Markets, Shopping, Arts

There's no cost to checking out Philadelphia's many markets, shopping centers and arts districts. If you're interested in any of these categories, you'll have plenty of options to keep you busy. Famous markets such as the Italian Market and Reading Terminal Market make for great sightseeing and people watching, while cultural and arts centers such as the Galleries at Moore College and the Kimmel Center help you appreciate Philadelphia arts even more. So dive into another section of Philadelphia's free attractions and explore the following sights.

Galleries at Moore College
International and contemporary art are exhibited at the Center City school.

Italian Market
Philadelphia's Italian Market is the oldest and largest working outdoor market in the United States.

Kimmel Center Tours
Home to eight Resident Company performing arts organizations (including The Philadelphia Orchestra, Opera Company of Philadelphia and Pennsylvania Ballet) the Kimmel Center offers two themed tours through its sparkling, glass-roofed performing arts complex. The Building & Theater Tour (Tuesday-Sunday, 1 p.m.) and the Art & Architecture Tour (Saturdays, 10:30 a.m.) depart from the information desk at Commonwealth Plaza and are lead by experienced volunteer guides (limited to 20 participants on a first-come, first-serve basis). Visitors may register for the tour at the information desk, which opens at 10 a.m. daily.

Old City Arts District
Old City has been transformed into an active cultural, dining and shopping district.

Reading Terminal Market
This farmers’ market houses more than 80 merchants. Visitors can savor Pennsylvania Dutch breakfasts, authentic Philadelphia lunches or soul-food dinners prepared by the markets award-winning chefs.

South Street
Eight blocks from the Pennsylvania Convention Center, South Street features a wide range of shopping, from modern art to supped-up skateboards.