Reading Terminal Market

Reading Terminal Market is one of America's oldest public markets offering local favourites like Philly cheesesteaks, Pennsylvania Dutch pretzels, and scrapple.

Reading Terminal Market is one of Philadelphia’s most vibrant and historic public spaces, a food lover’s paradise and a cultural cornerstone of the city. Located in Center City, it was established in 1893 in what was formerly the train shed of the Reading Railroad Terminal, which gave the market its name. It was originally designed to centralize Philadelphia's open air markets which had been causing congestion in the streets. The market boasts a rich blend of cultures and cuisines, from Local Pennsylvania Dutch Specialities to Southern comfort food, a whole range of international dishes as well as fresh produce, seafood, meat and baked goods. You can also find flowers, books and other souvenirs.

Whilst undoubtedly a popular tourist attraction, the market is still widely used by locals to buy their produce and locally sourced epicurean treats. It regularly hosts cooking demonstrations, book signings, cultural celebrations, seasonal festivals and educational workshops.

Nearby Attractions

See all attractions in Philadelphia

Related Tours

Flavours of Philadelphia: Private Reading Market 2.5-hr Food Tour

Join us for a unique food tour in the vibrant city of Philadelphia in the iconic Reading Terminal Market, a bustling hub of activity that has been a fixture in the city for over a century. You'll sample a wide range of local delicacies, including fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and delicious baked goods.

On your private food tour, you will:

  • Try the one and only renowned Philly cheesesteak in one of your guide's favourite spots - a true Philly classic!
  • Discover the latest culinary trends in Philly's vibrant food scene along trendy Sansom Street, located in the heart of Center City;
  • Sample a variety of locally-sourced treats, including farm-to-table dishes and sustainable seafood,
  • Hear fascinating insights about the history and culture of the city;
  • Develop a deep appreciation for the unique flavours and spirit of Philadelphia.


Philadelphia's food scene is interesting for a variety of reasons. The city's diverse culinary heritage and the long tradition of immigrant communities from around the world reflect the rich cultural history of the region. From traditional Italian bakeries in South Philly to Jewish delis in the centre, there is a wealth of culinary diversity waiting to be explored.

Philadelphia is committed to using locally-sourced ingredients and sustainable practices which has led to the rise of farm-to-table dining experiences with passionate chefs and restaurants that are all about supporting local farmers and producers in their venues.

From cutting-edge fusion cuisine to inventive new takes on classic dishes, Philadelphia's chefs are constantly pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the kitchen, making the city a hotbed of culinary innovation and creativity. 

Welcome to Philadelphia: Private Half-Day Highlights Walking Tour

Discover Philadelphia, one of America's oldest cities, which played a significant role in American history, from the signing of the Declaration of Independence to the birth of the US Constitution. Philadelphia is a pedestrian-friendly city and exploring it on a walking tour, it's the best way to visit its most popular sites.

On your private half-day tour, you will:

  • See Benjamin Franklin's tomb from outside the cemetery, and hear about the life and legacy of one of America's most celebrated founding fathers;
  • Stroll the cobblestone roads of Independence Mall, a historic landmark as the birthplace of the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution;
  • See the enduring symbol of American freedom and independence: the Liberty Bell;
  • Pass by Betsy Ross’s house, the woman who first sewed an American flag; 
  • Explore Christ Church and Franklin Court, where you can see the graves of Benjamin Franklin and other notable figures from America's early days (if open on the day of the tour);
  • Explore Midtown Village and the Gaybourhood, where your guide will take you down the ‘Mural Mile’ for some of the best graffiti cultures in America!
  • End your tour at Reading Terminal Market, one of the oldest and largest public markets, filled with locals and travellers alike, where you can return throughout your stay to shop for groceries or dine on the go. 


Originally founded as a haven for religious freedom by William Penn, Pennsylvania was colonised by French Huguenots, Mennonites, and most famously in the state - Quakers and Amish. The capital city was formed in 1682 and has served as the seat of government ever since.

Throughout the centuries, Philadelphia has gone through revivals and slumps - prosperous then seasons of economic free fall. During the American Revolution, Philadelphia was the site of the First and the Second Continental Congresses. After the Revolution, the city was chosen to be the temporary capital of the United States from 1790 to 1800.

Though federal and state governments left Philadelphia at the beginning of the 19th century, the city continued for some years to be the nation’s cultural and financial hub.

To see the remnants of these boom-and-busts of the city, nothing is better than a privately guided walk of it. From its role in inventing the United States to the modern ways in which Philadelphia continues to reinvent itself today, your guide will take you through the highlights and spots off the beaten track to give you a feel of the entire city –not just the highlights seen by most.

On your tour, you will not only check off the highlights of the historic district but also fall in love with the city's unique combination of grit and charm. 

The Heart of Philadelphia: Private 2-hour Electric Cart Tour

Philadelphia is a fascinating city that played a pivotal role in shaping the USA as we know it. Serving as the first ever US capital, its historic buildings tell a wealth of stories about the early years of the Land of Liberty, and it has since become a diverse and modern city that continues to evolve and make a significant impact on American life. For travellers eager to make the most of their time in Philly, our 2-hour private driving tour in a comfortable electric cart offers an immersive and engaging journey through the most iconic sights in the company of a passionate local guide who can tailor the route to your interests.

On this 2-hour electric cart tour, you will:

  • Get a riveting introduction to Philadelphia as you explore the city in a comfortable electric vehicle;
  • Enjoy convenient pick up and drop off from your hotel in central Philly;
  • Embark on a fun and flexible route around the most iconic landmarks;
  • Travel back in time as you make your way through Old City while your guide regales you with stories of the American Revolution;
  • Pass by Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence was signed, and see the legendary Liberty Bell;
  • Drive along Elfreth’s Alley, the oldest residential street in the US;
  • Follow in the footsteps of American patriots at the Betsy Ross house and Benjamin Franklin’s grave;
  • Cruise through the bustling neighbourhoods of Centre City and Chinatown;
  • Pass by the Old City Hall and the famous Reading Terminal Market;
  • Stop at the prestigious Philadelphia Museum of Art and have your very own movie moment at the “Rocky Steps
  • Keep an eye out for emblematic public art installations like the LOVE sculpture, the Friendship Arch and the mosaics of the Magic Gardens;
  • Find out how Philadelphia's historical commitment to diversity, inclusivity, and community makes the city what it is today.

Discover the heart of Philadelphia on a private two-hour driving tour that brings the city’s most iconic landmarks to life from the comfort of an electric cart. With convenient hotel pick-up in central Philly, this personalised experience offers the perfect crash course for first-time visitors who want to see the sights, hear the stories, and soak in the unique atmosphere, and is also a great option for returning travellers who wish to experience the best the city has to offer.

Your local guide will craft a route tailored to your interests as you explore everything from the colonial charm of Old City to the dynamic pulse of Centre City. Along the way, you’ll pass by the birthplace of American democracy at Independence Hall and catch a glimpse of the famed Liberty Bell, an enduring symbol of freedom and one of America’s most treasured artefacts. You can make your way past the well-preserved historic homes on Elfreth’s Alley, the oldest residential street in the country, and hear tales of revolution and resilience near the Betsy Ross House and Benjamin Franklin’s final resting place.

The tour continues through Philadelphia’s diverse neighbourhoods, including a lively ride through Chinatown and a look at Reading Terminal Market, a foodie favourite with a profound impact on Philadelphia’s celebrated culinary heritage. At the Philadelphia Museum of Art, you will hop out for a quick photo op at the top of the “Rocky Steps,” with the spectacular city skyline behind you. Throughout the ride, you’ll spot some of Philadelphia’s renowned public art, from the colourful mosaics of the Magic Gardens to the iconic LOVE sculpture and the distinctive Friendship Arch.

Whether you're here for history, culture, or just a fun and easy introduction to the City of Brotherly Love, this engaging electric cart tour is your perfect jumping off point. Your guide will be more than happy to recommend plenty of great spots to eat, drink and explore before dropping you off at your hotel or another location of your choosing within the city centre.

x

Guides

Join the fastest growing community of professional tour guides.

Partners

Use our easy to integrate toolset to include Tours & Attractions in your customer journey.