Philadelphia: Secret Bars and Favorite Spots Walking Tour

Philadelphia: Secret Bars and Favorite Spots Walking Tour — A Honest Look

If you’re considering exploring Philadelphia’s nightlife beyond the usual, this Secret Bars & Favorite Spots Tour might be right up your alley. Designed for those who want to experience the city’s vibrant drinking scene, it offers a mix of hidden speakeasies, local favorites, and lively group vibes. While it’s not a historical deep dive, it’s perfect for a fun, social evening out.

What really caught our eye is the chance to visit a secret speakeasy, something many visitors find intriguing. Plus, the tour’s focus on small, intimate stops rather than a giant bar crawl makes it feel more personalized. However, it’s worth noting that some reviews mention that not every spot is “secret” or undiscovered—so if you’re expecting totally unknown gems, keep your expectations in check.

The tour seems best suited for adventurous drinkers, groups of friends, or travelers looking for a relaxed yet lively way to see Philly’s nightlife. If you’re after a casual, well-organized night with insider tips and great company, this could be a fun choice. Just be aware that drinks aren’t included at every stop, and the vibe may vary depending on your guide and group.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Unique Philly Nightlife: Experience both classic favorites and hidden speakeasies with a local guide.
• Flexibility: Tours are tailored to your group size and availability, keeping it personalized.
• Cost-Effective: At $36, it offers a guided experience with free line-skipping and a liquor tasting included.
• Social Atmosphere: Great for making new friends or enjoying with a group of friends.
• No history lessons: This is all about the vibe, drinks, and discovering Philly’s secret spots.
• Accessible & Convenient: The tour is wheelchair accessible and starts outside TD Bank on Walnut Street.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point & First Impressions

The tour kicks off outside a TD Bank on Walnut Street—an easy-to-find spot that’s central and accessible. As soon as your group gathers, your guide will introduce themselves and set the tone for a fun, informal night. The initial meet-and-greet is a good chance to get to know your fellow explorers and warm up your taste buds with the first drink, which is part of a liquor tasting included in the price.

This initial stop is often praised for the friendly, knowledgeable guides who keep everyone engaged. One reviewer from the UK specifically mentions how their guide, Matthew, was “brilliant and very friendly,” making first-timers feel comfortable right away.

The Stops: Bars, Speakeasies, and Local Faves

Over the next two to three stops, you’ll visit a selection of 4-5 venues, each with about 35 minutes to soak in the ambiance and enjoy a few drinks. The specific venues depend on group size and availability, which means no tour is exactly the same twice. Some stops might be classic Philly favorites, while others are more secretive, tucked-away spots.

While the exact names are only revealed closer to the date, the tour promises a mixture of types—possibly a rooftop bar with city views, a cozy lounge, or a true speakeasy hiding behind an unassuming door. The emphasis on secret spots is appealing, though it’s worth mentioning that some reviews suggest not all locations are completely undiscovered, and the “secret” label can be a bit loose.

Your guide will share insider tips, fun facts, and stories that you might not find on your own—adding a layer of local flavor and context that makes the experience richer. This storytelling aspect is often highlighted positively, with travelers appreciating the guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge.

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The Final Stop & Atmosphere

The tour wraps up around the Broad and Sansom Street area, a lively part of downtown Philly. The last stop could be a rooftop bar with a view of the city skyline or a hidden lounge, leaving you with a memorable finish. Many rave about the stunning views and lively atmosphere—perfect for pictures or just unwinding with new friends.

The Value of Included Items

For $36, the tour offers significant value: skip-the-line entry, a liquor tasting early on, and recommendations for food and drinks at each stop. While drinks are available for purchase at each venue, no additional cover charges or lines are a plus. This means you can focus on enjoying the vibe without worrying about extra costs or long waits.

The included liquor tasting is a small but nice touch, giving you a taste of local spirits early on. Plus, if you’re hungry, some tours include brunch vouchers for select restaurants—great if you’re planning to keep the night going afterward.

The Group & Atmosphere

The social element is one of the tour’s highlights. Many reviews mention the energetic, friendly guides and the chance to meet like-minded travelers. One reviewer from the US said, “The guide and group were excellent. I made a ton of new friends,” which speaks to the convivial nature of these tours.

Of course, the experience can vary depending on your guide and the group dynamic. Some reviewers have noted that the tour felt somewhat half-hearted, with one traveler from the UK saying it lacked the “history/stories” they expected and mentioning that not every stop was truly “secret.”

The Cons and Considerations

While most reviews are positive, a few point out that the “secret” aspect isn’t always quite what they expected. At $36, it’s a decent deal, but some might feel that the stops don’t fully justify the “hidden gem” label. Also, the tour is purely about the nightlife—no historical or cultural narration—so if you’re looking for more context about Philly itself, you might want to supplement this experience.

Plus, the tour isn’t suitable for minors or pregnant women, and the American drinking age means you’ll need to be 21 or older. Also, if you’re not a drinker or prefer quiet, relaxed evenings, this might not be your best fit.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is excellent for groups of friends eager to explore Philly’s nightlife with a guide who knows the scene. It’s perfect if you want a casual, social evening with a good mix of hidden spots and lively venues. It also suits travelers who are curious about local bars but not necessarily interested in heavy drinking or elaborate history.

If you’re a solo traveler, this could be a great way to meet new people, as many reviews mention making friends during the tour. However, if you’re looking for a deep dive into Philly’s history or culture, you might want to check out more history-focused options elsewhere.

Final Thoughts

The Philadelphia Secret Bars & Favorite Spots Walking Tour offers a relaxed, friendly way to experience the city’s nightlife through a local’s lens. It strikes a good balance between discovering hidden gems and enjoying classic local favorites, all within a manageable 3-hour window.

While it’s not a comprehensive tour of Philly’s history or full of undiscovered secrets, it delivers a fun, social atmosphere with great guides and a decent price point. If you’re in town with friends, up for a night of drinks and camaraderie, and curious about Philly’s secret spots, this could be just what you need.

For travelers who want to enjoy the city’s lively side without any fuss, this tour makes for a memorable night out. Just remember, it’s about the vibe and the company—so come ready to have a good time, with an open mind and a thirst for new experiences.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
No, the tour is only for those aged 21 and over, and it’s focused on nightlife and drinking.

How long is the tour?
It’s a 3-hour experience, usually available in the afternoon or evening.

What’s included in the price?
You get skip-the-line access to all venues, a liquor tasting at the first stop, and drink/food recommendations. Drinks are purchased separately.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later, which provides extra flexibility.

Where do I meet the guide?
Outside the TD Bank on Walnut Street—easy to find and accessible.

Are drinks free at each stop?
No, drinks are available for purchase at each venue, except for the initial liquor tasting.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for many travelers.

Will I learn about Philly’s history?
Not really—this tour focuses on the bar scene, insider tips, and the vibe, rather than historical stories.

What should I bring?
Bring your ID or passport, comfortable shoes, and an open mind for a fun night out.

Whether you’re a seasoned Philly visitor or a first-timer looking for a lively introduction to the city’s nightlife, this tour offers a good mix of fun, flavor, and local insight. Perfect for those who want a relaxed, social experience with a guide who knows the scene—and that’s a pretty solid way to spend an evening.

You can check availability for your dates here: