Now more than ever, take a ‘StayCation’ and become a tourist in your own hometown!
Taking a break from work doesn't mean you have to go far. Take a Ride in your hometown; there's probably a lot you haven't seen. Arts, antiques, festivals, museums and sports all set against scenic Greater Reading provide fun and relaxation for everyone! Read through our StayCation suggestions or go to our calendar of events and discover the Greater Reading you've been missing. Take a Ride!
Outdoor Lovers Staycation
The Place: French Creek State Park
Rt. 345 South of Birdsboro
Elverson, PA 19520-9523
610-582-9680
Hike through French Creek's 7,339 acres of self-guided courses for use by visitors of all ages, or challenge your friends to a game of frisbee golf on one of the two courses. In addition, French Creek offers swimming in the public pool or boating on the lakes. Bring your own boat (with registration) or rent one for a nominal fee.
Visit French Creek for a day or plan ahead to stretch your trip by reserving a spot in their camping facilities.
Admission Fees: Free to the park, check website for other applicable fees like camping, swimming and boating.
http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/stateparks/parks/frenchcreek.aspx
FUN AND GAMES STAYCATION
The Place: Ozzy's Family Fun Center
5411 Pottsville Pike
Leesport, PA 19533 610-926-6162
Ozzy's indoor fun includes rock climbing, roller skating, rope courses bounce and even an indoor mini-golf course. Outdoor activities include go-carts, bumper boats and more. This is a great place to grab a bite to eat and have fun with the whole family.
All day pass: over 48"-$25.00, under 48"-$17.50
website
Informative and Fun StayCation
The Place: Hawk Mountain Sanctuary
1700 Hawk Mountain Road
Kempton, PA 19529
610-756-6961
Located along the Appalachian Trail, scenic Hawk Mountain Sanctuary offers an outstanding nature experience with its mountaintop vistas, hiking trails, and thrilling autumnal raptor migration. With a total of 2,600 acres, anyone can enjoy these trails rated from easy to challenging. You can spend an entire day at the sanctuary or take an early morning hike.
Regular Trail Fee: $5 Adults, $4 Seniors, $3 Children 6-12, Children 5 and under are free
Autumn Weekends (Sept-Nov) and National Holidays: $7 Adults and Seniors, $3 Children 6-12
website
The Place: Roadside America
I-78 Exit 23, P.O. Box 2
Shartlesville, PA 19554
610-488-6241
Roadside America is the Greatest Indoor Miniature Village in the heart of beautiful Pennsylvania Dutch Country. It's an unforgettable panorama of life in rural United States. The exhibit spans more than two hundred years in time and lets you see, in exquisite miniature, how people lived and worked in pioneer days right up to the present.
website
The Place: WK&S Railroad
42 Community Center Drive
Kempton, PA 19529
610-756-6469
Known as the "Hawk Mountain Line", the WK&S has been open since 1963. This 45 minute train ride through beautiful scenic woods. After your ride, you'll feel rested and ready to head south to your next destination!
Adults (12 and over): $8.00, Children (3 to 11): $4.00, Free for Children 2 & Under
website
The Place: Crystal Cave
963 Crystal Cave Road
Kutztown, PA 19530
610-683-6765
Crystal Cave is Pennsylvania's greatest underground wonder. The 45 minute tour through stalactites, stalagmites and stone formations is enhanced by indirect lighting as you travel 125 feet underground. After your tour of the cave, don't forget to pan through the soil to find beautiful gems to take home as a keepsake.
Admission Rates: Adults: (12 & over) $11.50, Children: (4 - 11) $7.50
Group rates available
http://www.crystalcavepa.com
SMARTS AND ARTS PACKAGE
The Place: GoggleWorks Center for the Arts
201 Washington Street
Reading, PA 19601
610-374-4600
Dedicate an entire day to the GoggleWorks, Greater Reading’s own arts and cultural center! Spend the afternoon viewing an independent film in the theatre. Listen to musicians perform, marvel at glass blowing demonstrations, meet with artists and watch them work in their studios. Get involved; sign up for classes in pottery, ceramics, photography or jewelry making. Or try your form at yoga and belly dancing.
Admission Rates: Free
Theatre tickets: Adults: $8.00, Students: $5.00
website
The Place: Reading Public Museum and Planetarium
500 Museum Road
Reading, PA 19611
610-371-5850
The Museum houses galleries and collections as well as events showcasing the discovery of art, science and civilizations. Visit the planetarium to learn about black holes, astronauts, and icy worlds, or to view a laser show.
Museum rates: Adults: $8.00, Students: $6.00, Children 4 and under - free
Planetarium Rates: Adults $8.00, Students: $6.00, Children 4 and under-Free
website
The Place: Historical Society of Berks County
940 Centre Avenue
Reading, PA 19601
610-375-4375
Head to the Historical Society of Berks County to see their 20,000 artifacts that tell the story about the development of Berks County. Three levels of museum exhibits interpret our colorful history from the Conestoga Wagon to the 1902 Duryea car to toys, crafts and fine arts.
Admission Rates: Adults $4.00, Seniors $3.00, Children $2.00
http://www.berkshistory.org/
If you're not ready to call it a day, catch a play at any one of these fine production companies. Check websites for seasonal plays, classic productions and original works by local playwrights. Theatre is alive in Greater Reading.
Reading Civic Theatre
PO Box 186 - 124 N. 10th Street,
Reading, PA 19603
610-375-7482 or 610-373-3311
website
Or
Reading Community Players
403 N. 11th Street
P.O. Box 13425
Reading, PA 19612-3425
610-375-9106
website
'Take a Ride' PACKAGE - By Air, Train or
Automobile
The Place: The Golden Age Air Museum371 Airport Road
Bethel, PA 19507
717-933-9566
Take your ride by air to learn about the golden age past. This museum offers a chance to explore the history of aviation. Learn how the early aviators flew, and what they flew. Museum displays include full size operational aircraft and automobiles, as well as displays of artifacts from the Golden Age of Flying.
Admission Rates: Adults: $5.00, Children: $3.00
website
The Place: Reading Railroad Heritage Museum
500 South Third Street
Hamburg, PA 19526
610-562-5513
Visitors can see exclusive video showcasing the Reading Railroad, plus view exhibits about the influence of the Reading Railroad on society, business, technology, and the environment. Visit and see why everyone wants to learn about the heritage of one of the most influential railroads in the history of the eastern United States.
Admission Rates: Adults: $5.00, Seniors: $4.00, Children: $3.00
website
The Place: Mid Atlantic Air Museum
11 Museum Dr.
Reading, PA 19605
610-372-7333
Haven't had enough of flying machines? The Mid Atlantic Air Museum highlights the Mid Atlantic's contribution to flight as well as the general history of aviation, including military aviation. Take a tour and walk through the exhibit building, hangar and go out on to the museum ramp. The Mid Atlantic Air Museum annually hosts a WWII Weekend on the first weekend in June.
Tour Rates: Adults: $6.00, Children: $3.00, ages 5 and under: FREE
website
The Place: Boyertown Museum of Historic Vehicles
85 S. Walnut Street
Boyertown, PA 19512
610-367-2090
Learn about and view the various vehicle exhibits at the Museum of Historic Vehicles. Discover rare and handsome vehicles you have never seen before and won't find anywhere else. The museum has scheduled programs and events as well as research facilities, videos and publications to enjoy.
Admission Rates: Adults: $6.00, Seniors: $5.00, Students: $4.00
website
Greater Reading HISTORIC Sites Staycation
The Place: Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site
2 Mark Bird Lane
Elverson, PA 19520
610-582-8773
Hopewell spans two centuries and presently stands as an example of America's development during the industrial revolution. Explore the museum which provides exhibits and audio-visual programs, including an 11 minute theater program giving a history of the Hopewell Furnace Community. Get the chance to experience living history programs and demonstrations that show the work and lifestyles of the residents of Hopewell.
Admission is FREE.
website
The Place: Daniel Boone Homestead
400 Daniel Boone Road
Birdsboro, PA 19508
610-582-4900
You'll be able to sort through fact and fiction as you tour the historic site which includes the Boone House, 18th century structures, a lake, picnic areas, and recreational facilities. The Daniel Boone Homestead offers a variety of walking and hiking possibilities as well. The local Amity Lions Club has provided a ¼ mile sensory trail for the visually impaired.
Adults $4.00, Students ages 6-17 yrs. $2.00
Large groups (20 or more) should call ahead to schedule a tour time.
website
The Place: Conrad Weiser Homestead
28 Weiser Lane
Womelsdorf, PA 19567
610-589-2934
Conrad Weiser was an 18th century German immigrant who served as an Indian interpreter and helped coordinate Pennsylvania's Indian policy. The homestead includes period buildings and a new orientation exhibit. Nestled on a 26-acre Olmsted-designed landscaped park, Conrad Weiser Homestead is the perfect place to wind down and end this StayCation.
Admission Rates: Adults $3.00, Children: $2.00
website
The Place: The Pagoda
Physical Address: 98 Duryea Drive
Reading, PA 19601
610-655-2584
Come explore one of the most recognizable landmarks of Reading: the Pagoda! This Asian influenced, seven storied, 886 feet structure above Reading has been around for over 100 years! You can come see the beautiful design of the lit up red pagoda, wonder inside in the gift shop or museum, or take a stroll outside and see the scenic view of Reading. Whatever you desire, the Pagoda can provide a relaxing time up and above the city.
Explore the Pagoda at NO COST!
http://www.readingpagoda.com
GET TO KNOW YOUR HERITAGE Staycation
The Place: Berks County Heritage Center Home of Gruber Wagon Works and C. Howard Hiester Canal Center
2201 Tulpehocken Road
Wyomissing, PA 19610
610-374-8839
The Berks County Heritage Center is a historical complex honoring important eras of our local transportation and manufacturing history. Start learning about our Berks County heritage by taking a tour through landmarks of our local history; including the Gruber Wagon Works and the C. Howard Hiester Canal Center
Tour Rates: Adults: $8.00 (both tours), Students (ages 16-18): $ 4.00, Seniors: $6.00 Children: $5.00 (both tours)
website
The Place: Pennsylvania German Cultural Heritage Center
22 Luckenbill Road
Kutztown, PA 19530
610-683-1589
The Pennsylvania German Cultural Heritage Center focuses on the preservation of Pennsylvania Dutch history, folklore, and traditions. It is part of Kutztown University's educational and cultural program. The Center is located on a 30 acre, 19th century farm consisting of a barn and smaller buildings (which have been authentically restored) a one-room schoolhouse from around 1870 and the library, which contains genealogical, historical and cultural information. Check the center's website for activities and demonstrations.
website
The Place: Central PA African-American Museum
Old Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church
119 N. Tenth Street
Reading, PA 19601
610-371-8713
You'll be fascinated by what you see at the Central PA African American Museum. The museum is housed in the Old Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church, the oldest African American owned, church building in Reading and Berks County. Additionally, this museum was a stop on the Underground Railroad. Take a guided tour through the museum's exhibits and art and travel through "the pit," where runaway slaves hid. Realize how far we've come as you get a close-up look at our history.
Tour Rates: Adults: $3.00, Seniors: $2.50, Children: $1.50
website
SPORTS LOVERS STAYCATION
The Place: Bear Creek Mountain Resort
101 Doe Mountain Lane
Macungie, PA 18062
1-866-SKI-AT-BC
You’ll want to spend the entire day at Bear Creek Mountain Resort, a first class facility located on more than 330 acres in scenic Berks County, Pennsylvania. The resort features skiing, snowboarding and snowtubing winter activities and hiking. After a day on the slopes relax at the bar and restaurant, The Grille at Bear Creek or pamper yourself at the full service spa, The Spa at Bear Creek. Not ready to end the fun, head back to the Sovereign Center for a night of hockey.
website
The Place: Body Zone Sports & Wellness Complex
3103 Papermill Rd
Wyomissing, PA 19610
610-376-2100
Ice skating is good old-fashion fun for the whole family. With two NHL-size ice rinks, Body Zone unquestionably has some of the finest facilities available for ice sports in Berks County and the surrounding area. Friends and family, young and old will enjoy ice skating at one of the centers many public skating sessions, complete with rental skates, disc jockey and light show. Grab a relaxing dinner and head into the Sovereign Center to cheer on our local ice hockey team.
website
The Place: Reading Royals Hockey
Sovereign Center
700 Penn Street
Reading, PA 19602
610-898-PUCK
Cold weather means hockey weather. Head indoors to watch Reading’s AA Ice Hockey team, the Reading Royals. A loyal fan base, plenty of promos and in-arena give-aways, plus great food make it a fun night for all.
Prices start at $15.00
website
'GO GREEN' STAYCATION
The Place: Rodale Institute and BookStore
611 Siegfriedale Road
Kutztown, PA 19530
610-683-1400
Learn about "going green" on this StayCation. The Rodale Institute is located on a 333-acre organic certified farm in Kutztown, Pennsylvania, devoted to research, education and certified organic production. The production and demonstration areas offer visitors an opportunity to learn how agriculture can either contribute to environmental problems or be a significant solution in solving global warming. Learning never stops, even on vacation. Sign up for classes and demonstrations offered just for you. After your day at Rodale, keep things green and head to your next stop.
Admission Rates: Self-guided tour: FREE Guided 60 minute tour: Adults: $12.00, Students: $6.00
website
The Place: Blue Marsh Lake
1268 Palisades Drive
Leesport, PA 19533
610-376-6337
100's of acres of forest and woodlands offer recreation and sanctuary to you at Greater Reading's man-made Blue Marsh Lake. Bring along bikes or hike through the sixteen miles of trails. Blue Marsh Lake's large swimming area is also open to the public. Facilities include showers, restrooms, and picnic areas with charcoal grills. Stay the day or grab some grub and move on. Admission Rates: $3.00 per car.
website
The Place: Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center
2910 New Holland Road
Reading, PA 19607
610-796-3699
Continue your day at beautiful Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center. Nolde includes more than 665 acres of woodlands and plantations. An Arrangement of trails makes the center's streams, ponds and diverse habitats accessible to both students and casual visitors. The Center is dedicated to helping people develop a sound environmental ethic. Who says you can't have fun while you learn? Check Nolde's website for classes and events.
Admission Rates: FREE
website
PA DUTCH CULTURE
STAYCATION
The Place: Penna Dutch Gift Haus93 Roadside Dr
Shartlesville, PA 19554
(610) 488-6529
Browse through a variety of Pennsylvania Dutch gifts and merchandise at the Penna Dutch Gift Haus. Decode the messages of hex signs, pick up a jar of homemade chow-chow or shoo-fly pie mix, or learn to play Dutch Blitz. Whatever you find at the Gift Haus, it's sure to be a Pennsylvania Dutch treasure.
The Place: Dreibelbis Station Bridge
Dreibelbis Road
Lenhartsville, PA 19534
The covered bridges of Berks County are made unique with Pennsylvania Dutch flair. The Dreibelbis Station Bridge is adorned with a Pennsylvania Dutch hex sign that symbolizes good luck.
The Place: Wooden Bridge Dry Goods
195 Deysher Road
Kutztown PA 19530
(610) 683-7159
This large, quaint fabric and quilting store has fabrics from around the world and has a variety of patterns, accessories, and trims. Stop by for tips on how to stitch your own Pennsylvania Dutch quilt.
The Place: Pennsylvania German Heritage Center
22 Luckenbill Road
Kutztown, PA
(610) 683-1589
Step back in time and take a tour of a 19th century Pennsylvania Dutch farmhouse located near Kutztown University. Your tour guide will show you around this historic, beautiful home as you learn how Pennsylvania Dutch farmers lived and provided for their families in the 1800's.
The Place: Leesport Farmers Market
312 Gernant's Church Rd
Leesport PA 19533
(610) 926-1307
If your Pennsylvania Dutch journey falls on a Wednesday, be sure to stop at Leesport Farmers Market. Indulge as you sample shoofly-pie, Schnitz un knepp (apple slices and dumplings), and whoopee pies.
website
The Place: Berks County Heritage Center
2201 Tulpehocken Road
Wyomissing, PA 19610
(610) 374-8839
Learn about Berks County heritage from the experts at any of the eleven sies and landmarks included at the heritage center. Stretch your legs as you walk through the surrounding parks and make sure you stop to take a picture with the Distlefink, a Pennsylvania Dutch symbol for happiness and good fortune.
website
The Place: Tom Sturgis Pretzels Inc.
2267 Lancaster Pike
Reading, PA 19607
(610) 775-0335
The pretzel is one of the many traditions brought to Pennsylvania by the Germans. The Tom Sturgis Pretzel Company now produces about 30 variations of the pretzel, including the original hard pretzel developed by Julius Sturgis around 1861. Visit the Tom Sturgis Bakery and Pretzel Store in Shillington to pick out a tasty souvenir.
website
Not enough PA Dutch?
Visit these attractions for extra "Dutchy" flavor:
Roadside America
109 Roadside Dr
Shartlesville, PA 19554
(610) 488-6241
Renninger's Antiques and Collectibles & Farmers Market
740 Noble St
Kutztown, PA
(610) 683-6848
Kutztown Area Historical Society
Whiteoak St & Warren Ave
Kutztown, PA 19530
610-683-7697
RAINY DAY IDEAS
So you scheduled your vacation well ahead of time, got all the chores done, and made a plan for a StayCation. The weather is calling for downpours. Here at the GRCVB we already thought ahead to save your StayCation.
The Place: Reading Movies 11 & IMAX
30 N. 2nd Street
Reading, PA 19601
610-374-6195
It may be wet outside but who cares. Plan to stay indoors at Reading Movies 11 & IMAX. With huge wall to wall curved screens, stadium seating, HPS 4000 sound system with DOLBY digital, online ticketing, free 3 hour parking, daily matinees and 3D digital projection on select screens. Grab some popcorn and enjoy the season’s newest releases. Afterwards, choose from an array of great downtown restaurants for after movie snacks before heading home.
Ticket Prices: range from $6.25-$22.00
website
The Place: Alisha's Spa Euphoria
418 Haig Boulevard
Reading, PA 19607
610-775-7040
Nothing can make a rainy day more relaxing than spending it in the sap! At Alisha's Spa Euphoria, you can forget about the dreadful weather outside, and focus on YOU inside! Treat yourself to a facial, massage, body-wrap, micro-treatment, makeup trial, or hair removal. Alisha's staff is friendly and skilled, most being nationally certified. They can help you with your "quest for physical, mental, and spiritual health and wellness." They have what it takes to lead you into total oblivion! Avoid the rain even longer and purchase one of the "ritual" packages: you won't regret it!
Treatments range from $8-$405
http://www.alishasspa.com
The Place: GoggleWorks Center for the Arts
201 Washington Street
Reading, PA 19601
610-374-4600
Your rainy day will continue to not be such a drag after visiting the GoggleWorks. This campus of buildings is dedicated to everything art: you will be amazed at all you will find and discover here! See a movie not offered in traditional theaters at the film theatre. Ponder the high quality work of national and local artists alike in the store, and then purchase your favorites! Explore the 34 artist studios and workshops, or even pop in a classroom to learn more about your favorite art. Is your rainy day on a Sunday? Take part in "Second Sundays" in which there is live music, walk-in workshops, and free 'Make and take' children projects. Be sure to stop at the Cucina Cafe before you make your way back out into the storm!
Admission is FREE.
http://www.goggleworks.org
The Place: VF Outlet Center
801 Hill Avenue
Reading, PA 19610
610-378-0408 or 800-772-8336
Nothing says rainy days better than shopping. The VF Outlet Center is definitely the cure to your rainy blues. Check out America's original discount destination, and receive first quality name brands at discounted prices. The best designer outlets can be found here. Shop at your favorites, including Designer Bags, Dooney and Bourke, Gold Toe, Jones New York, Reading China and Glass, Rue 21, and Tommy Hilfiger. You will get hungry from all the shopping and savings, so stop by the delicious food court! No matter when you decide to visit VF, rain or shine, you will always be pleased with the huge sales and mark-offs!
http://www.vfoutletcenter.com
ADULT FUN
STAYCATION
Place: Sands Casino Resort77 Sands Boulevard
Bethlehem, PA 18015
877-SANDS77
Run the tables at Sands Casino Resort; you may get lucky! The resort is home to the slots as well as table games. Sands offers many promotions such as Forever Young Days, the Hot Seat, and the BBQ set giveaway. Even if gaming isn't your style, one of the many dining venues throughout the resort will spark your interest like Emeril's Chop Shop or St. James Gate Irish Pub.
website
The Place: Blair Vineyards
99 Dietrich Valley Road
Kutztown, PA 19539
610-683-8463
Make a day out of the extensive vineyard and enjoy the monthly happy hour, various festivals and events with music and food, as well as the occasional dinner that is served along with wine.
website
The Place: Stoudt's Brewing Company
Exit 286 PA Turnpike
2800 North Reading Road - Route 272 North
Adamstown, PA 19501
717-484-4386
Stoudt's Brewing Company has so much for you to explore, including a restaurant and pub, brewery, "wonderful good market," antique shop, and retail store. Come through the free tour at the brewery, but be sure to try the samples of the lagers and ales, and pick some up at the bar on your way out.
website
The Place: Goodnights Lounge and Nightclub
Crowne Plaza Reading Hotel
1741 Papermill Road
Reading, PA 19610
610-376-3811
Go to Goodnights Lounge and Nightclub for some dancing to the club's live jazz or rock bands, and DJ'S. Open seven nights a week.
website
The Place: Accent on You Salon and Spa
1307 New Holland Road
Reading, PA 19607
610-777-8800
Get your hair cut and colored, try a manicure, pedicure, or makeup trial, or even pamper yourself to a spa facial, massage, or scrub/wrap. Nothing beats spoiling yourself to an afternoon of luxurious relaxation and comfort. It's time you come to Accent on You Salon and Spa and get "New York ambience for Berks County prices."
Spa packages: range from $100 - $325
website
BRING THE KIDS STAYCATION
The Place: Dutch Wonderland
2249 Lincoln Highway East
Lancaster, PA 17602
1-866-FUNatDW (386-2839)
"Dutch Winter Wonderland" is open until the end of December for family enjoyment with the kids! This "Kingdom for Kids" had over 30 fun filled rides including 2 kid-friendly coasters and a merry-go-round. The park is complete with plenty of family friendly dining and indoor entertainment.
website
The Place: Ozzy's Family Fun Center
5411 Pottsville Pike
Leesport, PA 19533
610-926-6162
This Family Fun Center offers a wide array of fun. Spend the day at the go-karts, lasertron, arcade, skate world, rock-climbing, ropes course, bumper boats, mini-golf, adventure challenge obstacle, jump factory, or sports arena. All day passes: 48" and above $29.95
47" and under $24.95
website
The Place: Crystal Cave
963 Crystal Cave Road
Kutztown, PA 19530
610-683-6765
Your kids will be amazed by Crystal Cave, the most popular natural attraction in Pennsylvania. Take the 45 minute interpretive underground tour and learn everything there is to know about caves, crystals, and natural formations. Your family will be in awe as they discover the various gemstones, emeralds, and fossils all available for purchase at Crystal Cave. Mini-golfing is also available!
Rates: Adults $11.50, Children 4-11 $7.50, Children under 3 FREE
Mini-golf: $4
website
SHOPPING LOVERS STAYCATION
The Place: Sorrelli Jewelry220 West Main Street
Kutztown, PA 19530
610-894-9857
If jewelry is your product of choice, then you definitely want to try Sorrelli Jewerly. Words cannot describe how beautiful, unique, and impressive the jewelry is here. You will have all your friends asking where you bought that amazing necklace or bracelet! Sorrelli offers antique inspired heirloom jewelry hand crafted from genuine semi-precious stones and high-quality Austrian crystals. Your shopping lovers staycation would not be complete without stopping by this shop with the most stunning of accessories. Sorrelli Jewelry is renowned and sold all over the country, but originated here in Reading. You can't miss out on this!
website
The Place: Penn Corridor
Penn Street, Reading through Penn Avenue
West Reading, PA
Not only is there an amazing shopping experience along the Penn Corridor, you will also find yourself absorbed by all of the art, dining, movies, theater, and concert possibilities. The Penn Corridor expands across 2 miles that a shopping lover can access by walking or driving. See the best of the city of Reading and all of the art and culture it has to offer. You will be amazed by the neat boutiques and fine dining choices. There is so much going on along the Corridor! And, every first Thursday of the month, "First Thursday" takes place, modeled after the First Fridays of New York and Philadelphia. Take part in this evening of fun and excitement, filled with shopping, great specials, activities, free concerts, and happy hours!
website
The Place: Antiques Capital USA
P.O. Box 343
Denver, PA 17517
717-336-7563
Not ready to end your staycation? Still craving more shopping? Well then it's time you take a trip to Antiques Capital USA. Located in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country, Antique Capital USA is the premier year-round antiques destination of the Northeast. Visit the 17 antique shops with items that have resonated over time. You'll find objects here you have never seen anywhere else! Take a break from the antique shops and stop at one of the surrounding pubs or beer distributors. It's the perfect way to end your shopping lovers staycation.
website
SWEETHEARTS PACKAGE
The Place: Balloon Rides Daily
Box 490, Hopewell Rd
St Peters, PA 19470
1-800-763-5987
Spend your morning like never before. Even if you have lived in Greater Reading all of your life, chances are you haven’t seen it from the sky. US Balloon Rides presents a bird’s eye view of our beautiful and historic countryside. Have champagne as you land to make the moment a memory you will never forget.
Distance from Reading: 20 miles/35 minutes
website
The Place: Reading Symphony Orchestra
147 North Fifth Street
Reading, PA 19601
610-373-7557
What could be more romantic than an evening of music? The Reading Symphony Orchestra provides monthly concerts at the Sovereign Performing Arts Center. Pre-plan to purchase your tickets so you can attend an RSO performance of your choice. Ticket prices vary.
www.readingsymphony.org
Winedown Café & winebar
622 Penn Ave.
West Reading, PA
610.373.4907
You’ve spent an exhilarating day with the one you love. Finish the day at the Winedown Café. Offering wine and a limited menu of cheeses, “small plates” and desserts in a cozy atmosphere; it’s the perfect spot to wind down and enjoy the end of a perfect day.
http://www.winedowncafe.net/
For Valentine’s Day Stay and Play!
Planning a special Valentine’s Day Date? Don’t get stressed! There are plenty of fabulous Valentine’s Day dates right here in greater Reading! Put a spark into your love life and generate some heat in the February air. No need to break the bank, stay local and check out these Valentine’s Day date ideas. Local, fun, and affordable, these playful dates were created for every kind of couple! Try our ideas for a casual evening out, a romantic weekend getaway, and everything in between!
Get lucky on Valentine’s Day! – Sands Casino resorts
Spend a fun-filled weekend with your special someone at Sands Casino and Resort in Bethlehem! Reserve a room and take a chance; hit the game floor and win big with your Lady Luck! Spend the evening enjoying the games and the surrounding nightlife. Savor the flavorful cuisine and spend the night!
Music Lover’s Date
Love music? Love your mate? It’s a date! Spend Valentine’s weekend with the Reading Symphony Orchestra. Catch dinner and a show in downtown Reading on Saturday, February 11th. What’s a little music without diner? Enjoy one of Reading’s fantastic restaurants, all within a few blocks of the symphony. Feeling fancy? Check out Judy’s on Cherry, Hong Thanh Vietnamese & Chinese Restaurant, Dan’s Restaurant or Panevino. For more casual fare, try The Peanut Bar, The Ugly Oyster, or The Speckled Hen. Have a night cap and reconnect at the Abraham Lincoln Hotel to conclude a truly romantic evening.
Romantic Weekend Getaway
Get away from the grind and spend a magical Valentine’s weekend away at one of Greater Reading’s beautiful bed and breakfasts. Snuggle up in the adorable Adamstown Inns & Cottages. Check out the natural beauty at the Hawk Mountain Bed and Breakfast or head to Douglassville and stay at the Yellow House Hotel. For more romantic getaway ideas, visit the “Places to Stay” link on our website.
Spa Date
Relax and rejuvenate with your loved one this Valentine’s Day! Visit one of Greater Reading’s fantastic spas. Treat yourself and your partner to a romantic couple’s massage! Spa “Two-gether” at Alisha's Spa Euphoria, or indulge at Tina’s Salon and Day Spa. Feeling more adventurous? Hit the slopes at Bear Creek and after a long day of fun and snow revitalize with a couples massage. Spend the night and do it all over again!
Penn Corridor Date
Looking to stay low-key and local? Stroll Penn Corridor for food, shopping, and fun! When you’re ready to warm up, stop into the Winedown Café and Winebar. Enjoy each other’s company and some appetizers while tasting a variety of wines from their impressive menu. For dinner, head to Judy’s on Cherry, Dan's, Third & Spruce, or any of the many wonderful restaurants on the Corridor. Surprise the one you love with some sparkle- check out Justin Bortz/Black Swan Jewelers for the most perfectly glamorous Valentine’s Day gift. Cozy up together and in a romantic suite at The Courtyard by Marriott or the Candlewood Suites.
Sports Lovers Date.
Trying to figure out how to please your sports fanatic this Valentine’s Day? Spend Saturday, February 11th with the Reading Royals! Game starts at 7:05; enjoy the fast paced thrill of ice hockey with the one you love. Afterwards, hit the Pike Cafe, The Ugly Oyster, Brewer’s Bar & Grill, or Third & Spruce Cafe for a final round of fun. Grab a cab and spend the night with the friendly people at The Hampton Inn, The Courtyard Marriott, or the Abe Lincoln.
REALLY love sports? Spend Valentine’s Day at the Sovereign Center cheering on your favorite high school basketball team as the Girl's Semi BCIAA Round heats up!
Animal Lovers
Who says your date needs to be human? Valentine’s Day is all about the one you love, so don’t forget man’s best friend! Work out the kinks with a person and pet message! This service is available on Friday, February 10th, at Godfrey’s Dogdom. Relax with your pooch for a one hour message. Recuperate with therapeutic message healing by the professionals at Accent On You while your dog experiences a full body rub down! Then, go upstairs and shop in the cutest pet store around.
In the morning, take your furry friend on a 2 mile nature hike adventure at Nolde Forest. Trek through forest trails with your favorite canine. This outing starts at 10 A.M. The Nolde staff will highlight the beautiful, seasonal points of interest along the way. Remember to leash your pal!
**All attractions listed must be phoned ahead for hours
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