Attractions and Places To See around Shillington - Top 20

Shillington offers several historical points of interest. You can visit the John Updike's Childhood Home, which is now a museum dedicated to the acclaimed author. Another significant historical landmark is the remnant of the old almshouse, a stone wall that inspired Updike's book *The Poorhouse Fair*. The borough was also once home to Thomas Mifflin, Pennsylvania's first governor.

For natural beauty and trails, explore the Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center, which features over 700 acres of woodlands and more than 10 miles of nature trails. The Angelica Creek Trail offers a 4.2-mile path through suburban green spaces, and Shillington Park provides local recreational opportunities. The Wyomissing Creek also flows along the western edge of the borough.

Yes, there are excellent options for both hiking and cycling. The Union Canal Trail is a crushed limestone path suitable for walking and cycling, running along the Tulpehocken Creek. The Schuylkill River Trail is another multi-use path built over abandoned rail beds, perfect for various activities. For more extensive hiking, Highlands Park offers grassy and dirt trails within the city. You can find many routes for cycling around Shillington, including easy, moderate, and difficult options, by visiting the Cycling around Shillington guide.

Many attractions around Shillington are suitable for families. The Wertz's Covered Bridge is a restored historical site that is part of the Union Canal Trail, making it accessible for walkers and bikers of all ages. Both the Union Canal Trail and the Schuylkill River Trail are flat, traffic-free paths ideal for family bike rides or walks. Highlands Park also offers easy trails where deer are often spotted, delighting children.

Yes, the Reading Pagoda, located nearby, offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. You can climb its 87 steps to the top floor for a great vantage point. The Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center also provides scenic paths through dense woodlands and rolling hills.

In natural areas like Highlands Park, deer are commonly seen and are accustomed to human presence. The extensive woodlands and wetlands of the Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center also provide habitats for various local wildlife, including birds and small mammals.

The Shillington Farmers Market is a popular local spot offering fresh produce, meats, and other homegrown foodstuffs. Other community points of interest include the Mifflin Community Library and the historic Shillington Town Hall.

Gravel biking enthusiasts will find several routes. Popular options include loops that incorporate the Schuylkill River Trail and the Union Canal Trail, such as the 'View of the river – Schuylkill River Trail loop from Gibraltar' or the 'Wertz's Covered Bridge – Union Canal Trail loop from Reading'. You can explore more routes in the Gravel biking around Shillington guide.

While many trails are accessible, the Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center offers over 10 miles of trails, some of which traverse rolling hills and dense woodlands, providing more challenging options for hikers. For cycling, there are also difficult road cycling routes available, such as the 'Maiden Creek loop' or the 'Tulpehocken Creek/Lake Ontelaunee loop', detailed in the Road Cycling Routes around Shillington guide.

The Shillington area, with its blend of natural trails and historical sites, is enjoyable across seasons. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling through areas like Nolde Forest, with vibrant foliage in autumn. Summer is ideal for enjoying the multi-use trails like the Union Canal Trail. Always check local weather conditions before planning your visit.

Many of the outdoor trails in the Shillington area are dog-friendly, provided pets are kept on a leash. The Union Canal Trail and the Schuylkill River Trail are generally welcoming to dogs. It's always a good idea to check specific park or trail regulations before your visit to ensure a pleasant experience for you and your pet.

Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of historical significance and natural beauty. The restored Wertz's Covered Bridge and the extensive multi-use paths like the Union Canal Trail are highly rated for their accessibility and scenic appeal. The opportunity to explore trails without traffic and spot local wildlife, such as deer in Highlands Park, also contributes to a positive visitor experience.