9th Street-South Philadelphia
The oldest open air market in America is located on South 9th street in Philadelphia. Started in the 1880’s by Italian immigrants, the market is full of cultural foods expanding to the diverse community it has become. Visitors can enjoy bakeries, coffee shops, butchers, fresh produce stands, cheese shops, pasta bars, and specialty food vendors.
Known for its hot chocolate, espresso and desserts, The Rim Cafe and its French owner Rene’ are on the top of the ” must visit” lists for many tourists to the city.
Immediately adjacent to the Italian Market are the World Famous Geno’s Steaks and Pat’s King of Steaks. The biggest cheesesteak rivalry is one of the most iconic attractions in Philadelphia.
The two sandwich shops are known also for their taste testing competitions. People frequently purchase the same steak sandwich from each one, cut them in half, mix them up and put their taste buds to the challenge.
Philadelphia is the birthplace of America, and will be out next full celebration for the 250th anniversary of the country on July 4, 2026!
Alice DeForest
Enjoying my retirement plan of gallivanting from one place to another. I’m inviting you to tag along to explore Coastal Georgia, South Carolina and beyond.