Philadelphia's Lost Waterfront: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
Active
40m - 1h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This self-guided audio tour explores the north-central Philadelphia waterfront, focusing on what remains of this historic locale after the installation of Interstate I-95 in the 1970s, and relating (among other things) how early Quaker settlers lived in caves along the waterfront.
Keep in mind that this area was where wheeling and dealing went on to encourage local, regional and national enterprise. It was where early American capitalists made their fortunes. It was where the individual American colonies were crafted into a nation. And it was also where terrible urban contagions began.
Your guide is historian, writer and tour guide Harry Kyriakodis. He has what is likely the largest private collection of books about the City of Brotherly Love: about 2700 titles, new and old. He's also a founding/certified member of the Association of Philadelphia Tour Guides and has lived at Pier 3 Condominium at Penn’s Landing since 1997.
Available options
Philadelphia's Lost Waterfront: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
What's included
VoiceMap App for Android and iOS
Lifetime access to this tour in English
Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour
Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start
Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
Detailed itinerary
1
The tour begins outside Christ Church.
2
Stop 2
Pass by
The tour passes Penn's Landing.
3
The tour passes several piers including the Race Street Pier.
4
The tour passes under the Benjamin Franklin Bridge.
5
The tour passes Cavanaugh's River Deck.
6
The tour passes the Wood Street Steps.
7
Stop 7
Pass by
The tour takes you down Elfreth's Alley.
What's not included
Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour
Smartphone and headphones
Transportation
Food and drink
Available languages
Audio guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
4.5
2 reviews
5★
1
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Before arrival, please install the VoiceMap mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. This is a self-guided audio tour that you can start, pause, or restart at any time and complete at your own pace. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.
Important notes
VOICEMAP CODE
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.
This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.
DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS
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Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:
1. Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app
2. Create an account
3. Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes
4. Enter your code then select Download Now
PLEASE NOTE
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• You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.
• This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.
• When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.
• Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.
SUPPORT
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me
About Philadelphia
Philadelphia, the birthplace of American democracy, is a city rich in history and culture. Known for its significant role in the American Revolution and its vibrant arts scene, Philly offers a unique blend of historic landmarks, world-class museums, and diverse culinary experiences.
Top Attractions
Independence Hall
The birthplace of the United States, where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were both signed.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free (timed entry tickets required)
Philadelphia Museum of Art
One of the largest and most renowned art museums in the country, featuring a diverse collection of artworks from around the world.
Museum
2-3 hours
$25 (free on certain days)
Reading Terminal Market
A historic public market offering a variety of food vendors, local produce, and specialty shops.
Market
1-2 hours
Free entry, prices vary by vendor
Must-Try Local Dishes
Philly Cheesesteak
A sandwich made with thinly sliced beefsteak and melted cheese, served on a long roll.
Lunch/Dinner
Can be made with various cheeses and vegetables
Soft Pretzel
A chewy, doughy bread twisted into a knot and topped with coarse salt.
Snack
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking in Wissahickon Valley Park
Kayaking on the Schuylkill River
Picnic in Rittenhouse Square
Spa day at a luxury hotel
Visiting the Philadelphia Museum of Art
Attending a performance at the Kimmel Center
Boat tours on the Delaware River
Ice skating at Dilworth Park
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to October
These months offer comfortable weather and fewer crowds. It's ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city's attractions.
15-28°C
59-82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish, Chinese
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
EST (GMT-5)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Philadelphia is generally safe for tourists, but like any major city, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
- • Avoid walking alone in poorly lit or deserted areas
Getting there
By air
- Philadelphia International Airport • 10 km from city center
By train
30th Street Station, Suburban Station
By bus
Greyhound Bus Station, Megabus Stop
Getting around
Public transport
SEPTA operates a network of buses, subways, and regional rail lines that cover the city and surrounding areas. It's affordable and convenient for getting around.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Center City
Rittenhouse Square
Fishtown
Day trips
Valley Forge
30 km • Half day
A historic site where George Washington's army camped during the Revolutionary War, now a national park with hiking trails and museums.
New Hope
65 km • Full day
A charming riverside town known for its art galleries, antique shops, and scenic views of the Delaware River.
Festivals
Philadelphia Flower Show • March
Wawa Welcome America • July
Pro tips
- Visit the Liberty Bell early in the morning to avoid crowds
- Take the Rocky Steps at the Philadelphia Museum of Art for the full experience
- Explore the city's diverse neighborhoods for unique shopping and dining experiences
- Use the SEPTA Key card for convenient and discounted public transportation
- Try the famous Philly cheesesteak at multiple locations to find your favorite
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
