Things To Do in Reading, MA

Reading Public Library interior (representative royalty-free image)

Parker Tavern (1694)

Step inside Reading’s oldest surviving home, now a small museum with tours and seasonal programs. The saltbox architecture and gardens offer an intimate look at colonial New England life.

Reading Town Forest

Wander easy, well-marked woodland trails with boardwalks and birdlife just minutes from downtown. Great for a peaceful hour-long loop or a family nature walk.

Forest trail (representative royalty-free image)

Bare Meadow Conservation Area

Explore 125 acres of wetlands, meadows, and quiet woods with seasonal boardwalk views. It’s a favorite spot for peaceful walks and birding close to the neighborhood.

Official map

Meadow landscape (representative royalty-free image)

Mattera Cabin & Conservation Area

Stroll an easy trail network around a restored cabin that hosts occasional nature programs. Boardwalks and benches make it an inviting break for families and casual walkers.

Wooden cabin near wetlands (representative royalty-free image)

Reading Common (Town Common)

Catch community concerts, seasonal decorations, and small-town charm at the center green. The gazebo and lawns make a classic New England photo stop.

New England town green (representative royalty-free image)

Memorial Park

Relax on shaded benches and lawns dedicated to local veterans. It’s a quiet green pocket near downtown that’s perfect for a sandwich break and reflection.

War memorial and park (representative royalty-free image)

Washington Park

Play a quick game on the courts or bring the kids to the playground in this neighborhood park. Open lawns and tree cover make it an easygoing afternoon stop.

Birch Meadow Complex

Home to athletic fields, courts, and walking loops, this large complex buzzes with local games and weekend energy. Bring a ball, a bike, or just people-watch from the sidelines.

Athletic fields (representative royalty-free image)

Burbank Ice Arena

Skate public sessions, catch a youth game, or try a lesson at this popular community rink. It’s a classic New England ice experience for all ages.

Phone: (781) 942-2271

Ice arena (representative royalty-free image)

Meadow Brook Golf Club

Play a historic, tree-lined private course that’s a point of pride in town. Even if you’re not a member, tournament days and events animate the local scene.

Phone: (781) 942-1334

BeanStalk Adventure Ropes Course (Jordan’s Furniture)

Clip in and conquer 30+ rope elements suspended above the showroom floor. Kids under 48" have their own BeanSprout course, making it a fun rainy-day option.

Phone: (781) 944-9090

Jordan’s IMAX Theater

Catch blockbusters on a giant-format screen with stadium seating—inside a furniture store. Pair a show with a sweet treat and a whirl through the inventive displays.

Phone: (781) 944-9090

Movie theater seats (representative royalty-free image)

Burbank YMCA (YMCA of Metro North)

Swim, lift, or join a group class at the community’s fitness hub. Day passes and family-friendly programs make it easy to stay active while traveling.

Phone: (781) 944-2290

Fitness center (representative royalty-free image)

Kurchian Woods

Find quiet woodland paths and small bridges on this neighborhood conservation parcel. It’s a short, serene loop ideal for an unhurried nature break.

Trail listing

Wooded trail (representative royalty-free image)

Pinevale Conservation Area

Follow tree-shaded paths that connect neighborhoods to nature. Gentle grades and birdsong make it a refreshing morning walk.

Trail listing

Shaded path (representative royalty-free image)

Ipswich River Greenway (Reading Segment)

Walk or bike a shady green corridor that threads through the north side of town. It’s an easy way to add a scenic detour to your day.

Trail listing

Riverside path (representative royalty-free image)

Walkers Brook Drive Fountain

Pause by the playful fountain amid Reading’s retail strip—an unexpected photo-op between treats and errands. Kids love watching the water choreography.

Reference

Outdoor fountain (representative royalty-free image)

First Congregational Church of Reading (Historic Sanctuary)

Admire classic New England church architecture steps from the Common. The steeple and stained glass add to the old-town streetscape.

Phone: (781) 944-0205

Historic church (representative royalty-free image)

St. Athanasius Parish

This welcoming parish hosts concerts and seasonal events in addition to regular services. Drop by to appreciate the interior and quiet grounds.

Phone: (781) 944-0330

Reading Station (MBTA Commuter Rail)

Watch the Haverhill Line roll through or use the station as your launch point for car-free exploring. The area around the depot has coffee and quick bites.

Commuter rail station (representative royalty-free image)

Hunt Park & Playground

Let kids climb and swing while you relax under mature trees. It’s a friendly neighborhood pocket park close to downtown.

Playground (representative royalty-free image)

Symonds Way Athletic Complex

Fields, paths, and the ice arena make this a lively sports zone. Early evenings often bring a parade of local league practices to watch.

Athletic complex (representative royalty-free image)

Arthur B. Lord Park (near Burbank YMCA)

Grassy fields and paths tucked behind the Y make for a handy walk before or after a workout. Expect families, strollers, and friendly pups.

Creative Playthings Park (Reading)

A small, family-friendly play space ideal for a quick stop with little ones. Slides and swings make for a breezy half-hour break.

Site

Reading Town Hall & Common Green

Snap a photo of the stately civic buildings framing the Common. Seasonal displays and community events bring the lawns to life.

Phone: (781) 942-9001

Camp Rice Moody (Scouting Grounds)

Hidden woods and fields used for regional scouting sit within Reading’s borders. When public events occur, it’s a fun peek at outdoor skills and camp lore.

Phone: (617) 615-0004

Campfire area (representative royalty-free image)

Reading Athletic Club (Guest Passes)

Travelers can grab a day pass for courts and fitness. It’s a convenient option when the weather turns.

Phone: (781) 944-9222

Reading Historical & Veterans Services Office

Stop in for local history leads, event info, and memorial locations. Staff can point you to lesser-known spots around town.

Phone: (781) 942-6652

Ipswich River Park (Nearby, North Reading)

Playgrounds, fields, a skate park, and riverside paths make this a family favorite. It’s a quick hop from Reading’s northern neighborhoods.

Riverside park (representative royalty-free image)

Phone: (978) 357-5216

Bunratty Tavern (Local Favorite)

Settle into a cozy Irish pub for live music nights and hearty fare. It’s a cheerful stop after exploring the Common.

Phone: (781) 779-2337

Irish pub interior (representative royalty-free image)

Venetian Moon (Downtown Dining)

Enjoy classic Italian in an intimate setting right on Main Street. A popular date-night pick with a lively bar.

Phone: (781) 944-3633

Italian dinner table (representative royalty-free image)

Christopher’s Restaurant & Pub

Family-friendly comfort food and big game-day energy make this a local standby. Great for groups after a day outdoors.

Phone: (781) 944-9288

Swissbäkers (Café)

Grab European-style pastries and sandwiches at this sunny café near Walkers Brook Drive. Perfect for breakfast before the trails.

Phone: (781) 205-5459