Much like the cities of Allentown, Bethlehem, and Easton to the east, the once-thriving railroad city of Reading is in the midst of a stunning revival. Reading’s perfect location, centrally located between the East Coast’s major cities and the anthracite coal-rich mountains of Pennsylvania, made the Reading area a huge processing point for coal and iron. The construction of the railroad, built by the famous Monopoly board game “Reading Railroad Company”, was the single greatest factor in the development of Berks County. Reading prospered for decades until the collapse of the railroad in 1976.

Reading has now transitioned to a new economy, focusing on the downtown. The plan was to revitalize the city while preserving its industrial skeleton and historic buildings. Warehouses, factories, and depots were converted into spaces for the arts. The old goggles factory (now called the GoggleWorks Center for the Arts) has been converted into art spaces, along with several venues for art galleries, shows, and performances. In fact, the famous Franklin Station has been preserved to highlight its marble ticket counters and high ceilings, and now houses a local brewery. Reading has also maintained its history with its museums: the Reading Firefighters’ Museum is located inside a 19th-century firehouse that still has the original furniture, and the Reading Railroad Heritage Museum, where you can wander through the original Reading Railroad caboose.

Also, 2 restaurants were recently featured on “America’s Best Restaurants”. America’s Best Restaurants is a national media and marketing company focused on bringing attention to local, independently–owned restaurants. The restaurants are selected based on customer reviews, menu items, social media presence, and the level of involvement in the community. Mimmo’s Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria and the Leesport Diner were selected.

  • Mimmo’s opened in 1997 and has multiple seating areas (including an area with cozy booths and hand–painted murals), a banquet area, and an outdoor flagstone patio with a waterfall. The restaurant has a huge range of dining options, including lunch and dinner options such as steaks, seafood, pastas, and pizza.
  • The Leesport Dinner opened in 2016 and has the look and atmosphere of a 1950s-style diner. The diner has an all-American menu of breakfast all day, as well as lunch and dinner options. There is a wide range of sandwich and dinner options, as well as build-your-own burgers, and a large selection of desserts in a glass case.

Keep it going, Reading!!

Moving in or Around Reading? Let O’Brien’s Moving & Storage Be Your Guide

As Reading continues its exciting transformation, O’Brien’s Moving & Storage is proud to help individuals, families, and businesses relocate to this thriving region. With decades of experience across Berks County and southeastern Pennsylvania, O’Brien’s is known for trusted, professional service and a deep connection to the communities they serve.

Whether you’re moving into a historic home downtown, transitioning to a nearby suburb, or relocating a business, O’Brien’s offers:

  • Expert local and long-distance residential moves

  • Reliable commercial and office relocation services

  • Careful and efficient packing and unpacking

  • Safe, secure storage options for short- or long-term needs

  • Senior relocation services with a personal, compassionate touch

Backed by a reputation for excellence, O’Brien’s Moving & Storage is here to ensure your next move is as smooth as Reading’s resurgence. Let their team help you feel at home in a city on the rise.