Unusual experiences await groups as they Experience Reading & Berks County, PA, where the odd and unusual are embraced
Did you know Reading, PA, and Berks County offer distinctive experiences and attractions that delight groups of all ages and interests? Visit an intriguing local landmark featuring unusual architecture and a fascinating story. Tour the picturesque countryside and discover Pennsylvania Dutch folk art once used to ward off evil, or head underground for an immersive subterranean tour.
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Kutztown Folk Fest. Credit Experience Reading and Berks County, PA
Only in Pennsylvania: Quirky, Intriguing & Unforgettable
Gather your group for a fun exploration of fascinating sites and group attractions that will get everyone’s attention. Travel through Reading and Berks County and discover cultural curiosities, underground oddities and quirky experiences for an unforgettable family adventure.
Quirky Things to Do in Reading, PA
For groups seeking an intriguing backstory of a wonderfully unique town icon, head to the Pagoda in Reading, PA. The Reading Pagoda was built in 1908 by William Whitman to conceal scars left on Mt. Penn by his quarry. It was later gifted to the City of Reading in 1911 and quickly became the area’s most beloved landmark. Before radio was widespread, lights on the structure served as a communication tool, sending Morse code messages to residents. These were vital to spread word about fires, to promote fundraisers, report sports scores and other newsworthy information.
The avant-garde seven-story structure stands 620 feet above the city, offering awe-inspiring views and a magnificent backdrop for multigenerational family photos. While the Pagoda isn’t currently open to the public, you can explore the grounds from dawn to dusk daily. Capture a one-of-a-kind family photo in front of the landmark for a memorable keepsake.
Experience a beloved part of Pennsylvania history at the Reading Area Firefighters Museum. Housed in the restored 19th-century Liberty Firehouse, the museum honors the bravery and community spirit of the city’s firefighters. Once a neighborhood social hub, the museum features original 1876 furnishings supplied by Philadelphia department store pioneer John Wanamaker after their display at the Centennial Exhibition in Philadelphia.
Families can view unique vintage engines and historic equipment during group tours for up-close history. Interact with hands-on exhibits that trace the evolution of firefighting in Reading for an immersive and memorable experience.
Cultural festivals and family-friendly celebrations bring groups together. Credit Experience Reading and Berks County, PA
Unique Berks County Attractions
When traveling through the rolling hills and lush valleys of Northern Berks County, look for the PA Dutch barn stars or hex signs. Take your family on a self-guided Barn Star Art Trail Tour and see these colorful artworks. Berks County is home to the highest concentration of barn star art in Pennsylvania.
Barn stars, or hex signs, are one of the most beloved symbols of the Pennsylvania Dutch. Early German-speaking settlers believed the symbols would protect their homes and barns from evil and bring prosperity. By the 1950s, barn star art evolved to include birds, hearts, flowers and other decorative motifs. Today, visitors can travel Berks County’s scenic backroads to view colorful examples of this treasured folk art as they follow the self-guided Barn Star Art Tour.
For an exhilarating and out-of-the-ordinary group experience, head underground and explore half a million years of natural history at one of the most unique Berks County attractions. Discovered in 1871 by two farmers searching for limestone, Crystal Cave became Pennsylvania’s first show cave and remains one of the state’s greatest natural wonders.
Guided, one-hour tours lead visitors 125 feet below ground to showcase dazzling crystal formations, signature crystalline walls, stalactites, stalagmites and sparkling cave pools, all in a constant 54-degree underground setting. After your tour, visit the on-site restaurant for a family meal, the ice cream parlor for dessert and peruse the two gift shops. If time allows, add in a friendly game of mini golf at their course.
