Reading Terminal Market is an indoor public market at 1136 Arch Street in Center City Philadelphia, with food counters, grocery stalls and shops selling goods such as linens and cookbooks. Open since 1893, it brings Pennsylvania Dutch specialties together with cuisines from around the world. Browse the produce, seafood and baked goods, then choose a meal from the many vendors. For a taste of local favorites, look for a Philly cheesesteak or DiNic’s roast pork sandwich; leave room for a pretzel or whoopie pie.
A market beneath the railway terminal
Reading Terminal Market opened in 1893 beneath the tracks of the Philadelphia and Reading Railroad. The railroad had bought the block for a terminal, but merchants already trading there resisted moving. They reached an agreement to keep their market beneath the tracks. The station is gone, but the market remains at 12th and Arch streets.
The market has operated in its present building since the late 19th century. The wider complex included a train depot, passenger station and railway offices. Its headhouse was designed in the Italian Renaissance style. Train service ended in 1984, and the renovated complex reopened in 1997 as the Pennsylvania Convention Center. The market itself continues to serve shoppers alongside people coming for a meal.
Food, groceries and specialty shops
The stalls cover everyday shopping as well as lunch. Look for produce, meat, seafood, cheeses, flowers and baked goods, alongside prepared food from Pennsylvania Dutch, Italian, Middle Eastern, Asian and other traditions. The range means that people in one group can choose different meals and meet at shared seating.
Some merchants sell more than food. The market has shops for kitchenware, linens, cookbooks and other household goods, as well as locally made items. It works as a place to browse even if you are not planning a full meal, though the many counters make it easy to add a snack or dessert along the way.
For a Philadelphia classic, choose a cheesesteak or a roast pork sandwich. Other options mentioned at the market include Reubens, sushi, bao buns, gyros, Thai food, chicken and waffles, pastries and donuts. Pennsylvania Dutch specialties are another reason to look beyond the familiar sandwich counters. Because each stall has its own menu and seating arrangements, take a look around before settling on what to order.
Finding your way around
The market’s many stalls, shoppers and food counters can make it easy to lose your bearings. Browse a section at a time and note where you might want to return. Some food vendors have their own seats; other diners use tables and shared seating around the market. If you are meeting someone, agree on a spot before splitting up to order.
Queues vary by counter, and popular lunch spots can draw long lines. Visiting outside the lunch rush gives you more room to walk between stalls. The market is open daily from 8 AM to 6 PM, according to its posted hours. It has wheelchair-accessible entrances, seating and restrooms.
Preguntas frecuentes
Where is Reading Terminal Market?
It is at 1136 Arch Street, Philadelphia, near 12th and Arch streets.
When is Reading Terminal Market open?
Posted hours are 8 AM to 6 PM daily.
How much time should I plan for Reading Terminal Market?
Plan about 1 to 2 hours to browse stalls and get a meal or snack.
When is the market least crowded?
Early morning or later in the afternoon is a better time to avoid the lunchtime rush.
