Reading, PA: The Perfect Stay Over City
Located in Southeastern Pennsylvania, Reading is a city that is within a few hours distance of major travel destinations like New York City, Philadelphia and Washington, DC.. With interesting attractions, good shopping choices and suitable accommodation, Reading makes a perfect, down-home stay over while traveling to other major cities.
The Pagoda
Situated on Mount Penn, overlooking Reading, is the city’s shining symbol attraction, simply referred to as The Pagoda. This lovely, Japanese-style structure was first constructed in 1908 as a luxury hotel but never prospered after it was denied a license to serve alcohol. Today, the pagoda offers a gift shop, art works and beautiful views of the surrounding area.
Museums
When you visit Reading, you will discover several museums that are well worth a look. Featuring a planetarium and scenic botanic gardens, the Reading Museum showcases objects from around the world, such as an Egyptian mummy. At the Golden Age Air Museum, you can see several vintage airplanes while the Mid-Atlantic Air Museum features an impressive collection of military aircraft, weapons and vehicles used during war times. At the Central Pennsylvania African-American Museum, you can learn about slavery and the American Civil War as well as tour a hiding tunnel that served as part of the Underground Railroad, which aided slaves to freedom.
Art Centers
Reading also offers fine arts centers such as The Goggle Works Center for the Arts. Situated in a former factory that made goggles during WWII, this Center displays art exhibitions and offers a theater in addition to classes and workshops. The Sovereign Performing Arts Center also hosts many seasonal performances as well as the Reading Symphony Orchestra.
Sports and Recreation
If you want to enjoy sports in Reading, head over to the FirstEnergy Stadium where you can watch the minor league, Reading Phillies, play some baseball. On Friday nights, the stadium offers fireworks and food after the game. You can also catch a football or hockey game at the Sovereign Center arena.
For leisure and recreational activities, you will find that Reading offers several beautiful parks and recreational areas such as Kaercher Creek Park, the Union Canal Walking and Bicycle Trail, Antietam Lake, the Gring’s Mill Recreation Area and the Berks County Heritage Center, which offers summer concerts, festivals, an arcade and food. The Reading Country Club offers a challenging 18-hole course for golf lovers while Berks Lanes offers bowling, billiards and an arcade.
Shopping
If you love to shop, you will love the Berkshire Mall and the Fairgrounds Square Mall, where you can find the latest trends in everything from fashion and jewelry to home furnishings and electronics. If you are a bargain hunter, check out the VF Outlet Village where you can find great deals on name brand items.
Hotel Accommodations
No matter what your budget and preferences, you can find suitable accommodation in Reading from quaint bed and breakfasts to budget motels and luxury hotels. Compare prices online today and reserve the hotel that is right for you and your family.
