Philadelphia’s Dead: Eerie Exploration of Forgotten Graves

If you’re looking for a tour that blends history, mystery, and a touch of the supernatural, Philadelphia’s Dead offers a fascinating two-hour stroll through the city’s underground stories. Led by knowledgeable guides like Mike, this experience costs $45 per person and takes you from the Tomb of the Revolutionary War Unknowns in Washington Square to the historic streets near the Betsy Ross House.

What really makes this tour special is the way it reveals the stories of long-forgotten inhabitants who once called Philadelphia home—some with quite remarkable tales. We love the opportunity to learn about the city’s hidden graves that lie beneath modern streets, and the way the guide shares unexpected encounters that happen when digging into the city’s subterranean past. Also, the tour’s accessible duration and intimate size make it an ideal choice for those curious about Philadelphia’s ghosts and history.

A potential consideration is the weather—since the tour involves walking outdoors, it’s best suited for fair weather days. It’s not designed for children under 10 or people with mobility issues, so plan accordingly. This experience is perfect for history buffs, curious travelers, and those who enjoy ghost stories with a factual twist.

If you’re someone eager to explore Philadelphia’s underground secrets beyond the usual sights, this tour will satisfy your curiosity and leave you with a new appreciation for the city’s long and layered past.

Key Points

• Authentic stories of Philadelphia’s long-buried residents bring history to life.
• Guided by experts who provide insightful details about the city’s underground and forgotten graves.
• Two-hour duration strikes a perfect balance between depth and pace, suitable for most schedules.
• Accessible walking and wheelchair-friendly options make it inclusive.
• Weather-dependent outdoor experience, so check forecasts.
• Excellent value at $45 for a unique and eerie exploration of local history.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into Philadelphia’s Dead: What to Expect

We found this tour to be a compelling mix of history, storytelling, and urban exploration. The experience begins at the Tomb of the Revolutionary War Unknowns in Washington Square Park, a poignant starting point that immediately invites reflection on the sacrifices of Philadelphia’s early residents. The guide, often Mike, sets a respectful tone, sharing stories of those buried beneath the city’s streets and reminding us of the layers of history beneath our feet.

Exploring Forgotten Graves and Their Stories

From the get-go, we loved the way the guide unraveled stories of deceased inhabitants whose graves have long been hidden by urban development. Since Philadelphia’s founding in 1682, the city has grown over many burial sites, often without a trace. As the tour progresses toward the area near the Betsy Ross House, you’ll discover how streets, subways, and buildings have been built atop these forgotten resting places, sometimes resulting in unexpected encounters—like strange noises or mysterious sightings—adding a layer of intrigue.

The Significance of the Graves

The tour doesn’t just show you graves; it tells you about the people buried there. We appreciated hearing about their lives, deaths, and the historical context of their times. For example, some graves belong to early settlers, Revolutionary War soldiers, or ordinary citizens whose stories might have been lost without this guided excavation of the underground.

Unexpected Encounters and Urban Legends

One of the most captivating parts is discussing the unusual encounters that occur when digging or working in the city’s underground. Our guide shared stories of unexpected discoveries—sometimes a grave marker, sometimes just strange sensations—that make you think about what lies beneath the pavement. These tales add a compelling layer to the experience, making history feel just a little more alive—and maybe a bit spooky.

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Practical Details and Group Size

The tour lasts approximately 2 hours and is conducted in the evening, which enhances the eerie atmosphere. We found the group size to be just right—small enough to feel intimate, but large enough to share stories and ask questions comfortably. The guide’s knowledge and storytelling skills enrich the experience, making complex history accessible and engaging.

Accessibility and Comfort

The tour is wheelchair accessible, which is welcoming for those with mobility issues. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes since there’s quite a bit of strolling, and checking the weather forecast to dress accordingly. Photography is encouraged, so bring a camera to capture the hauntingly beautiful sights and stories.

Value for Money

At $45, this is a reasonably priced experience considering its depth and uniqueness. You’re paying for more than just a walk; you’re paying for access to hidden stories, expert insights, and a sense of connection to the city’s underground. It’s a perfect choice if you’re seeking something different from traditional historical tours or ghost walks.

Breaking Down the Itinerary

Start at Washington Square Park near the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a site that demands reflection on the sacrifices made by those buried there. From there, the tour winds through the streets of Old City Philadelphia, with stops that reveal long-forgotten graves, some hidden beneath modern infrastructure.

Your guide will point out landmarks, share anecdotes about the buried residents, and describe how the city’s development has often occurred directly over these sites. The final stop near the Betsy Ross House allows for a natural conclusion, tying the stories of Philadelphia’s early citizens with the city’s revolutionary history.

Why the Graves Matter

Many of these graves are not marked or remembered, making the stories shared during the tour all the more valuable. Knowing that beneath your feet lie the remains of revolutionaries, settlers, and ordinary people helps you understand Philadelphia as a living city layered with stories, not just a collection of historic buildings.

Stories That Stick

We loved the way the guide connected historical facts to personal stories, making the past feel real. As one reviewer put it, “the stories are told with such passion, you can’t help but feel a connection to those buried beneath us.” This human element brings a richness that pure sightseeing often misses.

Who Will This Tour Suit Best?

This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, curious travelers, and anyone interested in the hidden side of Philadelphia. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy urban exploration with a story, rather than traditional museums or guided city walks. Since it involves walking outdoors, it’s best for visitors in good health and weather conditions.

The Sum Up

Philadelphia’s Dead offers a thoughtful, engaging journey into the city’s underground past. It combines storytelling, history, and a dash of ghostly wonder, making it a memorable experience for those who enjoy uncovering stories beneath the surface. The knowledgeable guides, manageable length, and focus on authentic stories make this tour a worthwhile addition to your Philadelphia itinerary.

If you’re fascinated by the idea of forgotten graves and unseen histories, this tour will leave you with a renewed sense of the city’s layered story—one buried beneath streets and sidewalks, waiting to be uncovered. It’s ideal for inquisitive travelers who appreciate a mix of history, mystery, and a touch of the supernatural.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost of the tour?
The tour costs $45 per person, which offers good value for a two-hour guided exploration into Philadelphia’s underground stories.

Where does the tour start?
It begins near the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Washington Square Park. Look for the guide wearing an “Offbeat Philly” shirt and the flags near the tomb.

How long does the tour last?
The experience takes approximately 2 hours, making it manageable for most schedules without feeling rushed.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 10, mainly because of the outdoor walking and the nature of the stories.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility challenges?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible, ensuring everyone can participate comfortably.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are a must, as there is a good amount of walking. Dressing weather-appropriate is also advised, especially for evening tours.

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

Will I see actual graves?
While the tour focuses on stories of long-forgotten graves and underground sites, most graves are not visible but discussed through historical insights and stories.

Is food or transportation included?
No, the tour does not include transportation or food. It’s a walking tour, so plan to meet at the starting point and perhaps explore nearby eateries afterward.

In essence, if you’re intrigued by Philadelphia’s little-known underground stories and enjoy a mix of history and ghostly tales, this tour offers a compelling, well-paced, and authentic experience that will leave you with a new appreciation for the city’s layered past.

You can check availability for your dates here: