Tours

People often ask me about Black history tours of Philadelphia. There are several outstanding Black-owned tour companies that I know and recommend highly:

The Black Journey

You can choose from one of four excellent two-hour walking tours in and around the heart of Philadelphia’s historic district.

1838 Black Metropolis Walking Tours

The standard Black Metropolis Walking Tour is offered through The Black Journey, but check this page for special tours. And take a look at their award-winning website which paints a vivid picture of Black Philadelphia life in the late 1830s.

North to the World

Judith Robinson is a North Philadelphia-based docent, researcher, tour ambassador, storyteller, and public historian. Her specialties are Afro-American history, the Strawberry Mansion neighborhood, and Fairmount Park. She also does curated, unique tours depending on your needs. You can reach her at northtotheworldphl@gmail.com or 215-235-6517 (direct voicemail).

Gilletta “Gigi” McGraw

Gilletta “Gigi” McGraw is an author, social practice artist, tour guide, and maker who offers specialized tours of Germantown and of West, Southwest, South Philadelphia. You can learn more about her work on her website and contact her at Shegg910@gmail.com.

Joe Becton

Joe Becton is a former Park Ranger for the National Park Service at Independence National Historical Park and is a legendary tour guide, reenactor, singer, and scholar about Philadelphia Black History. You can learn about Becton Tours and Historical Services at his website.