Santander Arena

In the heart of Pennsylvania, in the cozy city of Reading, lies one of the region's most vibrant venues — Santander Arena. This modern multi-purpose arena has become a true symbol of cultural and sports revival in the USA. Opened in 2001, it offers guests the highest level of comfort and accommodates over 7,000 spectators, making it an ideal venue for large-scale events.

The building has a unique history: it was erected on the site of the legendary Astor Theater. Builders managed to preserve the spirit of the past by integrating luxurious early 20th-century decorative elements into the interior. Today, the arena serves as the home ice for the professional hockey team, the Reading Royals, and is a key entertainment destination in Eastern Pennsylvania.

Thanks to its versatility, the venue attracts both sports fans and music lovers. It hosts not only thrilling matches but also grand concerts by world stars, turning Reading into a center of attraction for tourists from all over the country.

To plan your visit or check ticket availability for upcoming events, you can use the venue administration's official communication channels. Staff are always ready to help guests with information on schedules and visitor rules. Current contact details for Santander Arena are provided below.

Visiting the arena offers guests an incredible range of emotions — from the excitement of sporting competitions to the thrill of world-class concerts. Hockey matches by the Reading Royals are a must-see: the fans' live support and the dynamics of the game on ice create an unforgettable atmosphere. In 2026, the arena celebrates its 25th anniversary, offering a special festive program of shows, including performances by legendary artists.

Music lovers will appreciate the hall's excellent acoustics, which host performances across various genres — from classical to modern rock. In addition to music and sports, the venue regularly hosts family shows, circus performances, and basketball tournaments. The cozy setting and well-thought-out seating make even large-scale events comfortable for every spectator.

Don't forget to take some time to explore the interior. In the arena's corridors, you can see authentic artifacts from the old Astor Theater: an exquisite Art Deco chandelier and massive wrought-iron gates. These details allow you to touch the history of Reading, turning a simple trip to a concert into a small journey back in time.

The arena is conveniently located in the heart of the city at 700 Penn St. Travelers by car will find it easy to reach: from Philadelphia, the trip takes about 1.5 hours via I-76 and US-422. If you are coming from Allentown, the drive along US-222 takes about 40 minutes. There are several municipal parking facilities nearby, including the Penn Street Parking Garage and other lots where you can leave your car during an event.

For those who prefer public transport, the city has a well-developed network of BARTA buses that stop directly on Penn Street next to the arena. If you arrive by Amtrak train (Temple station is 15 km away), it is most convenient to take a taxi or a local bus. Reading Regional Airport (RDG) is also located in close proximity, and the drive from there to the city center takes only about 15 minutes.

The history of Santander Arena began in the 1990s as an ambitious project to revitalize downtown Reading. Local leaders and the community sought to create a modern space that would bring residents together and attract tourists. Construction began in June 1999 on the site of the abandoned Astor Theater, which was once considered one of the most luxurious movie palaces of the early 20th century.

The $42.5 million project was brought to life by architectural firms STV and PBK. The complex officially opened as the Sovereign Center on September 6, 2001. Since then, the arena has become not only a sports hub but also an important economic engine for the region, hosting millions of visitors at thousands of events over the years.

In October 2013, the venue received its current name — Santander Arena — in honor of a new title sponsor. Interestingly, the arena is functionally integrated with historical heritage: it is part of a complex that includes the neighboring Santander Performing Arts Center. This building was constructed back in 1922 and also underwent a major restoration, preserving the spirit of old America.

By its 25th year of existence (in 2026), the arena has hosted many teams across various sports — from indoor football to professional basketball. However, its main feature remains its historical continuity: the inclusion of decorative elements from the old Astor Theater into the modern interior has made this venue a unique architectural bridge between the city's past and future.

For a complete experience of the arena's atmosphere during an event, it is recommended to plan a visit lasting 3–4 hours. This will be enough time to pass through security comfortably, explore the historical decorative elements in the corridors, grab a snack at the food court, and enjoy the show or sports match itself.

If you plan to visit not only the main arena but also attend events at the nearby Performing Arts Center or take a stroll through the historical center, it is worth setting aside half a day (about 5–6 hours). Sporting matches or concerts typically last 2–3 hours, but the scale and comfort of the venue encourage a more leisurely pace.

The Santander Arena operating hours depend directly on the schedule of planned events. Generally, doors open to visitors 1–2 hours before the start of a show or match. The main office and box office usually operate on weekdays from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, although their hours may be extended until the end of an event on show days.

Since there are no fixed visiting hours for simple tours, tourists are strongly encouraged to check the current schedule on the official website before traveling. This will help you find out the start time of the performance you are interested in and plan your day as conveniently as possible.

Exploring the area around Santander Arena can significantly enrich your trip. The central part of the city offers many interesting sites — from historical museums to unusual architectural landmarks, located within walking distance or a short drive away.