35 Things To Do in York

York blends historical significance with modern attractions, creating a destination that appeals to every traveler. The city offers engaging experiences ranging from lively market houses to fascinating museums and cultural landmarks.

Visitors can explore unique sites that showcase York’s heritage while enjoying its vibrant contemporary offerings. York is a place where history and modernity come together seamlessly.

York Central Market

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Established in 1888, this marketplace remains a vital part of the city’s downtown area. Visitors can explore various fresh produce, artisanal foods, and unique crafts. Shoppers can also savor freshly baked goods from local bakers and discover gourmet specialties that cater to every palate.

The market also hosts events and live music, enhancing the lively atmosphere. It’s a gathering place where locals and tourists mingle, making everyday purchases feel like a festive occasion.

Rocky Ridge Park

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Covering 750 acres, it is largely enveloped by a mature oak forest. Established in 1968, the county’s first park has a rich history. Visitors can enjoy various activities, most notably hiking, on its multi-use trails, which provide scenic views of the Susquehanna Valley.

During the winter holiday, the park comes alive with Christmas Magic, a dazzling Festival of Lights. More than 600,000 LED lights illuminate the half-mile walking path, creating a magical atmosphere for families.

York County History Center

Our Rating: 8.5/10

The York County History Center is a treasure trove for history enthusiasts seeking to explore the rich tapestry of the region’s past. Visitors can look back at the Colonial Complex, which features four historic buildings from the 18th and early 19th centuries.

The newly established complex downtown combines exhibits from the former Historical Society Museum, offering a state-of-the-art setting to engage with history.

Agricultural & Industrial Museum

Our Rating: 8.5/10

The Agricultural & Industrial Museum showcases an impressive collection of artifacts spanning over 300 years of York County’s industrial and agricultural contributions. Visitors can explore two floors packed with more than 20 exhibits featuring everything from traditional farming equipment to vintage transportation displays.

Every corner of the museum tells a story—from the intricate machinery that powered early industry to the tools that shaped the region’s agricultural landscape. The museum not only elucidates the past but also invites visitors to envision the daily lives of those who worked in these industries.

William Kain Park

Our Rating: 8.5/10

It has 1,637 acres and features two picturesque lakes: Lake Williams and Lake Redman. Visitors can enjoy various activities, including hiking, kayaking, and fishing. The park’s trails cater to leisurely walks and adventurous hikes, making it perfect for families and seasoned hikers.

Kayak rentals offer a peaceful way to explore the serene waters. Anglers can fish from boats, kayaks, or from the shore. With abundant parking and easily accessible boat ramps, the park ensures a hassle-free visit for everyone.

York Revolution Ballpark

Our Rating: 8.5/10

York Revolution Ballpark, officially known as PeoplesBank Park, is a key attraction in York. It’s not just about watching the York Revolution, a professional baseball team, but also enjoying fun activities between innings. Families and groups can explore themed events or participate in contests, making it an engaging visit.

Kids will love the games and giveaways, while special packages cater to birthdays and large gatherings. Plus, the ballpark hosts Bright Nights, a renowned holiday light display that creates a festive atmosphere during winter.

Codorus State Park

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Codorus State Park is a true gem, providing a perfect playground for outdoor enthusiasts. With 195 acres dedicated to mountain biking, cyclists are in for a thrilling ride along well-maintained trails. Hiking paths weave through the stunning landscape, offering serene walks or invigorating treks for explorers.

The park’s lake is a hotspot for boating enthusiasts and offers excellent fishing opportunities. In warmer months, visitors can enjoy picnicking with family and friends surrounded by picturesque scenery.

Nixon Park Nature Center

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Nixon Park Nature Center offers a deep dive into local wildlife amidst 187 woodlands and meadows. Visitors can explore trails designed for quiet observation, making it an excellent spot for birdwatching and photography.

The Nature Center serves as a hub for education, featuring interactive exhibits about the region’s natural history. With full-time naturalists on staff, the center regularly organizes guided walks and programs for pre-scheduled groups, providing visitors a chance to learn directly from experts.

Perrydell Farm Dairy

Our Rating: 8.9/10

Perrydell Farm Dairy is a must-visit for anyone eager to experience authentic farm life and enjoy fresh dairy delights. Established in 1963, this family-operated farm invites visitors to explore its 170 acres of picturesque landscape. At Perrydell, guests can watch the fascinating milk bottling and ice cream-making process.

The on-site ice cream stand offers an enticing selection of 30 flavors, featuring a unique flavor of the month. It’s not just a treat for the taste buds; visitors can also meet and pet the friendly cows.

Samuel S. Lewis State Park

Our Rating: 8.6/10

Samuel S. Lewis State Park is an inviting destination for nature lovers and families. It is ideal for picnicking and flying kites on the wide, grassy fields. The park is famously known for Mt. Pisgah, which offers spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Hiking enthusiasts can explore the park’s trails that weave through its scenic landscapes. Birdwatchers also frequent the area, as it’s a haven for spotting various bird species. The park transforms into a snowy playground in winter, perfect for sledding on its gentle slopes.

Appell Center for the Performing Arts

Our Rating: 9.3/10

This venue hosts an eclectic mix of events, including theater performances, live music concerts, comedy shows, and film screenings, adding vibrancy to the city’s entertainment offerings. Housed within two historic theaters—the Strand Theatre and the Capitol Theatre—each space brings its architectural charm and historical significance.

Visitors can enjoy the thrilling ambiance of First Fridays, where jazz performances take place in the Studio, creating an intimate setting for music lovers. The center attracts local talent and nationally touring acts, ensuring an impressive lineup throughout the year.

Downtown York Murals

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Downtown York is transformed into an extraordinary gallery with its collection of public murals. Each mural presents a unique blend of artistry and storytelling, capturing elements of the city’s past and present. Visitors can go on a visually stimulating walking tour to experience these large-scale artworks scattered throughout the area.

A popular part of the experience is the Historic Mural Trail, which was initially developed in the 1990s. It features a series of photorealistic murals depicting significant moments in York’s history.

Royal Square District

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Royal Square District stands out as a lively arts and shopping quarter. Visitors can enjoy a mural walk that features over a dozen mesmerizing murals created by talented local artists. These paintings transform the district into an open-air gallery, sparking the imagination of all who visit.

Art enthusiasts will appreciate the uniquely curated galleries showcasing pieces from emerging and established artists. These spaces often host events and exhibitions that bring art lovers together.

The Cove

Our Rating: 8.03/10

The Cove beckons with its inviting ambiance and culinary delights. Renowned for its exceptional crabcakes and extensive whiskey selection, which boasts over 700 varieties, this establishment offers a haven for food enthusiasts and spirit connoisseurs. The spacious outdoor deck, overlooking a serene creek, provides a picturesque setting for dining al fresco.

Inside, patrons are greeted by a warm and lively atmosphere, complemented by live entertainment that enhances the overall experience. The menu features diverse dishes, from succulent steaks to fresh seafood, ensuring there’s something to satisfy every palate. Attentive service and a commitment to quality make The Cove a standout destination in York’s dining scene.

White Rose Bar & Grill

Our Rating: 8.2/10

Known for its unique food offerings, it entices visitors with a menu that pushes the boundaries of classic American cuisine. There’s a unique experience called “Hot Rock,” where diners cook food on volcanic stones at their table, adding a fun twist to a meal.

The location also boasts two open-air bars, dining rooms, and outdoor seating in a charming courtyard. A visit on a Friday or Saturday often includes live entertainment, bringing an energetic atmosphere to an already vibrant space.

The Handsome Cab

Our Rating: 9.0/10

The Handsome Cab is a standout spot for anyone interested in a unique dining experience. It combines modern design with an artistic touch. Visitors can enjoy a diverse range of New American cuisine, perfectly complemented by an impressive wine list boasting over 40 wines by the glass and more than 500 by the bottle.

Apart from indulging in delightful meals, guests can explore the on-site art gallery that features local artists’ studios. This dining destination promises great food and drinks and an enriching cultural experience.

Briarwood Golf Club

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Briarwood Golf Club offers golf enthusiasts a captivating retreat with its meticulously maintained fairways and greens. The East Course, stretching 6,910 yards, presents a par-72 challenge that caters to players of varying skill levels. Designed by Charles Klingensmith and opened in 1954, this course boasts a course rating of 73.0 and a slope rating of 133, ensuring a stimulating experience for all.

The West Course is complementing the East Course, a par-70 layout measuring 6,301 yards. Crafted by William R. Love and unveiled in 1989, it offers a distinct set of challenges amidst the serene Pennsylvania landscape. Golfers can also hone their skills at the club’s driving range, featuring five practice tees.

Tutoni’s

Our Rating: 8.7/10

Tutoni’s provides a captivating culinary journey through Italy’s diverse flavors. Known for their homemade pasta, each dish is crafted with a perfect balance of traditional recipes and modern flair. The ambiance combines rustic charm with contemporary design, offering diners a warm and inviting space to relish their meals.

Guests appreciate the emphasis on seasonal ingredients, ensuring fresh and vibrant flavors throughout the year. The extensive wine selection enhances the dining experience, allowing perfect pairings with every course.

Laser Alleys Family Fun Center

Our Rating: 8.0/10

Laser Alleys Family Fun Center is a vibrant destination for all ages. It offers 24 modern bowling lanes equipped with touchscreen scoring systems. The center transforms on Friday and Saturday nights with glow bowling when neon lights and music videos projected above the lanes create an electrifying atmosphere.

Beyond bowling, guests can immerse themselves in a state-of-the-art laser tag arena, challenge friends in an expansive arcade featuring over 30 games, or experience the thrilling Virtual Rabbids VR ride. After the excitement, visitors can unwind at Corky’s Pub, enjoying a diverse menu of freshly prepared food and beverages.

Holy Hound Taproom

Our Rating: 8.7/10

Holy Hound Taproom is a welcoming spot for craft beer enthusiasts. With 30 rotating taps, it provides an ever-changing selection of brews, appealing to casual drinkers and those with more seasoned palates.

The ambiance combines rustic charm with a friendly atmosphere, making it an ideal place to gather with friends. Visitors can enjoy live music that enhances the relaxed yet vibrant setting. The taproom’s schedule features a variety of local artists, adding a layer of entertainment to the experience.

Collusion Tap Works

Our Rating: 9.0/10

Collusion Tap Works delivers a unique experience for craft brew enthusiasts. Visitors are welcomed by vibrant murals adorning the surrounding buildings, setting a lively atmosphere right from the start. The venue prides itself on a wide array of drinks, featuring 24 taps that pour beer, cider, mead, and soda, all crafted on-site.

Inside, the rustic modern vibe combines with local art and industrial elements, creating a warm and inviting space. Patrons can enjoy their beverages in the cozy tasting room or venture outside when weather permits.

York Expo Center Memorial Hall

Our Rating: 9.0/10

Nestled within the historic grounds of the York Expo Center, Memorial Hall is a striking venue that masterfully blends tradition and modernity. With its soaring ceilings, expansive layout, and elegant design, the hall exudes a timeless charm for hosting events ranging from bustling trade shows to lavish weddings. The surrounding greenery and well-maintained landscape provide a picturesque backdrop, adding to the allure of this iconic location.

Inside, the hall boasts state-of-the-art amenities, flexible event spaces, and an ambiance that seamlessly caters to both grand celebrations and professional gatherings. Its central location in York ensures easy access, making it a hub of activity and community pride. Whether admiring its architectural finesse or enjoying an event within, Memorial Hall leaves a lasting impression on all who visit.

White Clover Family Farm

Our Rating: 8.7/10

White Clover Family Farm is a haven for those seeking a genuine farm-to-table experience. This multigenerational family farm, established in 2017, spans 35 acres and offers visitors a chance to connect with the land and its bountiful offerings. The farmstand is a treasure trove of local delights, from vibrant annuals and perennials to fresh, scratch-made baked goods.

Beyond produce, White Clover Family Farm raises happy and healthy animals, including chickens, pigs, cattle, goats, and sheep. Their commitment to sustainable farming ensures visitors enjoy nitrate and hormone-free meats, fresh eggs, and handmade jams and salsas. For a unique experience, the farm offers “Wine & Wicks” candle-making classes, where guests can craft 100% soy candles.

Rockfish Public House

Our Rating: 8.0/10

Rockfish Public House offers a delightful seafood dining experience. The restaurant’s inviting ambiance, complemented by a full-service bar featuring 24 draft beers—many from local craft brewers—creates a perfect setting for any occasion.

The menu showcases a variety of fresh, sustainably sourced seafood dishes, including oysters, crab cakes, and lobster rolls. Patrons consistently praise the quality and flavor of the offerings, making it a must-visit for seafood enthusiasts.

York Emporium

Our Rating: 8.5/10

This expansive used book store features over 100,000 titles spanning various genres. Visitors can lose themselves among countless shelves filled with novels, histories, and rare finds. Comic enthusiasts will also find a diverse selection of comics and graphic novels.

Beyond books, the shop offers an array of other curios, including records and unique oddities. With a welcoming atmosphere, it’s a space to explore leisurely, searching for unexpected gems.

York Little Theatre

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Established in 1953, this community theater has entertained audiences with diverse shows, from classic plays to contemporary musicals. Theater enthusiasts can enjoy quality productions that often include touring shows with a flair for Broadway-style entertainment.

The theater provides an intimate setting, enhancing the experience for everyone attending a performance. Additionally, the theater offers acting classes, allowing budding actors to develop their skills.

York Ice Arena

Our Rating: 8.3/10

York Ice Arena provides an excellent setting for skating enthusiasts. It caters to various ice sports and recreational activities with two full-size NHL rinks. Visitors can engage in public skating sessions, perfect their figure skating skills, or join a lively game of hockey.

The arena frequently hosts ice hockey leagues and figure skating clubs, drawing athletes from around the region. Lessons are available for skaters of all ages and abilities, whether beginners or those looking to hone their skills.

Christmas Magic at Rocky Ridge

Our Rating: 9.0/10

Christmas Magic at Rocky Ridge Park is a spectacular holiday event that dazzles visitors of all ages. Over a million twinkling LED lights transform the park into a glowing winter wonderland. The half-mile ADA-accessible walking trail offers a journey through enchanting woods filled with animated scenes and colorful displays.

As visitors stroll the candy cane-lined walkway, they encounter decorative trees and festive installations that capture the season’s spirit. Each bend in the trail reveals new delights, making it a captivating experience for families, friends, and holiday enthusiasts.

Cook College and Theological School

Our Rating: 8.5/10

With its well-preserved architecture, the historic campus provides a perfect backdrop for learning and reflection. Visitors can explore its expansive library, which holds a diverse collection of books and research materials. The serene chapel offers a peaceful environment for quiet contemplation.

Walking through the lush gardens, guests often find inspiration in the beauty of their surroundings. The college frequently hosts lectures and workshops on various topics that engage both students and visitors, enriching the local community’s intellectual landscape.

York Expo Center

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Known for hosting diverse events, it transforms annually to accommodate fairs, expos, and concerts. Visitors can experience the excitement of the York Fair, one of the oldest fairs in the United States, featuring a variety of attractions, from thrilling rides to engaging exhibits.

Additionally, the center becomes a stage for live performances, drawing crowds eager to enjoy music and shows. The sprawling grounds provide ample space for various festivals, welcoming locals and tourists alike.

York County Heritage Rail Trail

Our Rating: 8.8/10

The York County Heritage Rail Trail offers a picturesque escape through Pennsylvania’s rolling countryside, charming small towns, and historic sites. This beautifully maintained trail follows the old Northern Central Railway route, where President Lincoln once traveled to deliver the Gettysburg Address. Whether cycling, jogging, or strolling, the crushed-stone path provides a smooth ride framed by lush forests, sparkling streams, and quaint bridges.

Adventure seekers and nature lovers alike will find endless delights on this trail, from wildlife sightings to stunning seasonal landscapes. In autumn, golden leaves crunch underfoot, while spring brings bursts of wildflowers along the riverbanks. The charming town of New Freedom serves as a welcoming rest stop where you can grab a bite at a cozy café before continuing your journey.

Escape Games Live

Our Rating: 8.9/10

Escape Games Live offers a thrilling experience for families and friends looking for a challenge. Step into one of their four uniquely themed escape rooms, where you have one hour to solve puzzles and clues to make your great escape.

Each room is meticulously designed, promising a test of wits and a fully immersive adventure that pulls you into a different world. With locations in York and Lemoyne, Escape Games Live is known for its engaging puzzles and immersive themes, making it Central PA’s favorite escape room spot.

Native Lands County Park

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Native Lands County Park spans 187 acres and offers a peaceful escape into nature. Visitors can trek the Native Lands Heritage Trail, a 6-foot-wide path cutting north to south, perfect for leisurely walks and exploring diverse landscapes.

This trail showcases picturesque views and a section of the historic Mason-Dixon Trail, blending history with the natural world. It’s a great spot for a self-guided tour through scenic meadows and dense woodlands.

York County Parks

Our Rating: 8.5/10

York County offers a diverse range of parks that attract outdoor enthusiasts year-round. Kilgore Falls is a natural gem, providing a stunning backdrop for hiking and photography. It’s particularly popular in the summer when visitors can catch a glimpse of the scenic waterfall and cool off in the waters.

Samuel S. Lewis State Park invites families for picnics with its panoramic views of the Susquehanna River. Thanks to the park’s open spaces, flying kites becomes an art form. For those who enjoy cycling or walking, the Heritage Rail Trail is a must-visit.

Heritage Hills Golf Resort

Our Rating: 8.4/10

Heritage Hills Golf Resort is a premier destination for relaxation and recreation. Golf enthusiasts can spend their days on the well-maintained 18-hole championship course, which offers rolling terrain and expertly crafted greens. Non-golfers will enjoy the full range of amenities available.

This includes an inviting spa offering rejuvenating treatments and a fitness center for those who wish to stay active. During winter months, the resort includes a snow tubing park for family visitors, adding a dash of excitement to any stay.

From its engaging museums and historical landmarks to its bustling markets and cultural spots, the city ensures a rewarding visit. York’s unique blend of past and present creates lasting memories for all who explore it. It’s a destination that inspires reflection and discovery, leaving visitors eager to return for more.