The Pagoda
| Address: | 98 Duryea Dr, Reading, PA 19602, USA |
| Phone: | +1 610-655-6271 |
| Site: | readingpagoda.com |
| Rating: | 4.6 |
| Working: | Closed Closed Closed Closed 12–5PM 12–5PM 12–5PM |
Location
Photos 100
Reviews 21
JO
John Marquette
How many Pennsylvania cities have a Japanese building towering over them, so much so that its an iconic and beloved symbol? The only one is Reading. The Pagodas rooflines were once illuminated by red fluorescent tubes. In the past 10 or so years, the tubes were exchanged for LED bulbs, providing a far brighter and sharper view at night. The view of the Schuylkill River valley to the west and south is remarkable. To the right is Reading Regional Airport (no commercial service), directly ahead is downtown Reading, and to the left are the eastern wards of the city leading to the borough of Mt. Penn. Ask to borrow the wooden mallet from the gift shop on days the Pagoda is open (currently Saturdays, check schedule). Then proceed to the top floor, find the brass temple bell, and strike it with the mallet. A unique experience, only in Reading. To the north of the Pagoda along Skyline Drive is the William Penn Fire Tower. Now closed to visitors, it was built to monitor fires on and off Mount Penn.
AL
Alitta Ramby
I LOVED going to the Pagoda, I had no idea it was there but followed some signs on the whim. I quite enjoyed going to the top, it was only one dollar to get in, there were old news articles about The Pagoda and many cute Japanese decoration. They also have a room where you can host events with a total of 50 people and you can be married there. You get the beautiful view of the mountains and Reading without physically being down in downtown Reading, which I know some people are thankful for. All and all a wonderful side trip, also very cheap which is really great. Also, its very good for photography as I text my mother a picture of myself and my significant other as "Look were in Japan"!
SU
Subhanir Chitnis
This Landmark on top of the mountain overlooks the city. There is ample parking in the area. Entrance fee to go to the top of the Pagoda is minimal. Only way to get to the top is by a narrow stair way. However once you get to the top, the views are gorgeous. Dont forget to stop by the gift shop to pick up a souvenir or two. Great opportunity to take pictures of the town at the base of the mountain for interesting perspective. There are no food options at the site. The nearest food in about 10 to 15 minute drive down the mountain and the main city.
KY
Kyle Westcott
The building is really neat and the views are great ... but thats where anything nice about this place ends. There are a lot of questionable things being done at all times of the day by the questionable people this place seems to attract. Trash cans are usually over flowing. The parking lot and walking areas are littered with trash, cigarette butts, used condoms, and drug paraphernalia. This is NOT a family friendly place to go.
TR
Travis Fuhrman
This is definitely a landmark in Reading that is worth seeing at least once. Where else in Berks, Lancaster, Lebanon counties can you see such a unique middle eastern structure?. The skyline is magnificent at dusk. Travel up the road and see the fire tower as well. This is one of those places to get an ice cream and travel up to with someone special and enjoy it, your company and the sunset.
DA
Davis Hollow
The Pagoda is a beautiful place, but sadly, has become a known drug hang out. Cameras have been installed, to reinforce security, but unfortunately a lot of rowdy kids frequently hang around, blasting music from their cars. Visiting can be nice, if you happen by when there arent many visitors. Hours for the cafe/gift shop seem irregular and infrequent. Its worth seeing, but just be wary.
AR
art DeGrendele
Beautiful place! Beautiful piece of history! Too many people playing their music too loud. Its unbelievable they get away with it. They just throw trash on the ground and break bottles all over, glass everywhere. If it wasnt for that, its perfect! Beautiful view. Went up there years ago when they were setting up for "THE LAST AIRBENDER". Got on the set quite by accident. It was fun.
JO
Jonah Stahl
If you go at sunset, the lot is usually filled and people are everywhere - however it is a gorgeous view of the city and surrounding areas. Its beautiful at night, just be aware its not the safest place. Drug use, loud music, littering, etc. is commonplace here. Nice for photos and thats about it.
MI
Michelle Draper
I always love coming to the Pagoda, especially at night when its lit up, but its nice to go during the day too because then you can go inside and learn about the history of the building. Beautiful view, especially at night. It does get really windy though, so bring a jacket just in case.
YA
Yanek Che
The place is cool, located on a hill with a nice view. However building was closed and restrooms were closed too? We were driving there, and needed restroom after long drive, why you need to close it. Also around the pagoda were garbage, including plastic bottles, cans
MA
Matthew Mahar
Great place to go and enjoy some fresh air and spend time looking at the stars with that special someone. Though often its what everyone else is doing to so your really not ever gonna be alone up there, though honestly you probably wouldnt want to be.
JE
Jessica Smith
Great views and a very unique landmark. They offer lots of information about the Pagoda from past and present. Theres a small restraunt and museum inside. They also have a small banquet hall that can be rented it for meetings, small weddings, etc.
DA
David Maes
Beautiful view of Reading, and a wonderful local landmark. You can climb to the top floor, and there is a $1 donation for the climb. Another cool spot is the nearby fire tower, which is about a mile or so up the road that you can climb if open
JE
Jeremy Signorelli
The Pagoda is perched atop Mount Penn with stunning views overlooking Reading and many places beyond. The best time to go for views is sunset/nighttime, but do be aware that its not the safest place to be. Plan accordingly and be alert.
J
J Hernandez
Es impresionante, una vista preciosa. Y un monumento de relata su propia historia con sólo verlo de cerca.
RA
Randy Reinert
Another example of the city of reading letting one of its famous landmarks just Decay. its such a good possibility to use as a tourist attraction to get people into the city of Reading .its just decaying falling apart Rock by Rock
JO
Jon Simione
Nothing beats the view from up there. However, I would like to see the actual Pagoda open at other times then weekends. Makes it difficult to go inside when you work weekends. Otherwise, great place to relax and see a lovely view.
JI
Jim Donnelly
Theyre never open which is a drag, and when I was there a pilgrim was screaming at the top of her lungs for a good 30 minutes. She told us all to repent. Great views from the top of Mt Penn, but they should have it open more.
KR
Kristian Castellano
The pagoda & skyline drive offers great views of reading & west & can see as far out as you can at one of the tallest points in Reading! The gift shop/museum is open odd hours,so be sure to check the website before going.
ED
Eddie w
Gorgeous view of reading pa. Like the spot you see in the movies where everyone takes their gf to hook up haha. I didnt get to see it at night with the city all lit up but the view during the day was breathtaking!
TO
Tonya Mae xo
Great view of the reading skyline, there is a cafe inside. I prefer to visit at night versus the day when the pagoda and all of the reading skyline is lit up. There are parking spaces to park at and walk around.
