Reading Terminal Market

Reading Terminal Market showing markets, city views and interior views
Reading Terminal Market
Reading Terminal Market
Reading Terminal Market
Reading Terminal Market


When peckish in Philadelphia, this is the definitive place to stop by. Gorge on local produce like Philly cheese-steaks, Amish-style doughnuts and shoofly pie.

Reading Terminal Market is an enclosed daily market, with over 100 merchants operating. It is most famous for its food—come here to sample high-quality local cuisine, which can be devoured in the Centre Court. Crafts, flowers, books and homeware stalls also populate the market.

Undoubtedly the best time to visit Reading Terminal Market is when you're hungry. At lunch time, it is overrun with locals looking for a quick bite to eat. Tease yourself for a while, wandering the stalls, and taking in the various sights and smells. Some of the merchants you see here are descended from those who traded at the market in 1892. They've had plenty of time to perfect their recipes everything from the classic Philly cheese-steak and soft buttered pretzels, to artisan cheeses, ribs, ice creams, and fudge. Amish-style doughnuts and shoofly pie are particular Pennsylvania Dutch treats, and have to be sampled by anyone with a sweet tooth. The best place to stop for dessert is Bassett’s Ice Cream, which has been in operation for more than 150 years.

Today's Reading Terminal Market is awash with international influence tuck into sushi, Indian and Pakistani curries, or German sausages. New stalls pitch up regularly, so put out feelers to find what's currently whetting the locals' appetites. Additionally, Reading Terminal Market is a great place to stock up on foodstuffs jars of honey, barrel-aged pickles, Pennsylvania-made wine, and various candies are good for taking home.

Once you've has your fill of food, explore the market's other stalls—hand-crafted silverware, natural skincare products, French linens and African art are just a few of things you can expect to find. Locals come here to pick up crafts and home decoration, so it’s the perfect place to find a unique souvenir. Photography is allowed, but it's polite to ask vendors for permission before snapping away.

Reading Terminal Market is at 12th and Arch Streets in downtown. It's therefore easily reachable by foot or bus. It is open daily, barring major national holidays. On Sundays, some Pennsylvania Dutch vendors shut up shop.

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Things to do near Reading Terminal Market

Reading Terminal Market in Philadelphia is a vibrant hub for visitors, offering a delightful mix of culinary experiences, arts, and entertainment. You can explore local art galleries, enjoy performances at nearby theatres, and engage in various sports activities. The market itself is a feast for the senses, showcasing the rich cultural tapestry of Philadelphia. Make sure to savour the diverse food offerings while soaking in the lively atmosphere.

Shopping

At Reading Terminal Market, immerse yourself in a vibrant shopping experience with unique gifts and souvenirs. Nearby, Rittenhouse Row (966m) and the Italian Market (1.6km) offer diverse local finds. Cherry Hill Mall (11.3km) is perfect for a family day out, if you're up for a drive.

Recreation

At Citizens Bank Park, immerse yourself in the vibrant sports atmosphere while enjoying a game. Experience the cultural charm of the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, offering captivating performances. For relaxation, visit the Daskalakis Athletic Center, where you can indulge in wellness activities and rejuvenate your mind and body.

Adventure

Embark on the Schuylkill River Trail, a scenic hiking path 1.6km from Reading Terminal Market, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. For water sports, visit Boathouse Row, located 3.2km away, offering thrilling activities. Alternatively, challenge yourself at the Penn Tennis Center, also 3.2km from the market.

Nightlife

At Reading Terminal Market, experience the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Freedom Mortgage Pavilion for captivating performances just 3.2km away. For adventure, head to Lucky Strike Lanes, only 483m away, or enjoy the whimsical Parx Liberty Carousel, located 805m from the market.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Reading Terminal Market

Reading Terminal Market offers a delightful array of attractions, including historic civic buildings and art museums, perfect for those seeking a cultural and family-friendly experience. Visitors can explore the rich history and vibrant atmosphere of the market while discovering local art and engaging in the community's heritage. It's an ideal spot for tourists looking to immerse themselves in Philadelphia's charm and culture.

  • Pennsylvania Convention Center: Situated a mere 161m from Reading Terminal Market, this expansive venue is a hub for business events and conferences. Its modern architecture and dynamic atmosphere make it a key part of Philadelphia's professional landscape.
  • Rittenhouse Square: Located 1.1km away, this vibrant neighbourhood is a delightful blend of green space, upscale shops, and chic cafes. It's the perfect spot to soak in the city's lively urban vibes while enjoying a leisurely stroll.
  • Philadelphia Museum of Art: A mile from the market, this iconic art museum boasts an impressive collection spanning centuries. Its stunning architecture and cultural significance offer a profound experience for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

Best time to go to Reading Terminal Market

The best time to visit Reading Terminal Market is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January33.3°F (0.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
February35.4°F (1.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
March43.0°F (6.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly Low
April53.6°F (12.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
May63.5°F (17.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
June72.1°F (22.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
July78.3°F (25.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
August76.3°F (24.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September69.8°F (21.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October58.8°F (14.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly High
November46.9°F (8.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
December39.4°F (4.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Reading Terminal Market

For a budget-friendly visit to Reading Terminal Market, consider travelling between January and March, as accommodation prices are typically lower. Aim for Monday stays, the least expensive day, and utilise Expedia to filter by budget and hotel type, including eco-friendly options. Combining hotel bookings with flights and activities can yield additional savings. For public transport, utilise local options like buses and the subway to minimise costs. Look out for additional fees and discounts to ensure the best rates on your stay and activities.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Reading Terminal Market are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to June and October, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Reading Terminal Market is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Reading Terminal Market is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and various other criteria. You can arrange the results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring that you see the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will highlight sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially reduce your expenses by combining your hotel reservation at Reading Terminal Market with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

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