24-Hour Services in Berks County: Complete Guide to Round-the-Clock Resources

The 24-Hour Reality of Berks County

Life doesn't stop at 5 PM, and neither do emergencies. If you've ever stood in your basement at 2 AM watching water pour from a burst pipe, sat in a dark parking lot with a dead battery, or held a feverish child wondering whether this warrants a trip to the ER—you understand why this guide exists.

Who Needs 24-Hour Services Here

Shift workers are everywhere. Berks County's economy runs around the clock. East Penn Manufacturing in Hamburg operates multiple shifts. Mushroom facilities in eastern Berks never stop. Distribution centers along the Route 61 and Route 222 corridors move goods at all hours. Reading Hospital and Penn State Health St. Joseph employ thousands of nurses, technicians, and support staff who finish work at midnight, 3 AM, or 7 AM. When your shift ends and you need groceries, gas, or food, you need places that work around YOUR schedule—not the other way around.

Parents know emergencies don't check the clock. Children spike fevers at 2 AM. Toddlers develop ear infections on Sunday nights. Teenagers break curfew and wreck cars at midnight. Pets eat chocolate on holiday weekends. These aren't hypothetical scenarios—they're the weekly reality for Berks County families.

Rural distances matter. Unlike Philadelphia where another option is always a few blocks away, Berks County covers 866 square miles. A family in northern Berks (Kutztown, Hamburg, Fleetwood) is 30+ minutes from many services. Someone in Birdsboro or Morgantown faces similar drives. When you're already stressed at 3 AM, driving to three different locations because you didn't know what was actually open makes everything worse.

Planning ahead is everything. We created this guide because searching "24-hour pharmacy Reading PA" at 3 AM shouldn't require 20 minutes of frantic Googling. The information below is specific, verified, and organized so you can find what you need when you need it most.

Browse all businesses in Berks County or keep reading for our complete guide to round-the-clock resources.

24-Hour Emergency Numbers: Save These Now

Before diving into businesses, save these essential 24/7 emergency numbers:

Service	Phone Number
Police/Fire/Ambulance	911
Reading Hospital ER	(484) 628-8000
St. Joseph Medical Center ER	610-378-2000
BluePearl Emergency Vet	(610) 775-7535
Poison Control	1-800-222-1222
Met-Ed Power Outage	1-888-544-4877
UGI Gas Emergency	1-800-276-2722
PA 211 (Community Resources)	211

For detailed emergency guidance, see our comprehensive Emergency Services Guide for Berks County.

24-Hour Hospitals and Emergency Rooms

When something goes seriously wrong at 3 AM, you don't have time to research options. Berks County has two major hospital emergency departments that never close, and knowing the difference between them can matter.

Understanding Your Options

Both hospitals are fully capable emergency rooms, but they have different strengths. Reading Hospital is the county's Level I Trauma Center—the highest designation available—meaning it has specialists on call 24/7 for the most severe injuries and conditions. If you've been in a serious car accident, are having a heart attack, or suffered a major burn, Reading Hospital has resources that St. Joseph doesn't.

St. Joseph, now part of Penn State Health, is a full-service ER that often has shorter wait times for non-trauma emergencies. If you're dealing with a bad flu that's gotten out of control, a concerning fever, or a situation that's serious but not immediately life-threatening, St. Joseph may get you seen faster.

Reading Hospital - Tower Health

Address: 420 South 5th Avenue, West Reading, PA 19611
Phone: (484) 628-8000
Open: 24 hours, 7 days a week, 365 days a year

Reading Hospital is the region's largest medical facility and the only Level I Trauma Center between Philadelphia and Harrisburg. This designation means that regardless of the hour, specialists in trauma surgery, neurosurgery, orthopedics, and other critical fields are available within minutes.

Key capabilities:

Level I Trauma Center — Highest level of trauma care; helicopters can land here
Comprehensive Stroke Center — Time-critical stroke treatment available 24/7
STEMI Receiving Center — Heart attack specialists always on call
Level III NICU — The region's only advanced neonatal intensive care
Regional Burn Center — Specialized burn treatment

Getting there: In West Reading, accessible from Route 422 via the West Reading/Wyomissing exit. Follow Penn Avenue to 5th Avenue. The ER has dedicated parking near the entrance—follow signs for "Emergency."

When to choose Reading Hospital: Major trauma, car accidents with serious injuries, heart attacks, strokes, severe burns, high-risk pregnancy complications, or any situation where you need the highest level of care available.

👉 View Reading Hospital on Berks Connect

Penn State Health St. Joseph Medical Center

Address: 2500 Bernville Road, Reading, PA 19605
Phone: (610) 378-2000
Open: 24 hours, 7 days a week, 365 days a year

St. Joseph joined the Penn State Health system in 2017, connecting it to the broader resources of Penn State's medical network. The ER handles the full range of emergencies and is known for compassionate care and often shorter wait times than Reading Hospital, particularly for non-trauma cases.

Key capabilities:

Full-service emergency department
Board-certified emergency physicians around the clock
Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) program — specialized care for assault survivors
Connection to Penn State Health specialists

Getting there: On Bernville Road (Route 183) in Bern Township, near the intersection with Broadcasting Road. Free surface lot parking near the main entrance.

When to choose St. Joseph: General emergencies, medical situations that are serious but not trauma-related, when Reading Hospital's ER is overwhelmed during peak times, or when you're closer to northern Reading.

Making the ER Decision at 3 AM

The hardest part of a late-night medical situation is often the decision itself: Is this ER-worthy or can it wait?

Go to the ER immediately for:

Chest pain or difficulty breathing
Signs of stroke (face drooping, arm weakness, slurred speech) — time matters critically here
Severe injuries or uncontrolled bleeding
Loss of consciousness, even briefly
Severe allergic reactions (throat swelling, difficulty breathing)
Overdose or poisoning
Suicidal thoughts with an intent or plan
High fever with confusion or stiff neck
Severe abdominal pain

Can usually wait for urgent care (opens 8 AM) for:

Minor cuts that may need stitches but bleeding is controlled
Sprains and suspected minor fractures where you can bear some weight
Flu, cold, strep throat
Urinary tract infections (uncomfortable but not dangerous)
Minor burns without blistering
Ear infections, pink eye

The middle ground: If you're genuinely unsure, many insurance plans offer 24-hour nurse advice lines. These nurses are trained to help you decide whether your situation warrants an ER visit. Check your insurance card or app for this number.

Urgent Care: Not 24-Hour, but Helpful Context

While not 24-hour, knowing when urgent care opens helps you decide whether to go to the ER now or wait a few hours.

Tower Health operates urgent care locations throughout Berks County—in Exeter (serving Birdsboro and eastern Berks), Muhlenberg, Sinking Spring, and Wyomissing. Typical hours are 8 AM - 8 PM daily, though you should verify specific location hours.

If urgent care is closed and the ER seems like overkill: Many insurance plans cover 24/7 telehealth visits for minor issues—check your app or call your insurance's nurse line. For truly minor issues that can safely wait, sometimes the best choice is rest and a morning appointment.

Find urgent care facilities on BerksConnect.

The Honest Truth About 24-Hour Pharmacies

Here's what no one tells you until you're desperately searching at 2 AM: true 24-hour pharmacies in Berks County are rare, and getting rarer. Post-pandemic staffing changes have caused many pharmacies that were historically 24-hour to reduce hours. The big chains still advertise "24-hour locations," but individual stores vary dramatically.

The Reality

CVS and Walgreens both have some 24-hour locations regionally, but not all stores are 24-hour—and the ones that are can change based on staffing. Before driving anywhere at 3 AM, call first. A 20-second phone call can save you a 30-minute round trip to a closed store.

What to Know Before You Go

Call ahead and ask:

"Are you actually open 24 hours tonight?"
"Do you have [medication name] in stock?"
"Can you transfer a prescription from my regular pharmacy?"

Bring with you:

Photo ID (required for many medications)
Insurance card
Payment method
Prescription information (doctor's name, Rx number, or your regular pharmacy's info)

Prescription transfers work at night. The overnight pharmacist can call your regular pharmacy's automated system to get your prescription information. This is standard practice.

Berks County Pharmacies with Extended Hours

While true 24-hour options are limited, several pharmacies offer extended hours that may help:

Pharmacy	Location	Notes
CVS	1303 Lancaster Ave, Reading	Call to verify current hours
CVS	3498 N 5th Street Hwy, Reading	Call to verify current hours
CVS	2239 Perkiomen Ave, Reading	Call to verify current hours
Giant Pharmacy	4320 N 5th Street Hwy, Temple	Extended hours, closes late
Medicine Shoppe of Shillington	101 W Lancaster Ave, Shillington	Local independent, excellent service

When You Can't Find a 24-Hour Pharmacy

Hospital pharmacies — Both Reading Hospital and St. Joseph ERs can provide limited medication supplies for urgent needs. If you're prescribed something after an ER visit, they can usually dispense it on-site or direct you to an open pharmacy.

The workaround: If your medication can wait until 7-8 AM, some pharmacies open early. Call your regular pharmacy's automated system to check if they have early opening hours.

Browse all pharmacies in Berks County on BerksConnect.

24-Hour Emergency Veterinary Care

Few things are more panicked than realizing your pet is in distress at midnight. Dogs eat things they shouldn't. Cats develop urinary blockages (life-threatening if not treated quickly). Older pets have sudden declines. Your regular vet is closed, you're scared, and you don't know what to do.

Here's what you need to know: Berks County has one primary 24-hour emergency veterinary hospital, and it's genuinely excellent. But emergency vet care is expensive—significantly more than a routine visit—and understanding what to expect helps you make better decisions in a crisis.

BluePearl Pet Hospital Wyomissing

Address: 792 Woodland Road, Wyomissing, PA 19610
Phone: (610) 775-7535
Hours: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year (including holidays)

BluePearl opened their new 11,000-square-foot Wyomissing facility in 2025, bringing state-of-the-art emergency veterinary care to Berks County. This is the emergency vet for the region—there's no other 24-hour option. The facility has in-house labs for rapid blood work, digital X-ray and ultrasound, an ICU with continuous monitoring, and surgeons who can operate at any hour.

Reviews consistently praise the compassionate care: staff who explain what's happening, technicians who call with updates, and veterinarians who take time even at 3 AM to answer questions. Dr. McFarlane and technicians like River are mentioned by name for their kindness during difficult moments.

Getting there: In The Shoppes at Wyomissing, accessible from Route 422 via the Wyomissing exit. On Woodland Road near State Hill Road.

👉 View BluePearl Pet Hospital on Berks Connect

What Emergency Vet Care Actually Costs

Emergency veterinary care is expensive. This isn't price gouging—it's the reality of having specialists, equipment, and facilities available around the clock. Knowing this in advance helps you avoid sticker shock at your worst moment.

Service	Typical Cost
Emergency exam	$150-300
Blood work	$150-400
X-rays	$200-500
Ultrasound	$300-600
Emergency surgery	$1,500-5,000+
Hospitalization	$500-2,000+ per day

Payment: Required at time of service, though CareCredit (medical financing) is accepted. If cost is a concern, be upfront—they can sometimes suggest alternatives or help you prioritize what's essential.

The ASPCA Poison Control Trick

Phone: 888-426-4435 (24/7/365)
Cost: $75-95 consultation fee

If your pet ingested something potentially toxic, call ASPCA Poison Control before driving to the emergency vet. They maintain the largest database of pet toxins and can tell you:

Whether what your pet ate is actually dangerous
Whether you need emergency care immediately or can wait and monitor
What treatment the emergency vet should provide

This call can save you an unnecessary $300+ ER visit for something harmless, or it can tell you to get moving immediately for something deadly. The $75-95 fee is worth it.

When to Go Immediately

Don't wait—go now for:

Difficulty breathing or choking
Collapse or inability to stand
Uncontrolled bleeding
Known poisoning (chocolate, xylitol, rat poison, antifreeze, medications)
Seizures lasting more than 2 minutes or multiple seizures
Inability to urinate—especially male cats (can be fatal within 24 hours)
Severe vomiting or diarrhea with blood
Hit by car or other trauma
Bloated, distended abdomen (could be GDV/bloat—life-threatening)
Obvious severe pain

Regular Vets with Emergency Flexibility

While they're not 24-hour, some Berks County veterinarians accommodate emergencies during extended hours or may see urgent cases before regular appointments:

Oley Valley Animal Clinic — 900 Blandon Rd, Oley — (610) 987-6237
⭐ 4.8 (1,127 reviews) — Known for exceptional care and communication. Dr. Nicole Hart and Dr. Katherine Fegan are praised by name.

Wyomissing Animal Hospital — 35 Commerce Dr, Wyomissing — (610) 850-9705
⭐ 4.6 (494 reviews) — Accommodating with emergency services; Dr. Billman receives consistent praise.

The Vet On Main — 330 W Main St, Birdsboro — (610) 575-0920
⭐ 4.8 (524 reviews) — Comprehensive care with proactive follow-up.

Douglassville Veterinary Hospital — 105 Griffith Dr, Douglassville — (610) 385-4848
⭐ 4.8 (408 reviews) — Expert team including Dr. Carley Morgan; handles anxious pets well.

Browse all veterinarians in Berks County on BerksConnect.

24-Hour Gas Stations and Convenience Stores

For shift workers ending at midnight, for parents making 3 AM diaper runs, for anyone who forgot they needed gas until the fuel light came on—24-hour gas stations and convenience stores are essential infrastructure. In Berks County, Wawa and Sheetz dominate this space, and locals have strong opinions about which is better.

The Wawa vs. Sheetz Debate

If you're new to Berks County, you'll quickly learn that Wawa and Sheetz inspire genuine loyalty. Both are 24-hour convenience stores with full food menus and quality coffee. The differences are subtle but real:

Wawa — East coast chain headquartered in Pennsylvania. Known for hoagies (don't call them subs), fresh-brewed coffee, and a slightly more "premium" feel. Touchscreen ordering for made-to-order food. Berks County is solidly in Wawa territory.

Sheetz — Western Pennsylvania origin, stronger in rural areas. Known for "MTO" (made-to-order) food including fried items, specialty drinks, and a broader menu that includes things like mac and cheese bites. Some consider Sheetz better for late-night munchies.

Both are clean, well-lit, and safe. Both have ATMs, basic groceries, and everything you might need at 3 AM. Pick whichever is closer—you can't go wrong.

Wawa Locations in Berks County

Location	Address	Phone	Notes
Wawa Hamburg	515 Lowland Rd, Hamburg	(610) 562-8314	Northern Berks, near I-78
Wawa Leesport	910 W Leesport Rd, Leesport	(267) 448-0998	Near Route 61, Schuylkill Valley
Wawa N 11th St Reading	1946 N 11th St, Reading	(610) 921-4500	North Reading, near Albright College
Wawa Pottsville Pike	3650 Pottsville Pike, Reading	(610) 921-4380	Route 61 corridor
Wawa Perkiomen Ave	5060 Perkiomen Ave, Reading	(610) 779-1406	Exeter area
Wawa Wyomissing	2005 Museum Rd, Wyomissing	(610) 775-5900	Near Berkshire Mall area

Sheetz Locations in Berks County

Location	Address	Phone	Notes
Sheetz Kutztown	2298 Golden Key Rd, Kutztown	(484) 504-9800	Near Kutztown University
Sheetz Reading	2246 Lancaster Pike, Reading	(610) 743-5753	Route 10 corridor, Mohnton area

Other 24-Hour Options

Redner's Quick Shoppe — Gas stations attached to Redner's grocery stores, several locations have extended or 24-hour hours:

Redner's Quick Shoppe Bernville — 6719 Bernville Rd, Bernville — (610) 488-7866
Redner's Quick Shoppe Reading — 1137 Commons Blvd, Reading — (484) 248-1000

Traditional Gas Stations — Sunoco, Exxon, and Shell stations vary by location. Some are 24-hour, many are not. Always verify before assuming a specific location is open late.

What You Can Get at 3 AM

Always available at Wawa/Sheetz:

Fuel (regular, premium, diesel)
Made-to-order food (hoagies, sandwiches, breakfast items, fried snacks)
Fresh coffee and specialty drinks
Cold drinks, energy drinks, water
Snacks, chips, candy
Basic groceries (milk, bread, eggs)
Over-the-counter medications (pain relievers, antacids, cold medicine)
ATM machines
Phone chargers and basic electronics
Auto supplies (oil, washer fluid, windshield wipers)

Not available 24/7: Lottery tickets have restricted sale hours in Pennsylvania. Propane exchange usually requires staffed hours.

Late-Night Safety

These locations are generally safe—well-lit, staffed, and busy enough that you're not alone. But basic awareness helps:

Park close to the entrance in well-lit areas
Lock your car while pumping gas
Don't leave valuables visible
If something feels off, trust your instincts and leave

Late-Night and 24-Hour Dining Options

Getting off work at midnight and craving something more than a gas station hoagie? Coming back from a late event? Just can't sleep and need actual food? Berks County's late-night dining scene is honest-to-God limited—but not hopeless.

The Truth About 24-Hour Restaurants

Let's be direct: true 24-hour restaurants in Berks County are rare and getting rarer. Many diners that were historically 24-hour have reduced hours since 2020 due to staffing challenges. Before driving anywhere expecting a 2 AM sit-down meal, call first.

The most reliable 24-hour food options are Wawa and Sheetz (see gas station section above). Their made-to-order food is available around the clock, and it's better than you might expect for a gas station.

Berks County Diners Worth Knowing

These classic diners serve the kind of comfort food you want at odd hours. Hours vary—some stay open late on weekends, others close earlier—so call ahead.

Wyomissing Restaurant and Bakery
1245 Penn Ave, Wyomissing — (610) 373-3353
⭐ 4.5 (3,518 reviews)
A Berks County institution with a legendary buffet, made-to-order omelets, and fresh-baked donuts. Known for fried chicken that's worth driving for. Extended hours, especially weekends.

Exeter Family Restaurant
Reading area — Classic diner with steak and eggs, a solid salad bar, and generous portions at fair prices. Cozy atmosphere, good for late-night comfort food.

Leesport Diner
Leesport — Hearty meals and a friendly, local vibe. Classic diner fare in northern Berks.

Airport Diner
Kutztown — Famous for the "He-Man Breakfast" and generous portions. Vintage atmosphere and comfort food done right.

Late-Night Fast Food Options

Fast food drive-throughs often stay open later than their dining rooms, and later on weekends than weekdays. In the Reading area:

Taco Bell — Generally the latest fast food option, often open until 1-2 AM
McDonald's — Drive-through typically open until midnight or later
Wendy's — Some locations with extended hours

Pizza Delivery

Several pizza shops deliver until 1-2 AM, especially Friday and Saturday:

Domino's, Pizza Hut — Chain options with late delivery
Local pizzerias — Many deliver late on weekends; check our pizza guide for recommendations

Food Delivery Apps

DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Grubhub show what's actually available in your area right now. In Reading and Wyomissing, you'll have decent options until midnight or later. In rural areas, options drop off significantly after 9-10 PM.

Pro tip: The apps often list Wawa as a delivery option, which means you can get gas station food delivered at 2 AM without leaving your house.

The 3 AM Reality

If it's truly the middle of the night and you need food:

Wawa or Sheetz — Full made-to-order menus 24/7
Gas station snacks — Not a meal, but it's something
Hospital cafeterias — Reading Hospital's cafeteria has vending and sometimes limited overnight options

Browse all restaurants in Berks County on BerksConnect.

24-Hour Emergency Home Services

The worst home emergencies happen at the worst times. Pipes burst at 2 AM during January cold snaps. Furnaces fail on the coldest night of the year. You smell gas from the basement on a Sunday evening. These aren't hypotheticals—they're weekly occurrences across Berks County, and having a plan before they happen makes all the difference.

Before You Call Anyone: Safety First

For gas smells: Get everyone out of the house. Don't flip light switches or use phones inside. Call UGI from outside: 1-800-276-2722. They respond 24/7 for gas emergencies—this is free and should be your first call.

For electrical fires or smoke: Call 911. Do not try to fix anything. Get out.

For burst pipes: Locate your main water shutoff valve NOW, before an emergency. It's usually near where the water line enters your home—basement or crawl space. Shutting off the water immediately limits damage.

For no heat in dangerous cold: If you have vulnerable family members (elderly, infants) and can't get emergency service quickly, don't wait. Space heaters are temporary solutions, and warming centers or family/neighbors are better than hypothermia.

Emergency Plumbers

A burst pipe flooding your basement at 2 AM is genuinely urgent. A slow drip under the kitchen sink? That can wait until morning. Understanding the difference saves money—emergency service calls typically run $150-300 just to show up, plus 1.5-2x normal labor rates.

True emergencies requiring immediate help:

Active flooding from burst pipes
Sewage backup into the home
Complete loss of water
Water heater failure with flooding
Gas line concerns (call UGI first)

Recommended Emergency Plumbers:

Service 360 Group
1665 State Hill Rd Unit 700, Wyomissing — (610) 364-5157
⭐ 5.0 (236 reviews) — Prompt emergency response, fair pricing, and knowledgeable technicians. Professional office staff for scheduling.

Moser Plumbing Services
(610) 297-6878
⭐ 5.0 (139 reviews) — Known for excellent diagnostics and resolving issues other plumbers couldn't. Transparent communication and meticulous cleanup.

JB Plumbing HVAC & Construction Division
1201 Roosevelt Ave, Reading — (610) 621-3452
⭐ 5.0 (72 reviews) — Meticulous work and swift emergency response. Also handles HVAC.

Poseidon Plumbing LLC
272 Pine Forge Rd, Douglassville — (610) 385-8061
⭐ 5.0 (37 reviews) — Rapid service even on holidays. Chris is praised for friendly professionalism.

A-Team Plumbing LLC
38 Boonetown Rd, Birdsboro — (484) 577-6831
⭐ 5.0 (30 reviews) — Reliable, affordable, exceptional emergency response.

Browse all plumbers in Berks County on BerksConnect.

Emergency Electricians

Electrical emergencies require careful judgment. If you see fire, sparks, or smoke—call 911 first, not an electrician. Your panel making weird noises at 2 AM is concerning but probably not an emergency if nothing is sparking.

True emergencies:

Complete power loss when neighbors have power (indicates problem at your panel)
Sparking outlets or wires
Burning smell from electrical sources
Panel making unusual sounds with heat

What to expect: Emergency electrical service runs $150-400 for the call, plus 50-100% premium on labor rates. Response time is typically 1-2 hours.

Recommended Emergency Electricians:

KB Electric LLC
219 W Main St, Collegeville — (267) 467-3178
⭐ 5.0 (919 reviews) — Professional, efficient work with excellent communication. Knowledgeable team for complex projects.

Married 2 Electric
1361 Farmington Ave, Pottstown — (484) 524-5265
⭐ 5.0 (792 reviews) — Renowned for generator and EV charger installations. Competitive pricing and reliable scheduling through Tammy.

Mr. Electric of Lancaster County
131 Main St, Denver — (717) 208-2495
⭐ 4.9 (440 reviews) — Same-day service available, fair pricing, friendly team. Job site always left spotless.

Jackson Electrical Service
(717) 615-3647
⭐ 5.0 (98 reviews) — AJ provides honest assessments and prompt emergency response. Clear communication on complex issues.

Browse all electricians in Berks County on BerksConnect.

Emergency HVAC

No heat during a January freeze is genuinely dangerous, especially for elderly residents, infants, or those with medical conditions. Conversely, no AC during an August heat wave can be similarly threatening. HVAC emergencies deserve prompt attention.

True emergencies:

No heat when temperatures are below freezing
No AC with vulnerable family members during dangerous heat
Gas smell from furnace (call UGI first: 1-800-276-2722)
Carbon monoxide detector alarming (evacuate immediately, call 911)

What to expect: Emergency HVAC service runs $200-400+ for the call, with 1.5-2x labor premiums. During extreme weather events (polar vortex, heat waves), expect longer wait times—everyone calls at once.

Recommended Emergency HVAC Companies:

DeLong & Sons HVAC
403 Franklin St, Shoemakersville — (484) 638-2837
⭐ 5.0 (222 reviews) — Family-owned, same-day service, courteous technicians. Fair pricing and clean work.

On Demand HVAC
549 W Oak Ave, Robesonia — (484) 258-9409
⭐ 5.0 (92 reviews) — Abraham's expertise and transparent pricing are consistently praised.

Cornerstone HVAC LLC
1009 Fallbrook Ln, Pottstown — (484) 624-2164
⭐ 5.0 (130 reviews) — Family-run with outstanding emergency service. Honest advice and quality workmanship.

Brubaker Services LLC
1000 Airport Rd, Bethel — (610) 914-7399
⭐ 5.0 (69 reviews) — Fast response, meticulous home care, family-run with personal touch.

Real Airflow Heating & Cooling
11 Richmaiden Rd, Fleetwood — (484) 963-4780
⭐ 5.0 (51 reviews) — Knowledgeable team, prompt service, clear communication.

Browse all HVAC services in Berks County on BerksConnect.

Emergency Locksmiths

Locked out at 3 AM is frustrating but rarely dangerous (unless it's freezing outside). Most locksmiths offer 24-hour service.

A critical warning: Locksmith scams are common. Some operators advertise low prices, then charge dramatically more once they arrive and you're desperate. Always get a firm price quote before they dispatch, and verify you're dealing with a legitimate local company.

What to expect:

Home lockout: $75-150
Car lockout: $50-100
After-hours premium: $50-100 additional
Response time: 20-45 minutes typically

Browse locksmiths on BerksConnect for verified locksmith services.

24-Hour Towing and Roadside Assistance

Dead battery at 11 PM. Flat tire on Route 222. Slid into a ditch during an ice storm. Car trouble is stressful enough during the day—at night, on a dark road, it's worse. Most Berks County towing companies operate around the clock, but before you call the first number that pops up on Google, check what coverage you already have.

Check Your Existing Coverage First

Many people pay for roadside assistance without realizing it. Before you pay out-of-pocket for a tow truck, check:

AAA Membership: 1-800-222-4357 — If you're a member, towing and basic roadside services are included. This is often the best value if you use it even once a year.

Your Auto Insurance: Many policies include roadside assistance at no extra charge—or for a few dollars per month. Check your policy or call the number on your insurance card.

Credit Cards: Premium credit cards (especially from American Express, Visa Signature, and some travel cards) include roadside assistance as a benefit. Check your card benefits before paying cash.

Your Car's Warranty: Many manufacturers include roadside assistance for new vehicles. Check your glove box documentation or the manufacturer's customer service number.

Cell Phone Plans: Some carriers offer roadside assistance packages. Check your plan benefits.

Using existing coverage can save you $100-200 on a single tow.

Services Available 24/7

Towing — To the repair shop of your choice (not just wherever they want to take you)
Jump starts — For dead batteries
Lockouts — Keys locked in car
Flat tire changes — Mounting your spare
Fuel delivery — If you run out of gas
Winch-outs — Stuck in snow, mud, or ditch

What to Expect: Costs

If you don't have coverage and need to pay out-of-pocket:

Service	Typical Cost
Local tow (under 10 miles)	$75-150
Long-distance tow (per mile after)	$3-5/mile
Jump start	$50-75
Flat tire change	$50-100
Lockout	$50-100
Winch-out	$100-200+
After-hours premium	Add 25-50%

Important: Get a price quote before agreeing to service. Some operators quote low and charge high once they've loaded your car. Ask "What will the total be?" before they hook anything up.

Browse towing services on BerksConnect for towing companies.

24-Hour ATM Access

Need cash at 2 AM? ATMs don't sleep. The question is finding one that won't charge you $4+ for the privilege.

Where to Find 24-Hour ATMs

Your bank's ATMs (free): Most bank branches have ATM vestibules accessible 24/7, even when the branch is closed. If you bank with a regional institution, know where their ATMs are:

Customers Bank
Fulton Bank
M&T Bank
TD Bank
PNC Bank
Wells Fargo

Wawa and Sheetz ATMs: Every Wawa and Sheetz has an ATM. Fees vary but are typically $2.50-3.50 for non-customers. Since you might already be stopping for gas or food, this is convenient.

Avoid high-fee ATMs: Non-bank ATMs at bars, smaller convenience stores, and some standalone machines charge $4-6+ per transaction. If you're not in a hurry, it's worth driving to a fee-free option.

Saving on ATM Fees

ATM Type	Typical Fee
Your own bank's ATM	Free
Another bank's ATM	$2-4 per transaction
Non-bank ATMs (gas stations, etc.)	$3-5+ per transaction

Pro tip: Some banks and credit unions reimburse ATM fees up to a certain amount monthly. Check if yours does—it turns any ATM into a free ATM.

Browse ATM locations on BerksConnect.

24-Hour Gyms and Fitness

Who actually works out at 3 AM? More people than you'd think. Healthcare workers finishing overnight shifts who want to exercise before crashing. Manufacturing employees whose only free time is after midnight. Early risers who'd rather hit the gym at 4:30 AM than fight for equipment at 6 PM. People who simply sleep better after a late workout. If your schedule doesn't fit the 9-to-5 world, you need a gym that doesn't either.

How 24-Hour Gym Access Works

You can't just walk into a gym at 3 AM—you need membership and typically a key fob or app access. During unstaffed overnight hours:

Key fob or app gets you in the door
Security cameras monitor the facility
Some equipment may be locked (free weights, certain machines)
No staff assistance available
Emergency phones or panic buttons typically present

24-Hour Gyms in Berks County

Anytime Fitness Reading
1100 W Wyomissing Blvd, Reading — (484) 987-2624
⭐ 4.6 (119 reviews) — Designed for 24/7 access. Modern equipment, spotless facility, personal training available. Key fob gets you in anytime—this is what the chain is built for.

Planet Fitness — Multiple locations, but 24-hour access varies by location. Call to verify:

Planet Fitness Reading — 3050 N 5th Street Hwy — (610) 929-8000 — ⭐ 4.4 (698 reviews)
Planet Fitness Shillington — 510 E Lancaster Ave — (610) 743-4611 — ⭐ 4.4 (450 reviews)
Planet Fitness Kutztown — 15260 Kutztown Rd — (814) 374-2556 — ⭐ 4.7 (308 reviews)

Note: Planet Fitness offers "Black Card" membership with additional amenities like massage chairs and hydro-massage beds, which may have restricted hours even when the gym is open.

Other Quality Gyms (Extended Hours, Not 24-Hour)

These gyms aren't 24-hour but offer extended hours and quality facilities:

LA Fitness Wyomissing
1183 Berkshire Blvd, Wyomissing — (610) 373-6515
⭐ 4.4 (774 reviews) — Full gym with pool and sauna. Extended hours but not true 24-hour.

Body Zone Sports and Wellness Complex
3103 Paper Mill Rd, Reading — (610) 376-2100
⭐ 4.5 (564 reviews) — Diverse fitness classes, physical therapy, supportive community atmosphere.

Exeter Fitness and Training
4270 Perkiomen Ave, Reading — (610) 401-0668
⭐ 4.8 (372 reviews) — Clean, well-equipped, excellent childcare. Staff know members by name.

Browse all gyms and fitness centers on BerksConnect.

Public Transportation and Overnight Travel

Let's be honest: Berks County isn't designed for car-free overnight travel. BARTA, the regional bus system, does not run 24 hours. If you need to get somewhere at 2 AM without a car, your options are limited.

BARTA (Berks Area Regional Transportation Authority)

Service hours:

Monday - Saturday: 4:00 AM to 12:00 midnight
Sunday: 9:30 AM to 7:30 PM

The good news: BARTA starts at 4 AM on weekdays, which works for many early shift workers. The bad news: if you need to be somewhere at 3 AM, BARTA won't help.

BARTA Transportation Center:
7th and Cherry Streets, Downtown Reading — All routes connect here. The center has an enclosed waiting area with restrooms.

Contact: 610-921-0601 | bartabus.com

When BARTA Isn't Running

Uber and Lyft operate in Reading and surrounding areas, but late-night availability varies. In urban Reading and Wyomissing, you can usually get a ride. In rural areas or during very late hours (2-4 AM), wait times may be long or no drivers may be available.

Taxi services are available 24/7 but require calling ahead. Traditional taxis are often more reliable than rideshare for guaranteed late-night pickup.

The reality: If you work a third shift in Berks County and don't have your own vehicle, you need to plan carefully. Carpools with coworkers, relatives who can help, or budgeting for rideshare are often necessary.

24-Hour Laundromats

Laundromats with true 24-hour access exist but are increasingly rare. Many that advertise extended hours actually close by midnight or 1 AM. Always verify hours before making a late-night trip with your laundry.

Late-Night Laundry Tips

If you do find a 24-hour or late-night laundromat:

Choose well-lit locations with good street visibility
Bring your own detergent (vending machines may be empty overnight)
Don't leave belongings unattended
Payment: Many now accept cards or apps, but bring coins as backup
Expect to be alone or nearly so—overnight laundry is quiet

Browse laundromats and dry cleaners on BerksConnect.

24-Hour Community Resources and Crisis Support

Some emergencies aren't about burst pipes or dead batteries. They're about people. If you or someone you care about is in crisis—mental health, safety, substance abuse, domestic violence—help is available around the clock. You don't have to wait until morning, and you don't have to figure it out alone.

PA 211 — Your Starting Point

Dial 211 | Text your zip code to 898211 | Live chat at pa211east.org

When you don't know who to call, 211 is the answer. This free, confidential service connects you with local resources for:

Emergency shelter and housing assistance
Food banks and meal programs
Utility assistance (help paying bills, avoiding shutoffs)
Mental health resources
Healthcare navigation
Employment help
Elder care information
Childcare resources

211 is available 24/7, in multiple languages. The people answering aren't reading from scripts—they know the actual resources in Berks County and can help you navigate a complicated system.

Mental Health Crisis

Berks County Crisis Intervention: 610-374-4963 (24/7)

This is the local crisis line, staffed by people who know Berks County resources. If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health emergency—suicidal thoughts, severe anxiety or panic, psychotic episodes, inability to function—call this number. They can provide phone support, dispatch mobile crisis teams, or help you determine if a hospital visit is needed.

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Dial 988

The national suicide prevention lifeline is now as simple as dialing 988. If you're having thoughts of suicide or self-harm, or you're worried about someone who is, call. Trained counselors are available 24/7. You can also text 988 if calling feels too hard.

What to say: You don't need to have the "right" words. "I'm struggling and I don't know what to do" is enough. "I'm worried about my [friend/family member]" is enough. They'll take it from there.

Domestic Violence

National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 (24/7)

If you're experiencing abuse or you're concerned about someone who is, this hotline provides confidential support around the clock. They can help you safety plan, find local shelter options, and navigate next steps—whether you're ready to leave or not.

Text option: Text "START" to 88788

Local resource: Safe Berks provides local domestic violence services including emergency shelter. Contact through 211 or the national hotline for connection.

Child Abuse

ChildLine: 1-800-932-0313 (24/7)

Pennsylvania's child abuse reporting hotline operates around the clock. If you suspect a child is being abused or neglected, you can report anonymously. You don't need to be certain—you only need reasonable suspicion. Let trained investigators determine whether your concern warrants action.

Substance Abuse

SAMHSA National Helpline: 1-800-662-4357 (24/7)

Free, confidential treatment referral and information service for substance abuse and mental health. They can help you find local treatment options, support groups, and resources. Available in English and Spanish.

A Note About Crisis

Reaching out for help at 3 AM takes courage. If you're reading this section because you or someone you love is struggling, know that these resources exist because crises happen at inconvenient times—and because people deserve help whenever they need it. You're not bothering anyone. These lines are staffed by people who want to help.

Planning for Late-Night Needs

The best strategy for late-night needs is planning ahead.

Create Your Late-Night Resource List

Save these in your phone now:

24-hour pharmacy nearest your home
24-hour gas station nearest your home
Emergency plumber you've vetted
Emergency electrician you've vetted
Emergency HVAC service
Your insurance's roadside assistance number
BluePearl Emergency Vet: (610) 775-7535

Apps to Have Ready

Pharmacy apps - Check store hours and prescription status
Gas station apps - GasBuddy, Wawa, Sheetz for locations and hours
Food delivery apps - DoorDash, Uber Eats, Grubhub
Ride-share apps - Uber, Lyft for transportation
Bank apps - Find ATM locations
Insurance apps - File claims, request roadside assistance

Know Your Neighborhood

Take note of 24-hour options near your home and workplace:

Drive by at night so you know exactly where they are
Note which gas stations are actually 24-hour
Identify safe, well-lit areas for late-night stops

What's NOT Open 24 Hours

To save you frustration, here's what's generally NOT open around the clock in Berks County, despite what you might hope:

Grocery stores — Even Walmart typically closes overnight
Bank branches — ATMs are 24/7, the people aren't
Government offices — DMV, post offices, licensing services all close
Most retail stores — Don't expect Target at 3 AM
Most restaurants — True 24-hour dining is rare (see food section above)
Most urgent care — They close by 8-10 PM; use the ER after hours
Professional services — Your lawyer and accountant are sleeping

Browse More on BerksConnect

Find service providers and check individual business profiles for specific hours:

Always Open (24/7):

Often 24-Hour or Emergency Service:

Extended Hours:

Emergency Services Guide for Berks County — Comprehensive emergency resource guide
Healthcare Providers in Berks County — Complete healthcare guide
Pet Services in Berks County — Including emergency vet care
Dining Out in Berks County — Complete restaurant guide

Quick Reference: 24-Hour Emergency Numbers

Save these in your phone now—you'll thank yourself later.

Need	Who to Call	Phone
Medical emergency	Reading Hospital ER	(484) 628-8000
Medical emergency	St. Joseph ER	(610) 378-2000
Pet emergency	BluePearl Wyomissing	(610) 775-7535
Community resources	PA 211	211
Mental health crisis	Berks County Crisis	610-374-4963
Suicide prevention	988 Lifeline	988
Power outage	Met-Ed	1-888-544-4877
Gas leak/smell	UGI Emergency	1-800-276-2722
Poison control	National Poison Control	1-800-222-1222
Roadside assistance	AAA	1-800-222-4357

Bookmark this page. When you need it at 2 AM, you'll be glad you did.