Museums & Galleries

Those with a knack for history and learning will feel right at home in Pennsylvania’s Americana Region. Strolling through galleries and historical sites is a favorite pastime in Berks County, PA. With a slew of different museums and exhibits to choose from, there’s always something new to discover. 

Transportation 

If you’re interested in all things planes, trains, and automobiles – look no further. You can find anything with wheels or wings in one of our region's many museums. 

The Reading Railroad Heritage Museum gives visitors an in-depth look into the history of the Reading railroad system and how it transformed the Americana region. While you learn, take an up-close look at original documents, railroad blueprints, and real-life train equipment. 

For model train lovers, the National Toy Train Museum in nearby Strasburg houses one of the largest collections of toy trains. Displays are updated yearly and include rare and unusual  trains dating all the way back to the 1800s.  

Once you’ve learned all you can about the railroad system, head to the Boyertown Museum of Historic Vehicles to see over 90 Pennsylvania-built vehicles on display. Learn about the evolution of wagons, cars, bicycles, trucks, and more! 

If flying high is more your style, Mid-Atlantic Air Museum in Reading is a must stop. The museum tells the story of the people, ideas, perseverance, and patriotism that made aviation possible. Mid-Atlantic’s annual World War II Weekend is held the first full weekend of June annually and offers attendees one of the biggest and best WWII reenactment experiences in the USA. 

Not to be overlooked is Boyertown’s Gen Carl Spaatz National USAAF Museum with interactive exhibits of aerial warfare and more. 

History 

Explore Mayan treasures, Native American artifacts, famous art installations, and more at the Reading Public Museum. The museum has over 300,000 relics and hosts tons of temporary exhibits throughout the year. Kids of all ages can take a deep dive into kid-friendly topics and enjoy hands-on activities while learning. While you’re there, take your experience out of this world at the Neag Planetarium. Learn all about astronomy by attending one of their shows. Check their daily schedule for themed shows that make learning more fun for children.

Find galleries and exhibits featuring folk art, clocks, and artifacts at Berks History Center, a museum and research library in Reading. Also in Reading is the Berks County Heritage Center, home to historic landmarks, including a grist mill. For a better understanding of PA Dutch culture and history, visit the Pennsylvania German Cultural Heritage Center in Kutztown. And for all things firefighting, explore the artifacts and vehicles on display at the always fascinating Reading Area Firefighters Museum

Arts & Science 

You’ll be awed by creativity when you visit GoggleWorks Center for the Arts. The factory turned arts center invites visitors to walk its galleries, chat with artists at work, and watch glass blowing and woodworking demonstrations. The 145,000-square-foot complex inspires visitors to expand the boundaries of art in one of the largest art centers of its kind in the country. 

Another unique center in the city is the Reading Science Center. This nonprofit organization is a hands-on center that encourages the love of science through interactive exhibits and workshops. The Reading Science Center is a popular attraction for young and old minds alike. 

There are so many places to learn and discover in Berks County and Reading, Pennsylvania. All you have to do now is choose where to start!