Many people know Taylor Swift as a singer, songwriter, and actress. They associate her well-known name with the celebrity that she is today, but few people know details about her past as “Miss Americana.”
The 2020 biographical documentary, “Miss Americana,” which was released on Netflix in January, shows the singer in a new light — off the stage and away from the spotlight. The documentary, which was directed by Lana Wilson, borrowed its title from Swift’s song on her “Lover” album — “Miss Americana & The Heartbreak Prince.” But there is more behind the nickname “Miss Americana.”
Swift’s childhood home is in Reading, Pennsylvania - which coincidentally began marketing itself as Pennsylvania’s Americana Region in 2016. She grew up on an 11-acre Christmas tree farm. This farm is the same one featured in her family footage in her “Christmas Tree Farm” music video.
Taylor attended West Reading Elementary Center and Wyomissing Area Junior Senior High School before she moved with her family to Nashville, Tennessee in pursuit of her singing career. Some of her earlier shows in Berks County included performances at Pat Garrett’s amphitheater in Bethel and singing the national anthem at the Reading Fightin Phils baseball team’s home games. She also performed at Reading’s Sovereign Performing Arts Center in 2007.
We know Swift has traveled back to Berks County on various occasions, however, so much has changed since she called Reading home. To that end we suggest she follow our itinerary to enjoy the things that make our region a great place to call home.
Taylor Swift’s Berks County Itinerary:
Board a Bus from Klein Transportation
First, we want Taylor to be comfortable while in Berks County. She is going to need a dependable, reliable and well-appointed means of transportation. Family-owned and operated, Klein Transportation fills the ticket with its commitment to safety and comfort. Each motorcoach comes equipped with reclining chairs, climate control, DVD system and Wifi. It will make the perfect ride for Swift as she visits the various spots around town.
Enjoy Breakfast at Cafe Sweet Street
Upon boarding her personal charter bus, Swift’s first stop should be Cafe Sweet Street. After-all, she’s going to need to fuel her body with the proper nutrients to make it through her fun-filled travels around Pennsylvania’s Americana Region.
An extensive menu includes omelets, egg sandwiches, potato skillets, and specialty beverages, all made with the freshest of ingredients. Plus, they offer fresh baked goods and NY style bagels to remind her of her current home in New York City.
Visit the Region’s Main Streets
There’s no better way to get a tour of all the new businesses that have moved into Berks County than by joining in on one of the Best Kept Secrets Tours. Swift was the area’s own best kept secret for a little while, after all.
Shop at Godfrey’s Dogdom
It’s no secret that Swift is a big animal lover. Her cats, Olivia, Benjamin Button, and Meredith, all make frequent appearances in the documentary, as well as her parents’ great dane, Kitty. Godfrey’s Dogdom is the perfect spot to shop for outfits, toys, and treats for your pets, as well as animal decor and handcrafted items for yourself.
Take in the Views at the Pagoda
What’s a visit to Reading, PA without seeing the famous Pagoda? We definitely recommend Swift make a quick stop at the Reading Pagoda to take in the magnificent views of the city that was once her backyard.
Relax at the Spa At Bear Creek
Being a celebrity can’t be an easy job, with a seemingly never-ending schedule, late night performances, and constant pressure, which is why Swift might enjoy a trip to the Spa at Bear Creek while heret. She can unwind as she pampers herself with one of the massage packages, have her nails done, or book a facial.
Perform at Santander Arena
Sure, Swift has performed at the Sovereign Performing Arts Center (now Santander Performing Arts Center) in the past, but she can’t visit the place where she wrote so much of her original music, without singing her newest songs to adoring fans. The Santander Arena is the perfect venue for Swift to pay homage to the town that she called home in your youth. If she doesn’t feel up to being center-stage, Taylor can don shades and catch whatever act is performing at the venue.
Grab a Bite to Eat at Cheer’s American Bistro
A long day filled with many homecoming activities and a grand performance is sure to work up an appetite. Swift can enjoy a late dinner at Cheer’s American Bistro located inside the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Reading, which is where she can also check-in for the night.
With the wide variety of dishes including salmon, pork chop, pasta, chicken, burgers, and more, her expectations are sure to be exceeded! And the modern and comfortable guest suites will help make it feel like home again.
Pennsylvania’s Americana Region
From historic landmarks, annual festivals, outdoor recreation, and excellent dining options, Pennsylvania’s Americana Region has tons to offer. It’s also the hometown and area that exudes a feeling of nostalgia for Taylor Swift. Try out the ultimate Swift Itinerary for yourself during your next visit!