Old City Philly: Axe Throwing, Bar tour, and Salsa Class

Old City Philly: Axe Throwing, Bar Tour, and Salsa Class — A Fun-Filled Night Out in Philadelphia

Imagine spending an evening in Philadelphia’s historic Old City—but instead of wandering museums or historic landmarks, you’re throwing axes, tasting craft cocktails, and dancing salsa. For just $38 per person and about three hours of lively entertainment, this tour offers a mix of adrenaline, culture, and a bit of local flavor. Led by enthusiastic guides, this private experience is perfect for those who want to combine physical activity with socializing and authentic city vibes.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the axe throwing is surprisingly satisfying—nothing beats the feeling of hitting the wooden target, especially when the guide offers tips to improve your aim. Second, the bar crawl covers some of Old City’s most unique watering holes, including a speakeasy that spins vinyl records and a whiskey bar with over 60 options. We loved the variety, which adds a layer of discovery to each stop. A small caveat: since the tour doesn’t include food or drinks, you may want to budget for some snacks or cocktails of your own.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy active, social evenings filled with local flavor. It’s especially appealing for groups, couples, or solo travelers eager for a taste of Philadelphia’s lively nightlife and cultural mix in a manageable, well-paced format. If you’re looking for a fun way to break the ice or explore the city from a different angle, this experience is worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Balanced experience: Combines physical activity, cultural exploration, and dancing in one evening.
• Authentic spots: Visits local, character-filled bars, including a speakeasy and a whiskey bar.
• Learn new skills: Salsa dance instruction adds a lively, educational component.
• Value for money: At $38, the tour offers a diverse range of activities over three hours.
• No food included: You’ll want to bring or purchase your own snacks and drinks.
• Private group: Offers a personalized, intimate experience with knowledgeable guides.

A Closer Look at the Experience

Starting with Axe Throwing — A Surprisingly Satisfying Challenge

Your Philadelphia night kicks off at Kick Axe on Market Street, where you’ll be introduced to the basics of axe throwing. This activity isn’t just about primal fun; it’s about honing a skill, and the guides do a great job of making it accessible. We loved the sense of achievement when we finally managed to hit the target after a few tries. It’s a casual, safe environment where you can unleash your inner patriot—or just have a laugh trying.

Axe throwing is a good way to break the ice early in the evening, and it sets a lively tone. Plus, it offers a chance for some friendly competition, which suits groups or solo travelers eager to make new friends. The physical activity also helps work up an appetite or a thirst for what’s next.

Exploring Old City’s Bar Scene — Hidden Gems and Classic Spots

After the axes are put away, the tour moves into Old City’s vibrant bar scene. You’ll visit up to three bars, each with its own character. One highlight is a speakeasy that plays vinyl records, creating a cozy, nostalgic atmosphere—perfect for relaxing and soaking in local culture. Another stop is Mac’s Tavern, co-owned by “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia” stars Rob McElhenney and Kaitlin Olson, which adds a fun pop-culture twist.

Some guests noted that the whiskey bar features over 60 different options, appealing to aficionados and curious drinkers alike. The guides point out signature cocktails and share stories behind the drinks, making each stop both social and educational. We appreciated the insight into local drinks and the chance to try something new.

Since drinks and food are not included, you might want to budget around $10–$20 per stop if you plan to indulge. The flexibility allows you to choose what kind of experience you want—whether sampling craft cocktails, enjoying a casual beer, or just soaking up the vibrant neighborhood ambiance.

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Salsa and Latin Rhythms — A Fun and Energetic Dance Lesson

The evening’s highlight for many is the salsa dance session. Led by a local instructor, you’ll learn basic moves to Latin music—merengue, bachata, and salsa—while enjoying the beat of local DJs or traditional tunes. The dance is approachable, even for beginners, and the instructor’s friendly guidance makes sure everyone gets involved.

We loved the infectious energy and the laughter that filled the room. The dance portion isn’t about perfect technique but about having fun and connecting with the music. It’s a lively way to burn off some of the previous activities and leave with a better sense of rhythm—and maybe even some new dance moves to impress friends back home.

The Overall Flow and Logistics

This experience is designed for evening enjoyment, usually starting around 6 or 7 PM. It’s a private group, so the pace and the stops are flexible based on your group’s interests. The total duration is about three hours, making it manageable even after a full day of sightseeing.

The guides are knowledgeable and personable, sharing stories of Philadelphia’s history and culture that add context to each activity. Since transportation is not provided between stops, you’ll walk from venue to venue, which is a great way to see the neighborhood.

Practical Considerations

While the tour offers immense fun, there are some things to keep in mind. The activities are physical—axe throwing and dancing—so comfortable shoes and clothes are a must. Expect some walking and physical movement, which is part of the appeal but might be a challenge for those with back problems or mobility issues.

Note that intoxication isn’t permitted, so you’ll want to pace yourself if you plan to indulge. The tour is suitable only for travelers over 21, and children under 18 are not allowed. The experience is designed for a lively, adult audience seeking a night of authentic, hands-on fun.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At just $38, this experience packs a punch in terms of variety and authenticity. You’re not just visiting a bar or sitting in a dance class—you’re actively participating in each activity, which makes the memories more vivid. The private group format ensures personalized attention, and the combination of physical activity, cultural exploration, and social interaction creates a well-rounded night out.

The absence of food and drinks included means you can tailor your evening—whether you want to sip craft cocktails, sample local whiskey, or just enjoy the company of fellow travelers. It’s a good choice for those who enjoy learning new skills and exploring local neighborhoods without the hassle of organizing multiple activities separately.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect for travelers craving an interactive, energetic evening rather than a passive sightseeing experience. It’s ideal for groups of friends, couples, or solo travelers eager to meet new people and get a true taste of Philadelphia’s local nightlife. If you’re looking for a lighthearted, fun-filled night that balances activity with socializing, this tour will hit the right note.

It’s especially suitable for adventure seekers and those interested in cultural activities like dance and craft cocktails, providing an authentic glimpse into Philadelphia’s lively neighborhood scene. It’s also a good fit if you want a flexible, privately guided experience that can adapt to your group’s pace and interests.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, especially the salsa dance session, which is designed for all skill levels. The guides make it easy to follow along and have fun regardless of experience.

Are the activities physically demanding?
There’s some walking and physical activity involved, such as axe throwing and dancing, so comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended.

Can I bring my own drinks or snacks?
Since food and drinks aren’t included, you might want to bring some snacks or purchase drinks at the stops.

Are the stops within walking distance?
Yes, the venues are close enough for a manageable walk through Old City.

Is this experience private?
Yes, it’s offered as a private group experience, allowing for a more personalized and flexible outing.

What’s the age restriction?
Participants must be over 21, and children under 18 are not permitted.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and casual clothes suitable for active movement and walking.

How long does each activity last?
The entire tour runs about three hours, with activities including axe throwing, bar visits, and salsa dancing.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This Old City Philly experience offers a lively, authentic slice of Philadelphia’s nightlife, combining physical activity, culture, and social fun. For those who enjoy a bit of adventure—whether throwing axes, sampling whiskey, or learning salsa—this tour delivers a memorable evening at a reasonable price. It’s well-suited for travelers looking for something more active and engaging than traditional city tours, with the added bonus of flexibility and a private guide.

Whether you’re a solo traveler eager to meet new people, a couple seeking a fun date night, or a group of friends looking for a memorable outing, this tour provides a lively, authentic taste of Philadelphia’s vibrant old town. It’s an experience that balances excitement with cultural discovery, all wrapped in a friendly, accessible package that leaves you with stories to tell.

Enjoy your night in Philadelphia, and remember—sometimes the best way to see a city is with a little bit of action and a lot of laughter.

You can check availability for your dates here: