Reading, Pennsylvania stands apart with its iconic Pagoda perched atop Mount Penn—an unexpected Japanese-style landmark offering sweeping views of the city. Once dubbed the "Outlet Capital of the World," it pioneered the outlet shopping boom. Its deep railroad legacy, immortalized in Monopoly, and rich Pennsylvania Dutch culture give Reading a character unlike any other.
Notable points about Reading
- Reading, Pennsylvania is home to the iconic Pagoda atop Mount Penn, a Japanese-style structure offering panoramic views and a surreal East-meets-America experience found nowhere else in the U.S.
- Unlike many rust-belt cities, Reading preserved its historic railroad legacy with the Reading Railroad Heritage Museum—yes, the same “Reading Railroad” from Monopoly.
- The best time to visit is late September to mid-October, when the surrounding hills explode with fall foliage and seasonal festivals like the Oley Valley Community Fair are in full swing.
- Travelers will find Reading refreshingly affordable, with hotel and dining prices often 30–40% cheaper than in nearby Philadelphia or New York.
- Catch a Reading Fightin Phils minor league game at FirstEnergy Stadium—locals love the throwback charm, crazy mascots, and family-friendly vibe.
- Try a classic Pennsylvania Dutch meal at Judy’s on Cherry, where specialties like chicken pot pie and shoofly pie offer a taste of Berks County tradition in a historic firehouse setting.
- Downtown is walkable, but to reach the best views and suburban gems like Wyomissing Park, a rental car or rideshare is recommended.
- Explore the eclectic GoggleWorks Center for the Arts, a repurposed factory filled with artist studios, glassblowing demos, and community art events.
- Visitors should stay alert downtown after dark but will find locals friendly and English widely spoken; modest dress is appreciated when visiting religious or Amish areas nearby.
- Drive Skyline Drive at golden hour to the Pagoda, then picnic with a view—locals swear it’s the most unexpectedly romantic spot in Pennsylvania.