Discover Philadelphia’s Lost Waterfront with a Self-Guided Audio Tour
Step back in time with Philadelphia's Lost Waterfront: A Self-Guided Audio Tour. This immersive experience takes you along the north-central Philadelphia waterfront, revealing what remains of this historic area after the construction of Interstate I-95 in the 1970s. Discover stories of early Quaker settlers who once lived in caves along the waterfront, and learn how this area fueled regional and national enterprise.
Explore how Philadelphia's waterfront was a hub of commerce, where early American capitalists built fortunes and where the foundations of the nation were laid. At the same time, it was a place where urban challenges first appeared. Your guide, historian Harry Kyriakodis, shares fascinating insights and rare stories from his extensive collection of Philadelphia history books.
This private self-guided tour offers a flexible way to uncover Philadelphia’s rich past at your own pace. Whether you're a history buff or just curious about the city’s hidden stories, this tour provides a unique perspective on a once-thriving waterfront that shaped a nation.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the Philadelphia's Lost Waterfront: A Self-Guided Audio Tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 40 minutes to 1 hour.
What languages is the tour available in?
The tour is available in English.
Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it's suitable for adults aged 6 to 99.
What do I need to participate in the tour?
You need a smartphone, headphones, and the VoiceMap app installed. Personal expenses for admission fees are not included, and transportation or food are not part of the tour.
Can I explore the tour at my own pace?
Absolutely. This self-guided tour allows you to start, pause, and restart whenever you like, giving you full control over your experience.
What stops are included in the tour?
The tour covers several key spots, including outside Christ Church, Penn's Landing, Race Street Pier, under the Benjamin Franklin Bridge, Cavanaugh's River Deck, Wood Street Steps, and Elfreth's Alley.
Free cancellation
You can cancel for a full refund at least 24 hours before the scheduled start time.
Reserve now
Check a date here, then finish booking with our partner. Payment options are confirmed at checkout.
Duration 40 minutes – 1 hour
Check availability to see start times.
Guided experience
English
Key facts
What's included
Included
- VoiceMap App for Android and iOS
- Lifetime access to this tour in English
- Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
- Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour
- Directions to the starting point so the tour begins when you're in the right spot
Not included
- Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour
- Smartphone and headphones
- Transportation
- Food and drinks
Itinerary
A self-guided walk along Philadelphia’s historic waterfront, revealing stories of early settlers, commerce, and urban change.
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Stop 1
Begin outside Christ Church, a historic Philadelphia landmark.
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Stop 2
Pass by Penn's Landing, a key area of Philadelphia's waterfront history.
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Stop 3
View several piers, including the Race Street Pier, once bustling centers of trade.
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Stop 4
Pass under the Benjamin Franklin Bridge, a symbol of Philadelphia's connection to the world.
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Stop 5
See Cavanaugh's River Deck, a popular spot with waterfront views.
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Stop 6
Walk past the Wood Street Steps, a historic staircase along the waterfront.
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Stop 7
End your tour exploring Elfreth's Alley, the oldest residential street in America.
Meeting point & pickup
Meet at the designated starting point outside Christ Church.
Before starting, install the VoiceMap app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. The tour is self-guided, so you can start, pause, or restart at any time. Detailed instructions for the starting point are available after download.
Open in Google MapsHow to get there
Download the VoiceMap app, enter your code, and follow the directions to begin your exploration.
Cancellation & confirmation
Free cancellation
You can cancel for a full refund at least 24 hours before the scheduled start time.
- 100% refund if canceled at least 1 day in advance
- No refund if canceled less than 24 hours before
Instant confirmation
Your booking is confirmed immediately after checkout.
From $7.99 per person
- Free cancellation
- Secure checkout with our booking partner
