Secret Bars and Favorite Spots Walking Tour in Philadelphia

When it comes to nightlife, Philadelphia offers more than just the usual pubs and clubs. The Secret Bars and Favorite Spots Walking Tour promises an inside look at some of the city’s best-kept secrets — places most visitors never stumble upon on their own. We’ve gathered firsthand impressions from travelers who’ve experienced this tour, so you can decide if it’s worth your time.

What we love about this tour is how it combines the thrill of discovering hidden venues with the social vibe of a small group. Plus, the focus on authentic, local favorites makes it feel like a night out with friends rather than a generic tourist activity. One possible consideration is the tour’s focus on mainly drinking venues, which might not appeal if you’re traveling with non-drinkers or looking for a mix of cultural sights. This experience is perfect for those who want to uncover Philly’s nightlife like a true local, enjoy some excellent drinks, and meet fellow travelers along the way.

Ideal for solo explorers, couples, or small groups of friends, this tour offers an engaging, intimate way to see the city’s secret side. If you’re after a lively, relaxed night with a dash of adventure, you’ll find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Small-group tour capped at 10 to ensure personalized attention
• Visits exclusive, hard-to-find bars and speakeasies
• Includes a free tequila shot and skip-the-line seating
• Duration of about 3 hours, perfect for a relaxed evening
• Cost-effective at $35 per person, offering good value given the curated venues
• No food or drinks included, outside the tequila shot, so plan accordingly

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

An Introduction to Philadelphia’s Hidden Nightlife

This walking tour begins in the heart of Center City at 1726 Walnut Street, a spot central enough to start your adventure without any hassle. It’s designed for groups no larger than 10 people, emphasizing a cozy, friendly atmosphere. From the moment you meet your guide, it’s clear that the focus is on creating an authentic experience, not just ticking off bar stops.

The guides are praised for their knowledge and humor, which makes the evening both informative and fun. As you set out into the city’s streets, expect to get a behind-the-scenes look at venues most travelers would never find alone. The tour rotates through five different bars—covering everything from hidden speakeasies to popular local favorites.

The First Stop: Philadelphia’s Hidden Gems

The tour kicks off with a visit to some of the city’s most intriguing spots, chosen specifically for their uniqueness and local appeal. You might find yourself in venues with secret entrances or tucked-away back rooms—places that even some Philly residents might not know about. The balance here is between accessibility and exclusivity, providing that special “discovered it myself” feeling.

What stands out is the way the tour organizers tailor the stops to the group size, ensuring a more intimate vibe. Around 35 minutes per venue, it’s enough time to soak in the atmosphere, sip your drink, and chat with fellow travelers. Reviewers have raved about these venues, with one describing the overall experience as “awesome,” even for locals who learned about places they hadn’t encountered before.

The Highlight: The Ranstead Room

One of the most talked-about stops is The Ranstead Room, known as Philadelphia’s top mixologist bar. Here, guests often get to enjoy expertly crafted cocktails that feel like a step above your average bar fare. Visitors mention that with small groups, you’ll often get personal attention from talented bartenders, and some reviews indicate that the bartenders are happy to share their craft, adding a layer of authenticity to the experience.

This stop also features a complimentary tequila shot, adding a spirited touch to the evening. For about 35 minutes, you can relax, enjoy great drinks, and perhaps even pick up some bartender tips or stories. The “no cover” policy means you won’t be surprised by hidden fees, making the value clear.

The Value of Skipping the Line

A significant perk is the line-skipping and reserved seating at each venue. This is especially appreciated during busy nights or special events—like St Patrick’s Day—when the city’s bars fill up quickly. This convenience can time-saver and reduce the usual frustrations of trying to find a spot, especially in a lively city like Philly.

Drinks and Food Options

While the tour includes a complimentary tequila shot, other drinks are paid for out of pocket, with cocktails generally running between $5 and $20. It’s worth noting that no food or additional drinks are included, so if you’re a light drinker or want a meal, plan accordingly. Several venues are noted for having great vibes and even some offering food or tapas, which you might want to indulge in.

The Final Stops and Evening Flow

Over the roughly 3-hour span, you’ll visit five venues, each with a different character and story. The pace is relaxed, giving ample time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. The tour concludes at South Broad Street & Sansom Street, a convenient location in the city.

Authenticity and Personal Touch

Travelers consistently mention how guides go beyond just showing bars. They share snippets of city history, stories behind each venue, and sometimes even engage the group in fun games. This creates a friendly, inclusive atmosphere. Some reviews highlight how guides managed high-volume crowds—like during special events—ensuring everyone still had a great time.

What the Reviews Say

• “The tour guides are amazing and funny. You get to know some history about the city and go to some really awesome bars while having drinks along the way,” notes Jeff.
• Joann adds, “All locations had great vibes and amazing drinks. If you’re visiting Philly and are looking for a good time, this tour is for you.”
• Even locals weigh in: Dan mentions, “They took us to bars that we didn’t even think about, and the guides made sure it was a fun experience.”
• Some reviewers, however, felt that the guide’s explanations could be more detailed, emphasizing the importance of engaging storytelling for an even richer experience.

Analyzing the Cost and Overall Value

At $35 per person, this tour offers surprisingly good value, especially considering the curated nature of the venues, skip-the-line privileges, and the intimate group size. It caters to those who want more than just bar-hopping; it’s an experience that emphasizes authentic, local spots. The small-group setting makes for easy conversation and a chance to ask questions, which is often lacking in larger tours.

While drinks are paid for separately, the fact that you get to explore places many visitors wouldn’t find alone, combined with the guide’s local knowledge, makes this a worthwhile investment for a fun, memorable night out.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adults over 21 who are eager to discover Philly’s hidden nightlife, enjoy good drinks, and socialize in a relaxed, intimate setting. It’s perfect for solo travelers looking to meet new people, couples wanting a romantic yet lively evening, or small groups of friends seeking a fun night in the city’s cool spots.

If you’re a history buff or prefer cultural sights over nightlife, this might not be your best fit. However, if your goal is a lively, authentic taste of Philly’s bar scene with a friendly guide, this tour delivers.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
No, since alcohol is a core part of the experience and guests must be 21 or over.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 3 hours, covering five different venues with about 35 minutes at each stop.

Do I need to make reservations in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book 18 days ahead, as it’s popular and tends to fill up quickly.

Is there any food included?
No, only a tequila shot is included; all other drinks are paid for separately.

Can I join this tour if I have mobility issues?
Since it’s a walking tour, mobility considerations should be taken into account, but specific accommodations aren’t specified.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to rain, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are children allowed?
No, this tour is strictly for those 21 and older.

What’s the meeting point?
The tour begins at 1726 Walnut St, and ends at South Broad & Sansom Streets, both central locations.

Final Thoughts

The Secret Bars and Favorite Spots Walking Tour in Philadelphia offers a delightful mix of hidden venues, fun guides, and the chance to see the city from a local’s perspective. It’s more than just a bar crawl; it’s an insider’s peek into Philadelphia’s coolest, most exclusive drinking spots. If you enjoy discovering secret corners, socializing over expertly mixed drinks, and want a relaxed, engaging evening, this tour is a fantastic choice.

While it might not be perfect for everyone—particularly those seeking a full cultural or historical experience—the vibrancy and authenticity of this tour shine through. It’s a great way to spend an evening in Philly, especially if you’re comfortable with a bit of walking, a little spending money on drinks, and a desire for an off-the-beaten-path adventure.

In summary: If you’re after a relaxed, personal, and authentic night out that highlights Philadelphia’s best-kept drinking secrets, this tour offers excellent value and memorable stories—plus, a few surprises along the way.