Reading, Pennslyvania Travel Guide

Founded back in the mid-18th century, Reading found success as a boomtown thanks to the importance of its iron and steel industries. In fact, by the late 1870s, the Philadelphia and Reading Railroad was the largest corporation in the world as it capitalized on the transportation of these industries. Today, Reading is much more than an industrial hub, and it stands as an active and lively community with tons going on. Visit for the art and jazz festivals, outdoor activities, shopping, historical tours, and Imax movies. Its location isn’t bad either -- Reading is located one hour north of Philadelphia, two and a half hours southwest of New York City, three hours north of Washington D.C., and just 40 minutes away from Amish country.

Things to Do in Reading, Pennslyvania

If the season is right, getting outdoors in Reading is one of the best things to do. Grab your picnic supplies and head to Antietam Lake, just a few miles outside of town. The serene lake also is near a 60-foot waterfall, an old Victorian brick valve house, and tons of space for fishing and hiking. Outdoor enthusiasts should also head to the Nolde Forest Environmental center where you’ll find 665 acres of dense woodlands perfect for bird watching or trail running. And lastly, if the weather isn’t permitting, head to Reading Rocks, a large indoor rock climbing gym.

As far as museums go, Reading has a few. Head to the Daniel Boone Homestead where you can learn about the life of the legendary frontiersman. The Mid-Atlantic Air Museum is great for aviation enthusiasts, and the Reading Co. Technical and Historical Society is a great place to learn about the city’s heritage as a railroad powerhouse.

Back in town, head over to the GoggleWorks Center for the Arts, the Genesius Theater, and the Reading Comedy Outlet for a night out on the town.

Best Time to Visit Reading, Pennslyvania

In reading, the Summers can get particularly warm and humid, and winters can be cold. For these reasons, we recommend visiting during the shoulder months of spring or fall. The fall colors are especially impressive in Reading.

Food in Reading, Pennslyvania

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, Reading has a good handful of dining options for all kinds of travelers. Judy’s on Cherry offers Mediterranean-inspired dishes, Stokesay Castle offers American fare in a renovated castle, and Café Sweet Street is a hip, urban brunch spot that offers excellent homemade breakfast food.