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{{Infobox LocalBusiness
{{Infobox LocalBusiness
| name = Reading Terminal Market
| name = Reading Terminal Market
| image =
| type = Public market
| image_caption = Reading Terminal Market interior
| type = Public market, food hall
| address = 51 N 12th Street
| address = 51 N 12th Street
| neighborhood = Center City
| neighborhood = Market East
| 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
| founder = Reading Railroad Company
| hours = Daily 8am-6pm
| owner = Reading Terminal Market Corporation (nonprofit)
| public_transit = Jefferson Station (SEPTA); Market East
| 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 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>
'''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>
 
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 26: Line 17:
=== Origins ===
=== Origins ===


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>
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.


=== Age and Founding ===
=== The Railroad Era ===


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.
For decades, the market thrived serving commuters and Philadelphia residents:


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


=== Revival and Preservation ===
=== Decline and Revival ===


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.
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.


== Hours ==
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.


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.
== The Market Today ==


Important notes about hours:
=== Vendor Categories ===
* 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 ===
Over 80 merchants operate in the market:


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.
* '''Produce''' — Fresh fruits and vegetables, including local and organic
* '''Meat and poultry''' — Butchers, including Amish vendors
* '''Seafood''' — Fresh fish and shellfish
* '''Baked goods''' — Breads, pastries, cakes, Amish baked goods
* '''Prepared foods''' — Ready-to-eat meals, sandwiches, international cuisines
* '''Specialty foods''' — Cheese, spices, chocolate, coffee
* '''Flowers''' — Cut flowers and plants
* '''Crafts and gifts''' — Some non-food vendors


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.
=== Notable Vendors ===


=== Pennsylvania Dutch Vendors ===
* '''DiNic's''' — Famous for roast pork sandwiches (called "America's best sandwich" by Travel Channel)
* '''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


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.
=== Amish Vendors ===


Twelve Amish businesses operate in the market, many clustered in the northwestern corner. Notable Pennsylvania Dutch vendors include:
Pennsylvania Dutch and Amish vendors are a distinctive feature:


* '''Beiler's Bakery and Beiler's Donuts & Salads''' - Hand-rolled doughnuts in nearly 50 flavors
* Fresh baked goods (shoofly pie, whoopie pies)
* '''Dutch Eating Place''' - Traditional Pennsylvania Dutch breakfast and comfort food
* Meats and poultry
* '''Fisher's Soft Pretzels''' - Authentic soft pretzels
* Produce from Lancaster County farms
* '''Dienner's Bar-B-Q Chicken''' - Rotisserie chicken
* Pretzels and snacks
* '''Miller's Twist''' - Soft pretzels and baked goods
* ''Note: Many Amish vendors close on Sundays''
* '''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>


== Food and Vendors ==
== Visiting ==


With over 80 vendors, Reading Terminal Market offers overwhelming variety. Here are the most celebrated options:
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Detail !! Information
|-
| '''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
|}


=== Must-Try Foods ===
=== Tips for Visitors ===


'''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>
* '''Come hungry''' — Many prepared food vendors; eat as you explore
* '''Weekday mornings*** — Fewer crowds than weekends
* '''Cash*** — Some vendors are cash-only
* '''Amish schedule*** — Many Amish vendors close Sundays and some Wednesdays


'''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.
== Getting There ==


'''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.
Reading Terminal Market is in the heart of Center City:


'''Dutch Eating Place Apple Dumplings''' - Whole apples wrapped in pastry, coated in cinnamon-sugar, and served with warm cream. A Pennsylvania Dutch specialty.
* '''SEPTA Regional Rail''' — Jefferson Station (directly connected)
* '''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


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


=== Other Highly Recommended Vendors ===
The market occupies the basement level beneath the Reading Railroad's former train shed:


* '''Carmen's Famous Italian Hoagies''' - Classic Philadelphia hoagies
* '''Train shed*** — Built 1891-1893, one of the largest single-span arched-roof structures of its era
* '''Pearl's Oyster Bar''' - Fresh oysters and seafood
* '''Market space''' — Original 1893 market layout largely intact
* '''Hershel's East Side Deli''' - Jewish deli with corned beef and pastrami
* '''Pennsylvania Convention Center*** — Built around the train shed in 1993
* '''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 ===
== Frequently Asked Questions ==


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


1. '''DiNic's roast pork sandwich''' - The signature dish
|q2=Is Reading Terminal Market open on Sunday?
2. '''Beiler's doughnut''' (any flavor) - Get there early as popular flavors sell out
|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.
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.
|q3=What should I eat at Reading Terminal Market?
|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.


== Parking and Transportation ==
|q4=How long should I spend at Reading Terminal Market?
|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.
}}


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


'''Gallery Place Garage''' (directly adjacent)
* [[Market East]]
* 925 Market Street
* [[Pennsylvania Convention Center]]
* 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 ===
 
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 ===
 
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 ===
 
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 ===
 
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 ==
 
=== 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 ==
* [[Italian Market]]
* [[Italian Market]]
* [[Center City, Philadelphia]]
* [[Philadelphia Food]]
* [[Pennsylvania Convention Center]]
* [[Cheesesteak]]
* [[Philadelphia hoagie]]


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


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


{{#seo:
{{#seo:
|title=Reading Terminal Market - Philadelphia's Historic Indoor Farmers Market
|title=Reading Terminal Market - Historic Philadelphia Food Market Since 1893
|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.
|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.
|keywords=Reading Terminal Market, oldest public market America, Philadelphia food hall, Amish vendors Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Dutch food market
|keywords=Reading Terminal Market, Philadelphia food market, DiNic's, Amish market, Philadelphia food, farmers market, Pennsylvania Convention Center
|type=Article
|type=Article
}}
}}


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

Revision as of 03:29, 24 December 2025

Reading Terminal Market



TypePublic market
Address51 N 12th Street
MapView on Google Maps
NeighborhoodMarket East
Phone(215) 922-2317
WebsiteOfficial site
Established1893
HoursDaily 8am-6pm
Reading Terminal Market(215) 922-231751 N 12th StreetPhiladelphiaPAUS

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.[1]

History

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.

The Railroad Era

For decades, the market thrived serving commuters and Philadelphia residents:

  • Farmers brought produce directly from Lancaster County
  • Butchers, bakers, and fishmongers served daily shoppers
  • The market was integral to Philadelphia's food supply

Decline and Revival

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.

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.

The Market Today

Vendor Categories

Over 80 merchants operate in the market:

  • Produce — Fresh fruits and vegetables, including local and organic
  • Meat and poultry — Butchers, including Amish vendors
  • Seafood — Fresh fish and shellfish
  • Baked goods — Breads, pastries, cakes, Amish baked goods
  • Prepared foods — Ready-to-eat meals, sandwiches, international cuisines
  • Specialty foods — Cheese, spices, chocolate, coffee
  • Flowers — Cut flowers and plants
  • Crafts and gifts — Some non-food vendors

Notable Vendors

  • DiNic's — Famous for roast pork sandwiches (called "America's best sandwich" by Travel Channel)
  • 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

Pennsylvania Dutch and Amish vendors are a distinctive feature:

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

Visiting

Detail Information
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

  • Come hungry — Many prepared food vendors; eat as you explore
  • Weekday mornings*** — Fewer crowds than weekends
  • Cash*** — Some vendors are cash-only
  • Amish schedule*** — Many Amish vendors close Sundays and some Wednesdays

Getting There

Reading Terminal Market is in the heart of Center City:

  • SEPTA Regional Rail — Jefferson Station (directly connected)
  • 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

The market occupies the basement level beneath the Reading Railroad's former train shed:

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Template:FAQ

See Also

References

  1. ↑ "History". Reading Terminal Market. Retrieved December 23, 2025
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