Pennsylvania
Signature City Philadelphia
Program No. 10238RJ
Experience the best of Philadelphia’s history and landmarks, as you explore this vibrant city with local experts who provide an insider’s look at its present and past.
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Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
800-454-5768
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Prices displayed below are based on per person,doubleoccupancy.
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6 days
5 nights
11 meals
5B 2L 4D
1
Check-In, Registration, Orientation, Dinner, Ben Franklin
Philadelphia, PA
2
Lecture, Dickens Village, Macy's Organ & Holiday Trolly ride
Philadelphia, PA
3
Independence Hall & Liberty Bell Old City, Deck the Alley
Philadelphia, PA
4
I Hall & Bell, Old City, Behind the scenes at the Alley
Philadelphia, PA
5
Winterthur Estate, Longwood Gardens & Holiday Lights
Philadelphia, PA
6
Built History, Program Concludes
Philadelphia, PA
At a Glance
Philadelphia is America’s most remarkable hometown, enriched by centuries of history, heritage, culture and connections. Led by experts, experience its lively diversity as we explore neighborhoods such as Society Hill, Independence National Park and elegant Rittenhouse Square. Learn about the role of civic institutions and architecture of different eras, and savor the flavor of a flourishing dining renaissance. You’ll even meet Ben Franklin himself.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Walking up to two miles. Standing on field trips and getting on/off buses and public transportation.
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
Best of all, you’ll…
- Retrace the footsteps of our Founding Fathers — and Mothers! — from William Penn to Ben Franklin and Betsy Ross as you walk to Old City sites including Independence Hall and Elfreth’s Alley.
- Marvel at distinctive architecture spanning three centuries of achievement on Society Hill, at City Hall and the Masonic Temple.
- Experience the rich tradition of the arts and culture of Philadelphia at a public event.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Mitchell Kramer
Mitchell Kramer has a B.A. in playwriting from Hampshire College and attended Circle in the Square acting conservatory. He has worked off-Broadway and in regional theater including the New York Theater Workshop and Dorset Theater Festival. He is a costumed Historic Interpreter portraying Benjamin Franklin in Old City Philadelphia. Mitchell has written and produced plays for children and adults and a series of historically accurate stories about 18th century Philadelphia for Historic Philadelphia, Inc. He is on the Board of Directors of Mount Sinai Cemetery.
Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.
John Becton
View biography
Joe Becton was introduced to history by his father, a history teacher in the Philadelphia School District. After attending Philadelphia public schools, he went on to earn associate degrees in social work and social science and a B.A. in history education at the University of West Florida. He is a noted Philadelphia musical artist who performs a repertoire of 19th century spirituals and Civil War songs. He also interprets the styles of music developed by Africans in America and the collision of cultures that created the music we call gospel, jazz and blues. Joe is a retired National Park Service Ranger at Independence National Historical Park.
Tish Byrne
View biography
An artist and historian, Tish Byrne is passionate about all aspects of her native city and its environment after having lived in and led explorations at the Physick House, which belongs to Philadelphia Landmarks. She is a graduate of the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts later becoming an administrative assistant to the Director of the school. Presently, she leads excursions for the mural arts program, is a docent at Historic Christ Church and leads explorations of Philadelphia landmarks.
Mitchell Kramer
View biography
Mitchell Kramer has a B.A. in playwriting from Hampshire College and attended Circle in the Square acting conservatory. He has worked off-Broadway and in regional theater including the New York Theater Workshop and Dorset Theater Festival. He is a costumed Historic Interpreter portraying Benjamin Franklin in Old City Philadelphia. Mitchell has written and produced plays for children and adults and a series of historically accurate stories about 18th century Philadelphia for Historic Philadelphia, Inc. He is on the Board of Directors of Mount Sinai Cemetery.
Warren Williams
View biography
Warren is a retired architect with over 30 years of experience. Much of his career was spent at the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority in Philadelphia. In his professional career, he has worked on several historic projects in the Philadelphia region. Warren is an avid photographer of historic buildings and urban streetscapes. He has led groups exploring Philadelphia’s historic architecture and city planning for over 25 years and occasionally lectures on Philadelphia’s historical development.
Lauren Kain
View biography
Lauren Biddle Kain is the site coordinator for Philadelphia Landmarks Road Scholar. She received her BS/BA from Randolph Macon College in Ashland, Virginia. After marriage and transfer to the San Diego area, she began working at EVENT NETWORK, a leading experiental retail operator, on behalf of cultural attractions such as zoos, botanical gardens, aquariums, museums, science centers and other cultural attractions. Lauren and her family now reside in the Philadelphia area. She started working with Road Scholar as a junior Group Leader for Grandparent Programs.
Suggested Reading List
(5 books)
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
Signature City Philadelphia
Program Number: 10238
The Perennial Philadelphians
William Penn's Holy Experiment
Autobiography
Philadelphia - Portrait of an American City
Philadelphia Then & Now
Program
At a Glance
Duration
6 days
Program Begins
Philadelphia, PA
Program Concludes
Philadelphia, PA
Group Type
Small Group
Meals
11
| 5B |
2L |
4D |
Activity Level
Philadelphia is America’s most remarkable hometown, enriched by centuries of history, heritage, culture and connections. Led by experts, experience its lively diversity as we explore neighborhoods such as Society Hill, Independence National Park and elegant Rittenhouse Square. Learn about the role of civic institutions and architecture of different eras, and savor the flavor of a flourishing dining renaissance. You’ll even meet Ben Franklin himself.)
Best of all, you'll...
- Retrace the footsteps of our Founding Fathers — and Mothers! — from William Penn to Ben Franklin and Betsy Ross as you walk to Old City sites including Independence Hall and Elfreth’s Alley.
- Marvel at distinctive architecture spanning three centuries of achievement on Society Hill, at City Hall and the Masonic Temple.
- Experience the rich tradition of the arts and culture of Philadelphia at a public event.
Featured Expert
Mitchell Kramer
Mitchell Kramer has a B.A. in playwriting from Hampshire College and attended Circle in the Square acting conservatory. He has worked off-Broadway and in regional theater including the New York Theater Workshop and Dorset Theater Festival. He is a costumed Historic Interpreter portraying Benjamin Franklin in Old City Philadelphia. Mitchell has written and produced plays for children and adults and a series of historically accurate stories about 18th century Philadelphia for Historic Philadelphia, Inc. He is on the Board of Directors of Mount Sinai Cemetery.
Please Note:
This expert may not be available for every date of the program
John Becton
Joe Becton was introduced to history by his father, a history teacher in the Philadelphia School District. After attending Philadelphia public schools, he went on to earn associate degrees in social work and social science and a B.A. in history education at the University of West Florida. He is a noted Philadelphia musical artist who performs a repertoire of 19th century spirituals and Civil War songs. He also interprets the styles of music developed by Africans in America and the collision of cultures that created the music we call gospel, jazz and blues. Joe is a retired National Park Service Ranger at Independence National Historical Park.
Tish Byrne
An artist and historian, Tish Byrne is passionate about all aspects of her native city and its environment after having lived in and led explorations at the Physick House, which belongs to Philadelphia Landmarks. She is a graduate of the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts later becoming an administrative assistant to the Director of the school. Presently, she leads excursions for the mural arts program, is a docent at Historic Christ Church and leads explorations of Philadelphia landmarks.
Lauren Kain
Lauren Biddle Kain is the site coordinator for Philadelphia Landmarks Road Scholar. She received her BS/BA from Randolph Macon College in Ashland, Virginia. After marriage and transfer to the San Diego area, she began working at EVENT NETWORK, a leading experiental retail operator, on behalf of cultural attractions such as zoos, botanical gardens, aquariums, museums, science centers and other cultural attractions. Lauren and her family now reside in the Philadelphia area. She started working with Road Scholar as a junior Group Leader for Grandparent Programs.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Walking up to two miles. Standing on field trips and getting on/off buses and public transportation.
Small Group
(13 to 24)
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
Suggested Reading List
View Full List
(5 Books)
You can also find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
HAVE QUESTIONS?
Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
We can help. Give us a call, and we can answer all of your questions!
Call
800-454-5768
Year
- 2025
Date
- Mar 10 - Mar 15
- Apr 27 - May 02
- May 04 - May 09
- May 11 - May 16
- Jun 08 - Jun 13
- Sep 07 - Sep 12
- Sep 28 - Oct 03
- Oct 12 - Oct 17
- Oct 19 - Oct 24
- Dec 11 - Dec 16
Please Note: The program differs on certain dates.
Please Note: The program differs on certain dates.
Select trip year and date
- 2025
- Mar 10 - Mar 15
- Apr 27 - May 02
- May 04 - May 09
- May 11 - May 16
- Jun 08 - Jun 13
- Sep 07 - Sep 12
- Sep 28 - Oct 03
- Oct 12 - Oct 17
- Oct 19 - Oct 24
- Dec 11 - Dec 16
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. As a result, some program activities, schedules, accommodations, personnel, and other logistics occasionally change due to local conditions or circumstances. Should a major change occur, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Duration
6 days
5 nights
What's Included
11 meals | 5B | 2L | 4D |
3 expert-led lectures
8 expert-led field trips
1 performance
An experienced Group Leader
5 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
Day
1
Check-In, Registration, Orientation, Dinner, Ben Franklin
Location:
Philadelphia, PA
Meals:
D
Stay:
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Philadelphia Center City
Activity Note
Hotel check-in from 4:00 p.m.
Afternoon:
Program Registration: 4:00 p.m. After you check in and have your room assignment, join us at the Road Scholar table in the lobby to register with the program staff, get any updated information, and confirm the time and location of the Orientation session. If you arrive late, please locate your Group Leader and let them know you have arrived. Orientation: 4:30 p.m. The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, COVID-19 protocols, emergency procedures, and answer questions. We will adhere to local COVID-19 guidelines and requirements throughout the program. Periods in the schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding.
Dinner:
At the hotel or at a nearby restaurant
Evening:
Benjamin Franklin welcomes you to Philadelphia!
Day
2
Lecture, Dickens Village, Macy's Organ & Holiday Trolly ride
Location:
Philadelphia, PA
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Philadelphia Center City
Activity Note
Walking up to 4 miles; city streets. Getting on/off a Trolly, riding up to 2 miles, 90 minutes.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will be joined by a local historian who will give us a presentation on 18th Century Philadelphia history and the story of our Founding Fathers. Following our lecture we will set out by foot to Macy's for the Dickens Village and the Macy's Light Show and organ. We will enjoy a Philadelphia tradition. The holiday spectacle, titled “Christmas Pageant of Lights”, features narration by the legendary Julie Andrews and the glorious sounds of the famous Wanamaker Organ. The Light Show takes the audience on a journey through popular Christmas stories including The Nutcracker, Frosty the Snowman, and a magical Christmas Tree
Lunch:
On your own, at the Reading Terminal.
Afternoon:
After Lunch we will meander our way from the Reading Terminal through City Hall to Dillworth Plaza and Love Park. Love Park has been transformed to a German-style Christmas Village. During our walk we will point out impressive architecture for which Philadelphia is famous. Such as the Masonic Temple which highlights the outstanding 19th Century architecture The interior of the Masonic Temple is beyond description - each of its seven ceremonial rooms is decorated in a different architectural style, reflecting Greek, Renaissance, Egyptian and Moorish decor. Philadelphia's City Hall, in the French Second Renaissance style, is the largest municipal building in the world.
Dinner:
At a nearby restaurant.
Evening:
Tonight, we will board a classic Victorian trolley to experience Philadelphia holiday lights. The trolly ride is a 90 minute Christmas Light tour that will take us to all the best sites for viewing the holiday lights. Philadelphia is the city of Brotherly Love, and a city of neighborhoods, that celebrate the holidays with unique light displays.
Day
3
Independence Hall & Liberty Bell Old City, Deck the Alley
Location:
Philadelphia, PA
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Philadelphia Center City
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 1 mile, approximately 1/2 hour riding time. Walking up to 3 miles; city streets.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
This morning we will set out via Motorcoach to visit Holiday Houses decorated in holiday finery. A once-a-year holiday experience to step back into the colonial spirit of decorating.
Lunch:
This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to have what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Afternoon:
Free time. This period of time has been set aside for your personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. Please refer to the list of Free Time Opportunities. Please note that the period scheduled for free time is subject to change depending on local circumstances and opportunities for independent exploration.
Dinner:
At a nearby restaurant.
Evening:
This evening we will enjoy the Philadelphia Orchestra at the Kimmel Center. Rafael Payare will conduct Mahler Symphony No. 1. "Mahler’s First Symphony is an epic musical journey, overflowing with images of nature, bursting with emotion, and ending in triumph. This classic is a mighty finale to a program that includes the United States premiere of a piano concerto by Peruvian composer Jimmy López Bellido performed by Javier Perianes, “a player of great elegance and understated flamboyance … with exquisite grace and a wonderful lightness of touch” (The Guardian)."
Day
4
I Hall & Bell, Old City, Behind the scenes at the Alley
Location:
Philadelphia, PA
Meals:
B,L
Stay:
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Philadelphia Center City
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 1 mile, approximately 1/2 hour riding time. Walking up to 3 miles; city streets.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will board our motorcoach ride ten blocks to the Colonial City, America’s most historic square mile, for a field trip to the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. These are national treasures and icons of American democracy. The old cracked bell still proclaims “Liberty” and Independence Hall echoes the words “We the People.” As we explore what has been called Ben Franklin’s Philadelphia, we’ll learn about America’s past and continuing struggle to fulfill the Founders’ Declaration that “all men are created equal.”
Lunch:
At a local restaurant
Afternoon:
After lunch, we will be joined by our educator to explore the Historic District We will have a behind the scenes tour of Elfreh's Alley- as they prepare for Deck the Alley. Elfreth's Alley is the oldest continuously inhabited street in the United States.
Dinner:
On your own to have what you like. Dine with new friends and perhaps explore a new neighborhood or cuisine.
Evening:
At leisure. You might like to attend a performance of theater or music (as available), see more of the city on your own, or simply relax.
Day
5
Winterthur Estate, Longwood Gardens & Holiday Lights
Location:
Philadelphia, PA
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Philadelphia Center City
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 76 miles, approximately 2 hours riding time. Lots of leisurely walking at your own pace. Depending on your activity level, you could walk up to 5 miles today. Wheelchairs and electric scooters available to rent at Longwood.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
En route to Delaware in our private motorcoach, our educator will point out local landmarks along the way. Designed in the spirit of 18th- and 19th-century European country estates, Winterthur (pronounced “winter-tour”) was the childhood home of collector and horticulturist Henry Francis du Pont and is now one of the most extraordinary museums in the country — premier showcase of American decorative arts — with an unparalleled collection of nearly 90,000 objects made or used in America between about 1640 and 1860. The collection is displayed in the magnificent 175-room mansion, much as it was when the du Pont family lived here, as well as in permanent and changing exhibition galleries. We will enjoy our private exploration through holiday decorated rooms. During our private exploration, we will see exquisitely decorated trees, beautiful rooms that are only open during this season, and traditions such as the evolution of holiday meals from the colonial period to the early national period. Depending on weather, we may also meander through a recreated woodland path offering vistas of the lovely Winterthur Garden. Yuletide at Winterthur is a feast for the spirit.
Lunch:
At Winterthur. Boxed lunches will be provided.
Afternoon:
After lunch we will depart for Longwood Gardens. The legacy of Pierre S. DuPont is one of the great gardens of the world, with a four-acre conservatory and outdoor gardens spanning 1,077 acres. As it’s winter, you may wonder what you will see. The illuminated displays of plants, ornaments, and fountains — indoors and outdoors — are extraordinary. You will marvel at banks of poinsettias and other blooming plants, magnificent Christmas trees, and half a million twinkling lights that come on at 3:30 p.m. each day. We’ll time our visit so that we can enjoy the full magnificence of the illuminated outdoor winter landscape and the indoor display of holiday plant rooms inside the conservatory.
Dinner:
We will dine at a local restaurant prior to arriving back in Philadelphia/Hotel.
Evening:
At leisure for you to prepare for check out.
Day
6
Built History, Program Concludes
Location:
Philadelphia, PA
Meals:
B
Activity Note
Hotel check-out 11:00 a.m.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
Our closing lecture will focus on the city’s built history through architecture. This concludes our program. If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!
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MEALS
11 Meals
5 Breakfasts
2 Lunches
4 Dinners
LODGING
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Showing Lodging For:
- Dec 11, 2025 - Dec 16, 2025
- Mar 10, 2025 - Mar 15, 2025
- Apr 27, 2025 - May 02, 2025
- May 04, 2025 - May 09, 2025
- May 11, 2025 - May 16, 2025
- Jun 08, 2025 - Jun 13, 2025
- Sep 07, 2025 - Sep 12, 2025
- Sep 28, 2025 - Oct 03, 2025
- Oct 12, 2025 - Oct 17, 2025
- Oct 19, 2025 - Oct 24, 2025
- Dec 11, 2025 - Dec 16, 2025
Participant Reviews
Based on 50 Reviews
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This is the way American History should be learned.
— Review left October 26, 2024
The Signature Cities Tour of Philadelphia was excellent. We highly encourage everyone to take this tour.
— Review left October 2, 2024
I had heard great things about the Philadelphia Signature Cities tour and it did not disappoint! History, music, art and architecture intertwined with the major people of the times and meeting Ben Franklin resulted in a winning program!
— Review left September 28, 2024
My Philadelphia experience was amazing and I am so thankful I took the time to go, meet new friends and learn so much about the beautiful city. Loved it!
— Review left September 14, 2024
We had a great time in Philadelphia! It was my first RS trip and has encouraged me to want to explore more places this way. Our guide, Mitchell, was so knowledgeable and animated; he really brought history to life with his amusing stories as well as little-known bits of information about our Founding Fathers. He really kept us interested. There was also a very comfortable, friendly vibe among all the tour participants. It really couldn’t have been nicer. I would highly recommend this tour and Road Scholar to anyone.
— Review left May 22, 2024
If you love history and finding out more details about what was happening in Philadelphia during the Revolutionary War period, this is an excellent program.
— Review left May 5, 2024
Pride in the Founding and Development of America
— Review left May 4, 2024
Our tour guide, Tish, was amazing! She is entertaining and knows Philadelphia inside and out! Philly is such a walkable city and I felt very safe in center city. I took the “women’s only” tour and really loved that. Wish RS offered more of those, it encouraged me to take my first RS trip. There were several other solo first timers in the group.
I do wish that the Philadelphia Museum of Art was part of the itinerary. The hotel was not the best. It was in disrepair and the service was lacking.
— Review left May 4, 2024
I'd been to Philadelphia before, but this program really opened my eyes to so much of its history! This is a great way to get to know a place!
— Review left May 4, 2024
Philly has a lot to offer and I learned a lot of neat "stuff" that I really enjoyed.
— Review left April 23, 2024
This tour exceeded my expectations by being unique and fun! I'm telling everyone to check out RoadScholar!
— Review left April 17, 2024
This was my first “Signature City” trip. It was wonderful. Don’t miss the opportunity to travel to places you haven’t yet experienced. Road Scholar made it possible to visit an area of our country that I thought my “advancing age” would prevent me from experiencing and enjoying.
— Review left December 6, 2023
This was a great program for seniors like us. We learned a lot about the founding fathers, and saw so many historical sights in Philadelphia.
— Review left October 29, 2023
Best way to learn about the formation of the US Republic in Philadelphia
— Review left October 14, 2023
I’m too shy to share with real strangers. I would like you to tell your staff and the folks who shared their information and locations with us, however. People need to know their patrons appreciate their work.
— Review left October 13, 2023
My first trip to Philadelphia and my third Road Scholar program. Traveled to Philly by train and used Uber from the station to the hotel. The weather was excellent, the group was congenial, and our group leader was terrific. I even attended a Phillies baseball game on the free night!
— Review left June 19, 2023
If you've never been to Philadelphia, this is the tour for you. It will offer you a new perspective on the founding of the United States and the critical role Philadelphia played in it.
— Review left May 13, 2023
The Philadelphia signature city program was very interesting and enjoyable. I highly recommend it.
— Review left April 27, 2023
Signature City Philadelphia is an excellent program. I heartily recommend it to anyone who has an interest in history and U.S. cities!
— Review left April 26, 2023
This trip exceeded expectations. Our hotel was centrally located and we could walk to so many sites. Our guide, Mitchell, was extremely knowledgeable and very enthusiastic about each subject. Philly is a beautiful city to explore and renew your excitement about American History and our democracy.
— Review left April 26, 2023
Signature City Philadelphia exceeded my expectations! It was a profound experience to be at the place where the United States of America was created, and to have our Road Scholar guide to illuminate that experience.
— Review left April 26, 2023
Road Scholar is a very educational way to travel and meet new people.
The groups of participants are small which makes touring much easier.
The group leaders are very informed.
— Review left April 21, 2023
Philadelphia is a most wonderful large city that you will never appreciate without experiencing a program/your such as what Road Scholar offers.
— Review left October 22, 2022
Our group leader, Mitchell Kramer, was excellent. He is very knowledgeable about Philadelphia's past and present, and he has a large personality with a self-deprecating sense of humor. Hotel was in great location; walking distance to nearly everywhere. I enjoyed learning more about the Revolutionary War and the drafting of the Constitution. The dinners at outside restaurants were all excellent; I especially enjoyed the singing servers at Victor Cafe.
— Review left September 23, 2022
Meet Ben Franklin and hear his story. See the liberty bell and the Philadelphia National Park. Eat some delicious food at the Reading Terminal. Immerse yourself in living history. It’s a bustling and vibrant and walkable city. Loved having Mitchell as our guide. He was terrific.
— Review left September 13, 2022
You may think you know the history of the American Revolution and the founding fathers, but I think you'll be amazed at how much you will learn in this program. Our guide was extremely knowledge about the period, to the point that he actually is a Ben Franklin re-enactor. He brought people and events to life in such a way that I came away with an enriched understanding of our nation's founding fathers, their history, and the inspiration that drove them. In addition to visiting the historical sites, we also toured the city and I learned why Philadelphia, the Quaker city of "brotherly love" became the birthplace of our nation. The song "Philadelphia freedom" means a lot more to me now. Everyone in our country should do this tour!
— Review left June 12, 2022
A fantastic program! It was a wonderful introduction to Philadelphia. I hope come back again.
— Review left June 11, 2022
The Philadelphia Signature City program provides a comprehensive view of one of our nation’s most historic locations. Anyone participating will be surprised at how much more he or she will have learned about the creation of the United States from the week spent in this great city.
— Review left June 11, 2022
The Philadelphia Signature City Tour exceeded my expectations! I thought I knew quite a lot about our early history, but I learned so much more on this tour. Our group leader, Mitchell, was great...informative, funny, and interesting. All in all, a wonderful time spent steeped in history!
— Review left May 14, 2022
Go back in time to relive the founding of our country through this remarkable program.
— Review left March 26, 2022
Even if you think you already know about the founding of this country, this program will stretch your knowledge and increase understanding. Democracy can be “messy” and it has always been like that, but I found this quite reassuring and affirming.
— Review left March 19, 2022
I was so pleased with this Signature City trip to Philadelphia. I learned so much more about our country and now understand our people with a new perspective. Right? That’s why I love Road Scholar trips. I come away with a new understanding, a new sense, a new perspective and it enriches me in a way that is very meaningful. If you haven’t been to Philadelphia...put it on your bucket list! The art in the city is like no other - the murals! 4700 of them - the food well, I could go on and on. Just Do It. And if you can have Tish as your tour leader, you will be amazed. I’m a fairly recent widow. When your dream changes, don’t change the dream...go on a Road Scholar trip! Cindy Gum
— Review left March 18, 2022
Very historic city well worth visiting. The Masonic Temple is a must see. The presentation excellent. Our time there was cut short un fortunately. Several times key museums or historical places were closed during our free afternoons which could have been planned better. Downtown hotel was good but parking fees very expensive. Our guide was certainly informed but lacked overview or handouts to help us follow his varied train of thought. A variety of speakers may have helped. Our closing speaker was excellent but was needed earlier in the program sequence. Certainly an enjoyable trip.
— Review left November 12, 2021
History comes to life on this fun, interesting tour of Philadelphia.
— Review left November 7, 2021
Signature City: Philadelphia was just a wonderful, varied experience. Filled with lively history everywhere one goes, architecture, art, many beautiful wall murals, great food, tons of walking, enthusiastic and knowledgeable guides waiting to pack your day. The hotel is very well situated and staff most helpful. Was so pleased with the entire program and all I learned. Plan to stay a couple more days to experience the Barnes Foundation, Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Mutter Museum, among other experiences. This is a well planned program and makes the most of your time. Wondered why it took me so long to visit here. Have been promoting Philadelphia the Road Scholar Way to friends and acquaintances. Just go!
— Review left November 5, 2021
A great overview of historic Philadelphia. Trish was an excellent guide and the restaurants were fantastic.
— Review left November 5, 2021
This was an excellent trip. I learned a great deal about American history, architecture and art.
I highly recommend it to anyone interested in these topics.
It was well paced, lectures were top-notch and restaurant choices very good as well.
— Review left November 3, 2021
This is a wonderful, in-depth look at one of the great cities of the world. Very nice combination of history, art, architecture, politics, media. Appropriate combination of bus and walking. Highly recommend!
— Review left October 30, 2021
Remarkable experience. Our guide was gifted, energetic, talented and every part of the trip was wonderful. Dinners, lunches, transportation all were a great value. Recommend this trip without reservation.
— Review left October 29, 2021
Great experience and value with small groups.
— Review left October 21, 2021
Great experience. Learned about historical events that included information usually not readily available.
— Review left October 16, 2021
Our guide, Mitchell...aka Benjamin Franklin…brought Philadelphia history alive in our Signature City tour. His wealth of knowledge, humor and depth of insights and details made this an exceptional experience. When we met him on our first evening as Benjamin Franklin, we knew we were in for a special treat. We highly recommend the tour.
Jim and Susan
— Review left October 15, 2021
If you like history, architecture, and/or good food, this is a trip for you. The field trips included take you to the iconic Philadelphia sites. The lectures set you up for what you will see and experience. And the hotel is right in the midst of it all.
— Review left March 16, 2020
I have never been very interested in history but this program brought it to life for me. And Philadelphia has so much more to offer in architecture, art, food and museums. The hotel, meals and logistics were top notch. Tish Byrne was a fabulous Group Leader and is a real ambassador for Philadelphia.
— Review left March 15, 2020
Decent website. But as most Road Scholar participants are senior citizens, use a larger font -- say, Georgia 16 point.
— Review left November 1, 2019
This lived up to all my expectations of a Road Scholar tour. And then some. Great hotel, food, lectures, organization and fun people. Mitch was an incredible guide.
— Review left June 18, 2019
The Signature City Tour of Philadelphia is packed with the early history of Philadelphia and it's influence on the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the many "firsts" the city achieved along the way. The Museum of the American Revolution is one of the best I've been to -- enjoy!
— Review left June 15, 2019
Philadelphia was not on my list of places to visit but I am so glad I did. I learned so much and the city is wonderful. It was easy to get around, there were many wonderful places to dine, good museums and theaters and the history is vast. I would even return on my own just for a personal visit. Don't miss all the wonderful murals there.
— Review left June 4, 2019
This is a "must do" for American history buffs.
— Review left May 31, 2019
If you have never been to Philadelphia, take this trip. History comes alive and by understanding its origins, you are better to evaluate history today.
— Review left March 16, 2019
