Center City Philadelphia Food Tour with Reading Market
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Come and taste why Philadelphia has become one of America's top foodie destinations on this delicious tour of Center City! Join your local expert guide as they escort you around this bustling neighborhood to try 5 bites that demonstrates Philly's culinary prowess. A portion of this tour will take place inside the amazing Reading Terminal Market, a wall to wall collection of vendors who offer foods from around the world.
This tour will feature true local classics like the world-famous cheesesteak, the soft pretzel or the tomato pie, along with trendy and innovative bites like tahini-based shakes or gluten free cheese curds. We also highlight foods the reflect Philly's wonderful diversity. You may enjoy some Japanese inari or Georgian soup dumplings or Caribbean chicken patties.
And if you have a sweet tooth, look no further! Your guide will know the best Amish whoopie pie or Italian cannoli, or perhaps will plan a stop at one of the best doughnut shops in town.
Bring your appetite!
Available options
Private Center City Food Tour
Private Tour Guide
Public Center City Food Tour
What's included
A memorable walk through lively Center City
Philly Cheese steak, Soft Pretzels, Donuts, as well as other great taste offerings!
5 Food Samplings of the best food you'll have in Philly!
Visit locals-only food spots in Philadelphia
Local, English-speaking guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Your local expert guide will meet you outside of the Masonic Temple of Philadelphia, in the shadow of our massive City Hall, to introduce themselves and the tour and to briefly talk about those two phenomenal pieces of architecture.
2
Hear about the exciting and delicious tour you’re about to enjoy. Learn about Philadelphia’s historic City Hall building and get an introduction to the City of Brotherly Love.
3
One of the newer foodie hotspots of the city, here, you’ll taste delicious food featuring locally-sourced ingredients.
4
Creamy, tahini-based vegan shakes offered in a variety of flavors
5
A locally-sourced restaurant serving up crispy fried chicken tenders
6
Tasty, traditional Afghan cuisine served in this trendy eatery
7
A popular cheese steak joint in the heart of the Rittenhouse neighborhood
8
Yummy cake-style donuts offered in a variety of fun and innovative flavors
9
Discover the innovative side of the Philly food scene, with a stop at a local coffee shop that prides itself on fair trade and environmental sustainability, a neighborhood eatery known for applying old-World recipes to innovative dishes, or a delicious, out-of-the-box beverage.
10
Stop 10
Led by your guide, you will eat your way through one of America’s oldest and largest daily indoor markets. Tap into the diverse cultural influence on Philly’s food scene by sampling the iconic Philly Cheesesteak, a Pennsylvania German handmade soft pretzel, Southern-inspired mac-n-cheese, Jewish-style pastrami on rye, or an Italian cannoli.
11
Scrumptious cheese steaks with home-made cheese sauces offered here
12
A wide variety of tasty treats, all 100% gluten free
13
A trendy take on traditional Georgian cuisine like Oxtail dumplings and cheese boats
14
Soft, warm, lightly buttered Amish-style pretzels
15
These doughy donuts, offered in fantastic flavors like Fruity Pebbles and Maple Bacon, are some of the best in Philly. Across the aisle at their bakery…the classic and delicious whoopie pie
16
Central American street food like pupusas and taquitos burst with flavor
17
Famous Italian bakery known for some of the best cannolis in town
18
Savory meat pies and jerk chicken offered up at this Jamaican eatery
What's not included
Gratuities
Additional food and drink
Not all locations listed are guaranteed stops
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.8
282 reviews
5★
245
4★
23
3★
7
2★
3
1★
4
Tripadvisor
4.9
544 reviews
5★
515
4★
24
3★
1
2★
4
1★
0
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Specialized infant seats are available
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Your tour will meet outside the Masonic Temple, in front of the main entrance - 1 North Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107
About Philadelphia
Philadelphia, the birthplace of American democracy, is a city rich in history and culture. Known for its significant role in the American Revolution and its vibrant arts scene, Philly offers a unique blend of historic landmarks, world-class museums, and diverse culinary experiences.
Top Attractions
Independence Hall
The birthplace of the United States, where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were both signed.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free (timed entry tickets required)
Philadelphia Museum of Art
One of the largest and most renowned art museums in the country, featuring a diverse collection of artworks from around the world.
Museum
2-3 hours
$25 (free on certain days)
Reading Terminal Market
A historic public market offering a variety of food vendors, local produce, and specialty shops.
Market
1-2 hours
Free entry, prices vary by vendor
Must-Try Local Dishes
Philly Cheesesteak
A sandwich made with thinly sliced beefsteak and melted cheese, served on a long roll.
Lunch/Dinner
Can be made with various cheeses and vegetables
Soft Pretzel
A chewy, doughy bread twisted into a knot and topped with coarse salt.
Snack
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking in Wissahickon Valley Park
Kayaking on the Schuylkill River
Picnic in Rittenhouse Square
Spa day at a luxury hotel
Visiting the Philadelphia Museum of Art
Attending a performance at the Kimmel Center
Boat tours on the Delaware River
Ice skating at Dilworth Park
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to October
These months offer comfortable weather and fewer crowds. It's ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city's attractions.
15-28°C
59-82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish, Chinese
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
EST (GMT-5)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Philadelphia is generally safe for tourists, but like any major city, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
- • Avoid walking alone in poorly lit or deserted areas
Getting there
By air
- Philadelphia International Airport • 10 km from city center
By train
30th Street Station, Suburban Station
By bus
Greyhound Bus Station, Megabus Stop
Getting around
Public transport
SEPTA operates a network of buses, subways, and regional rail lines that cover the city and surrounding areas. It's affordable and convenient for getting around.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Center City
Rittenhouse Square
Fishtown
Day trips
Valley Forge
30 km • Half day
A historic site where George Washington's army camped during the Revolutionary War, now a national park with hiking trails and museums.
New Hope
65 km • Full day
A charming riverside town known for its art galleries, antique shops, and scenic views of the Delaware River.
Festivals
Philadelphia Flower Show • March
Wawa Welcome America • July
Pro tips
- Visit the Liberty Bell early in the morning to avoid crowds
- Take the Rocky Steps at the Philadelphia Museum of Art for the full experience
- Explore the city's diverse neighborhoods for unique shopping and dining experiences
- Use the SEPTA Key card for convenient and discounted public transportation
- Try the famous Philly cheesesteak at multiple locations to find your favorite
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
