Philadelphia is a city steeped in history with cultural landmarks and exciting attractions that make it an ideal destination for student tours. Philadelphia offers enriching experiences for both middle schoolers and high schoolers, but planning a trip requires careful consideration of the academic, social, and cognitive abilities and goals of these very different age groups. 

In this helpful guide, we suggest two distinct tours — one for each student group — highlighting stops that resonate with their interests and maturity levels while ensuring a fun and memorable trip.

Why Philadelphia Is Perfect for Student Tours

Philadelphia’s historical significance as the birthplace of American democracy, its vibrant arts scene, and hands-on museums make it a prime location for educational tourism. Teachers can create unique itineraries that combine learning and adventure, catering to their students’ age and developmental stage. 

When planned appropriately, both middle and high school groups will walk away with lasting memories and valuable insights into history, culture, and faith.

Best Stops for Middle School Students

Planning student tours of Philadelphia for middle school students means focusing on hands-on experiences and stories that capture their imaginations. It means providing opportunities for expending energy, boisterous conversations, interactive learning, and plenty of structured fun. 

Historical Highlights

  • Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. Introduce students to the roots of American democracy. Keep it engaging by discussing fascinating stories about the Founding Fathers and the symbolism of the Liberty Bell.
  • The Betsy Ross House. The legend of Betsy Ross designing the first American flag appeals to middle schoolers, especially with the opportunity to try sewing a flag.
  • National Constitution Center. This interactive museum makes learning about the Constitution accessible and fun with the “Signer’s Hall” exhibit featuring life-size statues of the Constitution’s signers.

Fun Stop

A favorite for middle schoolers, Franklin Square offers mini golf with a historical twist, a carousel, the famous SquareBurger, and plenty of space for group activities. Depending on the time of year, there may also be seasonal events to take part in. This is a great place to let students unwind and have fun.

Sample Two-Day Itinerary 

Day One
Morning: Independence Hall, Liberty Bell, and Independence National Historic Park
Afternoon: Penn Museum

Evening: Dinner, carousel, and mini golf at Franklin Square

Day Two
Morning: National Constitution Center and The Besty Ross House
Afternoon: Philadelphia Zoo
Evening: Discussions and relaxing at the hotel

Key Takeaways for Middle School Tours

  • Interactive activities. Engage students with hands-on exhibits and entertaining storytelling.
  • Frequent breaks. Allow time for relaxation and fun.
  • Chaperone involvement. Keep students engaged with guided discussions and trivia games.

Best Stops for High School Students

High school tours should include a deeper dive into Philadelphia’s history and culture, focusing on critical thinking and connections to broader historical themes. Adding stops to encourage discussion and analysis will resonate well with this age group and educational goals.

Historical Highlights

    • Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. Discussions for high schoolers can focus on the ideological conflicts and compromises that shaped the nation.
    • Eastern State Penitentiary. This historic site introduces students to the evolution of the U.S. justice system. The thought-provoking exhibits and guided tours invite student discussions about justice, ethics, and reform.
  • Philadelphia Museum of Art. More than just an art museum, this iconic site allows high schoolers to explore connections between art, history, and society. The “Rocky Steps” make for a fun photo op if you supply the theme music!

Fun Stops

  • Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens. This mixed-media art gallery includes outdoor and indoor exhibits, a sculpture garden, mosaics, periodic workshops, concerts, and events. 
  • Spruce Street Harbor Park. Depending on the season when you tour, high school students will enjoy this vibrant waterfront park with hammocks, arcade games, and food trucks. It’s a cool place to relax and socialize after a day of learning.

Sample Two-Day Itinerary 

Day One
Morning: Independence Hall, Liberty Bell, and Independence National Historic Park
Afternoon: National Constitution Center and The Besty Ross House

Evening: Franklin Square or Spruce Street Harbor Park

Day Two
Morning: Tour at Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens

Afternoon: Lunch at Reading Terminal Market, then Eastern State Penitentiary Tour
Evening: Discussions and relaxing at the hotel

Key Takeaways for High School Tours

  • Critical discussions. Encourage students to connect historical events to contemporary issues, and to consider the role faith plays in shaping culture.
  • Balance depth with enjoyment. Blend educational stops with fun activities.
  • Opportunities for independence. Allow students some freedom to explore within structured limits.

Shared Stops: Tweaking the Experience

Some of the stops mentioned above can work for middle and high school groups but can be tailored to each audience. Here are some ideas to tweak the experiences:

Independence Hall and Liberty Bell

  • Middle School — Focus on captivating stories and fun facts
  • High School — Discuss historical debates and their modern implications

Reading Terminal Market

  • Middle School — Highlight the variety of foods and organize a scavenger hunt
  • High School — Discuss the market’s history and cultural diversity

National Constitution Center

  • Middle School — Engage with interactive exhibits and use simple explanations
  • High School — Explore the political philosophies, benefits, and controversies related to the Constitution

Plan Your Student Tours to Philadelphia With Forge

If you are a teacher or parent wishing to organize a student tour of Philadelphia, consider:

  • Age-appropriate content. Tailor the depth of discussions and activities.
  • Group dynamics. Plan for chaperone-to-student ratios and time for socialization.
  • Logistics. Balance educational stops with time for meals, rest, and fun.

Forge Christian Tour Co. excels at crafting unforgettable experiences for middle and high school groups. We focus on your educational goals, student growth, faith-forward discussions, and fun. 

Our team ensures every detail of your student tour in Philadelphia is planned seamlessly.

Let us help your students discover the city of Philadelphia in ways that captivate, educate, and inspire them. Contact us today to start planning your custom student tour.