A Little Planning.
A Mountain of Possibilities.
Come for the view. Stay for the history, fresh air, and discoveries along the way.
Perched atop Mount Penn, the William Penn Memorial Fire Tower offers a memorable introduction to Reading and Berks County. Whether you’re planning a family outing, adding a stop to your road trip, or spending a weekend exploring the region, start your adventure here.
Start Here: Your Trip Checklist
☐ Choose your date. Check our Tower Sunday and special event schedule before making travel plans.
☐ Check for updates. Review weather-related announcements and access changes before leaving home.
☐ Save your directions. Use the Tower’s Google Maps location linked below.
☐ Plan for the climb. Tower observation levels are reached by stairs. Contact us beforehand with accessibility questions.
☐ Dress for the mountain. Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes and bring an extra layer.
☐ Pack your essentials. Bring water, sun protection, a charged phone, and your camera or binoculars.
☐ Choose a trail, if hiking. Review a trail map, select a route suited to your group, and allow time to return before gates close.
☐ Make a day of it. Add a meal, another attraction, or an overnight stay using the resources below.
When to Visit
Tower Sundays: Sundays, noon–4:00 p.m., April through December, under the announced schedule through 2027. Special events may offer additional opportunities to visit.
Always check our latest schedule posted on our homepage before traveling. Weather and other conditions may affect opening times or Tower climbs.
The Tower and its grounds are open only during scheduled public openings and special events. You can view the Tower from Skyline Drive outside those times.
Skyline Drive’s security gates are open daily from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. year-round. Road access does not mean the Tower grounds or observation levels are open.
Getting Here
William Penn Memorial Fire Tower
621 Skyline Drive
Reading, PA 19606
The Tower sits atop Mount Penn along Skyline Drive, approximately one mile from the Pagoda. Check your destination pin before starting your trip, as some older listings use alternate addresses.
Follow posted road signs, closures, and gate restrictions. Mountain roads are shared with cyclists and other visitors, so drive carefully and allow extra travel time.
Parking: Parking is available during scheduled openings. Follow event signs and volunteer directions, and keep gates and access routes clear. Contact us before bringing a bus, RV, or large group.
What to Expect
The Tower Climb
Experience a historic landmark from the inside and enjoy panoramic views from its observation levels. Visibility varies with the weather, and entry may involve a wait during busy events.
The climb includes stairs and spiral stairways. Consider the needs and comfort of everyone in your party before participating. Please follow volunteer instructions throughout your visit.
Admission
Published Tower Sunday pricing is $5 per climb for ages 10–65, with other ages admitted free. Cash and PayPal are accepted on site. Special event pricing may differ; check the listing for your visit.
Accessibility and Facilities
Accessible restrooms are listed among Tower Sunday amenities. Please contact us before traveling to discuss parking, ground surfaces, restroom access, and whether the Tower experience will suit your needs. Access to the grounds and access to the observation levels involve different considerations.
Picnics and Time Outdoors
Bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy a picnic during scheduled grounds openings. Help preserve the peaceful setting by leaving personal speakers at home and carrying out your picnic supplies and trash.
Explore the Trails
Add a walk or hike to your mountain visit! Plan your route separately from your Tower visit, as trail access points, terrain, and walking times vary.
Choose a route suited to your group, download your map before heading out, and leave enough daylight for your return. Stay on marked trails and respect posted closures.
Helpful resources:
Stay Nearby
Turn your mountain outing into a Berks County getaway. These hotels in Reading and Wyomissing are within approximately 20 miles of the Tower. Check directly for rates, availability, accessibility, and any pet or parking policies.
HotelLocationExplore and BookDoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Reading701 Penn Street, downtown ReadingHotel websiteCourtyard by Marriott Reading Wyomissing150 North Park Road, Reading/Wyomissing areaHotel websiteHampton Inn Reading/Wyomissing1800 Papermill Road, WyomissingHotel website
Find additional hotels, inns, and other accommodations through Experience Reading & Berks County’s lodging directory.
Find a Local Table
Enjoy a meal before or after your visit. These nearby options are within approximately 20 miles of the Tower; driving distances vary by route.
Restaurant or Dining AreaWhat You’ll FindPlan Your StopThe Knight’s Pub at Stokesay CastleDining in a distinctive Mount Penn setting at 141 Stokesay Castle LaneRestaurant websiteJudy’s on CherryMediterranean-inspired dining at 30 South Fourth Street, downtown ReadingMenus and reservationsCheers American BistroA bistro and bar inside the DoubleTree in downtown ReadingRestaurant websiteWest Reading’s Penn Avenue DistrictRestaurants, cafés, pubs, and sweet treats to exploreWest Reading dining directory
Visiting on Sunday? Check restaurant hours carefully. Some restaurants operate only on selected days. Confirm hours, reservations, and dietary accommodations directly before visiting.
Browse More Berks County Restaurants
Make a Day—or a Weekend—of It
Build your itinerary around a few nearby discoveries:
The Reading Pagoda: Explore another Mount Penn landmark. Check its website for current grounds access, restoration updates, and tour availability. Plan a Pagoda visit
GoggleWorks Center for the Arts: Discover exhibitions, working studios, and creative experiences in downtown Reading. Plan your visit
Reading Public Museum: Explore art, history, science, and planetarium programming. Plan your visit
West Reading: Browse local shops and find a place for coffee, lunch, or dinner. Explore West Reading
Check each attraction’s hours and reservation requirements when planning your day.
Your Local Travel Resources
Experience Reading & Berks County
Our regional visitors bureau is your starting point for local attractions, accommodations, dining, events, and trip ideas.
Visit Pennsylvania
Extend your getaway with statewide destinations and travel inspiration.
Explore Pennsylvania
Questions Before You Go?
Planning a group outing? Traveling with someone who has accessibility needs? Have a question about visiting with children or pets?
Email info@williampennfiretower.com before your trip so we can help you plan.
We look forward to welcoming you to the mountain!