Old City After Dark: Drinking Tour in Philadelphia

Old City After Dark: Drinking Tour in Philadelphia – A No-Nonsense Guide

Planning a night out in Philadelphia and want more than just drinks and dancing? This Old City After Dark tour promises a mix of adventure, local flavor, and a taste of Philly’s lesser-known gems. For just $35 per person, you’re getting an experience packed with activities, unique venues, and a lively social scene—all wrapped into a well-paced three-hour adventure.

What’s appealing about this tour? First, the axe throwing activity adds a dash of excitement and a sense of achievement. Second, the tour’s focus on hidden bar venues with vinyl records and craft cocktails offers an authentic, music-infused vibe that you won’t find in typical night outs. Third, the local DJ-led dance finale ensures your night ends on a high note.

However, it’s worth noting that alcoholic beverages outside the tequila shot are not included in the price, which means you’ll want to budget extra for drinks. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy a mix of active fun, cultural spots, and lively nightlife — perfect for groups of friends or solo travelers eager to mingle and explore Philly’s underground scene.

Good To Know

• Unique mix of activities: From axe throwing to bar hopping and dancing, this tour offers a variety of fun experiences.
• Affordable price: At $35, it packs a lot of value, especially considering the included axe throwing and line skipping.
• Authentic venues: The tour includes locations not often known even to city locals, adding an element of discovery.
• Small group size: Limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.
• Language options: Tours are guided in multiple languages including Spanish, French, German, and Italian.
• Additional costs: Expect to pay for your own drinks unless a specific included shot suffices.

What Makes the Old City After Dark Tour Stand Out?

This tour offers a refreshing take on Philly’s nightlife by blending active entertainment with immersive local bar culture. For travelers tired of standard pub crawls, the inclusion of axe throwing at Kick Axe Throwing Philadelphia** is a standout feature. It provides a memorable way to start the evening, with most reviews indicating the activity is well-organized and suited even to first-timers. Expect a quick but energetic 35-minute session that gets your adrenaline going and sets a playful tone for the night.

The rotating venues are another highlight. The tour’s organizers claim to feature spots even many Philadelphia residents might not know about. This means you’re likely to stumble upon hidden gems, each with its own vibe—whether it’s a vinyl-record-themed bar or a cozy locale packed with locals. One reviewer mentioned that the venues “have locations even people that live in the city don’t know about,” which hints at an element of discovery that many travelers will appreciate.

The Itinerary – What to Expect

Starting Point: Kick Axe Throwing Philadelphia

The tour kicks off at Kick Axe Throwing, which is conveniently located at 232 Market St. This venue isn’t just for fun; it’s a chance to try your hand at a skill that’s become trendy but remains a novelty for many. The activity lasts about 35 minutes, and the experience is included in the price. Expect some coaching, a bit of friendly competition, and plenty of laughs. If you’re lucky, the schedule might shift if there’s a private event, but the organizers update travelers via email or text, so staying alert is wise.

The Bar-Hopping Segment: Old City’s Hidden Gems

After axe throwing, the group moves through 4-5 different venues, each with its own character. The stops are brief—around 35 minutes each—which keeps the pace lively and prevents fatigue. The venues are chosen for their unique ambiance; some boast impressive vinyl collections, while others are known for their craft cocktails and lively atmospheres.

The focus here is on experiencing Philly’s local bar scene rather than tourist-heavy spots. Expect to enjoy one shot of tequila included in the tour, and the group often shares stories and laughs in a relaxed, informal setting. While no additional food or drinks are included, the venues offer cocktails priced between $5 and $20, so your budget should account for a few extra drinks if you wish to indulge.

The Finale: Dance and Music at Old City Arts District

The last leg of the tour is a vibrant bar in the Old City Arts District, where the emphasis shifts to dancing. The atmosphere is lively, and local DJs often spin infectious tunes that get everyone moving. This final stop is designed to wind down the evening on a high note, with plenty of space to mingle and enjoy the city’s nightlife.

The Practicalities – What You Need to Know

Duration: Just over three hours, making it an ideal evening activity without feeling exhausting.
Price: $35 per person, with optional extra for drinks.
Group size: Limited to 10 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.
Language support: Guides speak several languages including Spanish, French, German, and Italian, which enhances inclusivity.
Meeting points: Starts at Kick Axe Throwing, ending within a five-minute walk from the starting location—easy to navigate.
Booking in advance: Recommended, as the tour is often booked around 10 days ahead.
Weather considerations: The experience depends on good weather, and cancellations due to poor weather are fully refundable or reschedulable.

The Value of This Experience

At just $35, this tour offers impressive value for those looking to combine active fun with a taste of Philadelphia’s underground nightlife. The axe throwing alone is a memorable addition, especially for newcomers who want to try something unusual. The diversity of venues means you get to experience more than just the typical bar scene; instead, you explore spots that many locals might keep as their secret favorites.

The small group size enhances the social aspect, allowing for genuine interactions and a more relaxed atmosphere. While you’ll need to budget for additional drinks, the included tequila shot and the all-access vibe make this an affordable way to spend an evening in Philly.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits adventurous travelers who enjoy a mix of active pursuits and socializing. It’s perfect for groups of friends wanting a memorable night, solo travelers eager to meet new people, or couples looking for a fun date night with a twist. If you’re someone who appreciates discovering hidden venues and loves live music and dance, this tour will keep you entertained from start to finish.

However, those primarily seeking a relaxed, sit-down dinner with drinks might find the pace a little quick. Also, since under-21s aren’t permitted, it’s best suited for adults celebrating a night out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation provided during the tour?
The tour starts and ends at designated points within walking distance, and transportation isn’t included or needed as venues are close together.

Are drinks included in the price?
Only the tequila shot is included. Additional beverages like cocktails, beer, or wine are paid for separately.

How many people typically join the tour?
The group is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, fostering a more personalized experience.

Can I join if I don’t drink alcohol?
While the tour is designed around a lively nightlife scene, non-alcoholic options may be available at venues, but the experience revolves around drinking and dancing.

Is this tour suitable for non-English speakers?
Guides offer support in several languages, including Spanish, French, German, and Italian, making it accessible for diverse travelers.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing suitable for active fun and dancing is recommended. No formal attire needed.

Final Thoughts

The Old City After Dark tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Philadelphia’s nightlife with a twist of adventure. The inclusion of axe throwing adds an element of fun and skill, while the carefully selected venues showcase the city’s hidden musical and bar scene. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting to experience Philly’s nightlife beyond the usual options, with a relaxed pace and plenty of opportunities to socialize.

If you’re after an engaging, affordable night out that combines active entertainment with local culture, this tour might just be the perfect fit. Just remember to budget for extra drinks and keep an eye on the weather to ensure your night runs smoothly.

In essence, this experience is best for curious, social travelers who want a memorable evening in Philadelphia that mixes activity, music, and good company. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for a fun way to see the city, this tour delivers a lively, authentic taste of Philly’s after-hours scene.