It was founded by entrepreneur and civic leader Jacob Y. Shantz (1822-1909), who was responsible for the market's first permanent and formal installation in 1869.

During spring, summer and fall, many of the fresh produce vendors sell their wares in the covered parking area off of Eby Street.

Visitors can also avail of a sitting area on the main floor or on the tables located outside the market during the warmer months.

All levels of the market are accessible by wheelchair users and families with strollers due to an elevator which connects the parking garage with the first and second floors of the building.

The upper level of the market is available to rent for birthday parties, weddings, meetings, exhibitions cooking classes and other events, and provides access to a full-sized commercial kitchen and catering as requested.