Philadelphia: Guided Tour with Pub Crawl

Exploring Philadelphia: Guided Tour with Pub Crawl – A Honest Look

If you’re considering a way to mix a little history with some fun drinks while exploring Philadelphia, this guided pub crawl might catch your eye. While I haven’t personally done this exact tour, I’ve seen enough reviews to give you a clear picture of what to expect. It’s designed to be an engaging blend of storytelling, local flavors, and a chance to meet fellow travelers.

What really stands out? First, the expert guides clearly know their stuff, weaving stories about Philadelphia’s grit and the people who shaped it. Second, the exclusive local beers and spirits offer a taste of the city’s beverage culture that you won’t find just anywhere. However, one thing to keep in mind is that the bars are quite close together, so if you’re hoping for a long, wandering pub crawl, this might feel a little more like a quick tour than a full evening out.

This experience seems best suited for those who love history with a side of socializing—whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local looking for a new spin on familiar sights. If you’re after a casual, informative, and lively few hours, this tour could fit the bill perfectly.

Key Points

• History & Entertainment Combined: An engaging way to learn Philadelphia’s past while enjoying drinks.
• Easy Walks & Close Bars: All stops are within a few blocks, making it accessible for most.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable storytellers who add depth to the experience.
• Local Beers & Spirits: Enjoy exclusive drinks that highlight Philadelphia’s beverage scene.
• Flexible Payment & Cancellation: Book now, pay later, and cancel 24 hours ahead if needed.
• Age Restrictions: Only for those 21 and over with proper ID, so not suitable for kids or teenagers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What the Tour Looks Like

The tour kicks off at the corner of Market Street and N 2nd Street, near The Christ Church, a historic spot that’s easy to find. Your guide, holding a “Philly Crawling” sign, will welcome you and set the tone for a fun and relaxed two hours.

During this time, you’ll hop between four iconic Philadelphia bars nestled in the historic Old City. These aren’t just any pubs—they’re places that have stories as much as drinks to offer. Think of it as a curated journey through the city’s tavern culture, with each stop chosen for its historical significance and lively atmosphere.

The Stops & What You’ll Experience

While the exact bars aren’t named in the provided info, the focus is on exploring famous local haunts and hidden taverns. Expect to enjoy a variety of exclusive beers and spirits at each location, with the option to purchase additional drinks as you go. This setup allows for a casual experience where you can savor drinks at your own pace.

The tour provides a lively backdrop of good music, laughter, and stories about Philadelphia’s fight for independence, hidden histories, and notorious figures like Benjamin Franklin and the city’s founding mothers. From the reviews, it’s clear guides do a great job of mixing humor with historical facts, sometimes revealing tales that social studies “left out.”

The Guide & Their Role

The reviews praise guides for being knowledgeable and funny—which makes a huge difference. We loved how they make history accessible and entertaining, turning a simple pub crawl into a lively storytelling session. One reviewer even noted, “This was our second tour with Jenna. We love her!” which speaks to the consistent quality of guides.

Drinks & Food – What’s Included?

The tour doesn’t include pre-paid drinks but allows you to purchase at each stop. There’s an option called the “Beer Bundle,” which includes four beers of your choice—perfect if you want to keep things simple and avoid the hassle of ordering each time. Plus, there’s an alternative “Dry Run” ticket for those who prefer wine or spirits, or simply less than four beers.

Keep in mind, food isn’t included, so if you’re hungry, it’s best to plan for snacks or a meal afterward.

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Is It Worth The Price?

At $45 per person for a two-hour experience, this pub crawl offers a fair price considering the inclusion of four stops, an expert guide, and a focus on Philadelphia’s history. When you factor in the social aspect and insider stories, it’s a pretty good deal, especially if you enjoy guided experiences that combine education and fun.

Reviewers mention that the bars are very close, making it ideal for a relaxed pace rather than a long night of walking. If you’re looking for a lively, sociable way to spend a few hours immersed in Philly’s stories—and sample a few local drinks—this tour delivers a lot of value.

Deep Dive: The Experience

The tour’s highlight is the storytelling. Guides do a great job of unraveling lesser-known tales about Philadelphia, from devious plots and spies to founding mothers. One reviewer commented, “Really enjoyed the history provided on the tour,” which underscores the value of knowledgeable guides.

The bars themselves are within walking distance of each other, making it easy to hop from one to the next without too much strain. The pace is relaxed, with enough time at each stop to chat, sip, and absorb the atmosphere. The social aspect is often praised; travelers enjoy meeting others from around the globe, sharing stories, and laughing together.

Many reviews emphasize that the experience is fun and lively, with a friendly atmosphere created by guides and fellow participants. The music adds to the vibe, making it more than just a drinking tour—it’s a cultural experience that balances education and entertainment.

What Could Be Better?

Some travelers might feel it’s a bit short for a pub crawl, or that it’s more of a quick tour rather than a long, boisterous night out. If you’re hoping for a full evening of bars with dancing or late-night revelry, you might find this a bit subdued. Also, since food isn’t included, those with big appetites should plan accordingly.

Who Should Sign Up?

This tour is excellent for history buffs who enjoy a relaxed social setting, and anyone curious about the stories behind Philadelphia’s historic sites. It’s also ideal for travelers who want to meet new people and sample local drinks without a hefty price tag.

If you prefer a more extensive night out with multiple bars, or are looking for a more party-focused experience, you might want to consider other options. But for a lively, storytelling-focused experience in Old City with easy access and friendly guides, this is a solid pick.

Final Thoughts

The Philadelphia Guided Tour with Pub Crawl offers a relaxed, engaging way to spend a couple of hours getting to know the city’s history and drinking some of its best local beers. It’s well-suited for curious travelers who enjoy stories as much as they enjoy a good pint and a laugh. With knowledgeable guides and a friendly atmosphere, you’ll likely come away with a deeper appreciation for Philadelphia’s past—and some fun memories.

Keep in mind that it’s a quick, social experience rather than a hardcore night of bar hopping. If that matches what you’re after, this tour is worth considering. Just remember to bring your ID, enjoy the stories, and raise a glass to the City of Brotherly Love.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people under 21?
No, you must be at least 21 years old with proper ID to join, as alcohol is involved.

What’s included in the ticket price?
The ticket covers the history tour, guide, and stops at four iconic Philly bars. Drinks are purchased separately unless you buy the Beer Bundle.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are the bars far apart?
No, all stops are within a few blocks, making for an easy walk from one to the next.

What should I bring?
Bring your driver’s license or other valid ID. Food isn’t included, so plan to eat before or after.

Is this tour available in the evening?
Yes, it’s usually offered in the afternoon or evening, providing flexibility for your schedule.

Can I pay on the day of the tour?
You can reserve your spot now and pay later, giving you flexibility if your plans change.

If you’re after a fun, informative way to explore Philadelphia’s streets and stories, this pub crawl might just be your next favorite activity. Just go with an open mind, a sense of adventure, and a readiness to learn and laugh.

You can check availability for your dates here: