Things To Do
in York
York, Pennsylvania sits in the heart of southern Pennsylvania, blending colonial history with modern small-city charm. The historic downtown centers around Market Street, lined with brick streets, local markets, and centuries-old architecture. The surrounding countryside offers leafy trails, state parks, and a growing scene of craft breweries and family-friendly museums.
With easy drives to Baltimore, Philadelphia, and Lancaster, York makes a convenient base for exploring central Pennsylvania.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the Historic Center of York, immersing yourself in its rich colonial history. Visit the York County Heritage Trust to learn about the region's past and view fascinating exhibits. Don't forget to grab a coffee at a local café while enjoying the charming architecture.
After lunch at a quaint bistro, head over to the Colonial Courthouse and take a guided tour to appreciate its historical significance. Spend some time wandering through the nearby market square, where local artisans showcase their crafts. Wrap up the afternoon by visiting the York County History Center to explore more about the local heritage.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a historic restaurant that offers traditional Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the Susquehanna River, enjoying the views and possibly catching a local performance at the nearby cultural center. End your evening with a nightcap at a cozy pub that features live music.
Begin your day with a invigorating hike at the nearby Pinchot State Park, where you can enjoy the beautiful trails and serene nature. Breathe in the fresh air as you explore the park's diverse flora and fauna, spotting local wildlife along the way. Bring a packed breakfast to enjoy by the lakeside, soaking in the peaceful surroundings.
After your morning hike, head to the park’s picnic area for a delicious lunch surrounded by nature. Spend the afternoon canoeing on the lake or relaxing by the shore, taking advantage of the beautiful scenery. For those feeling adventurous, consider renting a bike to explore the park's extensive trails.
As evening approaches, return to York and indulge in a hearty dinner at a restaurant known for its farm-to-table offerings. After dinner, take a stroll through the downtown area, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and unique shops. Cap off the night with dessert from a local bakery, sampling regional specialties.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee at cafe | $3-6 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $12-20 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $3-4 |
| 🏠Rent (1-bedroom apartment, city center) | $1,100-1,400 /mo |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact and walkable historic core
- Rich Pennsylvania Dutch heritage
- Good day trips to Baltimore and Philadelphia
- Family-friendly with museums and parks
- Limited late-night club scene
- Weather can be hot in summer
- Smaller city feel may limit major international cuisine options
- Traffic can be congested near the market on weekends
Places to Visit in York
Visit one of these nice places.
Brick sidewalks, period architecture, and the Golden Plough Tavern facade provide classic architectural and street photography opportunities.
Brick-lined streets and colonial-era buildings offer timeless portrait and street photography backdrops.
Water views and trestle bridges give scenic landscapes and sunset photography possibilities.
Lit storefronts and sidewalk cafés create vibrant urban nightscapes.
Food in York
York Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Pennsylvania Dutch molasses pie, typically found at local bakeries and markets in York.
Must-Try!
Warm, baked apples wrapped in pastry with vanilla sauce; common at Amish markets and family-owned bakeries nearby.
A hearty savory pie featuring locally sourced chicken or beef, served in many downtown diners.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic indoor market offering fresh produce, baked goods, and regional specialties from multiple vendors.
Weekly stalls around downtown with produce, cheeses, pies, and street snacks during peak seasons.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly hello and a handshake are common in casual settings; use courteous language and eye contact.
York locals are polite and reserved; keep conversations respectful and avoid loud behavior in quiet venues.
Safety
Tipping in York
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 15-20% is standard; tip bartenders and taxi drivers; some quick-service spots may be cashless, so check ahead.
Credit cards are widely accepted; carry some cash for markets and smaller vendors; mobile wallets are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Milder temperatures, blooming trees, and lighter crowds; great for walking tours and outdoor markets.
Warm to hot with humidity; plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon; enjoy outdoor concerts and breweries.
Crisp air and colorful foliage; ideal for scenic drives, rail-trail biking, and Codorus State Park views.
Cold with possible snow; many attractions shift indoors; enjoy cozy dining and hot beverages.
York at Night
Hiking in York
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive trails around the lake offering scenic views and wildlife.
A long, easy-to-access trail ideal for biking and walking.
Airports
How to reach York by plane.
About 40-60 minutes from York; offers major domestic flights and rental cars.
Approximately 1.5 hours away; good for domestic and international connections.
Around 1.5-2 hours away; large airport with extensive networks.
Smaller regional airport about 40-60 minutes away; convenient for short trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Strong presence of families drawn to museums, parks, and family-friendly dining.
A growing number of young professionals in downtown jobs and local startups.
Universities in the region bring student populations from York College of PA and Penn State York.
Quiet neighborhoods and easy access to healthcare attract retirees.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local season hosts the York Revolution at WellSpan Park; fans enjoy a family-friendly ballpark experience.
College sports from nearby York College of Pennsylvania and Penn State York add local energy.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting York.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose plant-forward dishes, soups, salads, and sides; many restaurants label vegetarian options; seek farm-to-table spots for fresh produce.