Welcome to the Greater Reading area! We’re thrilled to have you as part of our community. We understand that getting to know your new neighborhood can be both exciting and overwhelming. That’s why we’ve put together a guide of things for you to experience in your first 30 days here.
Remember, you don’t have to tackle everything at once. Take your time and savor each experience, allowing yourself to fully embrace all that the Greater Reading area has to offer. We hope this guide helps you feel more at ease and excited about starting this incredible chapter of your life in our welcoming community.
Find Your People
Join local community groups, clubs, or organizations to meet new people or explore professional networks in your field to expand your connections.
1
Shop Local
Support local businesses and take advantage of locally sourced foods by shopping at farmers' markets, boutiques, and independent shops.
Check out the Berks County Local Food Map or explore main streets throughout Greater Reading, PA.
2
Explore Arts and Culture
Visit local museums, art galleries, and cultural centers to immerse yourself in the community’s arts and culture scene.
3
Take Advantage of Outdoor Amenities
Discover nearby parks, hiking trails and recreational areas. Whether you make your home in the suburbs or cities of the Greater Reading area, there is easy access to the great outdoors. Connecting with nature is a mere hop, skip or short hike away.
4
Eat at Diverse Restaurants
Explore the diverse culinary scene that reflects our diverse community by dining at a variety of local restaurants.
5
Register for Local Voting
Update your voter registration to your new address. Find out where your local polling place is and mark upcoming election dates.
6
Get Involved in the Community
Attend local events, fairs, or festivals to get a sense of the community spirit. Consider volunteering or joining a community board to meet people and get involved. Subscribe to local newspapers, blogs and local magazines like Berks County Living and Palo to stay informed about community news and events.
7
Understand Local Transportation
Familiarize yourself with public transportation options like buses through the Berks Area Transit Authority or bike-sharing programs. Consider joining a carpool or rideshare program if available.
8
Enroll in a Local Fitness or Recreational Facility
Join a local gym, yoga studio, or recreational sports league. Look into local clubs or teams if you’re interested in sports, dance, or other physical activities.
9
Explore Educational Opportunities
Research local schools if you have children, including public, private, and charter options – view a list of schools. Greater Reading is home to 6 higher education institutions - check out adult education or continuing education programs. Look into classes or workshops on hobbies or skills you’re interested in developing like an art class at the GoggleWorks Center for the Arts. Connect with your local library - libraries are hubs for lifelong learning, offering access to books, workshops and community resources that can help you continue your education and personal growth.
10
Find Healthcare Providers
Choose a primary care physician, dentist and any specialists you may need. Fortunately, Greater Reading is home to three healthcare systems – Tower Health Reading Hospital, Penn State Health St. Joseph Medical Center and Lehigh Valley Health Network.
11
Settle Into Your New Home
Unpack and arrange your new space to make it feel like home. Introduce yourself to your neighbors and start building relationships. Familiarize yourself with local services like grocery stores, pharmacies, and other essential shops.
13
