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Last update: 12 Oct 2026
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Reading Terminal Market Summary
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| Public website: | readingterminalmarket.org |
United States – Quick facts
| Power Grid: |
120 V, 60 Hz Plug: Type A , Type B
Type A:
  Read about power adapters |
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| Currency: |
US Dollar (USD) £1 ≈ US$1.33 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 5/5
The U.S. is highly cashless, with credit and debit cards accepted almost everywhere. Mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Pay are widely used.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: |
Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison |
| Tipping: | Tipping is customary and expected in the U.S. In restaurants, 15-20% is standard. Taxi drivers, hotel staff, and tour guides also expect tips, usually around 10-20% depending on the service. |
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| Public drinking: | Public drinking laws vary by state, but it is generally prohibited in public spaces without a permit. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is restricted in most indoor public spaces and some outdoor areas. Local laws vary. |
| Etiquette: | Greet with a firm handshake, maintain eye contact, respect personal space, and avoid discussing politics or income unless invited to share opinions. Politeness and friendliness are appreciated. |
| Thanksgiving (November) |
A major holiday with closures and domestic travel surges. |
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| Independence Day (July) |
Expect parades, fireworks, and celebrations nationwide. |
| Christmas (December) |
Markets, festive events, and crowded tourist spots. |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Number: 911 (Police, Fire, Ambulance) |
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| Taxi apps: | Uber, Lyft, Bolt |
| Helpful links: |
Wikipedia Visa regulations Customs & border control Travel with medicine |
| Other: | The U.S. is known for its diverse landscapes, cultural experiences, and regional cuisines. Public transport is efficient in cities but less so in rural areas. Renting a car is recommended for exploring national parks. |
Best times to travel
The best times to travel section shows how the months compare for a visit, so you can find the time of year that fits what you want to do.
Background colours of the months:
The colour shows the typical temperature: yellow (hot), green (mild) and blue (cold). How strong the colour is shows the travel season: full colour means high season, soft colour means shoulder season and soft-striped means off season.
Weather symbols:
Each month has one symbol showing what the weather is typically like, such as hot and sunny, freezing or a rainy or snowy season. Use them to quickly spot months that match the weather you want, or to avoid the ones that don't.
Crowdedness:
The people icon shows how busy the place usually is. The more people, the more crowded it gets.
Additional notes:
The grey info boxes point out special things worth knowing, like recurring weather issues or seasonal events.
for Reading Terminal Market, United States
Pennsylvania Dutch (Amish) merchants are closed Sunday and Monday, other stalls open daily
Saturday lunchtimes are the busiest; weekday mornings are calmest
Don't miss
- 🥪 Taste iconic Philly cheesesteaks from local vendors
- 🍅 Explore diverse stalls selling fresh produce and artisanal goods
- 👩🍳 Enjoy live cooking demonstrations and seasonal food festivals
You've been here?
Log in to manage your own bucket list! Reading Terminal Market is a lively and historic indoor market housed in a National Historic Landmark building. Since opening in 1893, it has been a central hub for fresh produce, gourmet foods and diverse dining options, offering everything from traditional Philly cheesesteaks to international cuisines. The market reflects Philadelphia’s rich culinary heritage and vibrant food culture.
Inside the market, you’ll find over 80 vendors including Amish farmers bringing fresh goods, artisan bakers, specialty grocers and local craftspeople. The atmosphere is bustling and energetic, with aromas and sounds that capture the spirit of the city. Visitors can enjoy both sit-down restaurants and quick bites from food stalls.
However, the market can get quite crowded, especially during lunchtime and weekends, making navigation through the aisles a bit challenging. Pickpocketing is rare but occasional, so it’s wise to stay aware in busy areas. Some food quality varies by vendor and it's helpful to ask locals or read reviews to find the best spots.
Annual events and seasonal celebrations add an extra layer of excitement to the market, including food shows and holiday-themed gatherings that bring the community together. Reading Terminal Market remains a beloved destination for food lovers and cultural explorers alike.
Knowledge before you go
- Arrive early to beat crowds and secure prime seating spots.
- Bring cash as many vendors prefer it over cards for quick transactions.
- Join a guided food tour to sample iconic Philly treats and learn market history.
- Pronounce it 'Redding' like the color; since 1892, it's Philly's oldest continuously operating market with Amish specialties on weekdays.
How to travel to Reading Terminal Market
Reading Terminal Market is located in downtown Philadelphia at 12th and Arch Streets, near the Pennsylvania Convention Center. Visitors can reach it by taking SEPTA Regional Rail to Jefferson Station or the subway to 11th Street. Nearby bus routes also serve the market. The area is walkable from many downtown hotels and attractions.
Access summary
- From Philadelphia Airport (PHL): Regional Rail to Jefferson Station, 25–35 minutes.
- From New York City: Train or bus to Center City, then short walk.
- From Washington, D.C.: Amtrak to 30th Street, local train or taxi downtown.
Check your route from anywhere
Where to stay near Reading Terminal Market
Philadelphia’s downtown offers a good range of accommodation from historic hotels to modern boutique stays, many within easy walking distance of Reading Terminal Market and other attractions.
Hotel recommendations
*by rating and popularity. Commissions have no influence on the rankings.
Sofitel Philadelphia at Rittenhouse Square
Wyndham Philadelphia Historic District
Club Quarters Hotel in Philadelphia
The Windsor Suites
Sonesta Philadelphia Rittenhouse Square
Cambria Hotel Philadelphia Downtown - Center City
The Warwick Hotel Rittenhouse Square Philadelphia
Apple Hostels of Philadelphia
Alexander Inn
Sheraton Philadelphia Downtown
Packing recommendations for Reading Terminal Market
Log in to add this place to a travel list and get a summary of all recommended items for your whole trip.
📷
Camera
👟
Comfortable walking shoes
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Reusable water bottle
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Hand sanitiser
🛍️
Foldable shopping bag
👛
Cash in small denominations
👜
Anti-theft bag
🔋
Power bank
📱
Travel eSIM
🔌
Universal travel adaptor
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Credit card with no foreign transaction fees
Budget snapshot
Costs compared to home
We calculate the average costs when travelling to destinations and compare those with the living costs at your home. With this you can get an estimate of how expensive or cheap the destination is for you.
To customise this, you can set up which location and price level are used for the calculations in your account settings.
Daily expenses in the region are around 6% higher than the average across United States. That means you'll spend more on meals and getting around.
Exchange rate trend
The exchange rate price factor shows how expensive or cheap a currency currently is compared to its historical average. It's a quick way to see if a country is currently more or less affordable due to exchange rate changes.
Your exchange rate (GBP to USD) is 4% better than in recent years. That means travelling now costs around the same compared to the past.
Safety information overview
General safety
Reading Terminal Market in Philadelphia is generally safe, with frequent police presence and well-lit walkways. Petty theft can occur, so keep valuables secure. Follow standard city precautions – stay aware of surroundings, avoid isolated corners after dark and use reputable transport options.
Accessibility
Reading Terminal Market in Philadelphia offers many accessible features: wide aisles, ramps, elevators and wheelchair-friendly restrooms. However, some older stalls lack curb cuts and crowding can impede mobility. Check ahead for service animals and plan visits during quieter hours.
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