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{{Infobox LocalBusiness
{{Infobox LocalBusiness
| name = Reading Terminal Market
| name = Reading Terminal Market
| type = Public market
| image =
| image_caption = Reading Terminal Market interior
| type = Public market, food hall
| address = 51 N 12th Street
| address = 51 N 12th Street
| neighborhood = Market East
| neighborhood = Center City
| coordinates = 39.9533,-75.1592
| phone = (215) 922-2317
| phone = (215) 922-2317
| website = https://readingterminalmarket.org
| website = https://readingterminalmarket.org
| established = 1893
| established = 1893
| hours = Daily 8am-6pm
| founder = Reading Railroad Company
| public_transit = Jefferson Station (SEPTA); Market East
| owner = Reading Terminal Market Corporation (nonprofit)
| employees = 400+
| hours = Daily 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
| products = Prepared food, produce, meats, seafood, baked goods, specialty items
| status = Active
}}
}}


'''Reading Terminal Market''' is a historic public market in [[Market East]], Philadelphia, operating continuously since 1893. Located beneath the former Reading Railroad train shed, the market houses over 80 merchants selling fresh produce, meats, seafood, baked goods, prepared foods, and specialty items. It is one of America's oldest and largest public markets and a beloved Philadelphia institution.<ref name="rtm-history">{{cite web |url=https://readingterminalmarket.org/history/ |title=History |publisher=Reading Terminal Market |access-date=December 23, 2025}}</ref>
'''Reading Terminal Market''' is a historic enclosed public market located at 51 N 12th Street in [[Center City, Philadelphia|Center City]], [[Philadelphia]]. Opened on February 22, 1893, beneath the train shed of the Reading Railroad Company, it is one of America's oldest and largest continuously operating public markets. The market features over 80 merchants selling fresh produce, meats, seafood, baked goods, prepared foods, and specialty items in a National Historic Landmark building adjacent to the [[Pennsylvania Convention Center]].<ref name="rtm-history">{{cite web |url=https://readingterminalmarket.org/about-the-market/history/ |title=History |publisher=Reading Terminal Market |access-date=December 22, 2025}}</ref>
 
The market is particularly renowned for its [[Pennsylvania Dutch]] and Amish vendors from Lancaster County, who occupy the northwestern corner of the building. Iconic merchants include DiNic's (home of the roast pork sandwich named "America's Best Sandwich" by the Travel Channel), Beiler's Bakery (famous for hand-rolled doughnuts), and Bassett's Ice Cream (operating since the market's 1893 opening). Reading Terminal Market draws approximately three million visitors annually and has become one of Philadelphia's top tourist destinations and a beloved gathering place for locals.<ref name="visitphilly">{{cite web |url=https://www.visitphilly.com/things-to-do/food-drink/reading-terminal-market/ |title=Reading Terminal Market |publisher=Visit Philadelphia |access-date=December 22, 2025}}</ref>


== History ==
== History ==
Line 17: Line 26:
=== Origins ===
=== Origins ===


Reading Terminal Market opened in 1893 beneath the new Reading Railroad's Center City terminal. The train shed, one of the largest single-span arched-roof structures in the world, required relocating two existing farmers' markets. These vendors moved into the new below-ground market space.
Reading Terminal Market's roots trace back to two earlier markets—the Butchers' and Farmers' Market and Franklin Market—located on the 1100 block of Market Street in Center City. In 1890, the Philadelphia and Reading Railroad Company purchased this block for construction of its new passenger terminal. The merchants' refusal to relocate led to a compromise: the railroad agreed to construct a new market beneath its elevated train shed and tracks.<ref name="encyclopedia">{{cite web |url=https://philadelphiaencyclopedia.org/essays/reading-terminal-market/ |title=Reading Terminal Market |publisher=Encyclopedia of Greater Philadelphia |access-date=December 22, 2025}}</ref>
 
=== Age and Founding ===
 
Reading Terminal Market opened for business on February 22, 1893, making it over 130 years old. The original market occupied approximately 78,000 square feet and held nearly 800 merchant stalls, each measuring six feet wide. By 1913, the market was booming with 250 food dealers and 100 farmers occupying its spaces.
 
The market survived the decline of the Reading Railroad (which went bankrupt in 1971) and the construction of the Pennsylvania Convention Center in the 1990s, which incorporated the historic train shed while preserving the market below. Today, two vendors—Bassett's Ice Cream and Spataro's Cheesesteaks—are descendants of original merchants from the 1893 opening.
 
=== Revival and Preservation ===
 
After decades of decline following World War II, Reading Terminal Market underwent a major revival beginning in the 1980s. The market was designated a National Historic Landmark, and the opening of the Pennsylvania Convention Center next door brought new foot traffic. Today, the market is operated by Reading Terminal Market Corporation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving its character as a diverse public market serving both locals and visitors.
 
== Hours ==
 
Reading Terminal Market is open '''Monday through Sunday from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM'''. The market is open every day of the year except Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day.
 
Important notes about hours:
* Individual merchant hours may vary—some open earlier or close later
* Many prepared food vendors stop serving 30-60 minutes before the market closes
* '''Pennsylvania Dutch/Amish vendors are open Wednesday through Saturday only'''
 
=== Sunday Hours ===
 
Reading Terminal Market is open on Sunday from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. However, the Amish and Pennsylvania Dutch vendors, located primarily in the northwest corner of the market, '''are not open on Sunday''' (they observe a religious day of rest). These vendors are typically open Wednesday through Saturday only.
 
If you specifically want to visit the Pennsylvania Dutch section, plan your trip for Wednesday through Saturday. If visiting on Sunday, you'll still find the majority of vendors—including DiNic's, Bassett's, Carmen's Famous Italian Hoagies, and many others—open for business.
 
=== Pennsylvania Dutch Vendors ===
 
The Amish and Pennsylvania Dutch vendors operate '''Wednesday through Saturday only'''. The Amish merchants travel from Lancaster County to staff their stalls, approximately 60 miles from Philadelphia, and observe Sunday as a day of rest.
 
Twelve Amish businesses operate in the market, many clustered in the northwestern corner. Notable Pennsylvania Dutch vendors include:
 
* '''Beiler's Bakery and Beiler's Donuts & Salads''' - Hand-rolled doughnuts in nearly 50 flavors
* '''Dutch Eating Place''' - Traditional Pennsylvania Dutch breakfast and comfort food
* '''Fisher's Soft Pretzels''' - Authentic soft pretzels
* '''Dienner's Bar-B-Q Chicken''' - Rotisserie chicken
* '''Miller's Twist''' - Soft pretzels and baked goods
* '''Lancaster County Dairy''' - Fresh eggs, butter, and cheese<ref name="rtm-dutch">{{cite web |url=https://readingterminalmarket.org/merchant-category/pennsylvania-dutch/ |title=Pennsylvania Dutch |publisher=Reading Terminal Market |access-date=December 22, 2025}}</ref>


=== The Railroad Era ===
== Food and Vendors ==


For decades, the market thrived serving commuters and Philadelphia residents:
With over 80 vendors, Reading Terminal Market offers overwhelming variety. Here are the most celebrated options:


* Farmers brought produce directly from Lancaster County
=== Must-Try Foods ===
* Butchers, bakers, and fishmongers served daily shoppers
* The market was integral to Philadelphia's food supply


=== Decline and Revival ===
'''DiNic's Roast Pork Sandwich''' - Named "America's Best Sandwich" by the Travel Channel in 2012. Thinly sliced roast pork on a long roll with sharp provolone and broccoli rabe. The fourth-generation family business also serves excellent Italian sausage.<ref name="visitphilly-food">{{cite web |url=https://www.visitphilly.com/articles/philadelphia/best-things-to-eat-at-reading-terminal-market/ |title=The 17 Best Things to Eat at Reading Terminal Market |publisher=Visit Philadelphia |access-date=December 22, 2025}}</ref>


Like many urban markets, Reading Terminal declined in the mid-20th century as supermarkets and suburban shopping grew. By the 1980s, the market was struggling. A concerted revitalization effort in the 1990s restored the market's vitality, adding new vendors, improving facilities, and attracting tourists.
'''Beiler's Doughnuts''' - Hand-rolled Pennsylvania Dutch-style doughnuts in nearly 50 flavors. Lines can stretch to block neighboring vendors. Made from a grandmother's bread recipe using potato flakes.


The 1993 opening of the Pennsylvania Convention Center, built around the historic train shed, brought new foot traffic. Today, Reading Terminal Market thrives as both a working market and tourist destination.
'''Bassett's Ice Cream''' - Operating continuously since the market's 1893 opening, Bassett's claims to be America's oldest ice cream company. Their rich, dense ice cream is beloved by generations of Philadelphians.


== The Market Today ==
'''Dutch Eating Place Apple Dumplings''' - Whole apples wrapped in pastry, coated in cinnamon-sugar, and served with warm cream. A Pennsylvania Dutch specialty.


=== Vendor Categories ===
'''Tommy DiNic's''' (Sister location to DiNic's) - Roast beef and other Italian sandwiches.


Over 80 merchants operate in the market:
=== Other Highly Recommended Vendors ===


* '''Produce''' — Fresh fruits and vegetables, including local and organic
* '''Carmen's Famous Italian Hoagies''' - Classic Philadelphia hoagies
* '''Meat and poultry''' — Butchers, including Amish vendors
* '''Pearl's Oyster Bar''' - Fresh oysters and seafood
* '''Seafood''' — Fresh fish and shellfish
* '''Hershel's East Side Deli''' - Jewish deli with corned beef and pastrami
* '''Baked goods''' — Breads, pastries, cakes, Amish baked goods
* '''Molly Malloy's''' - Irish pub food
* '''Prepared foods''' — Ready-to-eat meals, sandwiches, international cuisines
* '''By George Pizza''' - Pizza by the slice
* '''Specialty foods''' — Cheese, spices, chocolate, coffee
* '''Kamal's Middle Eastern Specialties''' - Falafel and shawarma
* '''Flowers''' — Cut flowers and plants
* '''Crafts and gifts''' — Some non-food vendors


=== Notable Vendors ===
=== First-Time Visitor Guide ===


* '''DiNic's''' — Famous for roast pork sandwiches (called "America's best sandwich" by Travel Channel)
For first-time visitors, this itinerary covers the essential Reading Terminal Market experience:
* '''Beiler's Donuts''' — Amish-style donuts, often with long lines
* '''Bassetts Ice Cream''' — America's oldest ice cream company (1861)
* '''Downtown Cheese Shop''' — Extensive cheese selection
* '''Termini Brothers*** — Classic Italian bakery
* '''Kamal's Middle Eastern Specialties''' — Middle Eastern cuisine
* '''Pearl's Oyster Bar''' — Seafood counter
* '''Hershel's East Side Deli''' — Jewish deli favorites


=== Amish Vendors ===
1. '''DiNic's roast pork sandwich''' - The signature dish
2. '''Beiler's doughnut''' (any flavor) - Get there early as popular flavors sell out
3. '''Bassett's ice cream cone''' - A 130-year tradition
4. '''Dutch Eating Place apple dumpling''' - Pennsylvania Dutch specialty
5. '''Fisher's soft pretzel''' - Fresh from the oven


Pennsylvania Dutch and Amish vendors are a distinctive feature:
Budget approximately $30-40 per person to sample several vendors.


* Fresh baked goods (shoofly pie, whoopie pies)
== Parking and Transportation ==
* Meats and poultry
* Produce from Lancaster County farms
* Pretzels and snacks
* ''Note: Many Amish vendors close on Sundays''


== Visiting ==
There is no dedicated parking lot for Reading Terminal Market, but several options exist nearby:


{| class="wikitable"
'''Gallery Place Garage''' (directly adjacent)
|-
* 925 Market Street
! Detail !! Information
* Closest option, accessible from the Convention Center
|-
| '''Hours''' || Daily 8am-6pm (some vendors vary)
|-
| '''Address''' || 51 N 12th Street (enter from 12th or Filbert)
|-
| '''Best time''' || Weekday mornings for fewer crowds
|-
| '''Tips''' || Amish vendors often closed Sundays; arrive early for popular items
|-
| '''Seating''' || Communal tables throughout the market
|}


=== Tips for Visitors ===
'''AutoPark at the Gallery'''
* 9th and Market Streets
* Approximately 2 blocks east


* '''Come hungry''' — Many prepared food vendors; eat as you explore
'''Street Parking'''
* '''Weekday mornings*** — Fewer crowds than weekends
* Metered parking available on surrounding streets
* '''Cash*** — Some vendors are cash-only
* Limited availability and time restrictions apply
* '''Amish schedule*** — Many Amish vendors close Sundays and some Wednesdays


== Getting There ==
=== Public Transportation ===


Reading Terminal Market is in the heart of Center City:
The most convenient option is public transit:
* '''[[SEPTA]] Market-Frankford Line''' - 11th Street Station (one block away)
* '''SEPTA Regional Rail''' - Jefferson Station (adjacent to market)
* '''Multiple SEPTA bus routes''' serve 12th and Market Streets


* '''SEPTA Regional Rail''' — Jefferson Station (directly connected)
=== Payment Methods ===
* '''SEPTA Subway''' — Market-Frankford and Broad Street Lines at 11th-12th Streets
* '''Walking''' — Central location, walkable from most Center City hotels
* '''Parking''' — Convention Center garage, street parking


== Architecture ==
Most vendors accept credit cards, but '''some cash-only vendors remain''', particularly among the Pennsylvania Dutch merchants. ATMs are located inside the market.


The market occupies the basement level beneath the Reading Railroad's former train shed:
Recommended: Bring cash (approximately $40-60) to ensure you can purchase from any vendor, especially in the Amish section.


* '''Train shed*** — Built 1891-1893, one of the largest single-span arched-roof structures of its era
=== Convention Center Connection ===
* '''Market space''' — Original 1893 market layout largely intact
* '''Pennsylvania Convention Center*** — Built around the train shed in 1993


== Frequently Asked Questions ==
Reading Terminal Market is directly adjacent to the [[Pennsylvania Convention Center]]. The market occupies the ground floor of the historic Reading Railroad headhouse, while the Convention Center incorporated the elevated train shed above and expanded around it.


{{FAQ
The market's main entrance on 12th Street is steps from the Convention Center's main entrance on Arch Street. An interior connection allows convention attendees to access the market directly during market hours.
|q1=What is Reading Terminal Market famous for?
|a1=Reading Terminal Market is famous for its roast pork sandwiches (DiNic's), Amish baked goods (Beiler's Donuts), America's oldest ice cream (Bassetts), and the mix of prepared foods and fresh market vendors. It's considered one of America's great public markets.


|q2=Is Reading Terminal Market open on Sunday?
This location makes Reading Terminal Market extremely popular with Convention Center visitors and event attendees, contributing to the market's approximately $60 million in annual tourist revenue.
|a2=The market is open on Sundays (8am-6pm), but many Amish and Pennsylvania Dutch vendors are closed for religious observance. If you specifically want Amish baked goods or products, visit on another day. Most non-Amish vendors are open.


|q3=What should I eat at Reading Terminal Market?
=== Delivery and Online Ordering ===
|a3=Top choices include: DiNic's roast pork sandwich (often called America's best sandwich), Beiler's donuts, Bassetts ice cream, Hershel's pastrami, and Carmen's cheesesteaks. The diversity means you can find everything from Amish pretzels to Thai food.


|q4=How long should I spend at Reading Terminal Market?
Some vendors offer delivery through third-party services like DoorDash, Grubhub, and Uber Eats. However, availability varies by vendor, and not all participate in delivery programs. The market also offers:
|a4=Plan 1-2 hours to explore, eat, and shop. You can grab a quick meal in 30 minutes, but browsing the vendors, sampling foods, and finding seating takes longer. The market is meant for leisurely exploration.
 
}}
* '''Online ordering for pickup''' at select vendors through the Reading Terminal Market website
* '''Gift boxes and shipped items''' from certain specialty vendors
* '''Catering services''' from multiple vendors for events
 
For the full Reading Terminal Market experience, an in-person visit is strongly recommended.
 
== Visiting Tips ==
 
=== Best Times to Visit ===
* '''Weekday mornings (8-10 AM)''' - Least crowded, full vendor selection
* '''Wednesday through Saturday''' - All vendors including Amish merchants
* '''Avoid lunch rush (11:30 AM - 1:30 PM)''' - Extremely crowded, especially on weekdays
 
=== What to Bring ===
* Cash (for vendors that don't accept cards)
* Reusable bags (for produce and grocery purchases)
* Patience (the market is often crowded)


== See Also ==
== See Also ==
 
* [[Italian Market]]
* [[Market East]]
* [[Center City, Philadelphia]]
* [[Pennsylvania Convention Center]]
* [[Pennsylvania Convention Center]]
* [[Italian Market]]
* [[Cheesesteak]]
* [[Philadelphia Food]]
* [[Philadelphia hoagie]]


== References ==
== References ==
Line 137: Line 173:


== External Links ==
== External Links ==
 
* [https://readingterminalmarket.org Reading Terminal Market Official Website]
* [https://readingterminalmarket.org Official Website]
* [https://www.visitphilly.com/things-to-do/food-drink/reading-terminal-market/ Visit Philadelphia Guide]
* [https://readingterminalmarket.org/merchant/ Vendor Directory]


{{#seo:
{{#seo:
|title=Reading Terminal Market - Historic Philadelphia Food Market Since 1893
|title=Reading Terminal Market - Philadelphia's Historic Indoor Farmers Market
|description=Reading Terminal Market is a historic public market with 80+ vendors selling fresh food, Amish baked goods, and Philadelphia specialties like DiNic's roast pork sandwiches. Open daily.
|description=Complete guide to Reading Terminal Market, one of America's oldest and largest public markets. Hours, vendors, Amish merchants, best food, parking, and what to eat at Philadelphia's iconic food hall.
|keywords=Reading Terminal Market, Philadelphia food market, DiNic's, Amish market, Philadelphia food, farmers market, Pennsylvania Convention Center
|keywords=Reading Terminal Market, oldest public market America, Philadelphia food hall, Amish vendors Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Dutch food market
|type=Article
|type=Article
}}
}}


[[Category:Landmarks]]
[[Category:Businesses]]
[[Category:Markets]]
[[Category:Market East]]
[[Category:Restaurants]]
[[Category:Restaurants]]
[[Category:Historic Sites]]
[[Category:Historic Businesses]]
[[Category:Center City]]
[[Category:Attractions]]

Latest revision as of 22:36, 29 December 2025

Reading Terminal Market
TypePublic market, food hall
Address51 N 12th Street
MapView on Google Maps
NeighborhoodCenter City
Phone(215) 922-2317
WebsiteOfficial site
Established1893
FounderReading Railroad Company
OwnerReading Terminal Market Corporation (nonprofit)
Employees400+
HoursDaily 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
ProductsPrepared food, produce, meats, seafood, baked goods, specialty items
StatusActive
Reading Terminal Market(215) 922-231751 N 12th StreetPhiladelphiaPAUS

Reading Terminal Market is a historic enclosed public market located at 51 N 12th Street in Center City, Philadelphia. Opened on February 22, 1893, beneath the train shed of the Reading Railroad Company, it is one of America's oldest and largest continuously operating public markets. The market features over 80 merchants selling fresh produce, meats, seafood, baked goods, prepared foods, and specialty items in a National Historic Landmark building adjacent to the Pennsylvania Convention Center.[1]

The market is particularly renowned for its Pennsylvania Dutch and Amish vendors from Lancaster County, who occupy the northwestern corner of the building. Iconic merchants include DiNic's (home of the roast pork sandwich named "America's Best Sandwich" by the Travel Channel), Beiler's Bakery (famous for hand-rolled doughnuts), and Bassett's Ice Cream (operating since the market's 1893 opening). Reading Terminal Market draws approximately three million visitors annually and has become one of Philadelphia's top tourist destinations and a beloved gathering place for locals.[2]

History

[edit | edit source]

Origins

[edit | edit source]

Reading Terminal Market's roots trace back to two earlier markets—the Butchers' and Farmers' Market and Franklin Market—located on the 1100 block of Market Street in Center City. In 1890, the Philadelphia and Reading Railroad Company purchased this block for construction of its new passenger terminal. The merchants' refusal to relocate led to a compromise: the railroad agreed to construct a new market beneath its elevated train shed and tracks.[3]

Age and Founding

[edit | edit source]

Reading Terminal Market opened for business on February 22, 1893, making it over 130 years old. The original market occupied approximately 78,000 square feet and held nearly 800 merchant stalls, each measuring six feet wide. By 1913, the market was booming with 250 food dealers and 100 farmers occupying its spaces.

The market survived the decline of the Reading Railroad (which went bankrupt in 1971) and the construction of the Pennsylvania Convention Center in the 1990s, which incorporated the historic train shed while preserving the market below. Today, two vendors—Bassett's Ice Cream and Spataro's Cheesesteaks—are descendants of original merchants from the 1893 opening.

Revival and Preservation

[edit | edit source]

After decades of decline following World War II, Reading Terminal Market underwent a major revival beginning in the 1980s. The market was designated a National Historic Landmark, and the opening of the Pennsylvania Convention Center next door brought new foot traffic. Today, the market is operated by Reading Terminal Market Corporation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving its character as a diverse public market serving both locals and visitors.

Hours

[edit | edit source]

Reading Terminal Market is open Monday through Sunday from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The market is open every day of the year except Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day.

Important notes about hours:

  • Individual merchant hours may vary—some open earlier or close later
  • Many prepared food vendors stop serving 30-60 minutes before the market closes
  • Pennsylvania Dutch/Amish vendors are open Wednesday through Saturday only

Sunday Hours

[edit | edit source]

Reading Terminal Market is open on Sunday from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. However, the Amish and Pennsylvania Dutch vendors, located primarily in the northwest corner of the market, are not open on Sunday (they observe a religious day of rest). These vendors are typically open Wednesday through Saturday only.

If you specifically want to visit the Pennsylvania Dutch section, plan your trip for Wednesday through Saturday. If visiting on Sunday, you'll still find the majority of vendors—including DiNic's, Bassett's, Carmen's Famous Italian Hoagies, and many others—open for business.

Pennsylvania Dutch Vendors

[edit | edit source]

The Amish and Pennsylvania Dutch vendors operate Wednesday through Saturday only. The Amish merchants travel from Lancaster County to staff their stalls, approximately 60 miles from Philadelphia, and observe Sunday as a day of rest.

Twelve Amish businesses operate in the market, many clustered in the northwestern corner. Notable Pennsylvania Dutch vendors include:

  • Beiler's Bakery and Beiler's Donuts & Salads - Hand-rolled doughnuts in nearly 50 flavors
  • Dutch Eating Place - Traditional Pennsylvania Dutch breakfast and comfort food
  • Fisher's Soft Pretzels - Authentic soft pretzels
  • Dienner's Bar-B-Q Chicken - Rotisserie chicken
  • Miller's Twist - Soft pretzels and baked goods
  • Lancaster County Dairy - Fresh eggs, butter, and cheese[4]

Food and Vendors

[edit | edit source]

With over 80 vendors, Reading Terminal Market offers overwhelming variety. Here are the most celebrated options:

Must-Try Foods

[edit | edit source]

DiNic's Roast Pork Sandwich - Named "America's Best Sandwich" by the Travel Channel in 2012. Thinly sliced roast pork on a long roll with sharp provolone and broccoli rabe. The fourth-generation family business also serves excellent Italian sausage.[5]

Beiler's Doughnuts - Hand-rolled Pennsylvania Dutch-style doughnuts in nearly 50 flavors. Lines can stretch to block neighboring vendors. Made from a grandmother's bread recipe using potato flakes.

Bassett's Ice Cream - Operating continuously since the market's 1893 opening, Bassett's claims to be America's oldest ice cream company. Their rich, dense ice cream is beloved by generations of Philadelphians.

Dutch Eating Place Apple Dumplings - Whole apples wrapped in pastry, coated in cinnamon-sugar, and served with warm cream. A Pennsylvania Dutch specialty.

Tommy DiNic's (Sister location to DiNic's) - Roast beef and other Italian sandwiches.

[edit | edit source]
  • Carmen's Famous Italian Hoagies - Classic Philadelphia hoagies
  • Pearl's Oyster Bar - Fresh oysters and seafood
  • Hershel's East Side Deli - Jewish deli with corned beef and pastrami
  • Molly Malloy's - Irish pub food
  • By George Pizza - Pizza by the slice
  • Kamal's Middle Eastern Specialties - Falafel and shawarma

First-Time Visitor Guide

[edit | edit source]

For first-time visitors, this itinerary covers the essential Reading Terminal Market experience:

1. DiNic's roast pork sandwich - The signature dish 2. Beiler's doughnut (any flavor) - Get there early as popular flavors sell out 3. Bassett's ice cream cone - A 130-year tradition 4. Dutch Eating Place apple dumpling - Pennsylvania Dutch specialty 5. Fisher's soft pretzel - Fresh from the oven

Budget approximately $30-40 per person to sample several vendors.

Parking and Transportation

[edit | edit source]

There is no dedicated parking lot for Reading Terminal Market, but several options exist nearby:

Gallery Place Garage (directly adjacent)

  • 925 Market Street
  • Closest option, accessible from the Convention Center

AutoPark at the Gallery

  • 9th and Market Streets
  • Approximately 2 blocks east

Street Parking

  • Metered parking available on surrounding streets
  • Limited availability and time restrictions apply

Public Transportation

[edit | edit source]

The most convenient option is public transit:

  • SEPTA Market-Frankford Line - 11th Street Station (one block away)
  • SEPTA Regional Rail - Jefferson Station (adjacent to market)
  • Multiple SEPTA bus routes serve 12th and Market Streets

Payment Methods

[edit | edit source]

Most vendors accept credit cards, but some cash-only vendors remain, particularly among the Pennsylvania Dutch merchants. ATMs are located inside the market.

Recommended: Bring cash (approximately $40-60) to ensure you can purchase from any vendor, especially in the Amish section.

Convention Center Connection

[edit | edit source]

Reading Terminal Market is directly adjacent to the Pennsylvania Convention Center. The market occupies the ground floor of the historic Reading Railroad headhouse, while the Convention Center incorporated the elevated train shed above and expanded around it.

The market's main entrance on 12th Street is steps from the Convention Center's main entrance on Arch Street. An interior connection allows convention attendees to access the market directly during market hours.

This location makes Reading Terminal Market extremely popular with Convention Center visitors and event attendees, contributing to the market's approximately $60 million in annual tourist revenue.

Delivery and Online Ordering

[edit | edit source]

Some vendors offer delivery through third-party services like DoorDash, Grubhub, and Uber Eats. However, availability varies by vendor, and not all participate in delivery programs. The market also offers:

  • Online ordering for pickup at select vendors through the Reading Terminal Market website
  • Gift boxes and shipped items from certain specialty vendors
  • Catering services from multiple vendors for events

For the full Reading Terminal Market experience, an in-person visit is strongly recommended.

Visiting Tips

[edit | edit source]

Best Times to Visit

[edit | edit source]
  • Weekday mornings (8-10 AM) - Least crowded, full vendor selection
  • Wednesday through Saturday - All vendors including Amish merchants
  • Avoid lunch rush (11:30 AM - 1:30 PM) - Extremely crowded, especially on weekdays

What to Bring

[edit | edit source]
  • Cash (for vendors that don't accept cards)
  • Reusable bags (for produce and grocery purchases)
  • Patience (the market is often crowded)

See Also

[edit | edit source]

References

[edit | edit source]
  1. ↑ "History". Reading Terminal Market. Retrieved December 22, 2025
  2. ↑ "Reading Terminal Market". Visit Philadelphia. Retrieved December 22, 2025
  3. ↑ "Reading Terminal Market". Encyclopedia of Greater Philadelphia. Retrieved December 22, 2025
  4. ↑ "Pennsylvania Dutch". Reading Terminal Market. Retrieved December 22, 2025
  5. ↑ "The 17 Best Things to Eat at Reading Terminal Market". Visit Philadelphia. Retrieved December 22, 2025
[edit | edit source]
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