Blake Walsh

20 Best Things to Do in Hamburg, PA

  • Published 2023/02/07

Once you have experienced the best things to do in Hamburg, Pennsylvania, you’ll agree with us that it is a charming little town that deserves a visit.

When you walk the streets of Hamburg, you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped back in time to a more innocent time.

Hamburg is a terrific spot to bring the whole family because of its rich history, beautiful landscapes, numerous recreational options, and bustling downtown.

Kaercher Stadt was named in honor of Martin Kaercher Jr., who obtained his father’s 250-acre parcel in 1779 and split it up into construction lots.

It is often believed that Hamburg was called after the “German Hamburg” because of the region’s considerable German population.

“Hamburg” may be a corruption of “Bad Homburg,” as the Blue Mountains seem quite similar to the Taunus mountain range, which was the home of Johann Martin Kaerscher Sr. (1718-1787), the father of Martin Kaerscher Jr.

You can’t go wrong in Hamburg, PA, where cuisine, entertainment, and high-quality activities are readily available.

Now let’s look at the 20 best things to do in Hamburg, Pennsylvania.

Explore a Variety of Offerings in Cabela’s Hamburg

Exterior of Cabela's Hamburg

Khairil Azhar Junos / shutterstock.com

Cabela’s didn’t cut any corners when bringing an authentic outdoor experience to the Keystone State.

The large 250,000-square-foot retail showroom, right off I-78, is full of outdoor gear and knowledgeable outfitters ready to help you make the most of your next journey.

You’ll see why they’ve become a popular destination for visitors, from the geese soaring overhead to the animal and fish mounts adorning the store.

Additionally, it has three wildlife exhibitions and two live fish exhibits.

Fish lovers will be delighted by our two Trout Ponds, each holding a whopping 55,000 gallons of freshwater to enjoy.

In three distinct tanks, the aquariums contain approximately 30 different kinds of fish, including catfish, walleye, rainbow trout, crappie, largemouth bass, gar, and red-eared slider turtles.

The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission’s Cooperative Nursery Program provided the fish for our Trout Pond’s Golden Rainbow Trout.

Learn about the City’s History at Reading Railroad Heritage Museum

In Hamburg, Pennsylvania, it’s hard to miss an opportunity to learn about an important early local business.

In the middle of Hamburg, you’ll find the Reading Railroad Heritage Museum.

Incorporated to safeguard the Reading Railroad’s rich history and culture, the Reading Company Technical & Historical Society operates and manages the museum.

Those interested in history and the railroad will find a wealth of activities at this museum.

The Reading Railroad Museum, which has been open to visitors since 2008, tells the narrative of the world’s largest business, which is made even more well-known by the board game Monopoly.

Reading Railroad memorabilia, including pictures, papers, and artifacts, are displayed at the museum.

Catch a Movie or a Live Performance at The Hamburg Strand Theatre

Front View of The Hamburg Strand Theatre in Hamburg, Pennsylvania

Smallbones, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Strand Theater in Hamburg is housed in a structure that dates back to 1799.

As a Federal-style home located at 6 South and 4th Street, it was transformed into a restaurant before becoming a theater in 1920.

In addition to movie screenings, the theater features a variety of live acts, including comedic performances, open mic nights, bands, and more.

Aside from showcasing artwork everywhere, it also hosts art courses in a separate area.

The theater also hosts “Meet the Artist” events and other gatherings for the arts.

It’s not just beautiful architecture and design; it’s also quite economical.

Gaze at Amazing Artworks at Art & Craft Gallery of Hamburg

Downtown Hamburg is home to the Art & Craft Gallery.

This shop features a gallery of local artists and a tourist information center.

There is a modest display of brochures for nearby sites at the tourist center. It displays the work of more than 40 local artists.

Here you’ll find anything from paintings and sketches to metalwork and sculpture to pictures to woodturning and basket weaving.

If you are looking for something that will fit into your lifestyle, we have various options at reasonable costs.

Have a Picnic at Etchberger Memorial Park

This neighborhood park offers a variety of play areas for kids of all ages and basketball, volleyball, and baseball diamonds.

There are sheltered picnic tables and seats along the river where you may sit and observe the birds and squirrels in their natural habitat.

A canal tow route and an ancient railroad bridge are the two options for a walk, but the latter extends for kilometers.

There is also a swimming pool with two water slides available for a charge during the summer.

Only on the riverbanks and footpaths are dogs permitted.

Indulge in Different Hamburger Flavors during the Hamburg Hamburger Festival

An entire town is dedicated to hamburgers in the heart of Pennsylvania Americana.

This festival takes place in Hamburg before Labor Day in Pennsylvania!

Come and sample the many different burgers on offer. Bring your hunger since you’ll be able to sample a wide variety of burgers.

There are around 40,000 attendees from all over the East Coast and beyond attending this festival.

Afterward, head to the Budweiser & Burgers Beer Garden or Beer and Wine Patty-O to cool off.

To get a copy of the festival program guide, stop by the hospitality booth during the festival.

Buy Premium Cigars at Cigars International Superstore

Cigars International is the best place to buy handcrafted cigars, cigar accessories, premium tobaccos, and more, all at the lowest rates in the business.

It takes great pleasure in its real enthusiasm for cigars.

It strives hard to give the best customer service possible in a welcoming, down-to-earth setting while also sharing our enormous cigar expertise with anybody who wants to learn more.

Cigar International features all the big-name brands you want, such Drew Estate, Macanudo, Alec Bradley, Diesel, Arturo Fuente, Romeo y Julieta, Gurkha, Rocky Patel, Man O’ War, and Cohiba, to name a few.

It also sells some of the lesser-known boutique brands you’ve been searching for.

Have Some Retail Therapy at Historic Downtown Shopping District

Old Downtown Hamburg’s Main Street tells the story of what was and what may be again if only you dare to go back there.

Because of the concentration of people in Hamburg, small company owners have opened a window of opportunity to move in and establish themselves.

Discover what the city center of Hamburg has to offer by spending a few minutes there.

Downtown Hamburg is an excellent area to hire a bike and ride about the city.

For those looking for a new or used bike and service, there are plenty of places to go.

Wearing a helmet and protective gear, including luminous clothing, headlamp, or an alarm system, is essential for each ride.

You’ll discover a wide variety of art in downtown Hamburg, but you’ll have to put in the time and effort to select the perfect item.

The greatest place to find your next piece of art is downtown shopping.

Buy Exquisite Jewelry at Muller Rare Coins & Fine Jewelry

Front View of Muller Rare Coins & Fine Jewelry in Hamburg, Pennsylvania

Doug Kerr from Albany, NY, United States, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Muller Rare Coins & Fine Jewelry has been a family-owned and managed business since 1963.

It has a long history of fair and honest commerce, personal connections, and the lowest rates for high-quality items.

All precious metals are traded at our shop, including gold and silver coins.

Make sure you don’t overpay at big-name retailers!

Muller Rare Coins in Hamburg is a terrific place to get excellent bargains on rare coins, exquisite jewelry, precious metals, and more.

This Hamburg institution is widely known for the quality of its products and services.

Grab a Bottle of Beer at 1787 Brewery

Hamburg became a city in 1787.

1787 Brewing Company was formed in 2018 as a tribute to the town and the local neighborhood that flourishes there. Co-owner Jim Gerner is a native Hamburger.

There is no shortage of names for 1787 Brewing Company’s brews, from the Penn Steel Pale Lager to the Fern Sholly IPA.

In the craft brewing sector, staying local has been a major focus; 1787 Brewing Company exemplifies this perfectly in sync with the community it represents.

This downtown Hamburg brewery is as passionate about beer as it is about its home city.

Experience the history of Hamburg through its beer!

Go Mountain Biking along the Schuylkill River Trail

Several organizations and localities have administered the Schuylkill River Trail for many years.

Between Philadelphia and Parker Ford, more than 30 miles of the Schuylkill River Trail have been built.

For around 20 miles from Parker Ford to Reading, the path diverges from the main route.

To get there, cyclists may follow a 20-mile marked on-road route that ends just outside Hamburg’s city.

Trail users may reach the lovely seven-mile track from Hamburg to Auburn in Schuylkill County.

Hit the path if you’re looking for a fun way to get some exercise or just get around town.

Go Fishing at Kaercher Creek Park

Kaercher Creek Park is a great place to fish for huge bass.

This public fishing and boating lake lie in the eastern part of Hamburg.

The park highlights a 40-acre lake with various fish, including huge bass, for anglers to enjoy.

Alternatively, you may launch a boat to better view the water and higher chance of catching something when fishing from the beach.

Stocking of trout occurs both in advance of the spring launching day and in preparation for the winter fishing season.

Electric-powered and unpowered boats are the only types of watercraft allowed to be operated.

The lake is open to the mooring of non-powered boats in compliance with the property rules.

You must register your boat or have valid launch permission to utilize the lake.

In addition, Kaercher Creek Park provides a variety of other recreational options.

The lake serves as the park’s centerpiece, including a fishing pier, boat dock, and boat launch ramp.

A lodge, a picnic pavilion, playground, volleyball courts (sand and non-sand), horseshoe pit, and quoit are all included in the family-friendly amenities.

During the summer, Kaercher Creek Park hosts several concerts and educational events.

Hit the Bar at Westy Bar & Grill

The best spot in Hamburg, Pennsylvania, for delicious cuisine, beverages, and entertainment is Westy Bar & Grill.

They have a fantastic menu with a ton of excellent options.

Imagine a perfect night out with the incredible ribeye steak, or start with some of the greatest wings in Berks County.

Westy Bar & Grill features a full bar and a range of rotating draft beers on tap in addition to customer favorites.

Don’t forget to sample the wide variety of frequently changing bottled beers.

Swing by at happy hour, round up your pals, and treat yourself to a fun night out!

Join a Tour of the Lucky Leprechaun Vineyard and Winery

The modest, family-run Lucky Leprechaun Vineyard and Winery began cultivating grapes in the spring of 2016.

With each vine planted and cared for by hand, they currently have nearly 3,000 vines.

The varietals include Catawba, Fredonia, Niagara, Cabernet Franc, Itasca, and others.

Lucky Leprechaun also obtains fruit from local Pennsylvania vineyards to aid in producing exceptional wines and is PA Preferred.

Hamburg’s tasting room & event center began operations on November 30, 2019.

Tour the tasting room on Fridays or Saturdays.

Lucky Leprechaun hosts events and/or Pop Up Shops on Saturdays from December through April.

Soak the Peacefulness in Pigeon Creek Bed and Breakfast

Pigeon Creek Bed & Breakfast, tucked away in the Northern Berks County countryside, is ideally situated for a weekend getaway or a relaxing midweek vacation.

They have a wonderful two-story farmhouse with four bedrooms, two staircases, and two floors.

A queen bed, an own bathroom, and a private veranda with views of the pond and grassy hillside are included in the “Betty” room.

A large bathroom with a soaking tub/shower is shared by the “Stella,” “Sara,” and “Verna” rooms.

Additionally, they offer weeklong rentals for family get-togethers at the homestead, which has been in their family for more than 150 years.

Pigeon Creek Bed & Breakfast is in a beautiful and peaceful location.

The tractor path overlooking the farm and pond is open to you if you want to take a quick stroll there.

Party at The Wherehouse of Hamburg

The Wherehouse of Hamburg, positioned at 215 Pine Street, is a wedding and event location that exclusively utilizes the catering services of Chef Shef.

Use the spacious room as a blank canvas for couples to design their ideal scene!

There are alternatives for indoor and outdoor wedding ceremonies, and the backdrops are contemporary and historical.

Allow Wherehouse of Hamburg to host whatever type of event you require, including your catered wedding and reception, business events, birthday celebrations, and non-profit gatherings.

The nearby catered event facility provides seating for up to 500 guests.

Unwind at Hope Pryde Farm Bed & Breakfast

Explore the 200-year-old functioning farmstead Hope Pryde Farm Bed & Breakfast, tucked away on a peaceful rural road in the gently sloping countryside of northern Berks County, Pennsylvania.

You may unwind at Hope Pryde Farm Bed & Breakfast in freshly refurbished, private rooms while tasting farm life.

Pick from either of their two private rooms, both with their entrances, in their isolated guest house.

Views of cows and horses grazing on pasture are available from your accommodation.

You might even be able to see a trout leaping from their spring-fed pond if you watch closely.

Savor a farm-fresh breakfast in the Pennsylvania Dutch country to kick off the day.

Other Things to Do Nearby

Explore Scientific Discoveries at Da Vinci Science Center

Exterior of Da Vinci Science Center

CyberXRef, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

In 1992, Lehigh University in Bethlehem established the Science Model Area Resource Team (SMART) to give area students with hands-on science activities.

It was the beginning of the Da Vinci Science Center.

In 1999, the SMART Center broke away from Lehigh and became an official non-profit organization.

Allentown’s Science Center relocated to its new 29,00-square-foot facility—located 29 minutes from Hamburg—in the fall of 2005.

View of Da Vinci Science Center

CyberXRef, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Renamed Da Vinci Science Center, it has become a significant draw with displays and events that make science interesting for learners of all ages.

At this museum, you’ll find everything from an underground labyrinth to an animation studio to an underwater tank to a windy storm simulator.

The museum hosts special exhibits and educational programs for visitors throughout the week.

View of Da Vinci Science Center

CyberXRef, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Enjoy the Snow at Bear Creek Ski

Rittenhouse Gap mines, part of the Mid-Atlantic Iron Belt, were located in the Bear Creek area before becoming a ski resort.

Late in the 19th century, the mines attracted Thomas Edison to discover an inexpensive way to collect iron ore from crushed rock.

In 1968, the Doe Mountain Ski Area first opened its doors with simply a T-bar, a rope tow, and just two trails.

This winter resort lies 37 minutes away from Hamburg.

In the winter, guests can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing, while in the spring, summer, and fall, they can enjoy hiking, bicycling, boating, tennis, and neighboring golf.

There is a wide variety of lodging options for guests, including a luxurious hotel with indoor and outdoor pools and hot tubs and a banquet hall and meeting facilities with mountain views.

Final Thoughts

These are just a handful of the exciting things you can do in Hamburg, Pennsylvania.

It’s impossible not to have a good time when surrounded by delicious cuisine, exciting activities, and a welcoming community.

Use our list of the best things to do in Hamburg, Pennsylvania, and you’re in for a treat!

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