Reading Pagoda
4.6(4.6K)google
Scenic LookoutFamilySunsetNight ViewOutdoorPhoto SpotCity LandmarkFreeQuirkyHistoric BuildingMountain
Overview
The Reading Pagoda is a novelty building, built atop the south end of Mount Penn overlooking Reading, Pennsylvania, United States. It has been a symbol of the city for more than a century.
Practical Info
Suggested Duration1-2 hours
Best TimeThe definitive hour for this surreal 1908 monumental seven-story historic Japanese-style pagoda is sunset from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM. Perched precariously on the absolute edge of the Mount Penn cliffs, the low evening sun strikes its tiered red tiled eaves beautifully, casting a pure gold wash over the sweeping valley below.
Getting TherePerched atop the summit of Mount Penn in Reading at 98 Dumpman Lane. Driving is essential due to the intense mountain hairpin curves. Follow the historic downtown grid to Duryea Drive, and climb the scenic mountain pass road for 4 miles to the dead end summit. The park features an expansive, free paved asphalt parking plaza straight outside the pagoda gate.
Travel Tips
- Perched atop Mount Penn at 98 Duryea Drive, the historic structure is under strict structural restoration, frequently shuttering its interior galleries indefinitely; check the City of Reading official alerts to verify interior access status.
- Duryea Drive is a narrow, winding mountain road with sharp switchbacks that strictly prohibits oversized RVs and towed trailers; the summit parking gates feature a hard physical closure at 10:00 PM, after which remaining vehicles are locked in.
Photo Tips
Best LightThe premium photographic window opens between 4:30 PM and sunset, with the western sun front-lighting the iconic red pagoda facade against the eastern valley; secure your tripod with a heavy base-bag to withstand high ridge winds.
Reviews
Positive
- The Japanese-style pagoda perched on the mountaintop is an iconic architectural wonder, offering spectacular sweeping vistas of Reading.
- The outdoor observation deck is completely free! At night, the pagoda's red neon lights flare up beautifully against the city lights below.
- Features dedicated pull-off parking slots along the crest, making it a perfect, high-yield photo stop and romantic sunset lookout.
- This century-old iron and tile structure is exceptionally well-preserved and photogenic, blending Eastern design with classic Americana road culture.
Heads up
- Due to ongoing preservation and safety issues, the pagoda interior and its upper tower stairs are closed long-term; outdoor exterior viewing only.
- The mountaintop area can attract rowdy crowds or street racers late at night; visitors are advised to limit trips to daylight or early evening hours.
- The winding mountain access road is narrow, steep, and full of sharp hairpins, completely lacking streetlights, which makes driving hazardous in fog.
- Lacks any proper public restrooms, visitor hubs, or cafes; the fully exposed platform gets uncomfortably cold and windy during winter.