There is no shortage of things to do in York, PA. This city has a rich history and an even brighter future. This guide will show visitors all of the best places to visit in York, PA.
Many people say they love to travel but don’t do it enough because they always wonder what to do in York, PA. Well, if this sounds like you, then you’re in luck because this list of the best 15 attractions in York, is full of great ideas for activities and attractions.
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Whether you’re into sightseeing, checking out the latest exhibits, or want to have a fun day with your friends and family, then York is a great choice.
Things to Do in York, Pennsylvania
Here is a list of the top 15 tourist attractions, that will keep you busy for a long time.
1. Rock Ridge Park
The best place to start our list of what to do in York, Pennsylvania, is by checking out Rock Ridge Park. This Park is home to miles upon miles of trails for walking and biking. It also has a little over 700 acres of land, which makes it the perfect spot for picnics or barbecues with your family or friends.
If are looking for great tourist attractions in York, this should be one of them because it’s not only scenic but also completely free. Rock Ridge Park is both a park and a forest on a hilltop. It has the best view of the valleys that surround the Park.
The Park hosts a Magic show around Christmas time and a Live Music Festival every summer.
2. PeoplesBank Park
PeoplesBank Baseball Park is the best place to go for a fun evening of baseball. This stadium is home to the York Revolution, an American Legion Baseball team whose season runs from April until August.
Americans love baseball, and their love is on full display here. If you’re looking for fun things to do in York, Pennsylvania, and see some baseball fields, there’s no better place than PeoplesBank Park.
Aside from Baseball games, this stadium also hosts concerts and other events throughout the year. Whatever event you’re attending, PeoplesBank Park will provide you with a fun experience.
3. Richard Nixon Park
You can take a stroll at Richard Nixon Park, one of the great state parks, to enjoy its natural beauty. It has a park, woodland, meadow, flora, and fauna.
Named after the former president of the United States, Richard Nixon had a big part in the nation’s history, and this Park is a testament to that.
You can find the Nixon Nature Centre at the park center, which displays wildlife from around York County, including snakes, turtles, and frogs. Looking for a great thing to visit in York? Then this Park is where you need to be.
4. York County History Center
One of the fun things to do while visiting York, Pennsylvania, is a visit to this non-profit history museum. One of the best things about this place is that it’s completely free.
This museum was opened in 1989 and focused on the culture and heritage of York County.
More than 300 years of local history are displayed here in exhibits, interactive displays, textiles, arts, and collectibles.
York County History Center is a great place to take the whole family on a fun day trip with many educational opportunities.
5. Appell Center for the Performing Arts
The Appell Center for the Performing Arts in York is the premier venue for concerts and theater.
The center features two performing arts theatres, The Capitol and The Strand. This center also features a dance studio.
If you love live performances, this is the place to be. Its top-notch facilities, terrific acoustics, and state-of-the-art lighting will leave you completely satisfied with your experience.
This center regularly hosts local performances by bands, orchestras, dance troupes, and individuals looking to share their craft with the world.
6. Belmont Theatre
Visit the Belmont Theatre for some of the best musical experiences around. If you love Broadway, this is the place to be because it regularly hosts all kinds of shows that tour under Broadway in York.
Established in 1953, this theater was built around bringing back theatre productions to York, Pennsylvania.
7. York Galleria Mall
If you love shopping, then you will love the York Galleria Mall. This mall is in downtown York with over 85 stores and restaurants.
Dining at the mall is a must, so be sure to have lunch or dinner at one of the many restaurants.
You can also find a movie theater to see the latest movies on the big screen.
8. York Barbell Hall of Fame
This place is the birthplace of weightlifting in America.
The York Barbell Hall of Fame was established in 1935 and primarily focused on the sport’s history.
You can find many exhibits here that will tell you all about how this sport started, evolved, and blooms into what it is today.
If you love to work out and are interested in learning about weightlifting history, this is the best place for you.
9. William Kain Park
This Park is a great place to visit if you love running, hiking, and biking. There are several trails in the Park that give you a variety of places to choose from.
The Park has two lakes and a reservoir, and it’s got picnic tables and benches for you to relax.
Some awe-inspiring rock formations will amaze you as you take in the views of nature here.
10. AvalancheXpress Indoor Ski & Snowboard Park
If you love skiing, ice skating, snowboarding, or winter outdoor activities, this is the perfect place to spend your day, especially during the holiday season.
This indoor ski resort is located inside PA’s most prominent family entertainment center, AvalancheXpress. It will be like you’re on an actual mountain range with 35-foot-tall peaks when you visit here.
There are ski and snowboard equipment rentals available for those who don’t have their gear. So, what are you waiting for? Spend your day at this winter activities center.
11. Antique Auto Museum
The AACA Museum is a great way to take in some cars and learn about the history of America on wheels.
The museum is home to over 200 American-made automobiles and motorcycles, and it gives you a glimpse into this industry’s rise to popularity.
There are also restored 1930s gas pumps, neon signs, and more for one of the most authentic experiences.
12. John C. Rudy County Park
Another great place is John C. Rudy County Park in York, Pennsylvania.
This dog park has over 150 acres of land for recreational activities like biking, hiking trails, cross-country skiing, picnicking, and more.
Features beautiful plants, meadows, and waterfalls and is a must-see while in York. It is best for families, friends, sports teams, wedding parties, and more.
13. Samuel S. Lewis State Park
If you have not noticed, York County is full of parks for you to enjoy.
Another great park is Samuel S. Lewis State Park. This Park features Mt. Pisgah, an 885 ft. peak known for having gorgeous area views.
It’s one of the best places to go if you love spending time outside hiking and taking in all the sights around you.
14. Perrydell Farm Dairy
For ice cream lovers, be sure to visit Perrydell Farm Dairy. This family-owned dairy is known for its excellent fresh ice cream, milk, and cheese made on site.
Visitors can go on a self-guided tour and see how the farm functions and operates. You can also visit the calves and pens in the back of the dairy.
You can also get fresh produce and a variety of other foods here. So, are you ready to enjoy fresh ice cream?
15. York Central Market House
The York Central Market House is one of the best historic buildings and you should not miss it.
This market house was built in 1888 and had been bringing quality produce, meat, cheese, flowers, baked goods, and more to the people of York ever since it opened up shop here.
It’s now a local favorite with residents and visitors who flock here every day to get their goods.
So, there you have it! These are just a few of the many exciting things that York, Pennsylvania, offers for visitors and locals alike.
Other attractions worth visiting on your next trip to York
The Old Town District
Old Town Historic District in York, Pennsylvania is a great place to visit if you’re looking for some history and culture. There are many old buildings and landmarks that date back to the early days of the United States, and it’s interesting to walk around and see how people used to live. In addition, there are several museums in Old Town that are worth checking out.
Old Town also has a lot of shopping and dining options, so you can easily spend a whole day there. The only downside is that it can be quite crowded on weekends, especially in the summertime. But overall, I think it’s a great place to visit if you’re looking for something different to do.
Where To Stay in York, Pennsylvania
There are many places to stay in York.
You can find a hotel, hostel, apartment, or potential home rental on websites like Airbnb for temporary housing when you’re in town.
Be sure to also check out lists of the best hotels, motels & bed and breakfasts in the area before deciding what will suit your needs best.
Here is a list of some of the best hotels in York, Pennsylvania:
1. Wyndham Garden York
One of the best places to stay in York is the Wyndham Garden York.
This hotel features a restaurant with delicious food and drinks, a fitness center with an indoor pool and sauna, complimentary guest parking, and more. The rooms offer free Wi-Fi access and cable television for your entertainment needs.
2. Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites
Another great place to stay in York is the Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites. This hotel features an indoor pool with a whirlpool, a fitness center with an on-site sports bar for drinks and light bites, complimentary guest parking, free Wi-Fi access, and more. The rooms are spacious and offer cable television with additional amenities like work desks, coffee makers, and more.
3. Tru by Hilton York
This 3-star hotel is located in the heart of the city center.
It features an on-site restaurant, a fitness center, and beautiful rooms. There is a lively bar and lounge space on-site where you can enjoy drinks or play billiards with your friends. You can get free parking space and internet access while staying at this hotel.
4. Comfort Inn & Suites York
Another cozy hotel in York is the Comfort Inn & Suites. This hotel has a conference room, a 24-hour front desk, a complimentary breakfast bar, and more. The rooms are very spacious with amenities like microwaves, refrigerators, coffee makers, work desks, free Wi-Fi access, cable TV service, hairdryers, and more.
Conclusion
York, Pennsylvania, may be one of the best and most underrated places to visit and travel to in the state.
You can see history come alive at its many historic sites and museums or enjoy nature during hikes through its parks. You can also eat well at any number of restaurants for all tastes and budgets.
So, what are you waiting for? Plan your trip to York soon and discover what makes this city so wonderful!
If you want to find out more about the city of York, check out this Wikipedia article.
For more guides, check out our North America destinations section.