25 Best & Fun Things to Do in Reading (PA)

In search of the top fun things to do in Reading, PA? This city sure has some cool attractions and activities for a fun time.

Reading is a city located between Harrisburg and Philadelphia, with a long history of the previous hometown of Reading Railroad and the famous border man Daniel.

Reading is also a modern city with extensive galleries, museums, sports facilities, and parks. It is a city in the south of Pennsylvania.

The city is about 274 years old, with a population of about eighty-eight thousand people living within its walls.

The public reading museum presents Egyptian mummies and is a work of Degas and includes a planetarium and arboretum, which always draws in tourists.

The Atlantic Central Air Force Museum presents vintage planes, including military aircraft. In the south, the traces cross the forests and streams of the Nolde forest.

The eastern property of Daniel Boone presents the 18th-century birthplace of the legendary frontier man as well.

Are you planning a trip to Reading, PA? Here is a list of top things to do in Reading, PA.

Things to Do in Reading, PA

1. Antietam Lake

Antietam Lake is a reservoir lake in Berks County positioned in Antietam Lake Park, approximately thirteen miles from Reading.

Surrounded by six hundred and forty-three acres of scenic land, the lake presents a serene setting for picnics, fishing, hiking, biking, and simply taking part in the peace and quiet.

The history of Antietam Lake dates back to 1865 when the city of Reading bought a dam and gristmill that had been constructed on Antietam Creek.

The dam and gristmill was constructed alongside an impressive waterfall that flows over the 60-foot-high rock.

The authentic Victorian brick valve residence was erected on a stone foundation within the lake, with a flimsy timber bridge connecting it to the shore.

It remains standing, as is the captivating 1880 caretaker’s, and it is an excellent location to add to your list of top things to do in Reading, PA.

Address: 230 Angora Rd, Reading, PA, 19606, United States.

2. Genesius Theatre

The Genesius Theatre in Reading, Pennsylvania, firstly opened its doorways in 1971 in a storefront but soon became an all-time favorite for many of its visitors.

In 1974 it moved to its modern area on the nook of tenth Street and Walnut Street, and in 2007 the theatre offered Genesius the Musical.

The musical is an authentic display created through participants of the Genesius Theatre, providing the tale of the Genesius Theatre, its formation, and its early days.

Genesius Theatre is an overall performance venue that focuses on musicals. Its utmost degree can accommodate 103 visitors plus 18 withinside the balcony.

Genesius Theatre additionally serves as a studying center for children imparting them via way of performances for kids and young adults.

If you’re looking for an excellent place to enjoy yourself with friends and family, Genesius Theatre is one of the best places to visit in Reading, PA.

Address: 153 N 10th St, Reading, PA 19601.

3. Fairgrounds Farmers Market

Are you searching for an excellent market to buy groceries or get farm-fresh fruits? Then, the Fairgrounds Farmers Market is the best place to visit.

Fairgrounds Farmers Market has a great choice of foods, each cooked, uncooked, or raw to take home to cook, and fitness store gadgets.

Many specialty shops abound with a lot of wonderful chicken without preservatives or antibiotics, so visitors who need to get some good meat can rest assured.

Fairgrounds Farmers Market has a lot of shops like love Go Fish for fried shrimp and pepper cabbage and the pretzels from Stolzfus and Mediterranean salads.

Boardwalk candy is remarkable and has the candy apples with coconut plus terrific fudge, making it a great place to add to your list of things to do in Reading, PA.

If it’s fruit and vegetables, different kinds of grocery items, candy, snacks, health care items, or good meat you’re in search of, Fairgrounds Farmers Market is got you covered.

Address: 2934 N 5th Street Hwy, Reading, PA 19605-2461

4. Santander Arena

Santander Arena is one of the best places to visit if you’re a sports enthusiast looking for a great place to enjoy a game with friends and family.

In the arena, visitors can root for any team they choose without a worry in the world and always leave with a smile, even if it’s two minutes left in overtime.

The concession stands seem to be independent businesses and offer an amazing array of food choices and a good half dozen local breweries.

Visitors only need to spend about twenty-two dollars to get a fine seat, a large beer, and the sense of an afternoon well-spent.

Santander Arena also has a lot of space available for those who need a good environment to enjoy themselves and see a game with their family and friends.

Amongst many fun things to do in Reading, PA, visiting the Santander Arena is one of the most exciting places to visit in the city of Reading.

Address: 700 Penn St, Reading, PA 19602-1107

5. GoggleWorks Center for the Arts

GoggleWorks Center for the Arts is a network cultural and artwork center positioned in a 145,000-rectangular foot, former ancient Willson Goggle Factory Building in Reading.

The center has seven massive coaching studios for ceramics, heat and warm glass, photography, jewelry, printmaking, and wood.

It additionally has 35 artists’ studios and some galleries for exhibitions. The center also has culture, arts, and innovative financial system organizations.

The center’s campus consists of a 131-seat theatre that suggests artwork residence films each day and a shop that sells the artwork.

GoggleWorks Center for the Arts has more than two hundred artists from all over the country who are talented and exceptional in what they do.

GoggleWorks Center for the Arts is one of the best places to visit in Reading, PA, as it’s a great place to enjoy various artworks supposing you’re an art lover.

Address: 201 Washington St, Reading, PA 19601.

6. Mid-Atlantic Air Museum

Located at the sphere of the local airport serving Reading, Pennsylvania, called the Carl A. Spaatz field, the Mid-Atlantic Air Museum is a museum and a facility for the recovery of vintage planes.

Founded by the renowned Russ Strine, the museum collects and restores old planes, airliners, and uncommon army and civilian planes.

The museum’s restored and functional historic planes regularly participate in various airshows at the Mid-Atlantic Air Museum.

The Mid-Atlantic Air Museum is renowned for hosting the annual World War II Weekend Air Show, which always draws in visitors and aircraft enthusiasts.

The site visitors can experience the museum’s antique North American SNJ, the Navy model of the AT-6 “Texan” used as an army trainer at some point during World War II.

The rides are to be had each second Saturday from May thru October, and it’s a mind-blowing place to add to your list of best things to do in Reading, PA.

Address: 1054 Arnold Rd, Reading, PA 19605.

7. Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center

The Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center is positioned in Berks County, Pennsylvania, on 665 acres of lovely, dense deciduous woodlands and plantations of conifers.

The center gives applications for youth, adult, and faculty organizations in addition to character college students.

The Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center grounds are super for birdwatching, hiking, and nature photography.

There are coaching stations throughout the forest grounds wherein college students can work, with benches for hikers looking to experience the sounds and vistas of the encircling nature.

A community of trails crosses streams and ponds and passes through numerous habitats complete with various wildlife and is a great place to add to your list of fun things to do in Reading, PA.

The Nolde Mansion houses the center’s workplaces. Next to the mansion is a lawn full of local wildflowers and the C.H. McConnell Environmental Education Hall.

Address: 2910 New Holland Rd, Reading, PA 19607-9448.

8. Reading Fightin Phils Minor League Baseball

The Reading Fightin Phils, referred to as the Reading Fightins or simply Fightins, are a Minor League baseball group from Reading, Pennsylvania.

The group performs within the Eastern League Division, and their domestic video games are performed in the FirstEnergy Stadium.

The Fightin Phils were the elegance-AA Philadelphia Phillies associate since the early 1967.

This is the longest in Minor League Baseball, and as a result the group has produced baseball stars which include Greg Luzinski, Mike Schmidt and Pat Burrell.

Going to the Fightin Phils games is an excellent place for leisure in Reading, and there are usually surprises, including giveaways and fireworks.

While making plans, it’s a good idea to add Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center to your list of fun things to do in Reading, PA.

Address: 1900 Centre Ave., Reading, PA,

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9. Reading Public Museum

The Reading Public Museum in West Reading, Pennsylvania, began its existence in 1913 as the Reading Public Museum and Art Gallery.

Reading Public Museum started with a set of antiques and clinical and anthropological substances donated by its founder Dr. Levi W. Mengel.

The museum has been at the leading edge of participatory and palms-on studying. Today, its galleries function with themes of civilization, herbal records, artwork, and science.

Reading Public Museum also features an eclectic series of famous exhibits that consist of artwork, sculpture, armor, and artifacts from international civilizations.

The excellent artwork series has over seven-hundred oil artwork by worldwide and American artists, including John Singer Sargent, Benjamin West, N.C. Wyeth, etc.

The museum has more than one hundred sculptures with heaps of graphics, watercolors, and different media, making it worth adding to your list of best things to do in Reading, PA.

Address: 500 Museum Rd, Reading, PA 19611.

10. Reading Rocks

Reading Rocks is a great place to visit if you’re a rock climbing expert or want to try rock climbing for the first time. It’s also a great place to get over your fears of heights.

Reading Rocks is a big indoor fitness center for mountaineering and associated sports, which include rappelling and a ropes path.

Located within the Muhlenberg Township, Reading, the fitness center has 35-foot-excessive partitions with the 2,000-rectangular-foot Nicros Custom Rock.

The center also has nearly 8,000 rectangular ft of hiking space, 32 Top Ropes, and lots more. The Nicros Custom Rock is designed to appear as an actual rock as you could get without the bugs.

For skilled climbers, there’s a system condo that includes harnesses, shoes, and chalk bags. For first-time site visitors, their workforce gives commands on the way to belay, that is, use the rope system.

Belay instructions are loose and protected within the admission ticket. There also are standard courses, classes, and seminars, thus making it a great place for fun things to do in Reading, PA.

Address: 550 George St, Reading, PA 19605.

11. The Barley Mow

The Barley Mow is a famous brewpub in West Reading with a wide choice of beers and many familiar live music tracks.

They name themselves “faucet pullers, beer geeks, growler fillers, and meals lovers,” and they have over 750 types of beers from one hundred American craft breweries.

With 750 types of beers from one hundred American craft breweries, they have earned the right to give themselves those names correctly.

Their pub gives an excellent, comfy surrounding for participating in beer with like-minded human beings, with uncovered brick partitions and a stacked-stone bar.

Besides their sizable choice of bottled and canned beers, they have a massive ever-rotating choice of beer on faucet, making it a worthwhile place to add to your list of fun things to do in Reading, PA.

They provide a small choice of in-house-made nibbles; however, visitors can order food from close by Nonno Alby’s or La Abuela for a complete meal.

Address: 719 Penn Ave, West Reading, PA 19611.

12. The Knight’s Pub

The Knight’s Pub at Stokesay Castle is a chic spot to spend a weekend nighttime and is located in a lovely 1931 fortress with a unique English 13th-century castles design.

The Knight’s Pub is a big conventional English pub with lovely décor and cutting-edge amenities suitable for a family-friendly visit.

This eating pub gives an indoor and eating experience, with an outside hearthplace pit for the cold evenings. The draft beer choice is massive, as is the listing of the authentic cocktails.

The Knight’s Pub is well-known for its happy hours, gourmand meals, everyday specials, and weekend stay leisure and their menu is eclectic.

The small, properly-selected wine listing has wines from everywhere on the globe, mainly provided by wine glasses.

The fortress, which was constructed for the Heister family and relatives’ vacation, has been renovated and has fantastically landscaped grounds.

Address: 141 Stokesay Castle Ln, Reading, PA 19606.

13. Reading Pagoda

For more than one hundred years, the Reading Pagoda has stood tall and proud as a image of the metropolis and still has its reputation amongst visitors today.

Built in 1908, the mind-blowing pagoda is hooked up to the mountain aspect on the pinnacle of Mount Penn, making it a perfect place to take pictures of it.

Originally constructed as a luxurious motel, the seven-story wood shape stands seventy-two ft tall and gives extraordinary perspectives over the metropolis.

On a clear day, you could see as much as 30 miles. Interestingly, the pagoda was initially constructed to cover an ugly mountainside quarry.

The Padoga was in no way used as a motel because of a financial institution foreclosure. However, reading Pagoda was later offered to the metropolis in 1911.

Visitors are welcome to view the outside of the Pagoda and take as many interesting pictures as they like as the place gives a good view on a good day.

Address: 98 Duryea Drive, Reading, PA 19602

14. Reading Area Firefighters Museum

The Reading Area Firefighters Museum occupies the premises of the unique records Reading firehouse within the coronary heart of the Callowhill Historic District.

The building, named The Liberty Fire Co. No five, is one of the city’s most critical and best-preserved ancient systems.

The museum’s interior is full of a brilliant series of firefighting activities in addition to many lovely portions of vintage furnishings and antique firefighting equipment.

There are many antique photographs to offer site visitors to give them a concept of how few the courageous firefighters had equipment at their disposal many years ago.

The Museum is open on Thursdays and Sundays and is a good place for a family day out, supposing you come with your family.

If you came solo to the Reading Area Firefighters Museum, you’d still enjoy your visit as there’s so much to learn about the beautiful heritage of firefighting in Reading, PA.

Address: 501 S. 5th Street, Reading, PA 19602,

15. Santander Performing Arts Center

Many individuals in the city of Reading, PA, associate the Santander Arena and the Performing Arts Center with revitalizing downtown Reading.

The two overall performance venues shape the pulsing coronary heart of amusement within the town, where they have changed old and vintage cinema homes.

Located only some blocks from one another, the two venues have presented internationally magnificent entertainment to the metropolis for twenty years.

In addition to hosting big live shows, the arena is domestic to numerous nearby sports activity groups, along with the Reading Royals Ice Hockey group.

The performing arts center changed the previous Rajah Theatre and is now domestic to the Reading Symphony Orchestra and hosts a complete calendar of performances of all genres.

As far as arts and crafts and entertainment are concerned, the Santander Performing Arts Center is one of the best places to visit.

Address: 136 N. 6th Street, Reading, PA 19601, 610 898 7229

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16. Unique Pretzel Bakery

Do you like the taste of Pretzels? If you do, you’ll also like the sound of Unique Pretzel Bakery, as it’s a must-visit location for any pretzel lover.

If you like pretzels but don’t have an absolute favorite pretzel, Unique Pretzel Bakery is the best place to search out and find one.

Being surrounded by pretzel factories in Reading, you would think a pretzel was a pretzel until you try out some pretzels at Unique Pretzel Bakery.

Unique Pretzel Bakery has many kinds of pretzels like the sourdough pretzel. The pretzel comes in giant rings, and the flavor is delicious, unlike any other pretzel

The sourdough pretzel stands out as many visitors have confirmed it to be their best. They are great to eat plain or dip in any favorite mustards or sauces.

If you like pretzels but don’t know where to get some or don’t know what type would be best to eat, try looking for your best pretzel choice at the Unique Pretzel Bakery.

Address: 215 E Bellevue Ave, Reading, PA 19605-1729

17. Red Bridge

Red Bridge is another beautiful location in Reading, PA, where visitors enjoy the beautiful scenery that accompanies its environs.

Red Bridge is right above Tulpehocken Creek, and past Tulpehocken Creek is Tulpehocken Creek Valley Park, a beautiful park with picnic areas, walking trails, and historic buildings.

Red Bridge is also known as Wertz’s Covered Bridge and the Distelfink, which represents PA German folk art and can all be viewed from the location.

Red Bridge was built in 1867 and is about two hundred and four feet over Tulpehocken Creek. Visitors always have a beautiful perspective from the top of the bridge.

It’s the longest single-span bridge in Pennsylvania and opens to pedestrian traffic only. Visitors can walk under the bridge as the paved walking trail runs along the creek.

There is always a monumental building to be seen as you go on vacation from place to place, and the Red Bridge is one of the many fascinating ones you’ll see while visiting Reading, PA.

Address: 1102 Red Bridge Rd, Reading, PA 19605, United States

18. Gring’s Mill Recreation Area

Gring’s Mill Recreation Area can be found between Tulpehochen creek and the historic Union Canal. It’s a great place to hike for families and friends.

The people in Gring’s Mill Recreation Area are courteous and pleasant.

The parking is adequate, and the place is accessible to many people interested in a peaceful stroll, a good picnic, or some fresh air in an open space.

Even if you have no reservation in Gring’s Mill Recreation Area, you will have no trouble finding a great spot for picnic as many picnic tables are available.

The beautiful area has a bridge over the water and a trail along the river, enough to give its visitors a gorgeous and fabulous day. Do visit.

Address: 2083 Tulpehocken Rd, Reading, PA 19610-1017

19. Miller Center for The Arts

Miller Center for The Arts is the best place to visit to enjoy a songwriter’s concert. It is the perfect place for acoustic music and various other performances.

The Miller Center has a varied menu of concerts for different types of people and all ages. The center’s acoustics is excellent, and the seats are very comfortable.

It is relatively new as it’s only been ten years since it was established and there is free parking for those who came for a show with their cars.

The architecture is exciting but isn’t what you’d call a five-star design. Nevertheless, visitors will surely enjoy their experience at Miller Center for The Arts.

You can get lost fairly quickly in Reading just by trying to locate this place on your own, so get good directions before setting out on your journey.

Miller Center for The Arts is a great place to enjoy yourself with your friends, family, and loved ones, and there’s no reason not to visit this beautiful center.

Address: 4 N 2nd St, Reading, PA 19601-4008

20. Berks History Center

Berks History Center is a gem Covering Berks County’s early native and immigrant history through local art and furniture artifact displays.

If you’re a history buff or enthusiast, this place will give you a satisfactory surprise, as it is a nicely done and well-arranged facility.

At Berks History Center, you are met with a very welcoming greeting, rooms nicely laid out and masking the neighborhood records from Native Americans to the present.

They have an extensive and quality series of Pennsylvania Dutch and different nearby vintage furnishings, artwork, artifacts, etc., displaying the early days of existence in the town.

Berks History Center has easy parking, affordable access fees, a pleasing present shop, and it is less crowded despite its many visitors.

The top floor of Berks History Center has relics from Reading’s past.

Address: 940 Centre Ave, Reading, PA 19601-2106

21. Digiplex of Fairgrounds Square

Digiplex of Fairgrounds Square is an excellent place to while away some time with your family if you happen to be in the city of Reading and have too much time on your hands.

The place is very good with a very appealing outlook. Digiplex of Fairgrounds Square is a great place to watch a movie with your friends.

The area is impeccable as you’ll notice the exceptionally clean environment, which makes it easier for its visitors to settle in while they enjoy their movies.

Although the seats are not lounge chairs, they are surprisingly comfortable, and visitors will enjoy the experience just fine.

The sound and screen projection at Digiplex is good, and the theater is not excessively crowded. As a result, it’s a nice place to have an evening out with family.

If you’re looking to see a movie and all other cinemas are crowded or filled up, you need not worry as you can try Digiplex of Fairgrounds Square.

Address: 3050 N 5th Street Hwy, Reading, PA 19605-2473

22. Reverb

Reverb is the kind of place to visit and have a wonderful day or night out with your friends and family as it’s a place brimming with a lot of fun.

If it’s your first time at Reverb, you are sure to have zero complaints about the place as it is one of the most organized and friendly environments to be in.

Reverb looks small from the outside, but once you walk in, it is bigger than it appears. They have a great wall comprising photographs of different famous people.

They also have a beautiful outside section with seating, food, and drinks. The staff is fantastic and very organized. It’s hard to have a misunderstanding with the staff.

Visitors can get a meet-and-greet pass to the show, and the staff does a fantastic job of answering questions and walking you through everything you may need.

Reverb will leave you super impressed and will keep you wanting more as you keep your eyes out for more shows! Do well to visit!

Address: 1402 N 9th St, Reading, PA 19604-1802

23. Reading Blue Mountain & Northern Railroad

If you’re touring the city of Reading, Pennsylvania, and have gotten this far on the list of things to do in Reading, PA, there’s no doubt you love traveling.

With that being said, there’s no argument for the fact that you can also try other exciting means of transportation for fun.

If all that has been covered, it’s safe to say you should be willing to try out the Reading Blue Mountain & Northern Railroad, which has been in commission for years in the city.

In Reading Blue Mountain & Northern Railroad, the cars are immaculate, including the windows, and although it is not fancy, it’s comfortably adequate for the journey.

One car on the train is a club car with drinks and snacks, including seating, and the other was strictly a passenger car with no other activities.

Both cars have restrooms, and the staff is organized, amiable, helpful, and more than accommodating. The train is prompt in staying to its stated departure times, so you’re sure to have no problems with your schedule. Do visit!!

Address: 3501 Pottsville Pike, corner of Bellevue Avenue and Route 61, Reading, PA 19605-1717

24. Berks County Heritage Center

For history enthusiasts concerned with learning about the region’s past, the top thing to do is to visit Berks County Heritage Center.

Berks County Heritage Center is an ancient property consisting of two museums, the Gruber wagon works, and the C. Howard Hiester Canal Center. I

The center offers tours of the museums from May to October, including special annually-held events and numerous programs.

 There are several historical points, such as a Bicentennial Eagle Memorial, Doctorpeople Grove, Deppen Cemetery, Wertz’s Covered Bridge, Mildred the houseboat, an herb garden, and more.

Address: 1102 Red Bridge Rd, Reading, PA 19605, United States0

25. R/C Reading Movies 11 & IMAX

One of the standard movie theaters in Reading, R/C Reading Movies 11 & IMAX, was established on the 8th of August, 2008.

By 2015, R/C theaters now operated nine branches in four various states with R/C Reading Movies 11 & IMAX, which was designed by JKR Partners.

The movie theater can accommodate up to 1,800 persons at once, with comfortable seats for guests to relax.

R/C Reading Movies 11 & IMAX staff is friendly and helpful, always attentive when talking to the guests.

Address: 30 N 2nd St, Reading, PA 19601, United States

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Plan a Trip to Reading

The city of Reading, PA, is fun and a fascinating place to visit to spend time with friends, family, loved ones, or just by yourself.

There’s always something to do in the city, and you shouldn’t be left out if you’re a visitor or resident of this town.

From its sports arenas to beautiful performance centers, outstanding arts centers, impeccable railroad systems, and exquisite pretzel bakeries, Readings, PA is the place to be!

Have a fun trip!