City Tavern isn't just a restaurant—it's a portal to Philadelphia's revolutionary past, where the spirits of colonial patrons seem as real as the historic atmosphere that permeates every corner of this legendary establishment.
Built in 1773, City Tavern quickly became the social, political, and commercial center of Philadelphia during the revolutionary period. This wasn't just any tavern—it was considered the finest and most genteel establishment in all of colonial America. The founding fathers regularly gathered here to discuss politics, strategy, and the future of a nation yet to be born.
The original building was demolished in 1854, but in 1976, City Tavern was meticulously reconstructed on its original foundation. And apparently, some of its original patrons returned with it. Staff and visitors report being touched by invisible hands, seeing apparitions in colonial dress, and experiencing phenomena that defy explanation.
The Revolutionary History of City Tavern
Built in 1773, City Tavern quickly became the social, political, and commercial center of Philadelphia during the revolutionary period. George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, and other revolutionary leaders dined within these walls, their conversations echoing through history.
The tavern played host to the first Fourth of July celebration in 1777, commemorating the first anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. When the Constitutional Convention concluded in 1787, delegates celebrated here, toasting the new framework of American government.
The original building was demolished in 1854, but in 1976, as part of America's bicentennial celebration, City Tavern was meticulously reconstructed on its original foundation. Using historical records, archaeological evidence, and period documents, the tavern was rebuilt to exact specifications.
A Gathering Place for Revolutionaries
The founding fathers didn't just dine at City Tavern—they conducted the business of revolution here. Political discussions that would shape American democracy took place over meals and drinks. The intensity of these moments, the passion, the determination, may have left a permanent imprint on the location.
When the tavern was reconstructed in 1976, builders discovered they were building on the original foundation. Some paranormal researchers believe this connection to the original structure may have 'reactivated' dormant spiritual energy, opening a doorway for the original patrons to return.
The Spirits of City Tavern
Staff and visitors have reported numerous paranormal experiences at City Tavern, particularly during evening hours when the restaurant takes on an especially atmospheric quality. The most common experience is being touched by invisible hands—gentle taps on the shoulder, brushes against the arm, or the sensation of someone walking past when no one is there.
Touched by Unseen Hands
The most frequently reported phenomenon at City Tavern is being touched by invisible hands. Servers have reported feeling as though they're being watched while working in certain sections of the dining room. Some describe an almost tangible presence, as if colonial-era guests are still seated at the tables.
One couple from Maryland decided to stop in for a drink after their Ghost City Tours ghost tour. While seated at the bar, the wife felt what she described as a hand gently touching her shoulder. When she turned around, no one was there—and her husband, sitting right next to her, confirmed that no one had walked past them.
Colonial Apparitions
Full-bodied apparitions dressed in colonial-era clothing have been seen throughout City Tavern. These figures appear solid and real for a moment before vanishing into thin air. Most are seen in the dining areas, though some have been spotted on the staircase and in the hallways.
A businessman visiting from Chicago reported seeing a man in colonial dress walk past him toward the dining room. Assuming it was a reenactor or tour guide, he thought nothing of it—until the figure simply faded away mid-step. When he asked the staff about what he'd seen, he learned that City Tavern doesn't employ costumed staff.
Cold Spots and Phantom Voices
Cold spots appear without explanation throughout City Tavern, often near the bar area and in the main dining room. These aren't subtle temperature changes—witnesses describe walking through walls of cold air that raise goosebumps.
Servers working evening shifts have reported hearing their names whispered when no one was nearby. One server described feeling invisible hands brush against her while carrying trays, and once saw what looked like a colonial-era couple seated at a table in her section—when she turned to get their menus, they had vanished.
Visit City Tavern on Our Ghost Tour
City Tavern remains a fully operational restaurant serving authentic colonial cuisine. Our Ghosts of Philadelphia Tour stops outside this historic establishment, where our guides share the haunting tales of America's revolutionary past.
Visitors are welcome to stop by City Tavern for a meal or drinks and experience the atmosphere of this haunted location for themselves. The pub's interior retains many of its historic features. While enjoying your visit, pay attention to the atmosphere—you might experience something unexplained.
Join our Ghosts of Philadelphia Tour to learn the complete story of City Tavern's hauntings and hear firsthand accounts from our guides who have witnessed the paranormal activity themselves.
Where colonial spirits still gather for revolutionary conversation
The dining room where ghostly patrons still raise their glasses
