Philadelphia’s Dead: Eerie Exploration of Forgotten Graves

If you’re someone fascinated by stories buried beneath the city streets, this tour of Philadelphia’s forgotten graves might catch your interest. It’s an experience that promises to uncover the city’s hidden underground stories, walking you through the quiet, sometimes haunting resting places that lie beneath Old City Philadelphia. Whether you’re into ghost stories, history, or just looking for something a little different from the usual city sightseeing, this tour offers a unique perspective—without the cheesy theatrics or overdone scares.

What really draws us in are the chance to learn about the real stories of Philadelphia’s past inhabitants and the fascinating encounters that sometimes happen when exploring buried history. Plus, the fact that it’s a well-rated experience (4.7 out of 5) at a reasonable price of $45 for a two-hour walk makes it worth considering. That said, it’s not for everyone—if you’re not comfortable with walking or are looking for a tour suitable for very young kids, you might want to look elsewhere. But for those curious about the city’s unseen side, this could be a memorable addition to your Philly trip.

One potential downside is that the tour involves a good amount of walking and exposure to the weather, so dressing accordingly is important. Also, it’s not a tour for children under 10 or for those with mobility issues, as it’s designed for an adult audience with an interest in history and a sense of adventure.

This is a thoughtful, atmospheric experience that’s perfect for history buffs, curious explorers, or anyone interested in the city’s quieter, overlooked stories. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy storytelling with a touch of mystery and don’t mind a little outdoor walking to connect with the city’s underground past.

Key Points

• Unique focus on long-forgotten graves and underground stories in Philadelphia
• Educational and atmospheric, led by engaging guides with historical insights
• Two-hour walking experience starting at a notable Revolutionary War site
• Cost-effective at $45, offering good value for the depth of storytelling
• Weather-dependent and involves a significant amount of walking
• Not suitable for children under 10 or mobility-impaired travelers

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour is a walk through Philadelphia’s hidden depths, starting at the Tomb of the Revolutionary War Unknowns in Washington Square Park. From there, your guide will take you through the streets and alleyways of Old City, revealing stories of those buried beneath your feet—people whose lives shaped the city but whose stories are often overlooked in typical sightseeing.

You’ll learn about the long-forgotten graves that have been built over as the city grew—sometimes accidentally uncovered during construction or digging. The guide shares stories about unexpected encounters that have occurred when digging in the city—reminding us that the past isn’t quite done with us yet.

Throughout the two hours, expect a balanced mix of storytelling, historical context, and local lore. The tour concludes near the Betsy Ross House, tying together the city’s revolutionary roots with its underground stories. Be prepared for a fair bit of walking, and come dressed for the weather—comfortable shoes are a must.

The Journey Through Philadelphia’s Hidden Grave Sites

The starting point at Washington Square Park is a natural choice—famous for its Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, it sets a solemn tone and hints at the stories buried beneath. From there, the guide will lead you through narrow streets and quiet corners, pointing out graves and sharing stories of the city’s deceased inhabitants.

One thing we liked was how the stories are woven into the landscape. For example, some graves have unexpected histories tied to them—like stories of conflict, love, or tragedy that connect the past with the present. The guide’s insights are engaging and well-informed, offering a glimpse into Philadelphia’s less-visible history.

Many reviews highlight that the stories of the city’s underground life are compelling; one reviewer noted, “We loved the way the guide brought history to life with stories I hadn’t heard elsewhere.” Others mentioned surprise encounters with the city’s underground secrets, which added a layer of excitement.

The Value of the Experience

At $45, this tour offers great value for anyone interested in local history or haunted stories. It’s not a flashy ghost tour with theatrics—rather, it’s a thoughtful, story-driven experience that makes you think about the stories lurking beneath your feet as you walk the streets.

If you’re a history lover, you’ll appreciate the depth of the insights provided. If you’re a curious traveler who enjoys exploring dark corners of cities, this tour can be a surprising highlight. It’s also a good choice for those who like to learn stories that aren’t part of the usual tourist chatter.

That said, because the tour involves walking — often in outdoor settings — it’s worth planning for weather conditions. You’ll want comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate attire to stay comfortable during the two hours.

The Itinerary Breakdown

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Starting Point: Washington Square Park

The tour kicks off at the Tomb of the Revolutionary War Unknowns, a respectful and historically significant site. Here, your guide will set the scene by explaining how Philadelphia’s graves have often been disturbed or built over, revealing why exploring these forgotten sites is both fascinating and a little eerie.

Walking Through Old City

From there, expect a mix of short walks through the historic streets—each with its own hidden story. The guide points out graves and shares insights into the lives of those buried there. You might learn about individuals whose stories are connected to the city’s colonial days, or about those whose remains have been uncovered during recent construction.

Unexpected Encounters

The tour emphasizes unusual stories and encounters. Some reviews mention stories of graves being uncovered unexpectedly, or hearing local legends that have persisted for generations. This adds a bit of mystery to what might otherwise seem like a straightforward historical walk.

End Near Betsy Ross House

The tour wraps up near the Betsy Ross House, tying in Philadelphia’s revolutionary history with its underground stories. It’s a fitting ending—reminding you that history is everywhere, even beneath the surface.

What You’ll Learn

• The history of long-forgotten graves beneath the city
• How construction and city growth have intersected with underground burials
• The stories of individuals buried in hidden or forgotten graves
• Encounters and stories about unexpected discoveries during digging in Philadelphia
• How the city’s past still lingers beneath busy streets

Practical Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes—there’s a fair amount of walking involved
• Dress weather-appropriate, especially if rain or cold is forecasted
• Bring a camera—many graves and street views are photo-worthy
• The tour is in English and is wheelchair accessible
• Arrive a little early to find the meeting point near the flags at Washington Square Park
• Since it’s a two-hour walk, bring water if needed
• Remember, children under 10 are not suited for this tour, and it’s best for those interested in history and stories

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a different perspective on Philadelphia—one that reveals stories lurking just beneath the surface. It’s a calm, educational experience that combines history, mystery, and storytelling in a way that feels authentic and respectful. It’s not a high-energy, spooky haunted house, but rather a reflective walk through the city’s underground past.

For travelers who enjoy history, local tales, or uncovering hidden stories, this tour stands out as a well-crafted experience at a fair price. It’s perfect if you’re looking for something atmospheric yet grounded in real stories—something that encourages you to see the city in a new light.

If you’re interested in exploring Philadelphia’s unseen layers without the crowds or gimmicks, this experience is worth considering. Just be prepared for some walking and outdoor weather, and you’ll come away with a deeper sense of the city’s quiet, sometimes unsettling, past.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour isn’t recommended for children under 10, mainly because it involves a good amount of walking and some of the stories may be more suitable for older audiences.

Does the tour involve transportation?
No, transportation to the meeting point is not included. You’ll need to get yourself to Washington Square Park where the tour begins.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are essential. Dress according to the weather forecast—think layers, rain gear, or sun protection as needed.

Can I take photos during the tour?
Yes, photography is encouraged, but please be respectful of the sites and stories shared.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 2 hours, covering a fair amount of ground on foot.

Is the tour accessible?
Yes, it’s wheelchair accessible, making it more inclusive for people with mobility issues.

What’s the start point?
Near the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Washington Square Park, identifiable by the flags and the guide wearing an “Offbeat Philly” shirt.

What makes this tour different from other sightseeing options?
Unlike typical city tours, this one focuses on the hidden, underground stories buried beneath the city streets—offering a quiet, mysterious experience that uncovers Philadelphia’s forgotten graves.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility.

Overall, if you’re drawn to stories of the past that many overlook, and you’re comfortable with walking and outdoor conditions, this Philadelphia’s Dead tour can be a quietly compelling way to spend a couple of hours exploring the city’s unseen history.

You can check availability for your dates here: