Discover the Top Attractions in York: A Must-Do List for Visitors
York, Pennsylvania, is a charming town located in the heart of Pennsylvania. With its rich history, beautiful architecture, and cultural attractions, it offers a variety of activities and experiences for visitors of all ages.
The town is known for its friendly locals, lively downtown, and small-town charm, making it a popular destination for those looking for a unique and memorable getaway.
One of the main attractions of York is its rich history. The town was founded in the 18th century and played a vital role in the American Revolution, serving as the nation’s first capital.
Visitors can explore this fascinating history at the York County History Center, where they can view exhibits on the town’s past and learn about the people and events that shaped it.
The town is also home to many historic buildings and landmarks, including the Golden Plough Tavern dating back to 1741.
York is also known for its vibrant arts and culture scene. The town is home to various galleries, museums, and performance venues, including the Appell Center for the Performing Arts, which hosts a variety of live shows and events throughout the year.
Visitors can also explore the town’s many shops, restaurants, and cafes, which offer a wide range of locally sourced food and artisanal products.
Central Market House
Located in the heart of York, Pennsylvania, Central Market is a historic building that anchors the revitalization of the city’s downtown. The market has been in business since 1888. With over 50 vendors, Central Market offers an endless variety of locally grown produce and specialties.
Visitors can enjoy interactive displays that include operating a grist mill, milking dairy cows, and using a rotary dial telephone. Children can also participate in health education programs.
There are 20 exhibits at the York Museum of History. They feature many items, including children’s clothing, antique kitchenware, and grandfather clocks. The museum also offers an interactive display with a 1916 trolley car.
The York County Farmers Market features a large selection of fresh produce, homemade arts and crafts, and pet-friendly treats. This market also supports local businesses.
Agricultural & Industrial Museum
Located in a former factory complex, the York Agricultural & Industrial Museum is an impressive collection of exhibits highlighting the county’s rich manufacturing and agricultural history. It’s also exciting to learn more about the area’s a transportation and technological achievements.
The museum boasts two distinct collections: the industrial and the agricultural. The industrial part is housed in a multi-building complex with some buildings dating back to the early 1800s. The farm is housed in an old Eastern Market building, a farmer’s market until 1947.
The Agricultural & Industrial Museum has 20 exhibits spread over a 13,000-square-foot display area. They’re all interactive, allowing visitors to learn about agriculture’s history and specific technologies’ development. The Agricultural & Industrial Museum also has a gift shop. There are self-guided tours available as well.
Farquhar Park
Located in the northwest part of York, Pennsylvania, Farquhar Park is a beautiful park to visit. It is one of the most visited parks in York County. It has a playground, splash pad, athletic courts, picnic tables, and lush green grass. Many fun events take place in the Park throughout the year.
The Park began as a tract of land donated to the city of York by A. B. Farquhar in 1822. He was a Civil War veteran. He was also a prominent businessman. He was a member of the York Trust, Real Estate, and Deposit Company and later became the president of that organization. He also organized the York Street Railway Company.
In the mid-1880s, speculative real estate developers began to build large, detached homes in the area. They also set aside large plots of land for parks. The first Park, Salem Park, was located at the city’s west end. The Park was also the White Rose Amusement Park site, which was open for business in the 1920s and 1930s.
Cousler Park
Located in Manchester Township, Cousler Park has it all. The Park features a fountain and an impressive-looking pond. During the summer, the Park also hosts several amateur baseball games. The Park is also home to the Central York School District’s panther pantry, a program that provides food to families in need.
The Park also boasts many pavilions for rent. These are ideal for families and kids looking for a fun day outside. The Park also boasts an impressive number of walking paths, perfect for kids and adults of all ages.
The Park features a small lake and several sports fields. The Park also boasts a playground, a nice break from the norm. The Park also has two restrooms. The restrooms are clean and well-maintained.
The Haines Shoe House
Located off Route 30 in Hellam Township, the Haines Shoe House is a York County landmark. This shoe-shaped house was built in 1948 by shoe salesman Mahlon Haines. The house was first used as a honeymoon suite and then as a vacation home for senior couples.
Haines was a self-proclaimed shoe wizard who owned a chain of shoe stores in the area. In addition, he provided a housekeeper, a chauffeur, and a free weeklong honeymoon for newlyweds.
The shoe-shaped house was a popular tourist attraction for six decades. Haines offered guided tours to visitors during the summer months. He also provided a free weeklong stay for senior couples.
The Shoe House was once a vacation rental home, but it is now available for short-term vacation rentals. It is open to rent through VRBO (a vacation rental service). Rental costs vary by season and day.