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Philly Urban History and Architecture Tour

1 Review 5.00 out of 5 stars Based on 1 reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and TripAdvisor | Recommended by 100% of reviewers | Philadelphia, USA
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 28 (0) days in advance.

2 hours 30 minutes (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English

Overview

Explore Philadelphia’s history on this walking tour led by a Philly native and trained urban planner.

This tour delves into the urban history of the city, its streets, parks, architecture, and transit systems, through the lens of its many historical nicknames.

How did a map make Philadelphia the largest city in early America? Why does Michelin call it the Frenchest America City? Did a skyscraper really anger the spirit of the city’s founder, causing a decades-long curse? You'll learn it all!

The tour includes:
- A guided walk along one of the country's most beautiful streets, the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.
- Insight into Philadelphia's unique historical, cultural, and architectural significance.
- A history of the city's urban transformation from 1683 to modern times.

What's Included

  • Walking tour
  • Guide

    Meeting Location

    Meeting point

    1400 John F Kennedy Boulevard
    Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA

    Show on Google Maps

    Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

    End point

    2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway
    Philadelphia, PA 19130, USA

    Tour ends at PMA’s "Rocky Steps". SEPTA transit options to return to City Hall include: - 38 bus (pick up at Art Museum Dr south of the Armenian Heritage Walk) - 32 bus (pick up at Pennsylvania Ave & 25th St just north of Joan of Arc Statue) - 48 bus (pick up on the NW corner of 23rd St & Green St)

    What To Expect

    Book Online

    Our secure website provides real-time availability, and free, no-hassle cancellations up to 24 hours before your tour begins.
    Read more

    Safe & secure Easy breezy Hassle‑free

    Philadelphia City Hall is the seat of government for the City of Philadelphia, located at 1400 John F. Kennedy Blvd. Completed in 1901, it is the largest municipal building in the United States and a masterpiece of Second Empire architecture.
    Read more

    15 minutes Admission Ticket Free

    Love Park

    JFK Plaza (Love Park) (officially named John F. Kennedy Plaza) is a vibrant and iconic public square located in Center City Philadelphia, right at the intersection of John F. Kennedy Boulevard and North 15th Street.
    Read more

    15 minutes Admission Ticket Free

    Rodin Museum

    The museum features nearly 150 bronze, marble, and plaster sculptures by the renowned French artist, including iconic works such as The Thinker, The Gates of Hell, and The Burghers of Calais.
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    15 minutes Admission Ticket Free

    The Franklin Institute

    The Franklin Institute is a renowned science museum and center of science education located at 222 N 20th Street on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway in Philadelphia. Named in honor of the American scientist and statesman Benjamin Franklin, it is one of the oldest and most prominent museums of its kind in the United States.
    Read more

    15 minutes Admission Ticket Free

    Philadelphia Museum of Art

    Philadelphia Museum of Art is one of the largest and most renowned art museums in the United States, majestically situated at the terminus of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway at 2600 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy in Philadelphia.
    Read more

    15 minutes Admission Ticket Free

    Show 4 more stops

    Additional Info

    • Service animals allowed
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
    • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 15 travelers

    Frequently Asked Questions (8)

    Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Philly Urban History and Architecture Tour?

    A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (EST). Read more Apr 2025

    Cancellation Policy

    You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

    Still have questions?

    We're here to help.
    Activity code: C-5701426P1

    Traveler Photos

    Reviews

    5.00
    1 reviews

    Average 5.00 out of 5 stars based on 1 traveler reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

    5 stars
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    Don't miss out!
    On average, this is booked 28 (0) days in advance.

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    What's Included

    Activity name

    • Walking tour
    • Guide

    Additional Info

    Activity name

    • Service animals allowed
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
    • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 15 travelers

    Report Product Issue

    Activity name