By Alyssa Gehris, Staff Writer
It’s not just the multiple pretzel factories that make Reading “Unique.” Endless trails, landmarks and must-try eateries are tucked away in the southeast corner of Pennsylvania in the city of Reading, otherwise known as the “Pretzel City.”
The fifth largest city in Pennsylvania, Reading is home to many stand-out locations and are worth the trip for tourists.
From the variety of unique shopping and eating locations, to the multiple outdoor recreational parks, Reading has something to offer for anyone that is willing to stop by for a visit.
There are many hidden secrets of Reading that are important area landmarks though most outsiders may not be aware of.
In between the city streets lies the base of the almost perfect spiral of a road that leads up the mountain to the Reading Pagoda.
Through a dark forest of trees and winding roads, the occasional glimpse of buildings can be caught. As the trees break and the incline dwindles, the seven-story Japanese structure glows red.
Upon parking the car and taking a few steps toward the building, the view behind the structure is uncovered. Illuminating behind the Pagoda is nearly every single light of the city below.
The pagoda is a key component to a lot of history and traditions in Reading. According to the official website for the Reading Pagoda, ReadingPagoda.com, the building itself “was originally intended to be a luxury resort atop Mt. Penn” but due to bank foreclosure and denial of a liquor license it was never opened and was sold to the city of Reading as a public landmark.
Trails follow along past the buildings and wind on to eventually meet up with those of the Blue Marsh Lake and Recreational Area.
Over 35 miles of hiking trails and 1,147 acres of water combine with picnic areas, boating docks and a beach to make up the Blue Marsh Lake Recreation Area as stated by Pennsylvania Americana Region’s website.
Blue Marsh is yet another popular dog friendly location as there is even a specific section of the beach known to almost always be populated with dogs playing and swimming.
Listening to the classic crack of a bat while the warm breeze blows the scent of burgers cooking on the grill is also a typical past time of Reading locals.
The field for any baseball fans, the double-A Affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies, Reading Fightin Phils First Energy Stadium is in Reading. The Fightin Phils are currently tied with another team as the longest affiliation in Minor League Baseball.
“Something about an old school ballpark with a mix of good talent and family fun makes it so enjoyable for even those like me who have been to over a dozen of ballparks” local William Budock said.
From “Say Cheese” to “Sweet Ride Ice Cream” there are plenty of unique eateries that can’t be found anywhere else. Jewelers, consignment and antique shops fill in between these eateries.
Whether you’re looking for gourmet crepes, handmade necklaces, or a beer wall, West Reading is the place for you.
On occasion the entirety of Penn Avenue is shut down to hold street festivals such as the Sunday Farmer’s Markets or holiday parades in which local businesses both on Penn Avenue and from other nearby locations take part to sell their products, give free samples, and more.
