About Philly Ghosts: Why We're The Best

Our Founder

The founder of Philly Ghosts, part of the larger US Ghost Adventures family, brings a deep passion for history and community. A former Marine, his military service instilled in him the importance of preserving America’s past, especially the stories that often remain untold. His dedication to service and respect for history shine through in every tour we offer. 

In addition to his commitment to sharing Philadelphia’s haunted history, he also leads our efforts in charity work, including supporting the SYTA Youth Foundation and a host of other charitable causes. With Philly Ghosts, you’re not just exploring the paranormal—you’re helping to give back to the community.

Real History | Real Hauntings

Philadelphia’s haunted history is deeply rooted in the city’s pivotal role in America’s past. The infamous Eastern State Penitentiary, once home to Al Capone, echoes with the restless spirits of inmates who suffered within its cold, stone walls. The Liberty Bell, a symbol of freedom, stands in stark contrast to the darker events that unfolded in the city. Philadelphia was ravaged by outbreaks of smallpox and yellow fever, claiming countless lives and leaving behind lingering spirits. As the birthplace of the American Revolution, its streets are steeped in stories of bloodshed and sacrifice, creating the perfect setting for ghostly encounters.

Exclusive Stories and Locations

For those looking for an even deeper dive into Philadelphia’s haunted history, our extended Philly Ghosts tours offer exclusive stops that other tours won’t take you to. These chilling locations are steeped in both history and unexplained activity:

• The Todd House: Step into the former home of Dolley Madison, where she lived before marrying James Madison, the future president. Legend has it that the ghost of her first husband, John Todd, lingers here, his spirit trapped by the tragic events surrounding his untimely death from yellow fever. Visitors have reported eerie sightings and unexplained noises within these walls.

• The Hill-Physick House: Known for its opulence and eerie presence, this historic mansion is home to the restless spirit of the Lady of Physick House. Overmedicated by her husband, Dr. Philip Physick, the Lady is said to appear to those who pass through, forever haunting the rooms where she spent her days in torment. Keep your eyes open—you might just catch a glimpse of her ghostly figure.

Best Local Guides

Philly Ghosts is proud to work with the best local guides in the City of Brotherly Love. Our guides are not only experts in Philadelphia’s rich history, but they also have a knack for bringing its haunted past to life in captivating ways. They connect the city’s storied past with its lingering unexplained activity with their intimate knowledge of historic landmarks like the Eastern State Penitentiary and the Liberty Bell. These talented storytellers immerse you in the tales of Philadelphia’s restless spirits, ensuring every step of the tour is as thrilling as it is informative.

Why is Philadelphia so Haunted?

Philadelphia’s rich and tumultuous history makes it a hotbed for hauntings. As a cradle of American independence, its streets have witnessed rebellion, war, and untold suffering. The city’s deep connection to the Revolutionary War left behind a legacy of battle-weary spirits, while outbreaks of smallpox and yellow fever took a devastating toll, leading to mass graves and restless souls. The dark corridors of Eastern State Penitentiary still echo with the cries of those imprisoned there, and centuries of life, death, and conflict have left a ghostly imprint, making it one of America’s most haunted cities.

Some of Our Favorite Locations

On our Philly Ghosts tour, we visit some of the city’s most haunted and historic locations, each offering a unique glimpse into the city’s eerie past. Here are a few of our favorite stops:

• Washington Square Park: Once a burial ground, this now-peaceful park is the final resting place of over 2,000 Revolutionary War soldiers. Their restless spirits are said to roam the grounds, making this a hotspot for paranormal activity. The park’s quiet beauty hides a dark past that many still feel in the air today.

• Independence Hall: The birthplace of American freedom is also home to some of its most famous ghosts. Benjamin Franklin himself has been known to wander the halls, forever tied to the place where he helped shape a nation. Visitors have reported sightings of his spectral figure, especially at night when the building takes on an otherworldly presence.

• The American Philosophical Society Library: Statues here have a strange habit of not staying stationary. Many claim to have witnessed them shift or move, as if the spirits of great thinkers still walk the halls, keeping a close eye on the artifacts and books housed within.

Interactive Experiences

Philly Ghosts offers an immersive ghost tour experience that lets you be part of the action. You can rent an EMF detector and measure the unexplained activity around Philadelphia’s most haunted sites for an additional fee. Feel the thrill as you track ghostly presences in real time! You can bring home a piece of the haunting fun with one of our adorable ghost plushies, the perfect memento from your spooky night out. Get ready for an interactive adventure like no other!

Featured In

Philly Ghosts has been recognized for its chilling tours and gripping tales. Thanks to our immersive and historically rooted ghost tours through Philadelphia, we’ve been featured in CBS, USA Today, and The Wall Street Journal. See why we’ve garnered national attention and experience the hauntings that continue to intrigue visitors and skeptics alike.

What Our Guests Are Saying

“Percy was an amazing guide! Very knowledgeable and funny and just great company. Definitely recommend if you’re interested in Ghost Tours around Philly” (5 Stars) -Sydney Linders

“Went for a date night with my husband. So fun, informative, and intimate (the crowd was small so you could hear and interact). And our tour guide was awesome! She knew so much and had some great as stories to tell. Definitely recommend.” (5 Stars) – Amanda Garcia

“I had an amazing tour. I enjoyed my history along with his mysterious and ghostly past and present. Thank you for keeping everything educational but still entertaining.” (5 Stars) -Teri Jo Countryman

Photos and Experiences

We invite you to document your eerie adventure with photos. But beware—you may capture more than just Philadelphia’s historic sites. Visitors have caught ghostly apparitions and strange, unexplained figures in their shots. The City of Brotherly Love has its fair share of restless spirits; your camera might just uncover them. So take plenty of photos, but be ready for a few surprises!