Attractions and Places To See around Pennside - Top 20

You can explore several historical sites in the area. The iconic Reading Pagoda, a seven-story Japanese-style structure built in 1908, offers panoramic views from Mount Penn. Another significant historical landmark is Wertz's Covered Bridge, a Burr Arch bridge from 1867 that is now part of the Union Canal Trail. Additionally, the Berks County Heritage Center, a short drive away, features the Gruber Wagon Works, a National Historic Landmark, and Wertz's Covered Bridge, offering a glimpse into the region's past.

Yes, there are several family-friendly options. The Union Canal Trail is made of crushed limestone, making it suitable for walking and cycling with no traffic, ideal for families. Highlands Park offers a mix of paved and unpaved trails through plants and trees, where deer are often seen. The Schuylkill River Trail is another multi-use path that runs along the river, much of it built over abandoned rail beds, providing a pleasant environment for families.

For breathtaking views, head to the Reading Pagoda atop Mount Penn. You can climb its 87 steps to the top floor for expansive vistas of the city and surrounding landscape. Also on Mount Penn, Duryea Drive offers scenic overlooks. Neversink Mountain Preserve, nearby, features the City Overlook and the Witches Hat (McIlvain Pavilion), both providing stunning panoramas.

The Pennside area offers a variety of hiking trails. The Mount Penn Preserve provides numerous trails for different skill levels, including scenic drives. Neversink Mountain Preserve also has several miles of hiking trails. For specific routes, you can explore the hiking guide around Pennside, which includes routes like the easy Green Loop and Ferndale Trail.

Absolutely. The Union Canal Trail and the Schuylkill River Trail are both excellent multi-use paths suitable for cycling. The Union Canal Trail is crushed limestone and traffic-free, while the Schuylkill River Trail follows abandoned rail beds along the river. For more cycling options, check out the cycling guide around Pennside, featuring routes like the Angelica Creek Trail and the Mount Penn Preserve loop.

Pennside is bordered by significant natural features. Mount Penn itself offers trails and scenic overlooks within the Mount Penn Preserve. Nearby, the Neversink Mountain Preserve provides miles of hiking trails and stunning vistas. Antietam Lake Park is another natural area offering trails and recreational opportunities. The region is rich in forests and waterways, providing ample opportunities to connect with nature.

While Pennside is residential, the greater Reading area offers unique cultural sites. The GoggleWorks Center for the Arts is one of the largest integrated art centers in the U.S., featuring galleries and studios. The Reading Public Museum houses diverse art, science, and history exhibits. For aviation enthusiasts, the Mid-Atlantic Air Museum is home to a collection of historic aircraft.

Beyond the well-known spots, consider exploring the Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center, which encompasses 665 acres of forest with numerous trails for hiking and picnicking. While not exactly 'hidden,' Crystal Cave, a short drive near Kutztown, is Pennsylvania's first show cave and offers a unique underground experience with crystalline formations.

Many of the natural areas and trails around Pennside are dog-friendly, though leash laws typically apply. Highlands Park, with its unpaved trails and natural setting, is a popular spot for walking with dogs. The Union Canal Trail and Schuylkill River Trail are also generally welcoming to leashed pets.

For mountain biking enthusiasts, the area around Pennside offers challenging routes. The Mount Penn Preserve features several trails suitable for MTB. You can find detailed routes and their difficulties in the MTB Trails around Pennside guide, including options like the Mount Penn Preserve – Antietam Lake loop and the Mount Penn Preserve loop from Lower Alsace Township.

While specific accessibility details for all trails vary, many urban parks and paved sections of multi-use trails like parts of the Schuylkill River Trail may offer more accessible options. For detailed information on specific locations, it's always best to check directly with the venue or park management.

Visitors appreciate the blend of historical sites, scenic trails, and natural landscapes. The community often highlights the panoramic views from the Reading Pagoda, the peaceful experience of walking or cycling on trails like the Union Canal Trail, and the charm of historical structures like Wertz's Covered Bridge. The presence of wildlife, such as deer in Highlands Park, also adds to the appeal.