Freelance Tour Guide

Company: Philly Tours by Founders / Founders Threads
Location: Philadelphia, PA
Job Type: Freelance / Independent Contractor
Schedule: Flexible, based on bookings

Philly Tours by Founders is seeking engaging freelance tour guides to lead walking and cultural history tours throughout Philadelphia. Our tours highlight Revolutionary Philadelphia, Black American history, the Underground Railroad, public art, architecture, historic neighborhoods, and Philadelphia’s role in America 250.

We are looking for reliable, professional storytellers who enjoy history, hospitality, and working with visitors, families, students, and private groups.

Responsibilities

• Lead walking tours and specialty history experiences.
• Present historical stories in an engaging, accurate, and respectful way.
• Follow approved tour routes, scripts, timing, and safety guidelines.
• Welcome guests and create a professional visitor experience.
• Manage group movement between stops.
• Communicate availability, tour updates, and guest concerns promptly.

Qualifications

• Strong public speaking and storytelling skills.
• Interest in Philadelphia history, American history, Black history, arts, culture, or tourism.
• Reliable, punctual, and professional.
• Comfortable walking for 1–3 hours.
• Able to learn tour routes, scripts, and historical materials.
• Tour guide, teaching, museum, performance, hospitality, or public speaking experience preferred but not required.

Compensation

Paid per completed tour or booking assignment. Rate depends on tour type, length, group size, and experience. 1099 Contractor or cash paid daily.

How to Apply

Please submit your resume or a brief summary of your experience, availability, and why you would like to guide tours with Philly Tours by Founders.

Additional Requirements for W2 workers only. 

• Proven experience as a tour guide or in a related field.
• Strong knowledge of local history, culture, and attractions.
• Exceptional communication and storytelling skills.
• Ability to engage a diverse group of people and adapt to various audience needs.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently.
• Flexibility to work varying hours, including weekends and holidays.
• Basic first aid and safety training is an asset.
• Familiarity with marketing techniques for promoting tours.
• Valid driver's license may be required for certain tours.
• Fluency in additional languages is a plus.