Where to Go Shopping in Philadelphia

A Philadelphia landmark, the Reading Terminal Market is a go-to shop for locals and travelers. The focus is on prepared food, baked goods, fresh produce, seafood, and meats, However, the market also showcases some locally made items, such as soaps, candles, kitchen tools, and other cool and unique locally-made pieces. Tip: Keep in mind that it’s extremely busy at lunchtime, so it’s best to visit before or after these prime-time hours. 

In Center City, it’s fun to stroll along Walnut Street, as it’s lined with great stores of all kinds. It’s also referred to as “Rittenhouse Row,” and most of the shops are concentrated on both sides of the street, stretching west from Broad to Rittenhouse Square (18th Street). A few recognizable favorites include retailers like LuluLemon, Athleta, Vans, H&M, Banana Republic, Urban Outfitters, Barnes and Noble, and an Apple Store. You'll also be able to find a few restaurants along the street. During warmer months, shoppers love to take a break and relax on a bench in Rittenhouse Square.

Truly the new kid on the block, Fashion District is a brand new indoor mall on Market Street opened in September 2019 and features a multitude of shops and entertainment options. Several flagship stores here include H&M, Century 21, Nike, Skechers, and a Levis outlet. It also has a bowling alley, music venue, movie theater, and even a candy museum! Dining options include some fast (and fast-casual) spots, like Chick-fil-A, Chickie’s and Pete’s, City Winery, and Yards Brewing Company. 

Located in the heart of center city at 16th and Chestnut streets in Philadelphia, the Shops at Liberty Place is an indoor retail complex with a number of national retailers surrounding a sky-high rotunda. This light-filled mall has a J. Crew, Bath & Body Works, Godiva, Victoria’s Secret, and Bloomingdale’s Outlet. In addition to the food court (with plenty of seating), it also houses the entrance to the “One Liberty” observation deck where visitors can ascend to the top of the building and see panoramic views of the city. (Note: for advance tickets, please visit the Philly From the Top website.)

Famously known as the “hippest street in town,” the South Street area features over 300 shops and 50 bars and restaurants. Always buzzing with activity, this part of the city has an artsy edge and features a collection of the coolest locally-owned businesses and stores around including plenty of antique dealers, fabric shops, and art galleries. A few unique favorites include Bella boutique, Crash Bang, Boom, Nocturnal skate shop, Gilly Jeans, and Raxx Vintage Emporium. Shoppers can easily spend a few hours browsing the many stores, so be sure to give yourself some extra time to explore. Be sure to check the website for special events and markets in this neighborhood. 

This small, stylish Bellevue mall is on the ground floor of the Bellevue Hotel. Featuring a few high-end shops, the mall includes Tiffany & Company jewelry store, Williams-Sonoma, Nicole Miller, and Teuscher chocolates of Switzerland. If you need a haircut or a facial, check out the Artur Kirsh salon and spa.

The building also features an intimately-sized Starbucks (conveniently located near the Broad Street entrance), and an upscale steakhouse, The Palm. The spacious food court downstairs is a favorite for those who work in the area and includes a number of fast-food spots, including a deli, a pizzeria, and Asian cuisine. 

Located only 8 miles from Center City, Philadelphia, the Cherry Hill Mall is a regional landmark with about 140 nationally-branded stores and restaurants. This expansive shopping destination offers something for everyone, ranging from inexpensive to more high-end options. Several of the mall’s notable shops include Nordstrom, Express, Macy’s, JCPenney, Zara, and the Apple Store. And when you’re ready for a some sustenance, there is an expansive food court on the premises, and several other dining options as well, including Grand Lux Café Seasons 52 and Capital Grille.