Ghost Tour of Philadelphia

...is just one of the things to do when visiting Old City Philadelphia. There are actually two versions, one walking, and a trolley tour. I took the walking tour, and loved it.

Located in old city, just a short distance from the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and a myriad of restaurants, bars, nightclubs and more is the Ghost Tour of Philadelphia. The walking version is about a 90 minute excursion starting just across the street from the Omni Hotel.

There is a little something for everyone on the tour. Ghost stories of haunted sightings are numerous, and the historical tie-ins by the guides are thought-provoking. Your guide will have you darting in and out of unique locations. There is incredible architecture in every direction. Even if you are a fan of history, there is a good chance you will hear many "aha" moments during your tour. The content is well constructed, so that small children shouldn't be upset easily, yet the more mature in your group will "get it". Simply put, these people are experts at what they do.

I took the walking tour, and it had a definite intimate feel to it. Bear in mind there is a trolley tour as well, if that suits your fancy. For tickets, pre-purchase on line at www.ghosttour.com or by calling 215-413-1997 to purchase with a credit card over the phone. When purchasing this way there is a $2 per adult ticket discount. (Savings!!!)

The tour starts at 5th and Chestnut streets, and you can pre-order your tickets above and pick them up in the gift shop of the Omni hotel. The Ghost Tour of Philadelphia walking tour price is $17 pp, $8 ages 4-12.  The Haunted Trolley tour is $30 pp, $20 ages 4-12.  They will even accommodate private and group tours, anytime of day or night, 7 days a week, year round.

Before the tour:

• Arrive early if you can. You may want to plan an entire day in the area. There can be traffic issues getting in and out of Philadelphia. Check my links for mapquest.
• The Liberty Bell is right down the street, and so is Independence Hall.
• If you want good reading material check out "Ghost Stories of Philadelphia, Pa" by Tim Reeser.
  It's available at the Independence Visitors Center (you can buy tour tix there too!), some local bookstores, on the website, and on amazon.com.

My tips on the tour:

• Have your camera charged/plenty of film (if applicable) They have contests on photos. (orbs)
  I recommend parking at the Autopark at Independence Mall with entrances on both 5th and 6th Streets. Go there after 6PM on a weekend and it will set you back $9.50. Much lower than other parking in the area.
• Wear comfortable footwear, there is a decent amount of walking involved.

After the tour:

• You'll wind up right outside the City Tavern.
• There are plenty of places to eat, of various types.(many cafe' style), and a movie theater nearby.

Whether you are local, traveling and/or visiting the area, or just find yourself looking for something new, The Ghost Tour is a fun and educational way to spend an evening. Go do it some night soon!

Did you know smallpox was such a major issue back in the 18th Century? Who knew?

You may even see Ben Franklin walking about!

Let me know what you thought of the tour!