Enjoy it while visiting Reading in Pennsylvania
The Reading Pagoda is a novelty building perched atop Mount Penn, rising 886 feet above the city of Reading to serve as one of Pennsylvania’s most distinctive landmarks. Built in 1908 as a summer resort project by city councilman William Abbott Witman, the five-story pagoda has been a beloved symbol of Reading for more than a century. Its exotic Japanese-inspired architecture stands in dramatic contrast to the industrial landscape below, creating a memorable silhouette visible across the Reading skyline.
The pagoda was constructed as part of Witman’s vision to develop Mount Penn as a recreational destination, offering city residents a scenic escape above the industrial bustle. Despite changing ownership and periods of neglect over the decades, the structure has been lovingly preserved and remains a testament to the civic ambition and creative spirit of early 20th-century Reading. The building features multiple levels connected by an internal staircase, each offering progressively more expansive views of the landscape below.
During its early decades, the site hosted thousands of visitors who made the journey by carriage and later by automobile to experience the novelty of a Japanese pagoda in the heart of Pennsylvania. The pagoda’s history has not been without challenges, but community advocacy and preservation efforts have repeatedly saved the beloved landmark from demolition. Today, the Reading Pagoda stands as a symbol of civic pride and a reminder that even industrial cities can embrace unexpected beauty and cultural diversity.
The main draw of the Reading Pagoda is the sweeping panoramic views it offers from its hilltop perch. On clear days, visitors can see for miles across the Reading area, taking in the Schuylkill River Valley, the rolling hills of Berks County, and on especially clear mornings, portions of the Pennsylvania Dutch Country to the west. The view is particularly spectacular during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset, when the city below is bathed in warm light and the landscape transforms through a palette of orange and gold.
Surrounding the pagoda are the landscaped grounds of Mount Penn, which include walking paths, benches, and interpretive signs. The area is popular with hikers and joggers who use the network of trails that crisscross the hillside. The mount also features a reservoir and associated infrastructure from the city’s water system, adding unexpected depth to the area’s history. The Reading Pagoda Mountain Preserve connects to larger green spaces surrounding the city, making it a gateway to broader outdoor exploration.
Birdwatchers are drawn to the area for its elevated vantage points and the diversity of species found in the oak-hickory forests covering the slopes. In fall, the hillside produces a striking display of autumn foliage that draws leaf-peepers from across the region. Cycling is another popular activity on Mount Penn, with the winding roads leading to the summit offering a challenging ride for dedicated cyclists. The scenic drive to the pagoda grounds is an attraction in its own right, with sweeping curves and overlooks that showcase the beauty of the Reading landscape.
The pagoda is open daily during daylight hours and accessible by car via Mount Penn roads. Parking is available near the summit. There is no admission fee to visit the pagoda grounds, making it an affordable destination for families and individuals alike. The best time to visit is during the spring and fall seasons when the weather is mild and the surrounding landscape is at its most colorful, though summer weekends draw the largest crowds reflecting the pagoda’s status as a community landmark.