Philadelphia Halloween Trolley Tour — Terror Beyond the Walls: Old City Ghosts & After-Hours History
Ride a decorated trolley through Old City after dark and hear the city’s stories that rarely make the guidebooks. This 75–100 minute Halloween experience mixes history, ghost tales, two surprise on-foot stops, and BYOB fun—perfect for groups and thrill-seekers who want a compact, theatrical look at Philadelphia’s shadowed past.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive Early to Check In
Plan to be at the Bourse (21 S 5th St) at least 15 minutes before departure to redeem tickets and board without rush.
Dress in Layers
Evenings in late October can be chilly—bring a windproof layer and closed-toe shoes for the surprise stop walks.
BYOB Responsibly
The tour allows BYOB but follow the guide’s directions and have ID handy if asked; public open-container rules still apply off the trolley.
Use Low-Light Camera Settings
Bring a small tripod or steady your phone—most dramatic shots happen during blue hour and after dark when light is limited.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Stand-inside view at the Arch Street Meeting House’s quiet façade during a stop for an unexpectedly intact 18th-century meeting room feel
- •Look down at the Christ Church Burial Ground’s worn tombstones to spot Revolutionary-era names and unusual funerary iconography
Wildlife
- •Urban bats at dusk
- •Sparrows and starlings in Washington Square Park
Conservation Note
The tour emphasizes low-impact visits—stay on sidewalks and designated areas, avoid touching historic stones, and follow guide instructions to minimize wear on fragile sites.
Old City was a commercial and political hub in the 18th century; its burial grounds and meeting houses reflect early American civic and religious life.
Photographer's Notes
- • Christ Church Burial Ground entrance
- • Front facade of Powel House during stop
- • From the trolley window facing cobbled side streets
What to Bring
Mobile ticket & photo IDEssential
Needed for entry and for BYOB verification if asked.
Windproof jacketEssential
Evenings are cool—a packable shell keeps you comfortable between stops.
Comfortable closed-toe shoesEssential
You may step off the trolley onto uneven pavement and cobbles.
Phone with charged battery
For photos, trivia participation, and to display your mobile ticket.
Common Questions
Where do I meet for the tour?
Meet the City Sightseeing agent in front of the Bourse Building on the 5th Street side (21 S 5th St) to redeem your ticket and line up.
Is the trolley wheelchair or stroller accessible?
Yes—strollers are allowed, and the tour is marked stroller accessible; contact the operator in advance for specific wheelchair accommodations.
Can I drink alcohol onboard?
The tour is BYOB, but guests must carry ID and follow the guide’s rules; be mindful of local public consumption laws when off the trolley.
Will the tour run in bad weather?
The operator may cancel for severe weather; standard cancellation allows a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before departure.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Stories vary in intensity—while physically suitable for families, parents should judge whether ghost stories are appropriate for younger kids.
How early should I book and how many seats?
Tours are popular on Halloween weekend and can sell out; book early—shared trolley seating has a maximum capacity (around 43) for timed departures.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
75–100 minutes
Location
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Minimal fitness required; must be able to step on and off a trolley and stand briefly during stops.
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