Historic District - Society Hill
Philadelphia, USA
Culture shock rating
Worried we’re going to shock your senses? Relax! We believe part of the fun of travel is immersing yourself in the destination and its culture, meeting the people, and learning what makes the place tick. We’ve got a wide range of tours with something for everybody. The cultural shock rating ranks how different the experience is from most Western cultures. But no matter the level, don’t worry, you’ll have a local, in-the-know guide with you every step of the way.
Low
Consider these tours your 101 intro to a place. Transportation might be private or a very comfortable public option, and the activities are usually visits to iconic sites and locations that are familiar to most Western cultures – but that will still give you fantastic insight into a destination.
Medium
Expect to rough it for parts of this tour, whether that’s on a packed public bus or in a local market off the tourist trail. There might be a few language barriers or unfamiliar cultural customs, and you’ll get an experience different from what you're used to at home.
High
You're out there in the global community! We’re going to take you down streets you’d rarely explore on your own, introduce you to local customs and languages, and take you for a ride in whatever transport is available. Get ready to take it as it comes, whatever comes. There might be a shock, but oh man, it’s worth it.
Physical rating
Worried our tours are too tough? Relax! From leisurely strolls to muscle-burning treks, we’ve got a wide range of tours with something for everybody. The physical grading gives you an idea of how much huffing and puffing you can expect on the tour.
Low
Slow and steady is all you need here. These tours have very limited physical activity, such as walking relatively flat streets, sites, or markets, and climbing in and out of the transport provided.
Medium
Not too hard, not too soft, these tours are just right! You can expect a bit of physical activity, but nothing overly challenging – perhaps walking up and down hills, riding a bike for up to 30 kilometers along mostly flat terrain, or jumping in a kayak for a gentle paddle on flat water.
High
Get ready for a workout! These tours are our most challenging and involve intense walking, hiking, kayaking, swimming, or bike riding. You could be making steep climbs by foot or pedal, or working your core in the water. We recommend you have a good level of fitness to join this tour.
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Tour snapshot
Visit the vibrant and historic neighborhood of Old City, wander through the narrow streets, visit some of the city's oldest places of worship, learn the history at Independence National Park, hear historic stories at Washington Square, soak in the charm and beauty of Society Hill, and enjoy an ale and snack at The Triumph Brewery.
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Highlights
- Explore famous sights and experience many stories of a unique city, from the oldest hospital and the first black church, to the beautiful residential streets that comprise Society Hill as well as Independence Hall
- Enjoy fabulous art, a variety of architecture, local foods and hand-crafted beer.
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Schedule details
- Duration: 3 hours
- Pickup location:
Independence Visitor Center at 6th & Market Streets, inside at the back of the building next to the video wall.
- Pickup time: 2.30 PM
- Drop off location:
City Tavern at 2nd & Walnut Streets.
Language: English
Inclusions: English speaking guide, admission to various historic buildings and snacks.
Exclusions: Items of a personal nature, tips and gratuities
Start at the Independence Visitor Center and walk into one of the most vibrant and historic neighborhoods in the city. You'll have a chance to experience some of Philly's oldest and still active places of worship and enjoy a snack or coffee at a couple of Old City's local businesses. Continue on to walk through the tiny narrow streets of this neighborhood and take in Old City's art, music, and food scene.
Continue on to Independence National Park. You'll have a chance to visit some of the most popular and can't-miss attractions in Philadelphia. You'll likely walk past some famous sites, such as Ben Franklin's home, Carpenter's Hall, the Second Bank of the United States, Independence Hall, Congress Hall, and the Liberty Bell.
Continue on to hear stories in Washington Square, and then possibly you'll have a chance to see America's oldest hospital. Wandering through the quiet side streets of Society Hill learn about the Founding Fathers, the Free African Society and early churches.
Continuing through Society Hill and enjoy the many different architectural styles, from colonial and Georgian to Greek revival and 19th century. The final section of the tour will go past the Merchant’s Exchange, the first of its kind in the country. End up at the Triumph Brewery for a chance to taste some of the local ales.
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Additional information
Inclusions: English speaking guide, admission to various historic buildings and snacks.
Exclusions: Items of a personal nature, tips and gratuities
Dress standard: A good pair of comfortable walking shoes is advisable. Make sure to check the weather report for rain!
Your Trip: This tour is offered on a "join-in" basis. Maximum group size is 12.
Confirmation of booking: Please contact our office at 215-280-3746 to confirm your tour 24 hours prior to departure.
Additional Information: Dr. Physick's soda will only be available from May. In the meantime this will be replaced with other popular sodas.
Closure of sites: Some churches may not be open to us on a Sunday.
Child Policy: Children should be 6 years of age to 12 years inclusively.
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Local contact
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