Historic Old City Dine Around

If you’re considering a way to combine history, local flavors, and a bit of fun while visiting Philadelphia, the Historic Old City Dine Around tour might just fit the bill. From what we’ve gathered, this experience offers a taste of the city’s past alongside some modernized colonial dishes and a good dose of local beverages—all wrapped up in an engaging 2.5-hour walk through one of the most iconic parts of Philly.

What really caught our eye are two standout qualities: first, the knowledgeable guides who bring history alive with stories and insights, and second, the chance to enjoy full servings of drinks that make the learning more relaxed and social. But, as always, there’s a flip side—this isn’t a tour for those who need extensive dietary flexibility or have mobility challenges, as it’s a walking experience and gluten substitutions aren’t available.

This tour would suit history buffs, food lovers, or visitors looking to get a sense of Philadelphia’s colonial roots without spending hours in museums. If you’re after a lively, taste-focused introduction to the city’s history, this might be just what you need.

Key Points

• Balanced mix of history and food: Experience Philly’s landmarks while enjoying colonial-inspired dishes and local drinks.
• Guided storytelling: The tour’s guides are praised for their historical knowledge, making the experience both fun and educational.
• Full-sized beverages: Expect generous servings of cider, cocktails, and other drinks, adding a convivial, happy-hour vibe.
• Short but comprehensive: At 2.5 hours, it’s a manageable way to see a lot without feeling rushed.
• Accessible and flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance, and pay later, making plans less stressful.
• Limited dietary options: No gluten-free substitutions, and it’s not suitable for wheelchair users.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour invites you to walk through some of Philadelphia’s most recognizable and lesser-known historic sights, all while tasting your way through colonial-era foods and drinks with a modern twist. The experience kicks off inside the Visitor Center, where you’ll meet your guide dressed in a maroon City Food Tours shirt—don’t be late, and feel free to explore the gift shop or use the restroom while waiting.

The First Stop: Hearty Snacks and Cider

Your journey begins with a full pint of refreshing local cider—perfect for easing into the experience. It’s a straightforward way to kick off, and as one reviewer noted, “the food and cocktails were the perfect way to listen to the history of Philadelphia.” This initial stop sets a lively tone, blending good drinks with engaging stories.

The Second Stop: Gourmet Snacks and Rum Cocktail

Next, you’ll indulge in gourmet snacks topped with loads of toppings, paired with a solid rum-based cocktail. The generous servings are appreciated, and the combination of tasty bites and lively drinks makes the storytelling even more engaging. Based on reviews, guests find this part of the tour particularly satisfying, with one mentioning “loads of toppings” on the snacks and “full servings” of beverages.

The Third Stop: Creole Flavors and Local Beverages

Moving along, the tour introduces flavorful Creole dishes accompanied by another local drink, giving a taste of Philadelphia’s diverse culinary influences. This part of the tour helps paint a broader picture of the city’s historical melting pot and adds some spice to the experience.

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The Sweet Finale: Confectionery to Take Home

Wrapping up, you’ll visit the country’s oldest confectionery to pick up a sweet collection of treats as a memorable keepsake. The chance to walk away with a taste of Philadelphia’s sweet side is a nice touch, especially for those with a sweet tooth.

The Landmarks and Sights

While the primary focus is on food and drink, the guided walk provides plenty of opportunities to admire Philadelphia’s historic sights. The guide’s storytelling helps bring to life landmarks you might pass by, making the sight-seeing feel meaningful rather than purely visual.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

Based on reviews, one clear strength is the expertise of the guides. Travelers consistently praise guides for their ability to relate historical facts in an interesting, engaging way. One reviewer said, “The tour guide was extremely knowledgeable and was able to relate interesting historical knowledge of the area.” This makes the experience especially worthwhile for those wanting more than just a food tour—they’re also getting a slice of Philly’s history.

The food and drinks are another highlight. Participants report the servings are generous, and the combination of bites and beverages makes the experience feel like a lively happy hour. The drinks, in particular, seem to be a hit, with full servings of cider, cocktails, and local beverages.

However, there are some considerations. Since substitutions aren’t available for gluten-free diets, those with dietary restrictions may find this limiting. Also, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, which could be a drawback for some visitors with mobility issues. It’s also a walking tour, so comfortable shoes are a must.

Price-wise, $173 per person might seem steep for some, but considering the full servings of food and drinks plus the guided experience, many find it reasonable—especially if you’re looking for a well-rounded, immersive experience rather than just a tasting.

The Walkthrough: Detailed Breakdown of the Tour

Starting inside the Visitor Center, you’ll be greeted and introduced to your guide, who will lead you through the cobblestone alleyways of Old City. The initial stop with the cider creates a casual atmosphere, perfect for breaking the ice. The guide’s storytelling makes history feel alive, and you’ll likely find yourself more engaged than in a traditional walking tour.

Next up, the gourmet snack stop offers a colorful array of toppings—think savory, hearty flavors that complement the colonial theme, yet with a modern gourmet touch. The rum cocktail that accompanies it perfectly balances sweetness and strength, adding a spirited element to the historical walk.

As you move on, the Creole stop introduces a different flavor profile, illustrating the city’s diversity and the influence of different cultures on its history and cuisine. The local beverages served here are worth noting for their quality and flavor, adding to the sense of a happy, social outing.

Finally, the confectionery stop at the end is both a treat and a souvenir. It helps to slow the pace at the end of the tour and leaves you with a tangible reminder of your Philly experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for those who enjoy a relaxed, social atmosphere combined with a bit of history. Food and drink enthusiasts will appreciate the generous servings, and history buffs will enjoy the storytelling. It’s suitable for those who like a guided walk rather than wandering solo, with the added benefit of learning local stories from knowledgeable guides.

It’s probably best for visitors who are comfortable walking and standing for periods of time and who aren’t bound by specific dietary restrictions. While the tour isn’t designed for wheelchair users, it’s accessible for most able-bodied travelers.

Final Thoughts

The Historic Old City Dine Around tour offers a really charming way to experience Philadelphia. You’re getting a taste of the city’s colonial roots, paired with flavorful bites and drinks, all delivered by a guide who clearly knows their stuff. The combination of sightseeing, storytelling, and social eating makes it a well-rounded package, especially if you’re looking to mix fun and learning without spending an entire day.

While the price might seem high to some, the large servings and expert narration make it a good value for those interested in history and local cuisine. Just keep in mind the dietary restrictions and accessibility limitations—these are important if you’re traveling with specific needs.

All in all, if you’re after a lively, educational, and tasty introduction to Philly’s Old City, this tour will likely hit the spot.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is primarily designed for adults, especially considering the alcoholic beverages served. Children might find the experience less engaging, and since it’s not explicitly family-friendly, it’s better suited for adults.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, which is enough time to explore some of Philadelphia’s historic sights and enjoy several food and drink stops without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers all food and drinks served during the tour, as well as the guided walk around some of Philadelphia’s most historic landmarks.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexibility is helpful if your plans change unexpectedly.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
No, the tour is not wheelchair accessible, and the walking nature means it may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, and wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking around historic streets and alleyways.

Are dietary substitutions available?
No, substitutions for dietary restrictions like gluten-free options are not available, so plan accordingly.

Where do I meet the guide?
Meet inside the Visitor Center, just past the restrooms next to the map, across from the gift shop. The guide will be wearing a maroon City Food Tours shirt.

Is there an age restriction?
Since alcohol is involved, it’s primarily geared toward adults. Children and teenagers might not find this tour suitable.

If you’re after a fun, tasty way to learn about Philadelphia’s history with a lively group and a knowledgeable guide, this tour could add a flavorful chapter to your trip. Just go in with the right expectations, and you’ll come away with a full belly and some new stories to tell.

You can check availability for your dates here: