Located in downtown Lancaster’s Penn Square, the Lancaster Central Market is open to the public on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. It’s the perfect place to stop after a walk around the city or brunch with friends.
I’ve been visiting Lancaster since I was a kid, and I had no idea that the nation’s oldest public market was right under my nose! Sometimes I forget that I grew up in one of America’s oldest states and even some of its oldest cities. Keep reading to learn about visiting one of Lancaster’s best-kept secrets: the Lancaster Central Market.
Brief History of the Lancaster Central Market
The history of the Lancaster Central Market dates back to the mid-1700s to a time before America was a country. In 1730, two European settlers began farming their plot in Lancaster. They began to sell their goods, invite others to sell theirs, and thus, created a market. According to the Market’s official website, this farm market was instrumental in King George II designating Lancaster a “market town”. In 1742, it was declared that Lancaster should have two markets each week throughout the year. Read more about the Market’s history here.
The current building first opened in 1889, and its roots are visible in the building’s brick architecture.
Today, there are many shops inside, with items ranging from fresh local meat and produce to local souvenirs. Together, there are about 60 vendors for you to explore.
Inside the Market
When I first visited the Market last summer, I felt like I was transported back to the Reading Terminal Market in Philadelphia, just on a smaller scale. By the way, if you’re ever in Philadelphia, you need to stop by the Reading Terminal Market. It’s a must-see!
As you walk through the aisles of the Lancaster Central Market, you’ll be introduced to goods from 60 local vendors, including farm stands, fresh flowers, handmade candles and home goods, and more.
Snack While You Shop
Whether you purposefully entered the Market hungry or not, there are plenty of options for breakfast, lunch, or a snack! Visit my favorite, Oola Bowls, for an açaí bowl or smoothie. Amaranth Bakery has lots of yummy gluten-free treats. If you’re feeling adventurous, try nord Scandinavian Food & Hygge or some soul food at Soulcialize. If you’re looking for some traditional Pennsylvania Dutch food, Amish Family Recipes, Kom Essa, and Spring Glen Fresh Foods need to be on your list!
Stop by Mean Cup or Lancaster County Coffee Roasters for a big cuppa joe. Tea more your speed? Tea Bar features fair trade and USDA organic teas, which is right up my alley!
Other Types of Shops
You can also find these types of shops inside:
- Farm Fresh Produce
- Local Handmade Gifts and Decor
- Bread and Speciality Cheeses
- Fresh Meats, Poultry, and Fish
- Herbs and Teas
- Pastries, Desserts, and Chocolate
- Fresh Flowers and Houseplants
- And more!
View the full Lancaster Central Market directory here.
Helpful Tips
Of course, don’t forget your reusable bags and some cash! Some vendors didn’t accept cards. In case you forget cash, there are ATMs available near the Market.
After you tour the inside and grab some goodies, be sure to explore the shops in the alleys surrounding the Market.
There are also several restaurants to stop in for an extra bite to eat or a drink. One I noticed and added to my list of places to try is C’est La Vie Bistro.
Visiting the Market
Location
23 N Market St. Lancaster, PA 17603
Parking
You cannot drive up to the entrance. The Market’s entrances are within a Square. Any drive-up areas are reserved for vendors.
Parking can sometimes be tough to find in Lancaster City, however, there are plenty of garages to check for spaces. They’re an affordable and convenient option. Street parking is always an option, should you be so lucky as to find a space! The best garages are:
- Prince Street Garage (where I usually park) – 111 N. Prince St.
- East King Garage – 150 E. King St.
- Penn Square Garage – 25 E. Vine St.
- Central Parking Garage – 43 S. Prince St.
- Hager Parking Lot (closest walking distance to Market) – 40 N. Market St.
Accessibility
The Market is wheelchair-accessible. Most of the entrances have a step or two, however, there are two entrances closest to Penn Square on the southeast corner of Market Street. Those entrances are street-level and best for wheelchair entry. Service dogs are permitted and are the only dogs permitted in the building.
Admission
Free. You do not need to pay a fee to enter the Market.
Hours
6 AM to 3 PM on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. The Market features a soft opening from 6-7 AM, so not all stands will be open at 6 AM. At 7 AM, all stands in the Market are open for service.
Until my next adventure,
If you enjoyed this article, you’ll love Experience Nature’s Beauty at Hershey Gardens and Kinzua Sky Bridge – Repurposing Nature
