Philadelphia: Secret Bars and Favorite Spots Walking Tour

Exploring Philly’s nightlife with a guided bar-hopping adventure offers an authentic taste of the city’s vibrant scene. This tour, priced at $36 per person, takes you through 4-5 unique venues, including a hidden speakeasy, all curated by local guides who know the city’s best-kept secrets.

What we really love about this experience is how it balances fun, discovery, and social bonding—all without the hassle of planning or long lines. The chance to visit both classic favorites and lesser-known gems makes it feel like a true insider’s peek into Philadelphia’s nightlife.

One thing to consider is that drinks are not included in the ticket price, and guests will need to purchase drinks at each stop—so it’s worth budgeting a little extra for that. This tour is ideal for groups of friends, travelers looking to meet new people, or anyone craving an informal, lively night out with a local touch.

Key Points

Authentic local experience: The tour highlights some of Philadelphia’s most beloved bars and hidden gems, giving you a genuine taste of the city’s nightlife.
Expert guides: The guides share insider tips, fun facts, and stories that add context and flavor to the night.
Flexible stops: The itinerary is tailored based on group size and availability, ensuring a personalized experience.
No long lines or covers: Skip the wait and enjoy quick entry to all venues, making the night seamless and more enjoyable.
Social atmosphere: With a group tour format, you’re likely to make new friends and share plenty of laughs.
Great value: For just $36, you get multiple stops, a free liquor tasting, and recommendations that will enhance your overall experience.

The Full Experience: What to Expect

Starting Point: 1726 Walnut Street

The tour kicks off in the heart of Philadelphia. Meeting outside a TD Bank, you’ll get to know your guide and fellow travelers. The guide, whose local knowledge shines, sets the tone for a relaxed, fun evening. Expect a warm-up drink here—possibly a signature Philly cocktail—helping everyone loosen up and start the night on the right note.

Stop 1: Rittenhouse Square

Your first stop features a cocktail, paired with local snacks. Expect around 35 minutes to sip, chat, and soak in the lively atmosphere of one of Philly’s most picturesque neighborhoods. Reviewers like Melanie mentioned that this first stop is great for warming up and setting the mood for the night ahead.

Stop 2: Center City

Moving into the downtown core, this location offers a classic Philly bar experience with a modern twist. The guide will share stories about the city and the bar scene, giving you a richer context to your surroundings. You’ll have about 35 minutes here, enough time to enjoy a drink, maybe a signature cocktail, and take in the vibe of this bustling area.

Stop 3: Center City (continued)

Adding a second venue in the same neighborhood offers a chance to explore different atmospheres—perhaps a lively lounge or a cozy, intimate spot. The emphasis remains on relaxed pacing, with around 40 minutes to enjoy your drinks and talk with your fellow adventurers. Reviewers like Amy appreciated how the group bonded over these stops, making the experience more memorable.

Final Stop: Broad and Sansom Streets

The tour concludes at a location with a view—possibly a rooftop bar or a speakeasy-style lounge, according to the itinerary. This last stop is designed to leave everyone with a special memory—whether it’s a stunning cityscape or a hidden, cozy hideaway. The guide shares tips and recommendations for the rest of your night, ensuring you leave well-informed.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:
– Skip-the-line entry at all venues
– No covers at the bars
– A liquor tasting early in the tour
– Food and drink recommendations for each spot
– Brunch vouchers at select restaurants for next-day adventures

Not Included:
– The drinks you purchase at each stop (though prices are reasonable)
– Extra food or drinks beyond the initial tasting
– Any additional transportation or tipping

The Group Dynamic and Guide Experience

The reviews emphasize the quality of the guides—Melanie praised the guide’s ability to keep the group lively and engaged, while Kathleen highlighted the “positive and charismatic personality” of the guide, D. The friendly, knowledgeable approach made guests feel comfortable and excited about discovering hidden spots. The group size seems to be just right for fostering conversations without feeling crowded, and the flexibility in stop selection keeps the experience feeling personalized.

Tips From Past Guests

• Some guests, like Richard, mentioned that they may have had a little too much fun—so pacing yourself might be wise.
• Meeting at the start point outside TD Bank is straightforward, and the tour ends back at the same spot, making logistics simple.
• Because of the relaxed nature, the tour is best suited for those 21+ and not pregnant women, as alcohol is involved.

Practical Details and Tips

Duration: Around 3 hours, which strikes a good balance between fun and not overdoing it.
Price: At $36 per person, the value is solid—especially considering the skip-the-line access and liquor tasting included.
Availability: Check the schedule as start times vary, and availability can fluctuate depending on the day.
Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for many travelers.
What to Bring: Just your ID or passport, and maybe a little cash for extra drinks or tips.
What Not to Bring: Large luggage or bags, as these aren’t allowed for safety and convenience.

Authenticity and Insider Tips

What makes this tour special is how it reveals hidden corners of Philly’s bar scene—spots locals might frequent but travelers might not find on their own. The guides share stories and fun facts that only someone in the know would have, making the experience educational as well as entertaining.

Guests consistently mention how the tour’s stops aren’t just about drinking—they’re about engaging with the city’s lively spirit. Melanie noted how the stops kept the party going, even for non-drinkers like herself, thanks to the energetic guiding and lively venues.

The final stop’s location often provides stunning views or a cozy, intimate ambiance, leaving guests with memorable photos and stories. The emphasis on quality recommendations ensures you won’t just wander into any bar; you’ll find places that match your vibe.

The Sum Up

This Philadelphia Secret Bars and Favorite Spots Walking Tour offers a terrific way to experience the city’s nightlife without the hassle of planning or long waits. For just $36, you gain access to a curated selection of bars, a guided insider’s perspective, and the chance to meet new people in a relaxed setting. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a group of friends, this tour provides an engaging, authentic taste of Philly’s diverse bar scene.

The knowledgeable guides elevate the experience with fun stories and local insights, and the flexible itinerary means it still feels personalized. Expect a lively night filled with delicious cocktails, great company, and memorable views. It’s a perfect choice for those wanting to explore Philly’s nightlife from a local’s perspective—especially if you’re after a fun, social, and reasonably priced evening.

If you’re looking to add a dash of adventure and discovery to your Philly trip, this tour is well worth considering. The mix of hidden gems, classic spots, and the lively group atmosphere makes it a standout experience for anyone who enjoys a good drink and good company.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for groups of all sizes?
Yes. The tour is tailored for any group size—whether you’re a small party or a large group—making it flexible and personal.

Are drinks included in the ticket price?
No, drinks are purchased separately at each venue, but the ticket includes a liquor tasting early in the tour and skip-the-line access to all venues.

Can I join if I don’t drink alcohol?
While the tour is centered around bar stops, non-drinkers can still enjoy the social atmosphere and explore the city’s vibrant nightlife.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins outside the TD Bank at 1726 Walnut Street and concludes back at the same spot on Broad and Sansom Streets.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for many travelers.

Do I need to make a reservation in advance?
Yes, booking is recommended as availability varies, and you can reserve your spot and pay later with flexible cancellation up to 24 hours before.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, participants need to be 21 or older, and pregnant women are not advised to participate due to alcohol consumption.

This tour offers a vibrant, authentic peek into Philadelphia’s nightlife scene, perfect for those eager to explore hidden bars, enjoy good company, and discover the city’s spirited core.