Welcome to Reading
Reading, Massachusetts is a tranquil community just 16 miles from central Boston. The town has excellent transportation links into Boston, as the area is located close to Interstates 93 and 95 and is served by the MBTA’s rail line into North Station in Boston. Closer to home, Reading residents enjoy a busy downtown area. There are also expansive conservation and park areas, including the popular and picturesque Reading Town Forest.
Reading’s neighborhoods are made of single-family homes featuring traditional New England Colonial, Cape Cod, and Ranch styles. Lovely mature trees line Reading’s welcoming, suburban streets, providing shade and lots of natural beauty to the area.
What to Love
Local Lifestyle
Many residents commute to Boston for work. However, the weekends are bustling as families get out and enjoy everything the area has to offer. Locals flock to Reading’s downtown to indulge in delightful cuisine in any one of its restaurants or to shop along Haven Street.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
Reading provides access to national food chains and locally-owned diners and eateries. Those looking for an elevated dining experience should start with Venetian Moon on Main Street. The chic and modern Italian restaurant has a delicious surf-and-turf menu and an impressive cocktail list. Grab drinks with friends at the second location of the Public Kitchen where you can try a vast selection of craft beers alongside burgers, wraps, and pizza. If you want a cozy night in, stop by Pamplemousse and stock up on your choice of wines, gourmet cheeses, and delicious locally-made treats.
After you’ve had your fill of delicious food, visit Aine's Boutique for lovely jewelry and women’s apparel. This beloved staple in Reading has new items arriving weekly. Book lovers will want to stop at Whitelam Books, a locally-owned bookstore that not only stocks your favorite reads but also offers a selection of gifts, a book club, and children’s story times. If you’re in the market for high-quality furnishings for your home, look no further than Jordan's Furniture; also offering a laser light show and ropes course for the kids!
Things to Do
Reading offers a wealth of wonderful activities, including opportunities for outdoor recreation and a chance to meet more of your neighbors at community events. Many families choose to spend time at Reading Town Forest. The pine forest is perfect for outdoor adventurers of all ages and offers year-round hiking trails and cross-country skiing in the winter. If you need more outdoor fun, check out Memorial Park, where you can play tennis, go ice skating, or play a round of basketball at the park’s on-site court.
Community events include the annual Reading Fall Street Faire, which offers a selection of local food vendors and helps promote local businesses with live entertainment and many kid-friendly activities. You’ll want to mark your calendar for the annual Reading Porchfest, where locals host free live performances from local artists on their porches, driveways, and front yards. Reading’s Tree Lighting Celebration kicks off the December holiday season, including crafts and a visit from Santa himself at the Town Common.
