Reading Terminal Market Tours and Activities

First built by the Reading Railroad in 1892, this indoor market offers a multicultural blend of international cuisine, local delicacies, and crafts from South America and Africa. Located in the city centre, it is also home to a farmers market which is the perfect place to stock up on organic treats for a Philadelphia picnic.Step through the doors of this long-standing market and prepare to be assaulted by delicious odours of freshly baked pastry and spicy Asian cuisine. Lunchtime is the busiest time of the day here, with those working in area popping in for a quick snack or meal before heading back to the office. Do as the locals do, and grab yourself a soft pretzel – a local favourite – or go for something a little more substantial with one of the city's notorious Philly cheesesteaks. Made up of thin slices of steak, bread, and melted cheese, this option is for those with an appetite only. Alternatively, if you fancy something a little lighter, there are plentiful stalls selling healthy and delicious Asian cuisine here too.Visitors with a sweet tooth will be completely spoilt for choice at the market. Try Bassett's Ice Cream, a local institution since 1861, or pop over to the Dutch Eating Place for the finest in Pennsylvania Dutch baking try shoofly pie and find out where it got the name, or sample the myriad other Amish cakes that never fail to please.The market is a great place to watch the world go by, or eat with a group of friends with very different tastes. Each member of the group can pick up whatever they want from the multitude of different stalls, and then sit and eat together in the central food court.After lunch, make sure you stick around and take a wander amidst the market's more than 100 stalls. With everything from jewellery to African crafts, you're bound to find something that tickles your fancy.Reading Terminal Market is located in Philadelphia city centre and so is easily accessible on foot or via public transport. If you choose to drive, check the prices before you decide which car park to use, as some of them will offer deals for those purchasing from the market. Reading Terminal Market is open every day except for major public holidays. It's worth noting that some of the restaurants close earlier than others and that the Pennsylvania Dutch stalls do not operate on Sundays.