Discovering the Rich Tapestry of Berks County at the Berks History Center
Explore Berks County's history at the Berks History Center, where captivating exhibits and rich archives bring the past to life.
Nestled in Reading, Pennsylvania, the Berks History Center invites tourists to explore the captivating history and culture of Berks County. This engaging destination offers a unique glimpse into the past through fascinating exhibits and a wealth of archival resources.
A brief summary to Berks History Center
- 940 Centre Ave, Reading, Pennsylvania, 19601, US
- +1610-375-4375
- Visit website
- Wednesday 9 am-3 pm
- Thursday 9 am-3 pm
- Friday 9 am-3 pm
- Saturday 9 am-3 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays for a quieter experience and more personal interaction with staff.
- Check the center's schedule for special events and lectures that may coincide with your visit.
- Plan to spend at least a couple of hours to fully explore the exhibits and archives.
- Inquire about any guided tours for a more in-depth understanding of the exhibits.
- Don't forget to visit the gift shop for unique local history-related souvenirs.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are near the Reading Public Library located at 100 S 5th St, head south on S 5th St toward Washington St. Continue straight on S 5th St for about 0.5 miles until you reach the intersection with Penn St. Turn right onto Penn St and walk for about 0.2 miles. When you reach the intersection with Centre Ave, turn left. The Berks History Center will be on your right at 940 Centre Ave.
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Public Transport - Bus
From the Reading Bus Terminal, take the BARTA bus route 3. Board the bus going towards the 'Centre Ave & 9th St' stop. Stay on the bus for approximately 10 minutes. Get off at the stop near Centre Ave and 9th St. Walk south on Centre Ave for about 0.3 miles, and the Berks History Center will be on your left at 940 Centre Ave.
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Biking
If you have a bike, start from City Park located near the center of Reading. Exit the park and head east on Franklin St. Continue straight until you reach the intersection with 5th St. Turn left onto 5th St and ride north for about 0.6 miles. Turn right onto Penn St and ride for about 0.2 miles until you reach Centre Ave. Turn left onto Centre Ave, and after a short distance, you'll see the Berks History Center at 940 Centre Ave on your right.
Discover more about Berks History Center
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Centre Park Historic District
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Skew Arch Bridge
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GoggleWorks
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Bring The Change
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Marvel Ranch
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Berks County Pennsylvania Historic Marker
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Puerta del Sol
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Henry A. Muhlenberg Pennsylvania Historic Marker
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Reading Historic Preservation
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Reading Science Center
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City Park
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Freedman Gallery
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The Peace Rock
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Reading Area Firefighters Museum
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William Penn Memorial Fire Tower
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Reading Pagoda
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Reading Public Museum Arboretum
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Reading Public Museum
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Neag Planetarium of the Reading Public Museum
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Kelly's Lock Overlook
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Essential places to dine
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La Fogata Mexican Restaurant
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El Bohio Restaurant
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Pike Cafe
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Rio Cafe
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Lang Restaurant (old Hong Thanh)
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The Peanut Bar Restaurant
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Russo's Pizzeria & Italian Restaurant
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El Único Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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New Heightz Grocery Store
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Reading Center Plus
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Reading Adult Outlet
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Queen Gift Shop
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Helen's Corner Bar & Restaurant
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