Reading Terminal Market Tours

Reading Terminal Market which includes markets, street scenes and signage
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An enclosed market where you can sample Philly cheesesteaks, shoofly pies, soft pretzels and other local treats, or stock up on organic produce and handmade crafts.

The Reading Terminal Market is an indoor attraction in downtown Philadelphia. You’ll find a wide range of international cuisine, but most out-of-towners head straight to the merchants selling local treats before browsing the craft stalls. The farmers’ market is a good place to stock up on organic produce for a picnic lunch while you take in the aroma of freshly baked treats and exotic spices.

Some of the present-day vendors are descendants of those who first traded inside the very same building. It was built by the Reading Railroad in 1892, below a train shed. Two existing local markets and their multicultural mix of merchants relocated to this building.

The market is at its busiest at lunchtime, with locals grabbing something to eat before heading back to the office. For a quick snack, try the famous local soft pretzels brushed with butter, or the heartier Philly cheesesteak. This iconic Philadelphia sandwich is made from thin slices of steak topped with melted cheese. If you prefer healthy Asian or European cuisine, there are plenty of options.

If you have a sweet tooth, stop at a local favorite: Bassett’s Ice Cream has been serving up unique flavors since 1861. At the Dutch Eating Place, Pennsylvania Dutch bakers offer old-style Amish cakes that still delight today. It’s the place to learn how their shoofly pie earned its name.

Sit and enjoy a meal while people-watching in the central food court. Everyone in your group can enjoy a meal together after selecting lunch from a food stall of their choice. With about 100 different stalls throughout the market, you will want to stay and explore after your meal. Find jewelry, flowers and rugs alongside South American and African crafts.

The centrally located Reading Terminal Market is open daily, except on major national holidays. Note that some of the restaurants close early and that the Pennsylvania Dutch vendors don’t sell on Sundays. It’s easy to get there by foot or public transportation from the center of town. Expect to pay for parking if you’re driving. The Parkway Garage is across the street, and other nearby garages offer discounts for two-hour parking if you purchase something at the market.

Plan a trip to see Reading Terminal Market

Valley Forge Casino Resort
Hyatt Centric Center City Philadelphia
Inn On Camac
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Reviews of Reading Terminal Market

4.6
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
1336
" "5 - Excellent 65.3940283896231%
4 - Good
568
" "4 - Good 27.802251590797848%
3 - Okay
107
" "3 - Okay 5.237395986294665%
2 - Disappointing
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" "2 - Disappointing 0.5384238864415076%
1 - Terrible
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" "1 - Terrible 1.0279001468428781%

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler
Mar 5, 2020

Reading Terminal is always an adventure & never disappoints

5/5 - Excellent

SM1973
Mar 2, 2020

Old City Coffee in Reading Terminal Market serves amazing coffee!

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler
Feb 18, 2020

Wonderful location! We got here just before it closed. We will definitely return in the future.

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler
Jan 2, 2020

This was a good stop to have lunch but it was really really crowded so you may want to avoid a normal lunch time in order to avoid the lines and wait although as crowded as it was it only took about 15 minutes to get thru the line at DiNics but good luck finding a seat to sit down and eat.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler
Nov 13, 2019

This destination place keeps getting better and better! I loved the improved lighting, and the mix of restauranteurs!

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler
Nov 12, 2019

We didn't get to eat there because all the lines were way tooo long but looked fun!

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