Reading Pennsylvania ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Reading, Pennsylvania.
1. Reading Pagoda
ICONIC JAPANESE-INSPIRED LANDMARK
The Reading Pagoda is one of the oldest and most beloved landmarks in the city, perched high atop Mount Penn where it has stood as a symbol of Reading for over a century. Built in 1908, this Japanese-inspired building was originally intended to be part of a luxury resort that never materialized due to financial issues. Visitors can drive up to enjoy panoramic views of the Reading skyline and explore the interior museum, gift shop, and viewing area which is open seasonally on weekends.
2. GoggleWorks Center for the Arts
CREATIVE ARTS COMPLEX
GoggleWorks Center for the Arts is housed in a former safety goggle factory and offers a unique interactive art experience in Reading. The center provides classes and workshops on various art forms including glassblowing, woodworking, and silversmithing. Visitors can also explore art galleries and exhibits showcasing work from regional, national, and international artists.
3. Reading Public Museum
ART, SCIENCE AND HISTORY
The Reading Public Museum has been the epicenter of learning in the area since 1906, offering a diverse collection of art, science, and children's exhibits. Visitors can meet an Egyptian mummy that talks and marvel at dinosaur bones among the museum's permanent and rotating collections. The surrounding arboretum provides additional outdoor exploration opportunities for guests.
4. Neag Planetarium
CELESTIAL LEARNING CENTER
The Neag Planetarium offers visitors the opportunity to travel through outer space through daily star shows and astronomy lessons. Located adjacent to the Reading Public Museum, this educational venue provides an immersive cosmic experience. The planetarium serves as a perfect complement to the museum experience, allowing guests to explore beyond Earth.
5. Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center
SCENIC WOODLAND TRAILS
Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center is a 600-acre state park offering 10 miles of hiking trails through some of the most beautiful woodlands in the region. The trails are relatively easy, making this a great spot for families looking for outdoor activities near Reading. In addition to hiking opportunities, the park features historical spots and numerous educational programs.
6. Santander Arena
PREMIER ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
Santander Arena serves as Reading's premier venue for major entertainment events including rock concerts and sporting events. The arena attracts both national touring acts and local performances throughout the year. Visitors to Reading often include a stop at this venue to catch live entertainment during their stay.
7. Santander Performing Arts Center
HISTORIC THEATER VENUE
Santander Performing Arts Center hosts touring Broadway musicals and other cultural performances in downtown Reading. The historic theater provides a classic venue for experiencing live performances in an intimate setting. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of entertainment options from musical productions to comedy shows throughout the year.
8. Mid-Atlantic Air Museum
HISTORIC AVIATION COLLECTION
The Mid-Atlantic Air Museum houses an impressive collection of historic aircraft and aviation memorabilia in Reading. The museum is known for its restoration work on vintage aircraft and hosts the annual World War II Weekend event. Aviation enthusiasts can explore both civilian and military aircraft spanning several decades of flight history.
9. FirstEnergy Stadium
HOME OF FIGHTIN PHILS
FirstEnergy Stadium is home to the Reading Fightin Phils, the Double-A affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies. The historic ballpark offers family-friendly entertainment and the chance to see future major league players in action. Baseball fans visiting Reading can enjoy the intimate atmosphere and various promotions throughout the baseball season.
10. Neversink Mountain
SCENIC HIKING DESTINATION
Neversink Mountain is a 900-acre preserve located on the edge of Reading with several miles of hiking trails ranging from easy to difficult. Popular destinations include the City Overlook and the historic Witches Hat pavilion, which offer spectacular views of the surrounding area. The mountain was once home to the Neversink Mountain Hotel until it was destroyed by fire in 1905.
11. William Penn Memorial Fire Tower
HISTORIC OBSERVATION TOWER
The William Penn Memorial Fire Tower was built in 1939 as a tourist attraction for the City of Reading. The tower's top stone structure stands taller than the Empire State Building and offers visibility up to 60 miles in each direction. This historic landmark remains one of Reading's beloved attractions for those seeking panoramic views of the region.
12. Fairgrounds Farmers Market
LOCAL FOOD DESTINATION
Fairgrounds Farmers Market offers visitors a chance to sample local produce, prepared foods, and specialty items in Reading. Vendors showcase a wide variety of goods including fresh meats, baked goods, and regional specialties. Food enthusiasts can experience authentic local flavors and connect with area producers in this popular market setting.
13. Berks County Heritage Center
LOCAL HISTORY MUSEUM
The Berks County Heritage Center preserves and celebrates the rich history and culture of Reading and the surrounding area. The center features historic buildings, exhibits on local industry, and information about the region's development over time. Visitors can learn about the area's Pennsylvania Dutch heritage and industrial past through various displays and programs.
14. Hawk Mountain Sanctuary
PREMIER BIRD WATCHING SITE
Hawk Mountain Sanctuary is a renowned wildlife sanctuary and scientific research center located near Reading in Kempton. The sanctuary offers hiking trails and observation points where visitors can witness the spectacular migration of thousands of hawks, eagles, and other raptors. Nature enthusiasts particularly enjoy visiting during the fall migration season when bird sightings are most numerous.
15. Daniel Boone Homestead
HISTORIC FRONTIER SETTLEMENT
The Daniel Boone Homestead is the birthplace of the famous American frontiersman and is located just outside Reading in Birdsboro. This historic site includes the Boone house, outbuildings, and visitor center showcasing life in early Pennsylvania. Visitors can experience living history demonstrations and learn about frontier life during the 18th century.