Philadelphia Cemetery and Urban History Tour

Sightseeing  :  United States  :  Pennsylvania  :  Philadelphia  :  Historical & Heritage Tours

Brace yourself for macabre tales of Philadelphia's past on this spellbinding walking tour. See sights including the Christ Church Burial Ground, the Betsy Ross House and Elfreth's Alley as your three historian guides tell you about Philadelphia's dark side. Hear fascinating and frightening anecdotes about grave robbers such as Dutch Pillet and Levi Chew; serial killers including the 'Corpse Collector' and 'Frankfort Slasher'; and the yellow fever epidemic that ravaged the city in 1793. Afterwards, relax with beer or soda and snacks at one of Philadelphia's finest taverns. This alternative tour of Philadelphia is family-friendly, though parental discretion is advised. Head to downtown Philadelphia in the afternoon to begin your chilling walking tour of the city's dark side. Your three historian guides will lead you to Christ Church and its famous burial ground, where Benjamin Franklin and other important early Americans are laid to rest. You'll also visit the Betsy Ross House and Elfreth's Alley, which is known as the nation's oldest residential street.

Rather than the typical historical information, learn about grave robbers including Dutch Pillet and Levi Chew and serial killers who've haunted Philadelphia such as the 'Corpse Collector,' "Frankfort Slasher,' 'Hednik's House of Horrors,' and HH Holmes. Hear about the devastating yellow fever epidemic in 1793 and other disasters that have menaced the city.

You'll cover about 8 blocks on your walking tour before arriving at one of Philadelphia's finest taverns. Indulge in a free beer or soda and take advantage of happy hour food and drink specials (own expense). Your 3-hour walking tour of Philadelphia's grisly side ends near where you began it downtown.

Please note: Though all ages are welcome on this tour, parental discretion is advised due to the mature subject matter.