A Grand Dame Turns 122: Inside the Bellevue's Free History Tour

CENTER CITY (WPVI) -- As Philadelphia celebrates America's 250th birthday, the historic Bellevue Hotel is inviting the public inside with free guided history tours.

Opened in 1904, the Grand Dame of Broad Street blends European-inspired, chateau-esque architecture with stories of presidents, politics, and power. Every U.S. president of the 20th century has reportedly been at the Bellevue and, legend holds, Thomas Edison designed the lighting.

The Thursday tours, led by the hotel's historian-in-residence David Kurlander, trace the Bellevue's roots back to immigrant visionary George Boldt and its rise as a symbol of Philadelphia's ambition.

Visitors explore the hotel's grand spaces and hear some of its most fascinating stories.

Through it all, the Bellevue's awe-inspiring architecture has made it a place that makes people excited to be in this city.

The Bellevue Hotel Historian In Residence Tours | Instagram
200 South Broad Street, Philadelphia. Pa. 19107
(215) 893-1234