The Black Journey: An African-American History Walking Tour of Philadelphia

Discover the rich history of African-Americans in Philadelphia with an engaging walking tour. Learn about their contributions to the nation’s founding, visit historic sites, and hear inspiring stories of liberation and resilience.

Duration: 2 hours
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Independence Hall - Congress Hall

Old City Hall

First U.S. Supreme Court Building

American Philosophical Society Museum

Library Hall

Thomas Jefferson Garden

First Bank of U.S.

Second Bank of U.S.

Carpenter’s Hall

Independence Square

Washington Square

Tomb of the Unknown Revolutionary War Soldier

Bicentennial Moon Tree

John Todd House

Bishop White House

Dock Creek

Merchant’s Exchange

City Tavern

Guided tour will also identify the former locations for a number of historical locations of importance including:

Philadelphia Prison Site

Benjamin Rush House Site

Quaker Meeting House Site

Quaker School Site

  • The President’s House - This is the house where the first two president’s lived as well as 9 enslaved individuals.
  • Liberty Bell Center - This is the bell that sat atop of Independence Hall. It was a symbol for the abolition movement.
  • Congress Hall - Join the Black Journey to hear the significant to Black history on the tour!
  • Washington Square - Join the Black Journey to hear the significant to Black history on the tour!
  • Mother Bethel A.M.E. Church - Join the Black Journey to hear the significant to Black history on the tour!
What's Included
  • In-Person Guide
What's Not Included
  • Gratuities
Additional Information

The journey will begin at the Independence Visitor’s Center, focusing on the subject of Black History during the Colonial era. You’ll learn about the significant contributions made by Black Americans during the nation’s establishment. The tour will then proceed to the President’s House, where you’ll learn the stories of the 9 individuals enslaved within its walls, including Martha Washington’s maid who managed to flee from her life of servitude.

Moving on, we’ll visit Congo Square, an historic site where individuals of African heritage once congregated to celebrate. It also served as a burial ground, where both free and enslaved Africans remain interred. Our subsequent destination is the Mother Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church.

As part of the tour, you’ll learn about a woman who was freed from slavery, only to have her previous master try to re-enslave her, and about the court case of those who protected her.

The itinerary also includes viewing famed spots such as Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, Congress Hall, and many other intriguing locations.

Location
Independence Visitor Center
Market Street
Please meet the guide holding a "Black Journey Tour" sign outside of the Market Street entrance in front of the Independence Visitors Center.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.9
(65 Ratings)
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1 star
Ryan_w
Jul 26, 2024
Exceptional Experience - Mike provided an exceptional experience. His extensive knowledge of African American history in the city of Philadelphia brought everything to life, offering valuable context and insights. Mike's expertise was particularly evident in their ability to address our numerous questions with depth and clarity. Overall, Mike's passion and expertise significantly enhanced our visit, making it a truly memorable and educational experience.
Review provided by Viator
Evergy
Jul 21, 2024
This tour was a great choice for us and our grandson who was born in Ethiopia! - Our tour guide Raina was wonderful!! She was enthusiastic, energetic and very knowledgeable and interesting! Even on a hot and humid day in Philly, we had the best time!!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Juanitaab
Jul 21, 2024
Black Life in Philadelphia - I went on this tour in the summer of 2023. The tour and tour guide were excellent. I learned a great deal about black life in early Philadelphia.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Judith_b
Jul 5, 2024
Outstanding tour for anyone but particularly for people of African descent.. people of Africa - Mother Bethel church presentation as well as the first presidential palace and the relationship of the founders fight for freedom from Great Britain and slavery
Review provided by Viator
Sacred_h
Jun 30, 2024
Informative - Mike was a very knowledgeable, engaging guide. The tour was very informative and I am grateful to learn more about Philly’s rich Black history.
Review provided by Viator
Kimberly_r
Jun 30, 2024
Very Informative - Our guide has definitely mastered his skill and did a really amazing job! I definitely recommend this tour.
Review provided by Viator
David_h
Jun 9, 2024
Black History experience of Philly - To me it was everything but what hit me the most is when she talked a out the black woman undertaker that was sneaking slaves in caskets to freedom. And the history of the black church. I'm born and raised here and never heard these stories so it was enlightening and heart warming. The tour hostess done an excellent job explaining and showing pictures of Philly black history.
Review provided by Viator
Margaret_s
Apr 28, 2024
Walking through Congo... - Walking through Congo Square and hearing about the thousands of people who still remain buried there.
Review provided by Viator
Kimberly_s
Mar 6, 2024
Fascinating tour and amazing guide! - I went on this tour with my best friend, who just moved to Philadelphia. Mijuel was an amazing guide. Born and bred in Philly, studied history in college, he was an amazing reservoir of fascinating history and stories about Philadelphia, specifically the black history of Philadelphia. He brought a lot of historical context to modern day issues which we still struggle with. I loved filling in the historical gaps that are often not taught in school. This was a wonderful way to get to know more about my friend's new city. I'll be back, and would happily take the tour again (there's so much information, you could probably take it many times and still learn new things.)
Review provided by Viator
Jerrisham2024
Mar 4, 2024
Black History is American History - This was an excellent experience! So glad I weathered the (literal) storm. I am so much more knowledgeable having taken this excursion with Myjewel.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
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up to 15 guests
1 Adult
September 2024
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