Reading, PA

Travel Guide

Photo by Gregory Linton
Photo by Gregory Linton
Photo by Nic Nichols
Photo by Michael Torres
Photo by Michael Torres
Mountaintop monuments, countryside lakes and millions of years of historical artifacts are just some of highlights of this city in the Greater Reading Area.

Reading is a southern Pennsylvanian city and the seat of Berks County. This small city was founded in the late 18th century and has preserved much of its historical and industrial heritage. Dig into its past at fascinating museums, explore the local countryside and drive to the top of the mountain that overlooks the city.

Visit one of Reading's most iconic sights, the Pagoda on Mount Penn. The seven-story red structure has been a city fixture for more than 100 years and was initially meant to be a luxury resort, but those plans fell through. Go inside for refreshments in the Pagoda Café and enjoy the gorgeous views of Reading.

Approximately 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) from the Pagoda and still on the mountain is another lofty attraction, the William Penn Memorial Fire Tower. Climb up the 120-foot (37-meter) structure for views that extend for 60 miles (97 kilometers).

If you're a fan of history, get insights into the region's past at the Berks History Center. Examine artifacts such as agricultural and industrial tools, furniture and clocks. Devote at least half a day to exploring the Reading Public Museum, home to a planetarium, an arboretum and cultural and scientific artifacts covering millions of years of history. Learn about the region's contribution to aviation history at the Mid-Atlantic Air Museum.

For entertainment, there are ice hockey matches and theatrical performances at the Santander Arena. Catch a concert or show at the Genesius Theatre, a 100-seat community theater.

Venture out of the city to discover more of what Berks County has to offer. Go hiking, biking and fishing at French Creek State Park and enjoy swimming and boating at the Blue Marsh Lake Recreation Area. Historic Crystal Cave has a subterranean world of rock formations to discover.

Located approximately 63 miles (101 kilometers) northwest of Philadelphia, Reading is easy to get to by road or rail. Alternatively, fly into Philadelphia International Airport. From there come by rental car or shuttle bus to experience the cultural and natural attractions the region has to offer.

SureStay Plus by Best Western Reading North

SureStay Plus by Best Western Reading North

3.5 out of 5
2200 Stacy Dr. 5th St. Hwy., Reading, PA
The price is $82 total per night from Oct 12 to Oct 13
$82 total
per night
Oct 12 - Oct 13
Stay at this 3.5-star business-friendly hotel in Reading. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (857 reviews)
"We stayed for a night the staff was nice, our room was nice and clean. It is also close to a lor of shopping."

Reviewed on Oct 3, 2025

SureStay Plus by Best Western Reading North
Lancaster Suites

Lancaster Suites

2.5 out of 5
2045 Lincoln Hwy E, Lancaster, PA
The price is $92 total per night from Oct 26 to Oct 27
$92 total
per night
Oct 26 - Oct 27
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Lancaster. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,001 reviews)
"Property was easy to miss from the Main Street."

Reviewed on Oct 2, 2025

Lancaster Suites
Exton Hotel & Conference Center

Exton Hotel & Conference Center

3.5 out of 5
815 N Pottstown Pike, Exton, PA
The price is $83 total per night from Oct 5 to Oct 6
$83 total
per night
Oct 5 - Oct 6
Stay at this 3.5-star business-friendly hotel in Exton. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean ...
6.6/10 (998 reviews)
"Everything is always so nice and cozy"

Reviewed on Sep 30, 2025

Exton Hotel & Conference Center
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
The Cabins at Beaver Creek

The Cabins at Beaver Creek

3 out of 5
2A Little Beaver Rd, Strasburg, PA
Stay at this 3-star cabin in Strasburg. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a picnic area. Popular attractions Sight and Sound Theatre and The Amish Village are ...
10/10 Exceptional! (4 reviews)
"We had a great time"

Reviewed on Sep 27, 2025

The Cabins at Beaver Creek
1800's Restored Log Cabin in Woods - 15 Min. Off Pa Turnpike

1800's Restored Log Cabin in Woods - 15 Min. Off Pa Turnpike

Narvon
Stay at this cabin in Narvon. Enjoy breakfast (surcharge), a garden, and cable/satellite TV service. Our guests praise the property condition in our reviews. ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (557 reviews)
"What an adorable little gem! So rustic yet we wanted for nothing. ( I’ll bet the Little HouseOn the Prairie didn’t have a hot tub inside!) The porch overlooking the pond was so peaceful and we enjoyed cooking in the kitchen and listening to the rain on the roof! Caught a few fish and cuddled with ..."

Reviewed on Sep 26, 2025

1800's Restored Log Cabin in Woods - 15 Min. Off Pa Turnpike
The Village at Houser's Crossing

The Village at Houser's Crossing

4 out of 5
34 Carbon Ln, Tamaqua, PA
Stay at this 4-star vacation home in Tamaqua. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and dry cleaning or laundry services. Popular attractions Willing Memorial Park ...
10/10 Exceptional! (8 reviews)
"The place was super clean well kept. Safe area lots of things to do and see. There is a sing seat by the river watch is magical. The inn keeper is so humble and kind. She is very Accompadating. And there is a trian ride that takes you to Jim Thorne. Will definitely be back again in October for the ..."

Reviewed on Jun 16, 2025

The Village at Houser's Crossing
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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