Being from a small town in the middle of a forest, moving to a college in a city is definitely quite an experience. New sights, new sounds, and new smells (the familiar smell of mushrooms at 10 a.m. is lovely). Luckily, there is a lot more to Reading than continuously exploring Albright's Campus and your friend's dorm rooms. Each week since week one, a friend and I have traveled to a new area to explore. With one semester of adventure down, here are nine of our favorite visits.
1. The Pagoda (98 Duryea Drive - Reading)
Recommended for you
If you live in or near Reading, you've been to the Pagoda or at least seen it as its red lines light up the edge of Mount Penn where it's located. If you haven't been, I highly advise taking the trip up. Not only do you get amazing panoramic views of the city, but sunsets at the Pagoda are even more spectacular. A definite must-see if you live in the area, and a wonderful tourist attraction (unless you're afraid of heights). Open on weekends for about four hours each day, the views from the fifth floor are even more astonishing if you're willing to climb the stairs.
2. The Genesius Theatre (153 North 10th Street - Reading)
I've been to Broadway and the shows are amazing but in all honesty, the experience you get while watching a play at the Genesius almost tops it. The seats are set into the stage (to enter or exit the seating area you have to cross the stage itself). The performers are within arms length, the seats shake with every footstep (a nice way to keep in beat with the song), and you truly feel like you're in the performance. One of the most interactive and intimate venues I've been to - plus, the local actors and actresses are astounding!
3. Goggleworks (201 Washington Street - Reading)
Goggle-factory-turned-arts-museum, Goggleworks is one of the neatest and most multi-functional buildings I've been to. You can practice glass-blowing, try your hand at pottery or woodworking, or (as exploration of the top floor revealed) even attend dance lessons. The building even houses many resident artists who create their works right on site in their own studios. A great way to support and even have the chance to meet Reading's local artisans.
4. 5th Street Diner (5340 Allentown Pike - Temple)
Great food, great service, great time - 5th Street has it all. Having gone here at least 10 times since last semester, I can assure you that the food quality is always at its most excellent and that their wraps and gyros are to die for. Even my parents use it as their go-to diner when they visit.
5. Schell's Dairy Swirl (4625 North 5th Street Highway - Temple)
Not only do they have ice cream, they also have mini golf in the back! Homemade ice cream like you've never had before, Dairy Swirl is a definite must-go for those who want to try something other than Albright's selection of chocolate or vanilla.
6. The FOX Berkshire Theatre (800 Berkshire Boulevard - Wyomissing)
I'd never experienced reclining movie theater seats before until I went to see Deadpool, but let me assure you that it is quite the experience. Not only comfortable, the seats allow you to lay back and watch the movie rather than having to crane your neck upwards to see. The design of the theater also evokes an up-to-date style and the tickets are cheap.
7. Your Pet Experts (1665 State Hill Road - Wyomissing)
Just as with the Pagoda, if you haven't been to Your Pet Experts, you need to go now. You'll never get tired of holding the puppies, and there are always new ones as those before them get adopted! I've never been to this pet store without it being packed, but that's because the staff are friendly, the products are great, and the puppies are adorable! Plus, the cat that roams around the store is extremely friendly and loves having visitors.
8. Nolde Forest (2910 New Holland Road - Reading)
Being from a forest, there's nothing better than having a new home away from home (forest away from forest?). Nolde hosts a variety of events throughout the year, from trekking through snow in snowshoes to carving pumpkins to bring home for Halloween. A beautiful area during both the winter and the summer, Nolde is a great place to walk your dog, take a hike, or simply spend the day away from the bustle and hustle of the city.
9. Fairgrounds Farmers Market (2934 North 5th Street Highway - Reading)
I have to admit, the first time I walked into Fairgrounds I had no idea where I was. I'd never been to an indoor farmers market before but it definitely should be an Experience Event (especially if you come from a place that didn't have a fairgrounds let alone a locally-owned market). You can get anything at fairgrounds, and I mean anything. They offer candies, wines, haircuts, pretzels, drinks, and much more. Great prices and great products, Fairgrounds is a great idea for a weekend shopping trip.
