Stats:
Easy to find, right by the Convention Center, Market Street Station.
Year-round, indoor, 80+ vendors, 75% food, nearly half selling prepared.
Mon-Sat 8:00am to 6:00pm, open on Sundays with limited vendors.
Pennsylvania Dutch vendors, Wed thru Sat only.
Back Story:
The Reading Railroad accommodated the Market in the lower level of its building in 1892, with the trains running overhead. But times were tough on the railroad and the Market struggled with competition from more modern food emporiums. When even the commuter lines stopped running in the 1980s, the Pennsylvania Convention Authority took over the real estate. Plans to demolish the Market were met with fierce opposition from the citizenry, and a steady revitalization has taken place ever since. The great train shed upstairs is now the Grand Hall of the Pennsylvania Convention Center.
Claims to Fame:
The Pennsylvania Dutch vendors (think: Amish and Mennonite) make this Market extra special four days a week. And though you might have to try a cheesesteak sandwich while you’re there, don’t overlook the even better roast pork sandwich at Dinic’s or the pastrami at Hershel’s.
Tourist wise:
Couldn’t be friendlier, with ATMs on site, an information booth, brand new restrooms in 2012, free wi-fi throughout, and those brotherly Philadelphians all around. This place is totally comfortable.
Impressions:
The vibe here is hugely local. You get the feeling that everyone in the Market comes almost every day. People greeting each other, friends meeting for a bite, kids running around…it feels like a neighborhood. The layout is reminiscent of a ‘town’ as well, with 12 ‘streets’ running North-and-South and 4 ‘avenues’ running East-and-West. Yes, the convention center brings in crowds for lunch, but the locals shop here. It’s a real part of Downtown Philly life.
Contact:
Reading Terminal Market website
51 North 12th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107
Phone: 215-922-2317
Map:
