Beyond the (Liberty) Bell Tour

Hit all the main sites in historic Old City and Independence Park, but hear it all from the perspectives often minimized by mainstream tourism.

Social Justice Tours of Philadelphia
Explore Old City
Explore Philadelphia with Beyond the Bell Tours

Old City Tour: Putting the People Back in People’s History

Calling all curious travelers and nosey locals looking to delve deeper into the city. Are you ready to get into the nitty gritty of our fair and storied city of Philadelphia? Spend an afternoon with us and come hear this fresh take on an Old City Tour of Philadelphia!

Tour Includes:

 
  • Foundational myths of our American city: statues, monuments, and forgotten founders.

  • The Liberty Bell: Abolitionist symbol and beyond

  • The Controversy of the Presidents House: Ona Judge and her escape from George Washington

  • The Legend of the Penn Treaty Elm: William Penn and the Lenape

  • Chief Tamanend, The Affable

Duration: 2 Hours

Distance: Tour is approximately 2 miles long

Wheelchair accessible upon request

 

Reviews of Beyond the Liberty Bell History Tour

This was a great tour!

—Jessica D

Rebecca is a wonderful storyteller. We learned so much in a fun and relaxed setting. It was our first trip to Philadelphia, and it made the trip so much more interesting to learn about the history from a pro!”

Dispelling myths that have been taught

-Andrea

Our Beyond the Bell tour with Matt Palmer was exceptional! Matt is great at expanding the basic historical facts to include the voices of Black, White, and Indigenous Peoples. We very much appreciate these inclusive perspectives and the more well-rounded approach of dispelling myths that have been taught for over two centuries. This tour was well worth the time and money!!!

My favorite - by far.

—Trishia

I’ve lived in the Philadelphia area most of my life and have done many historical tours over the years. This was my favorite - by far. Our tour guide, Matthew, was very knowledgeable and engaging. I look forward to doing other tours Beyond the Bell offers.

Learn more about the America that the history books didn’t teach you.

Think more critically about the story of America and the ways in which women, people of color, indigenous people, and LGBTQ folks are left out of the primary narrative of our country. Be inspired by the stories and leave feeling empowered by the stories of resistance and resilience.

Beyond the (Liberty) Bell Tours are offered every Friday through Monday at 1:00pm for $59 per person.

See our availability

Private walking tours are available for $490 for the first 10 people.

Groups over 10, please contact us to schedule your tour!

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