Home  
Department of Journalism

History on a Horse:

Carriage Rides of Philadelphia

 

By Erin Como and Liz DiCostanzo

When walking down Chestnut or Locust in the historic section of Philadelphia, something is bound to catch your eye--if not your nose!  Horse-drawn carriage rides are offered throughout this section of the city as an alternative to walking. But is it worth it?  Targeted at everyone, not just tourists, these carriage rides can take you around with historical information and knowledge about the city. 

Chris, a tour guide for the Philadelphia Carriage Co., says the information he gives is based out of books he has read and stories that have been passed down from generation to generation. Tidbits of information about colonial ancestors who created this city are all over the tour.

Colonial houses, landmarks and interesting sights can also be seen. But these little grains of knowledge can add up. For a group of four, the 20-minute tour costs $30, which does not include a tip for the driver.

You can expect to get an "in-horse" view of colonial houses and landmarks. For the history buff, we suggest a guided tour or a tour bus.  Although the horse is fun for the kids, it doesn't give the rider too much in-depth information. These carriage rides might better suit the suitors who are trying to make a good impression. Drivers of these carriage rides say there is a good mix between visitors and locals and historians and romamtics.

Carriage ride general prices:

20-minute tour: $30

30-minute tour: $40

60-minute tour: $80

Hours of operation:

Monday-Friday: 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., and 6 p.m.-10:30 p.m. (Seasonal)

Saturday-Sunday: 9:30 a.m.-10:30 p.m.

Evening rides subject to availability or reservations

 

 
 
 
 
 
 

Society Hill Civic Center

www.societyhillcivic.org

Liberty Bell

www.constitutioncenter.org

U.S. History

www.ushistory.org

Society Hill Playhouse

www.societyhillplayhouse.com