Philly's Amish & farmers market

Just 5 blocks beyond the historic district at 12th and Arch Streets is the Reading Terminal Market. Established in 1893, according to local lore this is the nation’s oldest continuously operating farmers’ market and according to me one of the greatest public markets in the country. During a visit here you can sample just about any type of cuisine, all the way from authentic Philly Cheese steaks sandwiches, traditional Pennsylvania Dutch fare to ethnic Asian delicacies from stands that are basically family owned and operated.

A portion of the market is primarily devoted to Amish merchants who bring their farm fresh organically grown vegetables and distinctive prepared dishes to the Market four days a week. A real treat is to watch as Amish bakers twist and bake soft pretzels right in front of your eyes then try one while it is still warm from the oven. Don’t forget the mustard it really tops off the salty pretzels.

The Market features more than 80 unique merchants, three of which are descendants of original stand holders from when it opened more than 110 years ago. Sit-down eateries are scattered throughout the market and the lines form long before the traditional lunch hour. You’ll see bankers in business suits along side tourists enjoying the tasty treats offered up here.This is the place to find hand made Amish crafts and quilts, loads of fresh produce, dairy products, exotic meats and seafood. The flower stands offer colorful displays of freshly cut flowers while other merchants peddle cookbooks, gourmet Asian foods and organically grown fruit smoothies.

The Reading Terminal Market is well worth the visit and makes a great lunch or dinner break from your Philadelphia touring adventure. I know that I will be added this as a stop on my next group trip to Philly.

Another shopping and dining stop on my itinerary is the Lexington Street Market, a few blocks removed from the Inner Harbor area in downtown Baltimore MD.

But then that is another city on another day so it’s another story.