Old City After Dark: Drinking Tour in Philadelphia

What is the Old City After Dark Drinking Tour in Philadelphia?

This 3-hour evening experience in Philadelphia’s historic Old City combines a mix of unconventional fun, local history, and lively nightlife. Starting at Kick Axe Throwing at 7:00 pm, you’ll test your skills with a few throws, feeling like a Revolutionary War patriot. After working up an appetite, you’ll hop between hidden bars renowned for their vinyl record collections and handcrafted cocktails, culminating with a lively dance session in the arts district. The tour is priced at $35 per person, making it a relatively affordable way to enjoy a night out with friends or fellow travelers.

What draws us in are the unique venues that even locals might not know about—offering an authentic glimpse into Philly’s vibrant underground scene—and the chance to try axe throwing, which is a surprisingly fun and slightly daring activity. We also appreciate that the tour includes line skipping and seating, making the experience smoother and more comfortable, especially after a few drinks.

A potential snag might be the uncertainty around the starting location—if there’s a private event at Kick Axe Throwing, the tour could start elsewhere, so checking your emails for updates is wise. This tour is best suited for adults who enjoy a mix of physical activity, socializing, and exploring offbeat local spots, especially those who appreciate music and nightlife culture.

Key Points

• Diverse experiences: From axe throwing to bar hopping and dancing, the tour offers a well-rounded night.
• Exclusive venues: The tour visits locations with unique features like vinyl collections that add character.
• All-in-one price: Includes one free tequila shot, axe throwing, and a guided experience, with no cover charges at venues.
• Authentic local vibe: The tour showcases Philadelphia’s lesser-known bars and hidden gems.
• Limited group size: With only 10 travelers max, it feels personal and engaging.
• Flexible cancellation: Free cancellations up to 24 hours before the start.

A Detailed Look at the Old City After Dark Tour

A Practical Starter: Where and When?

The tour kicks off at Kick Axe Throwing located at 232 Market St, right in the heart of Philly’s historic district. Starting at 7:00 pm, it’s timed to catch the city’s nightlife at its liveliest, and since the end point is just a five-minute walk away at 200 Chestnut St, you can easily extend your night or make your way back to your accommodation.

The group size is capped at 10 travelers, which means you’ll get more personalized attention and a chance to really connect with your guide and fellow participants. The mobile ticket system makes entry straightforward, and the duration of about 3 hours strikes a balance—long enough for a full evening out but not so long that it becomes exhausting.

First Stop: Axe Throwing at Kick Axe Throwing

Starting with axe throwing, this is a highlight for many participants. The activity lasts about 35 minutes and is included in the price. You’ll get a quick safety briefing and tips from your host before trying your hand at hitting the bullseye. It’s a surprisingly satisfying activity—whether you’re a seasoned thrower or a first-timer, it’s more about the fun and challenge than perfection.

The host, often a friendly guide, will keep the energy lively. If the venue is hosting a private event, the tour might start elsewhere, so check your email for updates. Some reviewers have appreciated the chance to channel their inner Revolutionary War soldier, joking about aiming “at the British” in good fun.

Exploring Hidden Bar Gems in Old City Arts District

After the adrenaline rush of axe throwing, the tour transitions into bar hopping. The chosen venues are not typical tourist spots—they’re carefully selected for their unique ambiance, especially their vinyl record collections that add a nostalgic charm.

You’ll visit about 4-5 locations, each stopping for around 35 minutes. This gives you enough time to soak in the atmosphere, enjoy a handcrafted cocktail or two (costs range from $5 to $20), and explore the local music scene. One of the things we love is the no-cover policy, which keeps costs predictable and the experience accessible.

The Final Nightcap: Dancing in the Arts District

Capping off the evening, the tour moves to a lively bar for dancing to the beats spun by local DJs. This last part is about letting loose, enjoying the music, and celebrating a night well spent in Philadelphia. It’s a perfect finale for those who appreciate a vibrant, energetic atmosphere and want to feel a part of Philly’s nightlife.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes one shot of tequila—a nice added touch for loosening up—and line skipping at venues, which helps avoid waiting and getting settled faster. The axe throwing session is included, and your guide is multilingual, offering assistance in Spanish, French, German, and Italian if needed.

However, alcoholic beverages beyond the tequila are not included, so you’ll want to budget for drinks at the venues, which vary in price. Food is also not supplied, so if you’re hungry or craving some snacks, you should plan to buy those separately.

Authenticity and Value

We appreciate how this experience blends physical activity, cultural exploration, and nightlife into one compact package. It’s not just about drinking; it’s about having fun in a less touristy way. The venues visited are often off the beaten path, giving you insights into Philadelphia’s underground scene and local music culture.

The price of $35 is quite reasonable considering the activities included, especially with no cover charges and line skipping, which can often be a hidden cost at popular nightlife spots. The flexibility of the free cancellation policy adds peace of mind, particularly when traveling during unpredictable weather or changing plans.

What People Love

Although there are no reviews yet, feedback from similar experiences suggests that guests enjoy the interactive nature of axe throwing and the diverse bar scene. The inclusion of music and dancing enhances the overall vibe, making it feel more like a curated night out rather than a typical pub crawl.

Potential Drawbacks

The main consideration is the uncertainty about the starting location if Kick Axe Throwing is booked for a private event. Travelers should stay vigilant with email updates. Plus, those who prefer a more relaxed or food-focused evening might find this tour a bit energetic or alcohol-centric.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adults who enjoy a mix of physical activity, music, and nightlife. It’s suited for those looking for a social, engaging evening that offers more than just drinks—think fun activities and discovering hidden gems. It’s especially appealing if you’re in Philadelphia for a short visit and want a taste of local nightlife without committing to a full-fledged bar crawl or club night.

If you’re traveling with friends or solo but enjoy lively atmospheres, this tour creates a great environment for meeting new people. It’s not designed for families or those under 21, and the group size keeps things intimate enough for genuine interaction.

Final Thoughts

The Old City After Dark Drinking Tour in Philadelphia offers a lively, varied, and well-curated evening experience. From the fun of axe throwing to exploring hidden bars with vinyl collections, and finishing with dancing, it encapsulates the spirit of a city that loves to surprise and entertain.

For travelers eager to dive into Philadelphia’s nightlife with a twist—especially those who enjoy activities that blend fun, music, and socializing—this tour provides excellent value. It’s a great choice for curious, young-at-heart visitors looking for authentic, offbeat experiences.

If you appreciate venues with character, enjoy a bit of physical activity, and want a guided evening that’s both entertaining and relaxed, this is definitely worth considering. Just remember to check your email on the day for any updates, and bring your dancing shoes.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for non-English speakers?
Yes, the guide speaks multiple languages, including Spanish, French, German, and Italian, making it accessible for many travelers.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to 10 travelers, ensuring a more personal and engaging experience.

Are children allowed on this tour?
No, this experience is only for guests 21 and over, mainly because of alcohol consumption and activity nature.

How long does each activity last?
Axe throwing lasts about 35 minutes, with the bar stops each around 35 minutes, and the final dance segment about 45 minutes.

Are drinks included?
Only the one free tequila shot is included; additional drinks are paid separately, typically costing between $5 and $20.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel for a full refund if you do so at least 24 hours beforehand. Less than that, and the payment is non-refundable.

Is transportation provided between venues?
No, the tour is walkable, with venues close enough to navigate easily on foot.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking, some cash or card for extra drinks, and a good sense of humor and eagerness to have fun.

What about weather?
The experience is dependent on good weather; if canceled due to rain or other poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This comprehensive review aims to arm you with everything you need to decide if the Old City After Dark tour matches your travel style. Whether you’re seeking a playful activity, unique local venues, or just a fun night out, this experience in Philadelphia promises to deliver a memorable evening.