Reading Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Reading, Pennsylvania with this comprehensive travel guide that includes information on top attractions, outdoor activities, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Reading

Located in the heart of the Mid-Atlantic, Reading, Pennsylvania offers visitors a wide variety of attractions and activities to enjoy. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or outdoor adventure, there’s something for everyone in this charming city. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll explore all of the top things to see and do in Reading, Pennsylvania, including information on where to stay, what to eat, and how to get around.

List of Places to Visit in Reading

If you’re looking to fill your itinerary with things to do in Reading, start with these top attractions:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Reading Public Museum: Explore the museum’s extensive collection of art, science, and history exhibits, including an impressive collection of Native American artifacts.
  • Mid-Atlantic Air Museum: Aviation enthusiasts will love this museum, which features an extensive collection of vintage aircraft, including WWII-era planes.
  • Daniel Boone Homestead: Step back in time and visit the home of legendary frontiersman Daniel Boone, which has been restored to its 18th-century appearance.
  • Conrad Weiser Homestead: Learn about the life of Conrad Weiser, an 18th-century German immigrant who played a key role in the peaceful settlement of Pennsylvania.

Natural Attractions of Reading: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • French Creek State Park: This sprawling state park offers visitors opportunities for hiking, fishing, camping, boating, and swimming.
  • Blue Marsh Lake: Take in breathtaking views of this 1,147-acre lake, which is surrounded by 36 miles of hiking trails.
  • Hawk Mountain Sanctuary: Bird watchers will love this 2,600-acre wildlife sanctuary, which is home to more than 250 species of birds.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Reading

Reading offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to explore the surrounding countryside. Here are some popular hiking and biking trails to check out:

  • Schuylkill River Trail: This 130-mile trail runs from Philadelphia to Pottsville, with portions passing through Reading.
  • Thun Trail: This 18.5-mile trail runs from Reading to Pottstown, passing through wooded areas and farmland.
  • Neversink Mountain Preserve: This 1,100-acre preserve features more than eight miles of hiking trails and stunning views of the city.

Best Things to Do in Reading: Activities and Tours

If you’re looking for more organized activities and tours, there are plenty of options in Reading:

  • Berks County Wine Trail: Explore the beautiful countryside surrounding Reading while tasting locally-produced wines at one of the six member wineries on the Berks County Wine Trail.
  • Pagoda Skyline Tour: Take a guided tour of the iconic Pagoda, Reading’s historic landmark offering panoramic views of the city.
  • Ghost Tours of Reading: Brave souls can take a candlelit tour through some of Reading’s most haunted locations with Ghost Tours of Reading.

Week-Long Itinerary for Reading

If you have a week to spend in Reading and the surrounding area, consider this itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Visit Reading Public Museum and spend the afternoon hiking in Blue Marsh Lake
2 Take a tour of the Conrad Weiser Homestead in the morning, then spend the afternoon exploring French Creek State Park
3 Join a wine tour along the Berks County Wine Trail
4 Take a guided tour of the Pagoda in the morning, then spend the afternoon at the Mid-Atlantic Air Museum
5 Hike the Thun Trail in the morning, then visit the Daniel Boone Homestead in the afternoon
6 Take a day trip to nearby Lancaster County to explore Amish Country
7 Spend the day at Hawk Mountain Sanctuary, watching for birds of prey and taking in the stunning views

Food and Drink Scene of Reading

Reading offers a diverse culinary scene, with everything from traditional Pennsylvania Dutch fare to international cuisine. Make sure to try these must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Shoofly Pie: A sweet, molasses-filled pie that’s a staple of Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine.
  • Pretzels: Pennsylvania is known for its delicious soft pretzels, and Reading is no exception.
  • Scrapple: A regional breakfast meat made from pork scraps, cornmeal, and spices.

Local Beverages

  • Yuengling Beer: America’s oldest brewery, located in nearby Pottsville, produces the beloved Yuengling Lager, a Pennsylvania favorite.
  • Pennsylvania Dutch Birch Beer: A non-alcoholic root beer-like beverage with a unique wintergreen flavor.

Where to Stay in Reading: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Reading offers a variety of accommodation options for visitors, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Here are some recommendations:

What to Buy in Reading: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

For unique souvenirs and locally-made goods, check out these places:

  • GoggleWorks Center for the Arts: Browse the art galleries and studios at this former factory building, which also features a gift shop offering handmade items.
  • Penn Street Market: This open-air farmers’ market is held in downtown Reading on Thursdays, and features fresh produce and handmade goods from local vendors.
  • Reading China and Glass: This store sells beautiful, hand-painted china plates and teacups, a Reading specialty.

Local Culture and Customs of Reading

Pennsylvania Dutch culture is an important part of Reading’s heritage, so don’t be surprised to hear locals speaking in a unique dialect of German or eating traditional Pennsylvania Dutch foods. Reading is also home to a large Latino community, so expect to find plenty of Latin American cuisine and cultural events as well.

Best Time to Visit Reading

The best time to visit Reading depends on your preferences. For sunny weather and outdoor activities, plan your trip for the summer months between June and August. Fall is also a beautiful time to visit, with colorful foliage and festive autumn events. If you prefer cooler temperatures and winter sports, visit between December and March.

Do’s and Don’ts of Reading

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Reading:

Do:

  • Check out the local art scene, particularly the GoggleWorks Center for the Arts.
  • Try traditional Pennsylvania Dutch foods like shoofly pie and scrapple.
  • Visit Hawk Mountain Sanctuary for stunning views and bird watching.

Don’t:

  • Ignore the city’s rich history, including the role it played in the Industrial Revolution.
  • Disrespect the local customs and culture, such as the Pennsylvania Dutch dialect.
  • Skip the opportunity for outdoor adventure at nearby parks and trails.

Safety and Health

Reading is generally a safe city, but visitors should take normal precautions to avoid crime and stay safe. As with any city, be aware of your surroundings, particularly when walking alone at night. It’s also important to protect yourself from ticks when hiking in wooded areas.

Safety in Reading

  • Be aware of your surroundings, particularly at night.
  • Make sure to lock your car and keep valuables out of sight.
  • Obey traffic laws and be cautious when driving or walking in busy areas.

Health in Reading

  • Protect yourself from ticks when hiking by wearing long pants and using insect repellent.
  • Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun during the summer months.
  • Stay up-to-date on your vaccinations before traveling to the area.

Getting to Reading: Transportation Options and Logistics

Reading is easily accessible from several major airports and bus stations in the region.

Airports Near Reading

  • Philadelphia International Airport (PHL): 60 miles from Reading
  • Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE): 50 miles from Reading

Bus Stations Near Reading

  • Greyhound Station, Reading, PA: Located in downtown Reading
  • Trans-Bridge Lines Bus Terminal: Located in nearby Wyomissing

Other Options

  • Car rental: Several car rental agencies are available at the airports and in the city.
  • Amtrak: The closest Amtrak station is located in Lancaster, PA, approximately 30 miles from Reading.

How to Get Around in Reading

To get around Reading, visitors can use a combination of public transportation, taxis, and rental cars. The Berks Area Regional Transportation Authority (BARTA) operates several bus routes throughout the city, with fares starting at $1.75 per ride. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available, with rates starting at around $2.25 per mile. Renting a car is also an option, with several rental agencies located in the city and at the nearby airports.

Where to Go Next from Reading: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time to explore the region, consider these nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Lancaster County, PA: Explore Pennsylvania Dutch country, including Amish farms and markets, in nearby Lancaster County.
  • Hershey, PA: Visit the “Sweetest Place on Earth” and take a tour of the Hershey’s Chocolate Factory.
  • Valley Forge National Historical Park: Learn about the Revolutionary War and visit the historic site of Washington’s winter camp.

Conclusion

With its rich history, stunning natural landscapes, and diverse cultural offerings, Reading, Pennsylvania is a great destination for any traveler. This comprehensive travel guide has provided all the information you need to plan your visit, including top attractions, outdoor activities, food and drink recommendations, and transportation options. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a longer stay, you’re sure to enjoy all that Reading has to offer.

Downtown Reading Downtown Reading View of Reading from The Pagoda View of Reading from The Pagoda The Pagoda at 98 Duryea Dr. The Pagoda at 98 Duryea Dr. First Energy Stadium at 1900 Centre Ave., home of the AA-level Minor League Reading Phillies First Energy Stadium at 1900 Centre Ave., home of the AA-level Minor League Reading Phillies