Private tour in Philadelphia Reid A

Discovering Colonial Philadelphia Walking Tour

5.0

(29) reviews

-
Hours icon 2 hours 30 minutes
Walking
Private tour for 1-6 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
Hours icon 2 hours 30 minutes
Walking
Private tour for 1-6 people
Your party size

1

View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later

Reid A.

5.0

Guide rating

54

Reviews

Tours delivered

1 hrs

Avg. response time

If you only have three hours in Philadelphia, spend it getting to know this historical city through an architectural walking tour with me. Every building has a story to tell, from the materials, technology, and styles favored when it was constructed, to the people who designed, built, lived and worked there. Events of historic proportion take place in and around buildings as well. Come with me on this journey to discover all the secrets each building on our tours are waiting to tell us. You may pick from one of my prepared tours, or let me know what you would like to see and I will customize a tour for you. I offer organized and thought-provoking walking tours, guided by an architectural professional. Experience my beautiful, historic, World Heritage city through the eyes of an architect. I am a Registered Architect who has lived in the City of Philadelphia since 1978. While practicing architecture, I began teaching courses from 1980-1990 at Temple University, including a course on the History of Philadelphia Architecture. After taking a walking tour with famed City Planner Ed Bacon, I was inspired to give my students similar tours of the city. Currently residing in the Old City area of Philadelphia, I would love to introduce you to my city. Registered Architect Member of the Association of Philadelphia Tour guides As most tours are 3 hours of walking, be prepared with a good set of comfortable shoes.

Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message Reid A.

Overview of your Philadelphia tour

We are on the road to revolution. We will visit a number of notable properties during the Discovering Colonial Philadelphia Walking Tour. We will see buildings that go back almost to the founding of the city in 1682, in Georgian, Federal, and many Revival styles along the way. We will explore the events and people who lived, worked and met in these buildings.

Recent Reviews

Marina T.Switzerland
July 2026

Reid A. was a knowledgeable and capable guide. Full of fun and interesting facts and an engaging morning. Seeing Philadelphia and its history from another perspective. We enjoyed our tour very much.

Abby A.United States
November 2025

This was a great tour. Reid told engaging stories that taught us valuable and interesting information. He kept things moving but also stopped in areas where we could sit or stand for a time. We had school aged children in our group, and he accommodated by telling stories in their areas of interest. My brother lives in Philadelphia and learned things on this tour he had never heard before. I highly recommend Reid's tours for first timers or locals!

Vivian B.United States
July 2025

Reid did an excellent job bringing Philly’s history to life! He covered 250+ years in an engaging way, while keeping us safe from street traffic and in the shade whenever possible. Plus he provided a solid lunch recommendation. Thanks!

Margaret J.
April 2025

Reid was awesome, a perfect blend of architecture, history and how it all relates to current events. Personable, sense of humor...some Guides I've had in past feel like listening to a dry recitation of the facts/dates and this is the opposite of that. Great communicator and even adjusted the ending time to match a hard stop we had for a lunch commitment. Highly recommend.

Laurent C.
December 2024

Excellent tour; strongly recommended

Emily R.
December 2024

Reid is a fantastic guide and a wealth of information on history, architecture and the culture of Philadelphia in general. Highly recommend booking with him, you will have a great time and learn a ton!!

Your Philadelphia tour itinerary

Beginning at Elfreth's Alley, the oldest, continuously occupied residential street in the United States, this tour winds its way through Old City, visiting Christ Church, the Franklin Ghost House and the buildings on Independence Hall. we will see examples Greek Revival, and Italianate styles. We will also explore Georgian and Federal building styles.

Want to customize this tour?

Tell your guide which places matter to you, skip what doesn't, and tailor the experience for your group's needs. Not finding what you want? Message your guide to build something unique.

Transport details
Type: Walking

Walking

What's included
Private Guide
What's not included
Food Drinks Snacks
Meeting location

100 Elfreth's Alley, Philadelphia, PA, USA

Airport: ,Cruise: ,ByGuide: 100 Elfreth's Alley, where Elfreth's Alley meets Front Street

  • You can request a specific meeting location (for example, your hotel) during the checkout.
Other details
Tour categories
City Highlights
History
Tour reference number
321819
Languages
English
Activity level
Light
Accessibility
Kid Friendly

Traveller reviews

5.0

FAQs

Who is this private tour in Philadelphia best suited for?

This private tour in Philadelphia is perfect for those interested in American history and architecture, particularly from the colonial period. It's also ideal for families, as it is kid-friendly, and for those who prefer a light activity level. With a maximum group size of six, it offers a personalized experience that suits travellers looking to connect with a local guide like Reid A. for deeper insights.

Where does the tour start and end?

How much walking is involved, and is it suitable for kids, seniors, or travellers with mobility concerns?

What languages is this tour offered in?

What's included in this private tour, and what should I budget for separately?

Is this a private tour? What is the maximum group size and the starting price?

AI-generated. Please confirm details with your guide

-
Hours icon 2 hours 30 minutes
Walking
Private tour for 1-6 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
Hours icon 2 hours 30 minutes
Walking
Private tour for 1-6 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
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