Attractions and Places To See around Penn State Berks - Top 20

The region offers excellent opportunities for hiking and cycling. You can explore trails like the Union Canal Trail, a crushed limestone path perfect for walking and cycling along the Tulpehocken Creek, or the multi-use Schuylkill River Trail. For more options, check out the guides for Hiking around Penn State Berks and Road Cycling Routes around Penn State Berks.

Yes, Berks County is rich in history. A notable historical site is Wertz's Covered Bridge, a Burr Arch bridge constructed in 1867 and now part of the Union Canal Trail. You can also visit the Reading Pagoda, a historic 7-story building from 1908, or explore the Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site, which preserves a 19th-century iron plantation.

Many attractions cater to families. The Union Canal Trail and Schuylkill River Trail are great for family bike rides or walks. Wertz's Covered Bridge and the Reading Pagoda are also considered family-friendly. Additionally, the Reading Public Museum and Neag Planetarium offer engaging exhibits for all ages, including an arboretum.

For panoramic views of the Reading skyline, visit the Reading Pagoda. You can climb its 87 steps to the top floor for an impressive vista. Hawk Mountain Sanctuary in Kempton is also renowned for its scenic views, especially during the annual hawk migration.

Yes, there are several easy hiking options. The Union Canal Trail is a gentle, crushed limestone path. For more specific easy routes, you can find trails like the Wyomissing Creek Trail or the Tulpy Flow and Lake Border Trail Loop in the Easy hikes around Penn State Berks guide.

The area offers several cultural sites. The Freyberger Gallery on the Penn State Berks campus hosts art exhibitions. The GoggleWorks Center for the Arts, housed in a former safety goggle factory, provides art galleries, exhibits, and workshops in various arts. You can also explore the Pennsylvania German Cultural Heritage Center to learn about local traditions, or visit the John Updike Childhood Home.

Absolutely. Highlands Park is a popular spot within the city for hiking and jogging, offering both paved and unpaved trails. Gring's Mill Recreation Area, adjacent to Penn State Berks, also provides outdoor recreation opportunities. Additionally, the Reading Public Museum includes an arboretum for a pleasant stroll.

Blue Marsh Lake is a significant natural feature near Reading, popular for various water activities. It's an excellent spot for boating, paddleboarding, and canoeing, offering a refreshing escape and scenic surroundings.

Consider visiting Crystal Cave in Kutztown to discover fascinating stalactites, stalagmites, and dripstone formations. The Labyrinth Garden on the Penn State Berks campus offers a peaceful, non-denominational spiritual tool for meditation, open to the public daily from dawn until dusk.

The Berks County Heritage Center is a historic park that includes several significant elements. It features the Gruber Wagon Works (a National Historic Landmark), the C. Howard Hiester Canal Center, and Wertz's Covered Bridge. The center also has an herb garden and hosts various annual events and interpretive programs, offering a deep dive into local heritage. For more information, you can visit visitpa.com.

While primarily an educational institution, the Penn State Berks campus features several points of interest. You can find the Labyrinth Garden for quiet reflection, and recognizable landmarks like the Lion Shrine, Clock, and Fountains. The Freyberger Gallery hosts art exhibitions, and the Beaver Athletics and Wellness Center, renovated in 2022, includes various athletic facilities.

Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of historical significance and natural beauty. Highlights like Wertz's Covered Bridge and the Reading Pagoda are often praised for their unique character and views. The extensive network of trails, such as the Union Canal Trail and Schuylkill River Trail, are highly valued for providing accessible outdoor recreation.