Been There/Done That

The patrons at Old City's Positano Coast are blissfully unaware that they're dining in the very spot where, back in colonial days, a bloody crime of passion unfolded. The tourists snapping pictures of Carpenter's Hall probably don't know they're standing at the site of America's first major bank robbery, where thieves stole the largest collection of gold in the country. And the couple strolling through the park on Market and Second streets wouldn't guess that this part of the city used to be called "Helltown" due to its cornucopia of rowdy taverns and brothels.

I didn't know any of these facts either—until I met tour guide Philip on the spooky, candlelit Famous Criminals of Old Philadelphia Tour.

A charming British lad with a penchant for puns, Philip proceeded to tell us about Old City's history of crime. His accent and the occasional prop enhanced the tour, which lasts about an hour and a half. Although it's aimed at schoolkids and tourists, it's a great way for the jaded Philly resident to get to the roots (legal and otherwise) of the city. And once you hear Philip's stories, you'll think our current murder rate is downright civilized.