Philly has so much history embedded in its neighborhoods, and Black history specifically is no exception. Taking a walking tour can be a great way to understand and appreciate the past, so here are a few options for learning about Philly’s Black history on foot, during Black History Month and beyond.
Guided Tours
- The Black Journey: African American History Walking Tour of Philadelphia. Focusing on African Americans’ role in early American history and the founding of the United States, this two-hour tour will take you past sites like Independence Hall, The President’s House, and Washington Square. Saturdays and public holidays at 2 p.m., Old City, $35
- Historic Fairhill: Black History Month Mural Tour. This one-hour tour will show off the murals surrounding Fairhill Burial Ground in North Philly, where you’ll learn about Underground Railroad leaders, the Philadelphia Anti-Slavery Society, and present-day activists. Saturday, Feb. 10 at 1 p.m., Fairhill, Free
Self-Guided Tours
- Black History on South Street. Keep the linked webpage handy as you walk around South Street, Queen Village, and Society Hill to learn about notable Black former community members, Philly’s history of fire department segregation, and more.
- Reflecting Revenants: Recalling Black Life in the 7th Ward. Follow along with the map and descriptions linked above as you explore this pop-up art gallery on and around South Street that celebrates the area’s history as a center for Black culture and community.
- The Inquirer’s Antislavery Site Tours. The local paper of record developed two audio walking tours — one for Center City and Society Hill, and one for Northwest Philly — that you can listen to as you walk past sites like education activist Anthony Benezet’s home, Mother Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church, and Cliveden.
- Northern Liberties Black History Walking Tour. NoLibs’ business improvement district released an audio walking tour last year that recounts some of the neighborhood’s Black history and highlights present-day Black-owned businesses. (It was paired with some educational window decals that are no longer on display, but the audio tour is mostly evergreen.)
