Photo © Courtesy of Pennsylvania’s Americana Region
Discover things to do in Pennsylvania’s Americana Region
Spectacular landscapes and countless seasonal activities make fall in Pennsylvania’s Americana Region worth the journey. Home to Reading and Berks County, PA, the area is known for unique festivals and crowd-pleasing events like Taste of Hamburg-er Fest, Chile Pepper Food Fest, NHRA Nationals at Maple Grove Raceway, and Reading Liederkranz’s Oktoberfest. The latter ranked as the top Oktoberfest in America by USA Today Top10 competitions in 2015 and 2017.
Fantastic arts happenings share the region’s fall lineup. Reading Blues Fest, Reading Film Fest, IX Imaginary Art Expo, and Berks Guild of Craftsmen Holiday Arts Show are annual events attracting worldwide visitors.
Ride Along Scenic Mountain Biking Trails
Autumn is an ideal time to explore Berks County’s outdoor offerings. Home to the Greater Reading Trails System (GRT), hikers and bikers delight in over 125 miles of year-round fun. This bronze-level International Mountain Biking Association Ride Center, GRT, is just one of the region’s amazing outdoor experiences. Folks kayak, paddle board, fish, disc golf, camp, rock climbing, and bird watch way into colder months.
Enjoy the Scenery from the Comfort of an Edwardian-Era Train
Take in the region’s rich fall colors as you enjoy the elegant trappings of the Colebrookdale Railroad. Built by soldiers returning from the Civil War, the beautifully restored train offers themed excursions and events that delight passengers of all ages. For an even closer view of the landscape and fauna, opt for a ride on one of Colebrookdale’s railbikes—weather permitting.
Sip a Craft Beer at One of The Local Breweries
Quench your thirst with homegrown craft beers and mead as you follow the new BrewHaHa Trail. The trail also includes pubs selling regional beers, bars with eight or more taps, and information about local wineries.
Drive Idyllic Rural Roads to See Colorful Hex Barn Art and Historic Covered Bridges
Follow the self-guided Barn Star and Covered Bridge Tours for an up-close look at Berks County’s stunning fall landscapes. As you travel country roads, look for colorful hex signs, the unique and best-known art form of the PA Dutch. You’ll also encounter Berks County’s five remaining covered bridges. Each of the barn stars and bridges is an American treasure.
Peruse the Arts
Head to GoggleWorks Center for the Arts, a factory-turned-arts-center, for exhibits, classes, demonstrations, events, and more. As for public art, whimsical bears dot the streets of Boyertown, and a sculpture by former resident Keith Haring graces Kutztown’s Community Park. West Reading’s Mural Walk includes over 30 artworks covering over three blocks.
Marvel at the Unique Architecture of The Pagoda
A visit to Pennsylvania’s Americana Region isn’t complete without a trip to the Pagoda. The iconic landmark has watched over the City of Reading since 1908. While the interior of the building is closed for restoration, visitors can still view the impressive exterior of the structure and the incredible views from its mountaintop setting.
Get your free travel guide at visitpaamericana.com/visitors-guide
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Pennsylvania’s Americana Region is steeped in old-world traditions, where arts and industry intersect with expression and necessity.
