WHY GO: Although replete with history, some of the best thing to do in York PA, the 10th largest city in Pennsylvania, don’t involve anything you’d find in our history books.
Yes, York, Pennsylvania is a city of firsts that has made significant contributions to American history and culture. It’s where the first Articles of Confederation were adopted in 1777 – the same year that York was the Capital of the United States for nine months. This town hosted the first-ever state fair, York State Fair, and it’s where the first National Day of Thanksgiving was proclaimed.
But this region could also be labeled the Snack Capital of the USA, with several factories in surrounding York County producing the snack foods favored by teens and Superbowl fans. After all, it was the birthplace of the York Peppermint Patty.
This travel guide covers all the fun attractions in Downtown York, as well as outdoorsy trails and even a salt sanctuary. And, because this is the ideal romantic destination for some couples, we include all the best restaurants and hotels, including one of the quirkiest places to stay in the USA.
Looking for more romantic getaways? We’ve got you covered with all the top romantic getaways in Pennsylvania, plus more Northeast getaways.
Things to Do In York PA
TOUR: York County History Center
The York County History Center consists of five museums, and a library/archive. The entry ticket enables you to visit the Colonial Complex, the Agricultural & Industrial Museum, the Historical Society Museum, and the 1903 Fire Museum of York County. Tip – do check the website for availability as some have limited open hours.
York County History Museum
Located in the old Edison Steam Power Plant building, York County History Center Museum covers the history of York and the surrounding land – from its indigenous population to the drafting and signing of the Articles of Confederation in 1777, to its role in the Underground Railroad, and York County’s emergence as the nation’s “Snack Capital.”
Illuminated by 256 lightbulbs, Reddy Kilowatt – the iconic 18 ft tall spokes-toon used to promote home electricity in the Southern states in the 1930s – welcomes museum visitors from his windowed perch in the lobby.
Of course, there are exhibits on local notables. Stauffer Biscuit Co., maker of Animal Crackers (yes, those toddler favorites are still made in York PA), York Barbells, Utz, Snyders, Caterpillar, and Danskin are all located in York County.
Ogle at the humongous, partially working A-Frame ammonia compressor, a steam engine driven machine. It was one of about 1,800 of various sizes built by the York Manufacturing Company between 1902-1904 for industrial refrigeration: this one capable of making 200 tons of ice per day.
While the Ammonia Compressor is by far the largest artifact in the museum – the smallest one is a glass canister for notes carried by messenger pigeon. See if you can locate it without help.
Colonial Complex
Begin at the Colonial Complex, which includes The 1741 Golden Plough Tavern, the adjoining 1755 General Horatio Gates House, and the 1812 Barnett Bobb Log House, which was moved here in the 1960s. The Tavern belonged to a family of German heritage who lived and worked there.
A “half-timber framework,” the Golden Plough is a rare, intact example of this architectural style. You’ll see evidence of this construction through Lucite-covered cutaways in one original wall packed with twigs and mud for insulation.
On the first floor, the tavern room was as close as it got to network news, as travelers would eat, drink, and share gossip of the day. Upstairs, travelers snored together on paper-thin floor mats in a common sleeping room. Not exactly the Ritz.
General Gates House
The General Gates House is a step up in status. A Commander of US Troops in the Revolutionary War, General Horatio Gates lived here temporarily, and the home is decorated as if he’ll walk through the door any minute. A table is set with imported dinnerware and an expensive beeswax candle (in the shape of a beehive), indicating the upper-class standing of the home’s owners.
Cross the street (watching out for freight trains that very occasionally ride on tracks embedded in the road) to the 1976 replica of the Colonial era Courthouse, (the original was demolished in 1841), accurate to size and location.
It was here, in November 1777, that the Second Continental Congress met to adopt the Articles of Confederation in an effort to unite the 13 colonies. Then, the first National Day of Thanksgiving was proclaimed on November 1, 1777, after the Battle of Saratoga, and celebrated on Thursday, December 18. This all occurred during the nine months that York, PA remained the Capital of the United States.
Agricultural And Industrial Museum
Located in a repurposed factory complex, this museum is built to impress. Large-scale printing presses manufactured by George F. Motter’s Sons, overhead crane rails, a 1916 trolley car from downtown York, a working gristmill water wheel, and artifacts from many York factories can all be found in this massive institution.
The museum highlights York County’s many local industries.
Look for the photo and model of the first turbine windmill, built in 1941 by S. Morgan Smith Co – a hydroelectric dam blade manufacturer. Installed as a test product for a Central Vermont utility, it quickly failed when the blade snapped off.
There’s an early Linotype Machine, a complex contraption used to print newspapers. And a large industrial center phone system, complete with hands-on rotary phones, that has become a big hit with kids who have never seen such things.
DO/RELAX: 1881 Salt Sanctuary
You can’t miss the 1881 Salt Sanctuary on busy Loucks Road: it’s the green building with a mural of colorful wildflowers painted on its whitewashed chimney. (The artist is Anne Lise, who also created several downtown murals). Mother-Daughter owners, Robbi and Nikki McClane designed the perfect haven, incorporating all sorts of therapies to sooth mind and body.
The 45-minute Salt Therapy session is, according to Nikki, equivalent to four days at the beach. You can add a Kava Mocktail to take into the salt room – which just adds to the uber-relaxing experience. Lights low, spa-music playing, salt block walls, and salt sand, I blissed out and lost track of time on my zero gravity recliner. That sense of calm stayed with me all day.
You must RSVP for a private or group salt-room experience, massage, yoga class, or red light therapy – all very popular – but can pop in any time to shop in the apothecary for herbal teas, essential oils, tinctures, salt scrubs, jewelry, and more.
SHOP/EAT: York Central Market House
In the mid-1800s, York farmers loaded up their carts and sold their goods outside in the town square, because, well, there were no grocery stores around.
The carts turned into shacks. And, over time, these shacks became a town nuisance. So, in 1888, a benefactor funded this beautiful structure that provided a weatherproof enclosure for these farmers and their customers.
A hundred thirty years later, York Central Market includes a great mix of restaurants, farm stands, butchers, and artisans. You can shop for fresh ingredients and also take your pick of world cuisine for a quick lunch.
Our favorites include:
Pullshot Coffee Roasters
In his early 20’s, owner Andrew Mintonye has turned Pullshot Coffee Roasters into one of the most innovative – and swoon-worthy – coffee shops in the County. He excels in specialty coffee and craft drinks like Honey Lavender or Creme Brulee Lattes.
Inspired Imagez
In need of a cool reminder of your time in York PA? Pick up a creative rendering of the County’s signature buildings and landscapes. Photographer, Robert Brown, sells these colorful images from the Central Market and online.
More Purveyors at Central Market
Hefty Lefty’s has won awards for its hoagies and grinders. Patrons line up for all-beef hot dogs and hamburgers at Auggies Joint. Pick up meats, soap, tallow balms and more at Locust Point Cattle Co. And, of course, the York County PA Visitors Center (here starring Andrea Ryan).
WALK/FIND: Downtown York Murals
Pennsylvania seems to have found its niche in astounding public art. Of course, the 4,000 murals in Philly are world-famous.
But smaller PA cities, like York, have jumped on the bandwagon – with displays of color and poignantly rendered works of art on formerly drab exterior walls, shipping containers, and smaller surfaces.
To come face to face with these soul stirring murals, all you have to do is walk the streets of downtown York PA. Find some of the most dramatic works within Mural Park in the Royal Square District.
SHOP: Beaver Street
There are all sorts of indie shops on this Brooklyn-ish lane in downtown York. Among our favorites: Sunrise Soap and House of Flowers.
SHOP: Root and Relic
This funky new store near the Central Market, Root & Relic is not the same old same old gift shop. With “a lot of Japanese products,” 3-D printed items (like the colorful Central Market shaped planters), and tons of fun artifacts and plants, this shop is worth browsing if if you don’t intend to buy anything. (But you probably will).
SHOP: Refillism
Find all-natural toners, lotions, oils, bath balms, laundry soaps, and lots of other products – some refillable in glass bottles – at Refillism (“York’s first Refillery”). Formerly on Beaver Street, this can’t miss store can be found about 10 minutes from downtown in a shopping plaza.
CRUISE: Explore the Susquehanna River Aboard the Chief Uncas
Built in 1912 for beer tycoon Adolphus Busch, the 41 ft. Chief Uncas – an electric-powered launch – cruised Otsego Lake, the headwaters of the Susquehanna in upstate New York, for over a century. Now, she cruises the Susquehanna 400 miles downstream as the flagship for River Discovery Boat Tours. Seasonal. Check website for times.
GO: Harley Davidson Plant
Stay tuned for a Harley Davidson Experience, slated for late 2026.
BIKE/HIKE: Heritage Rail Trail Park
The 21-mile Heritage Rail Trail runs from York PA through scenic southern York County, but it also connects to the Mason Dixon Trail system which connects to the Appalachian Trail and south to Havre De Grace MD.
So, for example, on a recent morning, we ran into a couple who biked in from Northern Baltimore and spent the night in downtown York. They were doing the bike tour as a short getaway, but adventurous couples can turn this into a longer vacation.
And it’s not just for biking. The 10-foot wide Heritage Rail Trail was specially designed to be good for hiking, running, and horseback riding, as well as cross-country skiing and snow-shoeing in the winter.
SEE A SHOW: Appell Center For The Performing Arts
The Appell Center For The Performing Arts is housed in two adjacent buildings that date back to the early 20th century, each with its own unique architectural style.
The Strand Theatre, which opened in 1925, features a stunning Art Deco facade and a grand lobby adorned with ornate details and gold accents. The Capitol Theatre, which opened in 1906, has a more traditional design with classical columns and a beautiful marble staircase.
Inside the Appell Center, guests can experience a wide range of performances, including theater productions, live music concerts, dance performances, and film screenings. The center has several performance spaces, including the 1,262-seat Strand Theatre, the 450-seat Capitol Theatre, and the more intimate 100-seat Studio Theatre. Each venue offers a unique experience, with excellent acoustics, comfortable seating, and state-of-the-art lighting and sound systems.
VISIT: Weightlifting Hall of Fame @ York Barbell
York Oil Burner Company founder, Bob Hoffman, opened an Athletic Club for his workers in the 1930s. He found that the gym equipment used, mostly the barbells, was a hot commodity. So, Hoffman decided to expand his business into making and selling them.
Eventually, York Barbell became his primary business. Hoffman considered the “Father of World Weightlifting,” including both powerlifting and bodybuilding, started a trend that was popularized by Arnold Schwarzenegger in the 1970s and still continues to this day.
Anyone who is at all interested in either of these sports will find much to enjoy at the Weightlifting Hall of Fame, from the display of exceptional physiques that were part of the theatrics of 1800s showmen to photos and stats of male and female Olympic World Weightlifting Champions throughout the years. You can try out equipment in a couple of large gyms on-site, and then make purchases in the store at favorable prices.
VISIT/WALK: Richard M. Nixon Park and Nature Center
Richard Nixon never lived in York, and never even visited here, but York Barbell owner, Bob Hoffman, was a huge fan. He donated the Richard Nixon Park to the fine people of this county on the eve of the 1968 Presidential election, in Nixon’s honor.
There’s a big portrait of the former President in the reception area. And you’ll also find helpful docents who provide an overview of the multi-faceted 187-acre park, with six miles of trails and a cool Nature Center.
The Nature Center is far better than I expected. It features both live animals and artful dioramas showcasing a bevy of taxidermied animals from Africa, the Arctic, the Northwest US, and East Coast, along with cases of mounted birds, collections of eggs, and more on two floors.
Bikes are not allowed on the trails – a visit here is meant to be quiet and contemplative. That’s just one of the reasons the place is so popular with “Hike It Baby” groups.
EXPLORE: Samuel S. Lewis State Park
Encompassing 85 acres of rolling hills, wooded areas, and open fields, Samuel S. Lewis State Park provides visitors with a variety of recreational opportunities and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
One of the highlights of Samuel S. Lewis State Park is the park’s extensive trail system. The park has several hiking trails that wind through the wooded areas and offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The trails range in difficulty from easy to moderate, making them accessible to hikers of all skill levels. The park also has a nature trail, which provides visitors with information about the local flora and fauna.
HIKE/WALK: Highpoint Scenic Vista & Recreation Area
Located near Samuel S. Lewis State Park, Highpoint Scenic Vista & Recreation Area offers a winding trail to a scenic overlook with a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape, including the Pocono Mountains, the Delaware Water Gap, and the Lehigh Valley. The area covers 235 acres and is a wonderful spot for picnicking, fishing, and birdwatching.
TASTE: Old Republic Distillery
Owned by Denise Mathias and her brother, Bill, the Old Republic Distillery is a super-small batch, artisanal distillery that serves specialized cocktails made with its very own hooch. With the bar and tasting area aglow in blue light, and mixologists pouring drinks at a funky bar, Old Republic could be a hot spot in a much larger city.
But here we are in York PA. And this where the excellent Battlefield Vodka (using non-GMO white corn), Blackberry Battlefield (80 proof), Golden Plough Tavern Rum (100 proof, great for Dark and Stormy’s), Love Potion Moonshine (great with lemonade for “Lovenade”), Apple Pie Moonshine (like drinking apple pie, including the crust), and Blueberry Apple Pie Moonshine – is made.
BEER: Breweries in York County PA
There is no shortage of beer-makers in Pennsylvania – some going way back to before America declared independence! York County has its share. So, try Mudhook Brewing Co (behind the Central Market House; the expansive South County Brewing Co – located atop a hill outside of town; AleCraft – adjacent to the York County Heritage Trail perfect for a break; and Gift Horse Brewing – with a 5,000sf outdoor beer garden.
Best Restaurants In York PA
EAT: Bloom Kitchen and Bar
Formerly Left Bank, Bloom Kitchen and Bar is one of York’s premier fine dining restaurants – the kind of place you book for a special occasion. The owner, Victor Claffey, hails from Ireland, and many a dish comes from his family recipes. I’d imagine the toothsome Pop’s Roast Chicken is one. Not your average Dad’s chicken recipe, this one, crispy skin and succulent meat drizzled with gravy, is divine. Yes, the American dishes with European touches are great – but whatever you do, ya gotta order the “Table Bread:” pillows of Parker Rolls baked and served in a small cast iron pan, with honey butter and apricot jelly. Irresistible.
EAT: Hamir’s Indian Fusion
Owned by Hamir Patel, Hamir’s Indian Fusion in downtown York City PA, elevates Indian cuisine to gourmet status. Every dish is exquisitely prepared, imbued with love, and absolutely delish. So much so, Hamir’s was chosen by USA Today as one of its thirty six 2026 Restaurants of the Year – spotlighting Top Dining Destinations across America.
Unusual for an Indian restaurant, Hamir’s is also known for its great wine and cocktail list – and Patel’s devotion to charitable giving, and raising money for causes like breast cancer awareness. (He started cooking 8 years ago when a couple of dear friends were diagnosed).
So, plan a meal and a drink here, and if you want to try a smattering of dishes, order the Thali Sampler. But don’t forget to order the “House Fries” – crescents of airy fried potatoes, crispy and topped with delectable peri-peri sauce. I’d return just for those alone.
EAT/DRINK: Davidson Lobby Bar and Restaurant at Yorktowne Hotel
The setting itself is dramatic enough – with a wall-sized mural of Ella Fitzgerald and Frank Sinatra looming over intimate leather banquettes. But, from all accounts – the food at the Davidson Lobby Bar and Restaurant at Yorktowne Hotel is excellent as well, winning raves from locals and guests since it opened in mid-2023.
EAT/DINNER: Tutoni’s
Tutoni’s Restaurant owners are so serious about good Italian food, they took their kitchen staff to Italy for a couple of weeks to bone up on their Italian mama chops. Reinvigorated, they returned to this old refurbished brick-walled, candle-lit space, with its stunning modern-meets-wine-cellar interior, to cook for local and visiting patrons. Plates of stuffed Squash Blossoms, Chicken Gemelli, Atlantic Cod, and more evoke memories of long ago, authentic Italian meals.
EAT: Victor’s of York
Order classic Italian dishes in an upscale repurposed church. Victor’s Italian Restaurant won “Best of York County Fine Dining,” and you’ll find everything from comfort food like Eggplant Parm to Hot Sausage D’Angelo and Spring Vegetable Lasagna. End with a slice of Providence Spott’s Bakery Chocolate Espresso Cake, an incredibly decadent meal in itself.
BREAKFAST/LUNCH/DINNER: White Rose Bar & Grill
Family-owned and operated for nearly 100 years, the White Rose Bar & Grill is a popular venue in Downtown York. Guests rave about the Short Ribs and Crab Pretzels. Interestingly, the name derives from York’s historic relationship with its sister city, Lancaster PA. Like the British namesakes, York is the White Rose City to its counterpart across the Susquehanna River which was known as the Red Rose City.
EAT: The First Post
First built in the 1850’s – the First Post Public House was a carriage stop and place to chow down for weary travelers. It still is, although those carriages are now pick-ups and SUV’s. The First Post serves up tasty vittles – for modern palates – in rooms old and new. Some are quite innovative.
TOUR/EAT: Taste2Tour
If you can’t decide where to eat, let the experts decide for you. Learn about the food and history of York PA on a “gastronomic excursion” with Taste2Tour Food Tour.
Restaurants In York County PA
EAT: Wyndridge Farms (Dallastown, PA)
Just a 20-minute drive from downtown York, the farm-fresh food at Wyndridge Farms is good and straightforward – Soups, Salads, Cobb, Brick Fired Pizzas, Pasta Prima Vera, and Burgers. However, it’s the landscape outside that wows. No wonder brides-to-be insist on having their weddings here. Undulating lawns, and verdant hills as backdrop: this Craft Brewery/Restaurant/Wedding Venue is spectacular.
EAT: Altland House (Abbottstown, PA)
While living several miles away, President Dwight “Ike” Eisenhower frequented Altland House for its famous “Chicken Waffles,” on the menu since the early 1900s.
You can still order that dish, along with the original (and real, not mock) Turtle Soup, in addition to a relatively all-American selection of salads, burgers, and steaks.
The food is fine, but you’ll experience snack food nirvana with what precedes your meal; house-made potato chips sprinkled with balsamic glaze and parmesan cheese.
Created out of necessity, Altland House owner, Mike Haugh, could not play potato-chip favorites; Utz, Martin’s, and Snyder’s executives routinely dine there, so the chef had to come up with his own. They are truly incredible.
EAT/ICE-CREAM: Perrydell Farm and Dairy
When your ice cream comes straight from the cow, it couldn’t get any fresher. But that’s not the only appeal at Perrydell Farm. You can take a self-guided tour to watch cows being milked, learn the dairy process, and even pet some baby calves.
Hotels In York PA
STAY: Yorktowne Hotel Tapestry Collection By Hilton
Built in 1925 and completely overhauled by 2022, the Yorktowne Hotel reopened to great acclaim in 2023 and is a Maven Favorite! Read all about it in this Yorktowne Hotel review post. Now under the Hilton umbrella in the luxury Tapestry Collection, the renewed hotel by virtue of its design elements, fantastic art, nods to the past, great rooftop lounge, and pristine luxury bathrooms, is one of the sexiest and most romantic lodgings in Pennsylvania.
STAY: Heritage Hills Hotel and Golf Resort
Heritage Hills Resort is fine, comfortable, and updated with great bedding, a granite bathroom, and nice amenities. It’s a good choice for those who want a touch of resort standard while avoiding a chain brand.
Do you love to golf? Bring your clubs and hit some balls right outside your window. Heritage Hills is a popular driving range and a resident 18-hole course. Come in winter, and the driving range turns into a snow-tubing hill.
VRBO: The Haines Shoe House
One of the quirkiest places to stay, the Haines Shoe House was built in 1950 by a Shoe Retailer. Now the 3-bedroom home sports retro features including a vinyl record player, rec room mini bar, original tile work, and built-ins.
It’s located on an acre of land, on a quiet road, and offers a hot tub, picnic table, and fire ring.
Map Of Things To Do In York PA
More Weekend Getaways In Pennsylvania
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