birthday cakes
• Guides praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the night engaging and safe
• Great for celebrating special occasions or just a fun night out with friends
• Price point offers good value given the personalized experience and number of venues visited

Exploring the Philadelphia Nightlife: What to Expect

This tour offers a fresh way to see Philly’s nightlife, focusing on hidden and favorite spots that even many locals might not know. It’s designed for groups seeking a private, relaxed experience over a more traditional, large-group pub crawl. For $35 per person, the value lies in the exclusivity and personalized service, especially as it includes visits to venues that are off the beaten path.

The tour lasts around three hours, starting at 7:00 pm, which is perfect for kicking off an evening of fun. The meeting point at 38 S 19th St is centrally located, near public transportation, making it accessible whether you’re coming from downtown hotels or other parts of the city.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour’s itinerary is flexible and based on your group size and preferences. The starting point is in Center City, where the hosts have curated a rotation of 20+ locations. You’ll visit 4 or 5 venues, spending about 35 minutes at each, which strikes a good balance—enough time to enjoy your drinks and soak in the atmosphere without feeling rushed.

One standout venue is Rec & Royal, noted for karaoke and skee ball, making it a lively, interactive choice. The guides—praised for their professionalism, friendliness, and knowledge—herd you safely from one bar to the next, sharing insights on the local drink scene and subtle hints about the city’s lesser-known locales.

The Experience of Visiting the Bars

The vibe at each spot varies—some may be lively and bustling, others more relaxed and intimate. The guides are adept at tailoring the experience, possibly shifting to alternative venues if the original bar is too crowded, which many reviews appreciated. The focus is on having a good time while discovering Philadelphia’s secret drinking spots.

The tour also offers options to elevate the experience with party bus rentals or even a surprise birthday cake, making it an excellent choice for celebrations. Whether it’s a bachelorette party or a girls’ night, the hosts handle all logistics, leaving your group free to enjoy.

Guides Who Make the Difference

Based on rave reviews, the guides—such as Greg, Matthew, and George—are a key part of the appeal. Reviewers describe them as professional, knowledgeable, friendly, and engaging, creating a relaxed and fun atmosphere. They’re also praised for sharing interesting tidbits about mixology and Philly’s local scene, which adds depth to the night without turning it into a history lesson.

One reviewer sums it up: “Greg and Matthew were awesome! They shared some interesting history with us and made the experience memorable.” The guides’ excitement and connecting with guests really shine through, making even solo travelers feel comfortable and included.

The Downside? A Few Considerations

Since the tour is non-refundable, it’s important to be sure your plans are set before booking. The specific venues visited are not fixed, giving the hosts flexibility to adapt to your preferences and group size, but this could mean some uncertainty if you’re looking for a very structured experience. Also, at $35 a person, it’s a competitive price for a private, curated bar-hopping night, but you should consider whether drinks, tips, and any added extras are included in your overall budget.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for groups of friends celebrating a special event—think birthdays, bachelorette parties, or just a fun night out. It’s especially suited for people who want to discover Philly’s lesser-known bars in a relaxed, private setting. If you’re someone who values personalized experiences and enjoys making new connections, you’ll likely find this tour a worthwhile choice.

It’s also a good fit if you like the idea of guided exploration without the typical touristy vibe. Plus, the flexibility to select neighborhoods and venues means you can customize your evening to match your mood—whether that’s lively and energetic or more chill and intimate.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For just $35 per person, this private tour offers a well-curated night in Philadelphia’s nightlife scene. The combination of knowledgeable guides, hidden spots, and customization makes it stand out from generic pub crawls. If you’re looking for a relaxed, fun way to experience Philly’s bar scene with friends or celebrating something special, it’s definitely worth considering.

The reviews highlight how much travelers appreciate the personal touch and the chance to visit places they might never find on their own. Plus, the guides’ enthusiasm and friendly approach make the night feel more like hanging out with friends than being on a tour.

That said, keep in mind the non-refundable policy and confirm your plans before booking to avoid any surprises. Overall, if you want a memorable, tailored night in Philadelphia that’s more about fun and discovery than history or sightseeing, this tour is a solid pick.

FAQ

Is this a private tour?
Yes, this experience is private, meaning only your group will participate, which allows for a more personalized and relaxed evening.

How many bars will we visit?
You’ll visit 4 to 5 venues, with about 35 minutes at each, giving you plenty of time to enjoy drinks and atmosphere.

Can I choose which neighborhoods to explore?
Yes, the tour can be customized to explore neighborhoods like Chinatown, Center City, Fishtown, or Old City, depending on your preferences.

What is included in the price?
The listed price of $35 per person covers the guided bar-hopping experience. Extras like party buses or special surprises are available upon request.

Are there any age restrictions?
While not explicitly mentioned, since the tour involves drinking, it’s intended for adults of legal drinking age.

What if the original bar is too crowded?
The guides are known for their flexibility and can suggest alternative venues if the preferred bar is busy.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 8 days in advance, but earlier is recommended, especially for weekends or special dates.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 38 S 19th St, with the typical end point being at Blind Barber on Sansom St or at Karaoke, depending on the flow of the night.

Is transportation provided between venues?
No, it’s a walking tour, but the guides take care of navigation and ensure you move safely from one stop to the next.

If you’re after an intimate, fun night exploring some of Philly’s coolest, lesser-known bars with a friendly guide, this tour is a winner. It offers a real local feel, perfect for groups who want to celebrate or just enjoy a relaxed evening with friends.