Walking Tours of

PHILLY’S MUSIC HISTORY

Experience Philadelphia’s remarkable musical legacy

 

For over two centuries, Philadelphia has been home to some of the most significant and ground-breaking musical developments in modern history.

Our mission is to bring Philly’s rich cultural history to life through immersive walking tours, where you’ll explore the stories, sights, and sounds that have shaped the city’s musical identity.

Join us on one of our beloved tours to uncover hidden worlds behind the seemingly ordinary and discover the passion and creativity that has earned Philadelphia its international acclaim!

 

Our Tours

The Beat Goes On: The Rittenhouse/City Hall Tour

From the beginnings of the The Philadelphia Orchestra to the soulful legacy of the 'Philly Sound' and beyond, this tour highlights the city’s evolution into a vibrant epicenter of musical innovation and cultural movements that continue to inspire generations.

This unforgettable tour features over a dozen stops including must-see landmarks like the historic Academy of Music and the awe-inspiring Wanamaker Organ—the largest fully functioning pipe organ in the world!

$35 | 10:30am, 4pm | 90 minutes

7pm special “Philly After Dark” edition available Friday & Saturday nights

Activity Level: Moderate (see here), 1.7 miles

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  • “Robert is very knowledgeable of Philly's music history and he has a great personality that makes the tour informative and relaxing. It's best if you know your Philly artists and tour the places where they started. Equally fun if are curious about the town's history and want to explore the area.”

    Yvonne M., Airbnb review

  • "Wow. I was actually a little cynical at first since I took one in New York and was dissapointed but this practically completely made up for it. Dude knew deep cuts and the most random facts. Only complaint is it could have been shorter since so much information. Highly reccommend."

    Charles P., Airbnb review

  • “Best part of my visit to the University of Pennsylvania . My girlfriend and I started our trip on a bad note but after our tour with Robert he basically jump started our great experience in phlly. Remarkably knowledgeable of the local music scene and accommodated us on our goal of a riding a trolley. Overall , I will definitely re-connect with him when I’m back in Philadelphia.”

    Chris R., Airbnb review

  • “This was our first time in philly and we are so glad we found robert's tours through a friend. He is super informative yet relaxed which made the tour a genuine good time. Def check him out if youre down for a good time and to see some awesome hidden gems.”

    Lindsey B., Airbnb review

  • “Robert grew up in Philly and is very knowledgeable on the area. Very informative and he has a great personality. Highly recommend the tour if you are interested in learning more about Philly and it’s music roots.”

    Mark J., Airbnb review

  • "Robert was a friendly and engaging tour guide, with a lot of interesting information about Fishtown."

    Tom P., Airbnb review

Forgotten Tracks:

The Queen Village/Graduate Hospital Tour

From the pioneering development of the Victor Talking Machine Company (which later became RCA Victor) to South Street’s transformation into a thriving countercultural hub through community-driven efforts, this tour uncovers Philadelphia’s deep ties to musical exploration and cultural evolution.

Discover how seemingly disconnected paths intertwine, revealing a city bursting with unexpected inspiration and overlapping connections. You may find that we have far more in common than we tend to realize!

Available for booking in advance | tours start May 2025

$35 | 1pm, 9pm | 90 minutes

Activity Level: Moderate (see here), 1.9 miles

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  • "We took the Beat Goes On tour and it was absolutely fantastic! Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about Philly’s music history. I honestly had no idea so much happened in such a dense area."

    Diamond J., Airbnb review

  • "I had no idea how much Philadelphia contributed to music history and culture overall until this tour. The blend of storytelling, music samples, and historic landmarks made it an truly unique experience. You can tell the guide put a lot into each aspect."

    Irena V., Airbnb review

  • "This was so much fun!! Me and my friend saw an ad in Rittenhouse Square for this then decided to take before heading home for holidays. Went by super fast and the guide reminded me of Jack Black from School of Rock lol."

    Sara E., Tripadvisor review

  • “If you're passing through Philly and want to kill 2 hours and basically learn everything about center city...take this tour. I was visiting since I went to school here and honestly wish this existed 10 years ago."

    Gidon K., Airbnb review

  • "This was so fun and different...only 3 of us showed up for a tour so I feel like we got special treatment. Rob was funny and knowledgeable and kind enough to walk us to Reading Terminal afterwards."

    Kalina C., Airbnb review

Lost in the Groove:

The Society Hill/Washington Square Tour

From exploring the cultural and political significance of the Chestnut Street Theater (built in 1794) to discovering the hidden influence of iconic spaces such as Earle Theater, East Side Club, and beyond, this tour explores Philadelphia's rich theatrical and musical heritage, highlighting the venues that shaped the city’s entertainment landscape from the early 19th century to present.

Featuring such historic landmarks as the Musical Fund Hall and the legendary Mask and Wig Club, Philadelphia’s most unforgettable stories are waiting to be uncovered—hidden in plain sight.

Available for booking in advance | tours start July 2025

$35 | 6pm | 90 min.

Activity Level: Moderate (see here), 1.8 miles

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