Philadelphia built the country, and some residents apparently never clocked out. This guide compares eight ghost tours in Philadelphia, from candlelight walks through the historic district to haunted pub crawls and adults-only routes past the founding era's darker chapters. Each entry links straight to its booking page.
Introduction to Philadelphia's Haunted History
With its long American history, Philadelphia is also a city of ghostly legends and eerie tales. Often ranked among the most haunted cities in the United States, it offers numerous ghost tours that reveal its dark past. From the whispers of the Continental Congress to the eerie chimes of the Liberty Bell, these tours trace the supernatural side of the city and walk you through its most storied locations.
What Makes Philadelphia Ghost Tours Unique?
Philadelphia ghost tours pair documented history with after-dark storytelling. Led by knowledgeable guides, they come as walking tours, pub crawls, and exploration games. Add each guide's own encounters and no two nights run quite alike.
1. Dark Philly Adult Night Tour
What to Expect:
See the dark side of Philly during this adult night tour developed by a local university professor. Not for the faint of heart, this tour uncovers Philadelphia’s R-rated sites and stories, from vampires, pirate ghost ships, and haunted attractions to torture, executions, and the red light district. You'll also visit historical attractions and see the sights illuminated at night. This tour is not suitable for children.
Highlights:
- Explore Philadelphia’s dark and haunted sites on an adult night tour.
- Hear tales of vampires, pirate ghost ships, and haunted attractions.
- Visit historical attractions illuminated at night.
Book Now: Dark Philly Adult Night Tour
2. Philadelphia Ghosts of Philly Haunted Dark History Walking Tour
What to Expect:
Every step in Philadelphia’s Old City is alive with history, and with frights. On this spooky, after-dark ghost tour, you’ll learn the stories and secrets behind one of the country’s oldest residential neighborhoods, including tales of hauntings and unexplained happenings. As you go, you’ll also discover top Philadelphia landmarks, from the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall to the American Philosophical Society Museum and the First Bank of the United States.
Highlights:
- Discover the haunted history of Philadelphia’s Old City.
- Visit top landmarks like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall.
- Hear tales of hauntings and unexplained happenings.
Book Now: Philadelphia Ghosts of Philly Haunted Dark History Walking Tour
3. Ghost Tour of Philadelphia by Candlelight
What to Expect:
Philadelphia is one of the country’s oldest cities, and its centuries of history also include plenty of ghost tales, spooky stories, and other macabre myths and legends. Meet your costumed guide in Center City, and explore Philadelphia’s historical landmarks after dark. You’ll see the highlights of Old City, Society Hill, and Independence National Historical Park, and will also hear tales of hidden burial grounds, haunted houses, and other dark secrets.
Highlights:
- Explore Philadelphia’s historical landmarks by candlelight.
- Visit Old City, Society Hill, and Independence National Historical Park.
- Hear tales of hidden burial grounds and haunted houses.
Book Now: Ghost Tour of Philadelphia by Candlelight
4. Cemetery and Serial Killers Walking Tour of Philadelphia
What to Expect:
Uncover Philadelphia’s dark past, and visit some of its most famous landmarks besides, on this macabre, small-group walking tour of Center City. Meet your guide (a college professor or trained historian), and set off to sights ranging from Betsy Ross House and Elfreth’s Alley to Christ Church and beyond. As you go, listen to ghost stories, legends about famous serial killers, and other spooky tales. The tour concludes with a beverage or moonshine sample.
Highlights:
- Explore Philadelphia’s dark past on a walking tour.
- Visit famous landmarks like Betsy Ross House and Christ Church.
- Hear ghost stories and legends about serial killers.
Book Now: Cemetery and Serial Killers Walking Tour of Philadelphia
5. Ghosts of Philadelphia: Haunted Exploration Game
What to Expect:
Discover Philadelphia’s most chilling legends and frightful accounts by following clues and solving puzzles on your phone. As you solve challenges, the story unfolds and exact directions on your phone will guide you to the next location.
Highlights:
- Follow clues and solve puzzles to discover Philadelphia’s haunted history.
- Use your phone to guide you through the city’s most chilling locations.
- Enjoy an interactive and immersive ghost tour experience.
Book Now: Ghosts of Philadelphia: Haunted Exploration Game
6. 2-Hour Grim Philly Ghost Tour
What to Expect:
Ghosts, witches, demons, evil magic, and werewolves have spellbound horror writers but are rooted in something very real. Philadelphia ghost stories and spooky fall lore are discussed within a wider historical context of supernatural and folkloric cultural diffusion; and Halloween season lore, in particular. Are vampires real? How do we expel demonic possession and ghosts? Is all magic maleficium? This tour is as scholarly as it is creepy. No minimum age. Available only October 2022.
Highlights:
- Explore Philadelphia’s ghost stories and spooky fall lore.
- Learn about vampires, demonic possession, and evil magic.
- Enjoy a scholarly and creepy ghost tour experience.
Book Now: 2-Hour Grim Philly Ghost Tour
7. Haunted Pub Crawl
What to Expect:
Embark on a pub crawl with a twist when you visit Philadelphia’s spookiest landmarks and drinking dens. Pick from several convenient departure times, and meet your guide in the heart of Center City. With just a small group for company, you’ll follow your guide to centuries-old cemeteries, macabre colonial landmarks, and other eerie attractions. Then, continue onward to three supposedly haunted bars and taverns, where you’ll enjoy drink samples, snacks, and prize giveaways.
Highlights:
- Visit Philadelphia’s spookiest landmarks and drinking dens.
- Enjoy drink samples, snacks, and prize giveaways.
- Explore centuries-old cemeteries and macabre colonial landmarks.
Book Now: Haunted Pub Crawl
8. Founding Phantoms Adult's Only Walking Tour
What to Expect:
Uncover chilling secrets about the Founding Fathers and the darker side of American history on this ghost tour designed exclusively for adults in Philadelphia. Explore the eerie past of one of America's oldest public hospitals and step into a historic house reputed to be Philadelphia's most haunted building. Additionally, you'll visit the First Bank of the United States, where the spirit of Alexander Hamilton is rumored to linger.
Highlights:
- Discover the darker side of American history and the Founding Fathers.
- Visit one of America’s oldest public hospitals and Philadelphia’s most haunted house.
- Explore the First Bank of the United States and hear tales of Alexander Hamilton’s spirit.
Book Now: Founding Phantoms Adult's Only Walking Tour
The Role of Expert Tour Guides in Philadelphia's Haunted Tours
Knowledgeable Storytellers
Expert tour guides in Philadelphia are the custodians of the city's haunted history. They bring the past to life with engaging storytelling and deep knowledge of local legends and reported activity. Their insights and anecdotes give each walk its own character.
Personal Experiences
Many tour guides in Philadelphia have their own personal experiences with the supernatural. These firsthand accounts add an extra layer of authenticity and intrigue to the tours, making them even more captivating for participants.
Historical Accuracy
Philadelphia’s ghost tour guides pride themselves on the historical accuracy of their stories. They meticulously research each location and legend, ensuring that the tales they share are not only spooky but also rooted in historical fact.
Why Take a Ghost Tour in Philadelphia?
Deep Historical Background
Philadelphia’s rich historical background makes it an ideal setting for ghost tours. From the founding fathers to the Revolutionary War, the city’s history is filled with significant events and characters that have left a lasting impression.
A Different Way to See the City
Ghost tours offer a unique way to experience Philadelphia. They provide a blend of history, mystery, and adventure, allowing participants to see the city from a different perspective.
Fun and Educational
Whether you're a local or a visitor, ghost tours are a fun and educational activity. They offer a chance to learn about Philadelphia’s history while enjoying the thrill of exploring its haunted locations.
Exploring Haunted Locations in Philadelphia
Independence Hall
One of the most iconic landmarks in Philadelphia, Independence Hall is also known for its ghostly tales. Visitors have reported seeing the apparitions of founding fathers and hearing strange noises after dark.
The Betsy Ross House
The Betsy Ross House, where the first American flag was sewn, is rumored to be haunted by the spirit of Betsy Ross herself. Visitors have reported seeing her ghostly figure and hearing unexplained footsteps.
Elfreth’s Alley
Often called the oldest residential street in America, Elfreth's Alley has centuries of stories and its fair share of ghosts. Residents and visitors have reported apparitions and other activity they cannot explain.
Tips for Enjoying Philadelphia's Ghost Tours
Dress Appropriately
Philadelphia’s weather can be unpredictable, so it's important to dress in layers and wear comfortable shoes, especially for walking tours.
Book in Advance
Ghost tours in Philadelphia are popular, especially during the fall season. Booking in advance ensures that you get a spot on your preferred tour.
Bring a Camera
You never know when you might capture something spooky on film, so be sure to bring a camera or smartphone to document your ghost tour experience.
Respect the Sites
Many ghost tours visit historic sites and burial grounds. It's important to respect these locations and follow the tour guide's instructions to ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Keep an Open Mind
Ghost tours are not just about seeing ghosts; they're about experiencing the history and stories that make Philadelphia such a fascinating city. Keep an open mind and enjoy the stories, whether you believe in ghosts or not.
Picking the right Philadelphia ghost tour
If you want the after-dark version of the Old City, the candlelight walk is the classic. The pub crawl covers the taverns, and the adults-only routes go darker than the schoolbook version of the founding era ever did. Whichever you choose, book ahead in the fall. Planning the rest of the trip? Our Philadelphia guide covers tours, hotels, and things to do.
For the record, we do not run tours in Philadelphia. Freaky Foot Tours leads ghost and history walks in Flagstaff, Tucson, and Prescott, Arizona; find every city we cover on our locations page.
Questions people ask
Which Philadelphia ghost tours are adults-only?
Two on this list: the Dark Philly Adult Night Tour and the Founding Phantoms Adult's Only Walking Tour. Both trade the family-friendly framing for the stories the textbooks skip.
Is there a candlelight ghost tour in Philadelphia?
Yes. The Ghost Tour of Philadelphia by Candlelight walks the historic district the old way, by flame, past landmarks that look very different after the crowds go home.
What is said to be Philadelphia's most haunted building?
The Founding Phantoms tour visits a historic house reputed to be the city's most haunted, along with one of America's oldest public hospitals. Which house? That reveal belongs to the guide.
Do any tours mix drinks with the ghost stories?
The Haunted Pub Crawl does exactly that, moving between the city's spookiest landmarks and its drinking dens with a story at every stop.
