100 miles west of Philadelphia lies York, PA—yes, the home of the York Peppermint Pattie. Much of Pennsylvania and the east coast carry so much history which means there are endless historical sites to see, and this includes York. History buffs and tourists alike can find a wide array of must-see spots when they’re in York. From museums to amusement parks, here are some of the funnest things to do while visiting York, PA.
Good Libations Trails
For a fun adventure that combines sightseeing and tasting beer, wine, and craft cocktails—check out the Good Libations Trails digital passport. This curated “bar hop” brings guests to the Mason-Dixon Wine Trail, Keystone Craft Spirits Trail, and Susquehanna Ale Trail, where people can sip some beers at the city’s most historical breweries.
BAPS Motor Speedway
BAPS Motor Speedway is a family-friendly, high-banked, half-mile concrete oval race track. From stock car races to demo derbies and monster truck rallies, there is always something fun (and loud) going on at BAPS Motor Speedway. They even have a Kid’s Club sponsored by Red Robin that puts on events for kids 12 and under where they can get involved in the track and enjoy ice cream socials and other fundraising events.
York County History Center
For a glimpse into York’s history, the York County History Center is, of course, the place to see it. For $15 or less, people can walk through 300 years of York’s past with exhibits showcasing photos and artifacts from decades of U.S. and local history. They also have special exhibits and fun family-friendly events and programs for everyone to enjoy. You can even pay a small admission fee to gain access to the city archives.
Golden Plough Tavern
One of the museums in downtown York is the Golden Plough Tavern. Built in 1741 as a two-story tavern, it now belongs to the historical registry and runs as a museum and time capsule with its beautiful medieval architecture, age, and social-cultural history.
Nixon Park Nature Center
The York County Park system is the best place to take a hike or short walk with the family and see all that Pennsylvania’s nature has to offer. Some native wildlife you might see around the Nixon Park Nature Center include snakes, squirrels, raccoons, skunks, and opossums.
York Central Market House
The York Central Market House is a historic building and public marketplace that has been around since the late 1800s. The market house has gone through many changes over the years, but it’s still standing today as a place where people can buy local produce, meat, dairy, and baked goods.
Downtown York
Downtown York is equal parts charming historical city and edgy, bustling entertainment hub. The beautiful buildings house modern shops, restaurants, and bars—there’s truly something for everyone. Some of the best spots to visit downtown include:
- Cornerstone Barbershop
- Hamir’s Indiana Fusion
- Velvet Beauties Boutique
- The Fig & Barrel Pub
- Artemis Vintage
Samuel S. Lewis State Park
The Samuel S. Lewis State Park is an 85-acre state park that offers hiking, fishing, picnicking, and much more. The star of the show at this state park is Mt. Pisgah, which gives beautiful views of the Kreutz Creek and East Prospect valleys from atop an 885-foot-high ridge. It’s also a local favorite for kite flying—you can easily catch a good breeze on Mt. Pisgah.
Appell Center for the Performing Arts
The Appell Center for the Performing Arts hosts musicals, dance performances, stand-up comedy, and more. The theater also doubles as a movie theater, showing both new releases and classic films. And $2 from every ticket sale goes towards maintaining the historical theaters and keeping this beautiful architecture the perfect place to continue entertaining the people of York.
Agricultural and Industrial Museum
The Agricultural and Industrial Museum is a living history museum that showcases the agricultural and industrial heritage of York County. The museum has interactive exhibits, as well as real-life demonstrations of what life was like during different periods in York’s history. You can see how wool is spun into yarn, watch a blacksmith forge iron, or try your hand at pottery making.
Supporting Local York, PA Businesses
Whether you’re buying a one-of-a-kind outfit from Indigo Bleu Fashion, or grabbing a beer at the Holy Hound Taproom, York is filled with small businesses that make up the heart and soul of the community.
As a top local roofer in York, Dreamworx Roofing has been pleased to serve this beautiful community for years— and continues to do so with premium roofing and exterior services today. For the best roofing service in York, PA, reach out to Dreamworx today!
