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Philadelphia tours and excursions

Philadelphia tours

Mural art tours

In 1984, the Mural Arts Program was founded to redirect the energies of graffiti writers from destructive to constructive. Now each piece represents the community in which it is created. Since then, more than 3,500 projects have been completed throughout Philadelphia, hence its nickname as the City of Murals. A variety of tours help ensure you view as many murals as possible, including Trolley Tour and Mural Mile Walking Tours. Personal guides available.

Tel: General: +1 215 685 0750; Tours: +1 215 925 3633.
Website: http://muralarts.org

Culinary tours

A delicious way to savour Philly is through a culinary tour, taking in eateries only the locals know about. City Food Tours offers a walking tour that absorbs the full variety of Philly foods, from delicious hot pretzels to the famous cheesesteaks, including a stop at the Reading Terminal Market, an indoor farmers market. Or tour the Italian Market, led by native Philly chef Jacqueline Peccina-Kelly, on a three-hour route, which includes stops at DiBruno Brothers, Talluto’s Pasta and Pat’s King of Steaks.

Tel: +1 215 546 1234; +1 610 506 6120.
Website: http://www.taste4travel.net

Philadelphia excursions

Montgomery County

The rolling hills and trails of the Valley Forge Historical Park in Montgomery County is now a haven for runners, cyclists and picnickers, but is also one of the most revered shrines of the American Revolution. George Washington's revolutionary army camped here during the bitter winter of 1777-78 and although no shots were fired and no battle fought, over 2,000 soldiers perished because of the severe cold. The site contains original 18th-century buildings, including Washington's headquarters and a memorial chapel, together with many statues and monuments. It’s located 28km (17 miles) northwest of Philadelphia, on Route 76 and Route 476.

Tel: +1 877 789 6904.
Website: http://visitmontgomery.com

Bucks County

The old farmhouses and covered bridges that dot the lush countryside of Bucks County provide the perfect setting for its art colonies, summer theatre, country inns and wineries. It's an area of outstanding natural beauty alongside the Delaware River just 35km (22 miles) from Center City. Many writers and artists based in New York have also lived here, including Pearl Buck and James Michener (there is a museum in Michener's honour at Doylestown), as well as Oscar Hammerstein and the pop singer P!nk.

Tel: +1 215 639 0300.
Website: http://www.visitbuckscounty.com
A digital image at https://illuminoto.com

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City Highlight: Philadelphia

Philadelphia is more than just a beacon of American liberty, it's vibrant art scene, diverse population and world-class museums all add to its appeal

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Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia at Comcast Center

Situated in the Philadelphia’s tallest tower, the Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia offers a unique experience and magnificent views of Philadelphia. Facilities include an infinity pool and fitness centre (on the 57th floor), several restaurants and a spa.

Opens in August 2019

Penn’s View Hotel

Just a short walk from the historic sights of the old city, and with views over the Delaware River, Penn’s View is one of Philly’s most underrated overnight gems. The rooms are designed in a traditional style, with exposed brick walls and warming fireplaces. Stump up a little extra for a whirlpool bath, ideal for winding down before hitting the excellent Il Bar downstairs or the Panorama Wine Bar upstairs.

Hyatt at the Bellevue

Crowning the top seven floors of the landmark 1904 Bellevue Building, the Hyatt ranks among the most elegant hotels in Philadelphia. Opulent retailers (like Tiffany & Co) are set among the marble and mosaic-filled ground floor. From there an elevator whisks you to the glitzy, domed lobby on the 19th floor. Rooms are decorated in classic old-world style with all the modern luxuries, including goose-down duvets, Wi-Fi access and handsome marble bathrooms.

Rittenhouse 1715

Set on a leafy street near the Rittenhouse Square, this charming, painstakingly renovated 1911 carriage house is a paragon of unrivalled elegance. With just 23 guest rooms, the Rittenhouse 1715 has a boutique feel and aims for European-style luxury in its beautiful interior design. The rooms feature cream-coloured Berber carpets, with a mix of antiques and reproduction Chippendale or Louis XIV furniture. The breakfast room looks like a Parisian cafe and a European breakfast is served on china.

The Gables Bed and Breakfast

Built in 1889, The Gables is the former home of a prominent doctor from the turn of the century. Today, this large Victorian mansion is set in a leafy, tree-lined suburb with a bus stop conveniently located outside the front door. Restoration of the home in 1993 by innkeepers Don Caskey and Warren Cederholm, turned this Victorian home into one of Philadelphia’s best bed & breakfasts. This 10-room inn may be vintage but the amenities are modern including Wi-Fi, private phones, cable TV, bathrobes and a bounteous breakfast.

Thomas Bond House

The charming Thomas Bond House is a cosy alternative to high-rise hotels. This bed and breakfast is set in a converted Georgian style home that dates back to 1769, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The 12 guest rooms are handsomely furnished with period antiques, and two of the rooms have fireplaces and Jacuzzis.