Reading has an interesting history beginning in 1748 when it was founded by brothers, Richard and Thomas Penn, whose father, William Penn of London, England, first founded the Quaker colony of Pennsylvania in 1681. The colony was a haven for Quakers and other religious groups.
Reading is the county seat of Berks County and located about an hour's drive from Philadelphia in the Delaware Valley region.
Berks County gets its name from Berkshire, England.
The City of Reading, according to Census figures, remains the largest municipality in Berks County.
With lakes and rivers, stunning mountain views, and the Pennsylvania Dutch Country to explore, Reading offers a diverse landscape of things to do and history to explore.
When to Visit Reading, PA
Climate plays a part in which season we choose to travel. For some, summer sunshine and golden beaches is the time to get away while other prefer skiing down challenging slopes or enjoying the fall colors or spring blossoms.
Reading's seasonal climate offers something for everyone no matter when you plan to travel. During the summer, expect sunny days 200 days a year with temperatures average around 86 degrees.
Wintertime experiences colder temperatures hovering around 25 degrees and snowfall averages 29 inches.
Overall, Reading receives 41 inches of rain annually spread out over approximately 123 days each year.
Each season offers a variety of reasons to visit. During the fall, the countryside is ablaze with color and brisk temperatures ideal for enjoying hiking, biking, hot air balloon excursions, and the excitement of harvest time, farmer's markets, and handcrafted items.
Winter landscapes are perfect for snow activities such as skiing, snowboarding, sledding, ice skating, and snow tubing. Off-season deals and discounts are more apt to be available than during the summer months when rates are higher.
Spring is a beautiful time of year to visit when the Pennsylvania Dutch Country landscape begins to bud and blossom creating the perfect atmosphere for exploring state parks, hiking trails, and discovering back country roads.
Summer brings many visitors interested in outdoor activities from biking to zip-lining to enjoying the views from a mountaintop. Visitors can expect the summer to be a busier time with higher prices.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Reading, PA:
Reading, PA: Prices by Star Rating Class
Below are 3 charts illustrating avg. rate trends by star rating class in Reading, PA. Browse these charts to determine the best time period to stay in Reading for any future trips.
Luxury Hotel Options in Reading, PA
4 Star Average Prices: $140.60
Holiday Inn Express® & Suites Reading is conveniently located for travelers arriving via Reading Regional Airport less than an hour from the hotel. Well-appointed guest rooms feature contemporary furnishings, triple-sheeted beds, and include a microwave, refrigerator, cable TV, stereo, and high-speed internet. Guest rooms are also available with a relaxing whirlpool bath. All rooms at the hotel are non-smoking ensuring each room is fresh and inviting. The best way to start the day is with a hearty breakfast, which the hotel offers with its complimentary breakfast buffet. The hotel also offers business services, indoor pool, fitness center, ATM, and dry cleaning service.
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Reading puts guests in the heart of downtown with access to Santander Arena directly across the street. Upon arrival, be greeted by friendly staff and the hotel's signature chocolate chip cookie before heading to your guest room designed with convenience in mind with a 42” HDTV, work desk, safe, and free Wi-Fi. Satisfy your palate from the creative menus at Cheers American Bistro with indoor and outdoor seating. The pet-friendly hotel has more amenities to offer including an indoor pool, fitness center, gift shop, lobby bar, and shuttle service. For meetings and special events, guests have access to 27,000 square feet of space.
Affordable Hotel Options in Reading, PA
3 Star Average Prices: $120.73
When travel plans take you to Reading, an excellent choice for both leisure and business travelers is Candlewood Suites® Reading. Conveniently located, you'll be just minutes from restaurants, shops and boutiques, and local points of interest set amid the serene culture of the Pennsylvania Dutch countryside. Everything you need for a comfortable stay is at your fingertips from access to the guest laundry facilities to the convenience of the Candlewood Cupboard for sundry items. The pet-friendly hotel also offers a 24-hour fitness center, an outdoor grill when you want to flip your own burger, and the Lending Locker for items you may need to borrow.
Econo Lodge Northeast is your choice for affordability, convenience, and comfort all in one convenient location. The pet-friendly hotel makes traveling with your furry friend stress-free, and with rooms featuring refrigerators and microwaves, the trip will be easy on you, too. Included in your stay is a complimentary continental breakfast each morning that will get you energized for the day's activities. Whether you're traveling for business or pleasure, Econo Lodge Northeast offers comfortable bedding and well-lit rooms with TV for a good night's sleep. The hotel has ample outdoor parking for guests including those traveling by truck or by bus.
2 Star Average Prices: $95.54
Best Discounts in Reading, PA
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott® is known as a group friendly hotel with and an average group discount of 13.5 percent and a 7.1/10 group friendly rating. The hotel has just what your group needs with meeting and event space, business center, on-site parking, free breakfast, car rental, and complimentary Wi-Fi in every room. Guests also have access to safe deposit boxes, on-site laundry, newsstand, and complimentary coffee in the lobby. Guest rooms and king suites are designed for in-room comfort with plush bedding and for convenience, rooms feature a mini-fridge, microwave, and coffee maker. For relaxation time, enjoy the fitness center and refreshing pool.
Experience the elegance and charm of Abraham Lincoln Hotel in business since 1930. Located in the historic downtown district, the hotel evokes the architecture of that era with impressive columns enhanced by the richness of the wood decor. King, queen, and double guest rooms and executive and Jacuzzi suites feature premium bedding, work desk and chair, flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi, and more. For added convenience, rooms are equipped with a refrigerator, microwave, and coffee service. For your dining pleasure, enjoy classic dining in a casual atmosphere at Abe's by Chef Alan. The non-smoking, eco-friendly hotel has a group friendly rating of 10.0/10 and an average group savings of 30.6 percent.
Best Value Options in Reading, PA
Crowne Plaza Reading is an excellent choice with its location near shopping, museums, and dining venues. Being near Reading's attractions is a plus in keeping you on target with your busy itinerary. Comfortable guest and executive rooms promise a good night's sleep, and on-site amenities such complimentary Wi-Fi, fridge rental, vending machines, on-site laundry, and same day dry-cleaning take care of staying connected, snack time, and looking your best. If you're in the mood to exercise, take advantage of the on-site fitness center. Dining is a pleasure for breakfast and dinner at the hotel's Prime Steak and Wine, and Goodnites Lounge has DJs spinning the latest tunes.
Comfort Inn® Reading lives up to its name with comfort, convenience, and entertainment. Guest rooms have microwaves for snacks, coffee makers for a freshly brewed cup, and cable TV with HBO. The hotel keeps you connected with complimentary Wi-Fi and a USA Today newspaper during the week. The fitness center will keep you on your toes, and the complimentary deluxe breakfast will keep you replenished for a day of business or pleasure. The hotel also offers a meeting room, exercise room, valet cleaning service, and fax and copying services. Business and leisure travelers will find the hotel's location just four miles from the Reading Regional Airport an added convenience.
Things to Do in Reading, PA
GoggleWorks Center for the Arts is a "must visit" destination for anyone who enjoys art, handcrafted items, and movies. The 5-story complex was once home to the Willson Goggles factory and now serves as an interactive and working artists complex. Watch as artisans show off the techniques of their trade making jewelry, blowing glass, creating ceramic pieces, and carving an intricate wood sculpture. Kids can be creative with a make-and-take project and everyone will learn something new at the walk-in workshops. Relax at the café for lunch and stop by the gift shop for a souvenir. Admission and parking are free.
Perched atop Mount Penn is the Japanese-style, 7 stories tall Pagoda built in 1906. With unforgettable views of the city, you'll also see the original temple bell purchased in 1907. Enjoy fresh air and refreshments at the Pagoda Cafe open on Saturdays and Sundays.
Learn about history and science through exhibits at the Reading Public Museum and the Neag Planetarium. The Mid-Atlantic Air Museum, at Reading Regional Airport, has an impressive display of vintage aircraft, warbirds, and exhibits.
For sports action, make plans to visit the Santander Arena and Performing Arts Center. Enjoy the excitement of a fast-paced hockey game by the Reading Royals or take in a concert or Broadway show.
No matter which season you choose to visit Reading, there's plenty of history, culture, attractions, and points of interest providing memorable experiences. Plan a visit at one of the quality hotels and see what the Pennsylvania Dutch Country has in store for you.
FAQs about hotels in Reading
How much does a cheap hotel in Reading cost per night?
In the last year, a 2 star hotel in Reading can be as cheap as $95.54 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
How much does a 3 star hotel in Reading cost per night?
In the last year, the average 3 star hotel in Reading has been $120.73 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
How much does a higher-end hotel in Reading cost?
In the last year, the average 4 star hotel in Reading has been $140.60 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
Verified reviews of the city of Reading
Below are reviews of the city of Reading, PA from an actual visitor's perspective.
"Pagoda, shopping and great restaurants!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Pagoda, shopping and great restaurants!
Lester H., from 07-Aug-2023
"Near Golf Course!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Enjoyed Friday and Saturday at the golf course. Easy to get to and truly not very far away from the hotel.
Tracy B., from 25-Apr-2023
"Easily Accessible"
Score
4.0 / 5
Easy in and out
David H., from 19-Nov-2022
"Friendly Staff"
Score
4.0 / 5
Friendly!
Elaine G., from 20-Feb-2022
"Great Hotel!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Hotel staff was very pleasant and helpful the rooms were antiquated in ill repair in some cases. One of my rooms was not cleaned or made up upon arrival staff quickly accommodated us with another room breakfast service was very good.
Thomas O., from 16-Mar-2018
The average traveler rating of the city of Reading, PA shown above is
4.2 out of 5 based on 5 reviews