True Crime Philadelphia and History Tour

True Crime Philadelphia and History Tour offers an unusual yet captivating way to experience the City of Brotherly Love. For $44 per person, you’ll spend about two and a half hours traversing historic neighborhoods, visiting iconic sites like Benjamin Franklin’s grave, and hearing gripping tales of serial killers that terrorized the city. Led by guides with Master’s degrees in American History, this tour combines historic sightseeing with chilling crime stories, creating an experience that’s as educational as it is unsettling.

What we particularly appreciate about this tour is the expert storytelling—every guide is well-educated, bringing a scholarly tone to the dark tales and historic locations. Plus, the access to sites like the Christ Church graveyard and Betsy Ross’s neighborhood adds a tangible connection to Philadelphia’s past. A potential consideration is the adult content and mature themes, which makes this tour less suitable for children, especially the Saturday cemetery tour which is adults-only. If you’re a history enthusiast with a taste for the macabre, or simply looking for a different way to explore Philly’s streets, this tour could become a memorable highlight of your visit.

The tour is well-suited for those who enjoy learning about history through storytelling, as well as travelers interested in the city’s darker stories. It’s especially popular with adults who appreciate authentic, locally-led experiences that go beyond typical sightseeing. If you’re curious about the city’s serial killers, historic cemeteries, or want a guide with scholarly credentials, this tour offers compelling value.

Key Points

• Expert Guides: All guides hold Master’s Degrees in American History, ensuring accurate and engaging storytelling.
• Unique Mix: Combines historic sites and true crime stories, appealing to multiple interests.
• Notable Locations: Visits include Betsy Ross’s neighborhood, Benjamin Franklin’s grave, and Christ Church Cemetery.
• Authentic Experience: Led by knowledgeable guides who make history come alive with passion and humor.
• Accessible and Flexible: Offers rescheduling with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and is wheelchair accessible.
• Age Restrictions: The Saturday cemetery tour is for adults only, due to adult content.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail: A Walk Through Philadelphia’s Dark and Historic Corners

When you arrive at the Independence Visitor Center on 6th and Market Streets, you’re already stepping into the heart of Philadelphia’s historical core. The tour begins outside the front doors, where your guide—usually someone with a strong academic background—sets the tone for what’s to come. Over the next two and a half hours, you’ll wander through critical sites, hearing stories that blend America’s founding history with the city’s notorious crimes.

Visiting Historic Sites with a Twist

One of the highlights is the visit to Benjamin Franklin’s cemetery, where you’ll learn about the man who helped shape American independence while also hearing stories about the city’s darker past. The graveyard at Christ Church, a historic site frequented by founding fathers, provides a peaceful setting that contrasts sharply with the chilling tales shared during the tour.

The Betsy Ross House neighborhood is another key stop. While most visitors know Betsy Ross for sewing the first American flag, here you’ll hear stories beyond the legend—stories of the city’s early days, revolutionary fervor, and some of its most infamous serial killers. The guides skillfully weave these narratives, keeping your interest piqued and your mind engaged.

The True Crime Stories

What sets this tour apart is its true crime element. Your guides don’t just recite dates and facts—they tell stories of serial killers who once roamed Philadelphia’s alleys and streets, giving an eerie sense of the city’s more sinister side. These are stories of infamous Philadelphia serial killers, presented in a way that is respectful but gripping. Many reviews mention how knowledgeable guides like Ted and Joseph keep the stories lively, funny, and informative.

Why We Loved It

We appreciated the depth of knowledge guides bring—every one of them holds a Master’s Degree in American History, which means the stories are rooted in solid research. Their passion shines through as they connect the dots between historic events and the chilling crimes, making the city’s past feel alive and personal.

Another perk is the inclusion of admission fees—you don’t have to worry about extra costs—plus the accessibility options, like wheelchair access. The tour runs rain or shine, so you can plan accordingly, just dress for the weather.

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Considerations and Practical Tips

A potential drawback for some travelers is the adult content, especially during the Saturday cemetery tour, which is strictly for grown-ups. Families with children should be cautious, as some stories and themes may be too intense.

The tour’s price point of $44 is reasonable considering the depth of storytelling and access to historic sites. Compared to other guided experiences, it offers excellent value—especially given the high praise for guides’ knowledge, humor, and storytelling skills.

Analyzing the Value

At $44 for 2.5 hours, this tour stands out as a cost-effective way to explore Philadelphia’s lesser-known stories. It’s especially valuable for those who want more than just a surface-level look at historic sites. The fact that every guide has a Master’s degree in American History reassures travelers that they’re getting expert insights. Plus, the stories are told in a lively, engaging way that makes learning about history fun rather than dry.

Many reviews highlight guides like Ted and Joseph as the reason the tour feels special—knowledgeable, personable, and full of good stories and dad jokes. This personal touch enhances the experience, making it memorable. The inclusion of the Grim Philly Podcast offers a way to explore more stories on your own time, extending the value of the tour.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history buffs who enjoy murder mysteries and true crime stories, as well as those interested in Philadelphia’s revolutionary past. It’s perfect for adults who appreciate storytelling from qualified guides and prefer walking tours that combine education with entertainment. If you are traveling with older children or teens interested in history, this could be an exciting and informative outing. However, families with young children or those sensitive to mature themes might want to consider the adult-only Saturday cemetery tour.

Final Thoughts: Why This Tour Should Be on Your List

For travelers seeking a unique blend of history and true crime, this tour offers a well-balanced, engaging journey through Philadelphia’s past. The combination of professional guides, compelling stories, and historic sites makes it stand out. It provides a more authentic experience compared to generic city tours, because it connects you directly to the city’s most intriguing and sometimes dark stories.

While it may not be suitable for young children, adults who appreciate knowledgeable storytelling and a dash of morbid history will find this tour both entertaining and informative. It’s a fantastic choice for those wanting to see Philadelphia through a different lens—a city full of stories, both inspiring and unsettling.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
The Saturday cemetery option is for adults only due to adult content. Children should be accompanied by an adult if the regular tour is taken, but parents should be aware it contains mature themes.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 2.5 hours long, typically scheduled in the afternoon.

Where does the tour meet?
It starts outside the Independence Visitor Center at 6th and Market Streets.

Are tickets refundable?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexible plans.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for a wider range of travelers.

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers admission fees and the guidance of a well-educated, expert guide.

Can I book in advance?
Absolutely, and you can reserve now & pay later, which is handy for flexible travel plans.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for weather conditions and wear sturdy shoes suitable for walking.

Is this tour good for history enthusiasts?
Definitely. With guides holding Master’s degrees in American History, you’ll get a scholarly yet engaging perspective.

What makes the guides stand out?
They are praised for their knowledge, humor, and storytelling ability, making history both educational and fun.

If you’re looking for an immersive, well-researched tour that blends Philadelphia’s revolutionary history with its more sinister stories, the True Crime Philadelphia and History Tour offers an experience you won’t forget. It’s perfect for grown-up history lovers eager for a different kind of city tour—one that combines educational insight with a touch of the macabre.

You can check availability for your dates here: