Reading Pagoda Pennsylvania
A historic 7-story Japanese-style pagoda offering stunning panoramic views of Reading, PA, from atop Mount Penn.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour views are magical
Reading Pagoda Pennsylvania
Best Time
Golden hour views are magical
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic 7-story Japanese-style pagoda offering stunning panoramic views of Reading, PA, from atop Mount Penn.
"The Reading Pagoda is one of Pennsylvania’s most unique landmarks, sitting high on Mount Penn with breathtaking views."
🚗 Scenic Drive Up
The road to the Pagoda is winding and scenic. Enjoy the journey as much as the destination!
📸 Photo Opportunities
Bring your camera! The views and architecture are incredibly photogenic, especially during golden hour.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic City Views
Mount Penn Summit
Breathtaking 360-degree vistas of Reading and the surrounding Berks County landscape. Perfect for photos, especially at sunrise or sunset.
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Iconic Japanese Architecture
Exterior
Admire the unique seven-story, Japanese-style pagoda, a striking landmark against the Pennsylvania backdrop.
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Historic Mount Penn Drive
Road leading to the Pagoda
Enjoy a scenic, winding drive up Mount Penn, offering glimpses of the Pagoda and the evolving landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check Restoration Status
Timing Your Visit for Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Scenic Drive Up
The road to the Pagoda is winding and scenic. Enjoy the journey as much as the destination!
📸 Photo Opportunities
Bring your camera! The views and architecture are incredibly photogenic, especially during golden hour.
🚫 No Restrooms Onsite
Plan ahead as there are no public restrooms available at the Pagoda site.
🚧 Check Restoration Updates
The Pagoda is under restoration. Check for updates on interior access before your visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Scenic Drive Up
The road to the Pagoda is winding and scenic. Enjoy the journey as much as the destination!
📸 Photo Opportunities
Bring your camera! The views and architecture are incredibly photogenic, especially during golden hour.
🚫 No Restrooms Onsite
Plan ahead as there are no public restrooms available at the Pagoda site.
🚧 Check Restoration Updates
The Pagoda is under restoration. Check for updates on interior access before your visit.
💰 Free Admission & Parking
Enjoy the views and the landmark without any entry fees or parking charges.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Reading Pagoda for its stunning panoramic views of the city and its unique, iconic Japanese architecture. The scenic drive up Mount Penn is also a highlight, making it a worthwhile destination for a quick stop or a longer visit. While the interior is currently closed for restoration, the exterior beauty and the breathtaking vistas ensure a memorable experience for all.
"My bf proposed to me here March 22 2025. I drove from New York the night before with my dog and he met me here for a car show. Absolutely beautiful and surrounded by friends, after 5 years together he finally asked and I happily said yes. I can't wait to come back and take photos again one day 🥺🥺😭❤️💚❤️💚"
Yugvf Meow
"The Pagoda is being restored, but we still enjoyed a quick stop by! There was lots of parking and the drive up the mountain is fun, as well as pretty. The view is gorgeous, and we were happy to stop by despite the scaffolding. Will visit again when the scaffolding comes down and we can go inside."
H David
"The Reading Pagoda is one of Pennsylvania’s most unique landmarks, sitting high on Mount Penn with breathtaking views of Reading and beyond. Built in 1908 as part of a luxury resort that never happened, the Pagoda has since become a beloved symbol of the city. Its Japanese-style architecture stands out against the Pennsylvania landscape, making it a must-visit for history buffs, photographers, and anyone looking for a peaceful escape. Inside, you’ll find exhibits on its history, plus a gift shop. The best part? The panoramic view from the top, especially at sunrise or sunset! Whether you’re stopping for a quick visit or spending time exploring, the Reading Pagoda is a true hidden gem."
Anwar M Hossain
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Reading Pagoda is located at 98 Duryea Dr, Reading, PA 19602. The drive up Mount Penn is scenic and winding, offering beautiful views. Parking is available at the top.
Yes, the road leading up to the Pagoda is generally open at night, providing a different perspective of the city lights. Some users mention it's safe, while others advise caution due to potential teenage activity.
Absolutely! The winding roads up Mount Penn are a popular and enjoyable route for motorcycle riders, offering a fun experience with great views.
Public transportation options directly to the Pagoda are limited. It is best accessed by car or motorcycle.
The most common route is via Duryea Drive, which offers a scenic ascent up Mount Penn. Be prepared for winding roads.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to the Reading Pagoda and its grounds is completely free. Parking is also complimentary.
The exterior of the Reading Pagoda is accessible, but the building itself is currently closed for restoration. Visitors can still enjoy the views and grounds.
While the grounds are generally accessible, the interior of the Pagoda is closed due to ongoing restoration. The best times to visit for views are during daylight hours or sunset.
No, parking at the Reading Pagoda is free of charge for all visitors.
Currently, you cannot go inside the Reading Pagoda as it is undergoing extensive restoration. However, the exterior and surrounding views are still very much worth the visit.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography, creating stunning silhouettes and vibrant skies. Daytime provides clear panoramic views of the city.
You'll get breathtaking panoramic views of the city of Reading, Mount Penn, and the surrounding Berks County. It's a popular spot for enjoying the skyline.
Yes, the Pagoda's unique architecture and stunning views make it a very popular and romantic spot for engagement photos and proposals.
While not explicitly prohibited in all content, drone usage is often subject to local regulations. It's advisable to check with local authorities or the Pagoda's management for current drone policies.
Each season offers a unique view. Fall provides vibrant foliage, winter can offer dramatic, stark landscapes, and spring/summer offer lush greenery.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Pagoda's kitchens are being set up for catering capacity, not full-scale food production. While there may be options for snacks and drinks, a full-service restaurant is not available.
While not explicitly stated, picnicking is generally acceptable in public park areas. However, it's always good practice to clean up after yourself.
There are no immediate cafes or snack bars directly at the Pagoda site. It's recommended to bring your own refreshments or dine in Reading before or after your visit.
The Pagoda aims to offer some options for grabbing a bite to eat and drink, likely in a catering or grab-and-go style, rather than a full restaurant experience.
Some reviews mention a gift shop inside the Pagoda, but with the current restoration, its availability might be limited.
🎫 💡 Onsite Experience
You can admire the unique Japanese architecture, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Reading, and learn about its history. The grounds are great for photos and relaxation.
The Pagoda is undergoing restoration, and accessibility details for the interior are not widely available. However, the exterior grounds and parking area are generally accessible.
A quick stop for photos and views can take about 30 minutes to an hour. If you plan to explore the grounds and enjoy the scenery, you might spend longer.
No, there are no public restrooms available at the Reading Pagoda site. Visitors are advised to plan accordingly.
Built in 1908 by William Abbott Witman, it was intended as part of a luxury resort. It was gifted to the city of Reading in 1911 and has since become a beloved symbol.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the interior is closed for restoration, the expansive grounds provide space for children to explore (under supervision) and enjoy the fresh air. The breathtaking views offer a great opportunity to teach kids about geography and local landmarks. Remember to pack snacks and drinks, as there are no facilities on-site, and plan restroom breaks before you ascend the mountain. 🚗 Motorcycle Enthusiasts
The Pagoda itself offers a fantastic destination with ample parking space for bikes and a rewarding view at the summit. It's a popular spot for group rides and a great place to stop and admire the landscape before continuing your journey. 📸 Photographers & Instagrammers
+1 The panoramic city views are unparalleled, offering incredible opportunities for landscape shots, particularly during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. +1 The Pagoda is also a popular spot for engagement and proposal photos, adding a romantic element to your portfolio. +1❤️ Couples & Romantic Getaways
+1 Visiting during sunset can be particularly magical, offering a serene and picturesque experience. +1 While the interior is closed, the exterior beauty and the shared experience of enjoying the vista make it a memorable destination for dates and special occasions. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Pagoda's Restoration Journey
While the interior is closed to the public during this phase, the restoration team is focused on making the Pagoda more functional and sustainable. They are also addressing utility upgrades, such as replacing the water heating system.
Future plans may include limited food and beverage options, with kitchens being set up for catering rather than full-scale production, ensuring visitors can still grab a bite to eat.
Capturing the Perfect Shot: Photography at the Pagoda
+1Beyond the structure itself, the panoramic views of Reading and the surrounding Berks County are a major draw. Capture the city skyline, especially on a clear day, or frame the Pagoda against the backdrop of changing seasons.
+1 Many visitors find it to be a romantic and memorable spot for engagement photos and proposals, thanks to its unique setting and breathtaking scenery. +1When visiting, remember that the building is closed due to restoration, so focus on exterior shots and the surrounding landscape. While drone usage is not explicitly detailed, always check local regulations before flying.
+1 The winding drive up Mount Penn also offers scenic overlooks, so keep your camera ready throughout your journey. A Symbol of Reading: History and Significance
+1 Despite the resort's failure, the Pagoda's unique architecture and commanding position atop Mount Penn captured the imagination of the community. In 1911, Witman gifted the property to the city of Reading, solidifying its place as a beloved local landmark. Over the decades, the Pagoda has weathered various challenges, including periods of neglect and the need for ongoing maintenance. Its distinctive silhouette against the skyline has made it an iconic image associated with the city.
The ongoing restoration efforts underscore the community's dedication to preserving this historic treasure for future generations, ensuring it continues to overlook the city it represents. +2The Pagoda's significance extends beyond its architecture; it represents resilience and a shared sense of place for the residents of Reading. Its presence on Mount Penn offers not only a historical connection but also a constant reminder of the city's enduring spirit.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit