The Messy History of the Revolution: Philadelphia Walking Tour
from $45.00
✓ Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
Overview
We all know George Washington didn’t chop down a cherry tree, so why do we keep telling that story?
Americans love myths about the Founding Fathers that make us feel proud. But behind the grand stories of brilliance and triumph, we find imperfect people who were only human—kind, cruel, funny, and very rarely chopping down trees.
Here’s what makes this tour different: We talk about what’s being quietly removed from National Park Service displays. The stories that complicate the narrative. The details that don’t fit neatly into patriotic mythology. This is history before it gets sanitized.
This is an intentionally small group tour—capped at just a handful of people—because these conversations deserve more than a megaphone and a crowd. You’ll have space to ask questions and grapple with who these men actually were versus who we’ve needed them to be.
Small group. Big conversations. The history they’re editing out.
from $45.00
2 hours
Meet at the start point (no pickup)
Find the tour behind the Free Quaker Meeting House at the benches. Your guide will be wearing an "Offbeat Philly" shirt.
Itinerary
- 1Benjamin Franklin's Grave 10 minutes
See Benjamin Franklin's grave from outside Christ Church Cemetery
- 2Independence Hall 20 minutes
We will view the exterior of Independence Hall
- 3The President's House 15 minutes
A brief amount of time will be provided to view the archeology site
- 4Liberty Bell Center 10 minutes
We will view the Liberty Bell from outside the building
- 5Washington Square 10 minutes
We will enter the park and view the tomb of the Revolutionary War unknowns
- 6Carpenters' Hall 10 minutes
View from the outside, if open we will go inside as well
- 7Franklin Court 10 minutes
We will view the ghost houses and walk through the archway
- 8Elfreth's Alley 10 minutes
We will walk down the alley
- 9Betsy Ross House 10 minutes
We will see the exterior of the Betsy Ross House
What's included
- Guide Services
Not included
- Water can be purchased at the Wawa nearby for $3
Good to know
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Infants must be carried by a parent or guardian
- Not recommended for travelers who cannot travel two miles and lack assistance or a mobility aid
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