The Road to Revolution: A Self-Guided Audio Tour in Philadelphia

Every building in Philadelphia has a story to tell. The materials, technology, and styles in vogue, when these buildings were constructed, might reveal one story, while the people who designed, built, lived, and worked in them often add a narrative of their own. Come with me on this walking tour to hear about the events that took place in and around Philadelphia’s Old City buildings. Along the way, I’ll tell you about the individuals who shaped the city from its beginnings to American Independence.

Starting in Elfreth’s Alley, the oldest continuously inhabited street in America, you'll hear the story of the city's early history.

Along the way, you’ll see Christ Church, where George Washington, Betsy Ross, and Deborah Franklin all worshiped at some point.

Along the way, you’ll see Fragments of Franklin Court and the sections where Ben Franklin spent the last years of his life.

Along the way, you’ll see Carpenters’ Hall, the first craft guild in America and home of the First Continental Congress.

Along the way, you’ll see the First Bank of the United States, created by Alexander Hamilton, which sparked the beginning of the two-party system.

You'll pass by the Merchants Exchange Building and along the way, learn its history and connection to Philadelphia's start.

On this tour, you’ll also hear about Alexander Hamilton’s time in Philadelphia and the scandal he was involved in.

Along the way, you’ll see the Second Bank of the United States, which looks Grecian in style.

You'll pass by the statue of Robert Morris. You'll learn about the man and hear a bit about why the statue is controversial.

You'll pass by Library Hall and along the way, learn its history and connection to Philadelphia's start.

Along with hearing about the Old City Hall, you'll learn a lot about the American Revolution which will loom large, as will the founding of our government, in which Benjamin Franklin had a large role to play. He’s the only person to have signed the Constitution of the United States, the Declaration of Independence, the Treaty of Alliance, and the Treaty of Paris.

You'll pass by Congress Hall and along the way, learn its history and connection to Philadelphia's start.

The tour wraps up at the President's House Site. From there you'll see several landmarks tied to the American Revolution.

Along the way, you’ll see The Liberty Bell, where you’ll hear its story and discover what it commemorates.

On this tour, you’ll walk the same streets as Philadelphia’s founding fathers and mothers to Independence Hall.