Located in Berks County, Pa., Reading is the fifth-largest city in Pennsylvania. Situated about halfway between Harrisburg and Philadelphia, Reading was once a major transportation hub via the now-defunct Reading Railroad — you may recognize this name from Monopoly. While the city has fallen on some tough times, its history and idyllic mountain landscape remain large draws.
Start your day with a quick bite at the West Reading Diner. Open 24 hours, the traditional diner offers weekday breakfast specials starting at $3.59. The diner is a short drive to some of the city’s outlet shopping. Reading was one of the first cities where outlet shopping was a tourist attraction. The Vanity Fair Outlet is popular among locals and tourists.
Vanity Fair Outlets © Jack | Flickr
Open daily, the Reading Public Museum is a must-see attraction. The galleries feature an eclectic mix of art, historical artifacts and science displays. A planetarium and 25-acre arboretum are also on site. The museum frequently hosts special exhibitions. Admission is $10 for adults or $6 for seniors/students.
Say Cheese! is a great spot for lunch. Best of Berks winner, the menu highlights — you guessed it — cheese. Soups, salads and sandwiches use the best locally sourced ingredients. Spend $10–15 on lunch. The restaurant is located on Penn Avenue, a popular shopping street with unique stores. Be sure to take a stroll after your meal.
The Pagoda © Michael Mill | Dreamstime
The Pagoda is one of the city’s more popular attractions. Built in 1908, the Japanese-style pagoda sits on Mount Penn and is visible from most parts of the city. Offering spectacular views of the city, the Pagoda houses a small café and gift shop. Admission to the historic site is free, though a $1 donation is suggested.
Have a leisurely dinner at Jimmy Kramer’s Peanut Bar. Opened in 1934, the famous spot is known for its trademark shelled peanuts, which patrons are invited to toss on the floor when they’re done. With nightly food and drink specials, there’s something for every taste. The Buffalo wings are a standout. Dinner with drinks costs $20–30.
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