10 Fun Things To Do In and Around York, Pennsylvania
Looking for a laid-back weekend getaway in south-central Pennsylvania?
York, PA (in
York County) is a great small city with a big history, friendly locals, and plenty of easy day-trip options.
Whether you’re planning a family road trip, a couples’ weekend, or just passing through on I‑83 between Baltimore and Harrisburg, here are
10 fun things to do near York, Pennsylvania that are worth the stop.
1. Discover Downtown York’s Historic Central Market House
If you want to get a real feel for York, start downtown at the
Central Market House.
This indoor market has been open since the 1880s. Today, you’ll find:
- Local produce and baked goods
- Breakfast sandwiches and coffee
- International foods (from tacos to pierogies)
- Crafts and handmade gifts
Wander the aisles, grab a coffee, and people-watch for a bit. It’s a relaxed, friendly place where locals actually shop and eat, not just a tourist stop.
If you like history, take a slow walk around the surrounding streets too. You’ll see
brick row houses, old churches, and murals that share York’s story as a former temporary capital of the United States during the Revolutionary War.
2. Step Back In Time at the Agricultural & Industrial Museum
York has deep roots in manufacturing, and you can see that story up close at the
Agricultural & Industrial Museum.
Inside, you’ll find:
- Old farm equipment and tractors
- Historic fire engines
- A restored 1940s York bar and diner
- Hands-on exhibits for kids and adults
This is a great stop if you:
- Enjoy learning how things were made
- Are traveling with kids who like to push buttons and explore
- Want something indoors on a rainy or cold day
It’s not a stuffy museum. You can move around at your own pace, and the displays tell the story of how York helped build everything from farm tools to Harley-Davidsons.
3. Ride Through History at the Northern Central Railway (New Freedom)
About 25–30 minutes south of York, in
New Freedom, PA, you’ll find the
Northern Central Railway, a restored historic railroad line.
Here you can:
- Ride in vintage train cars pulled by a steam or diesel engine
- Learn about Abraham Lincoln’s train route to Gettysburg
- Enjoy scenic views of farms, forests, and small towns
They offer themed rides too, depending on the season — think fall foliage rides, holiday trains, and sometimes even “wild west” or murder mystery trips.
If you love trains or just want a slower-paced way to see the countryside, this is an easy half‑day outing from York.
4. Walk, Bike, or Run the Heritage Rail Trail County Park
If you’re more of an outdoor person, you’ll love the
York County Heritage Rail Trail. It runs right through downtown York and stretches about
20+ miles south to the Maryland line.
The trail is:
- Flat and mostly crushed stone — good for walking, jogging, and biking
- Lined with trees, fields, and old railroad structures
- Dog-friendly (just keep pups leashed)
A nice, easy option is to:
- Start in York near the old train station
- Walk a mile or two out and back
- Grab lunch or a beer downtown afterward
On a crisp fall day, with leaves changing and trains occasionally rolling by, the Rail Trail is one of the most relaxing things to do in York, PA.
5. Tour the Harley-Davidson Factory (for the Gearheads)
York is home to a large
Harley‑Davidson Vehicle Operations plant, where several motorcycle models are assembled.
While tour options change from time to time, when available they typically include:
- A walk through the factory floor
- Watching parts move along the production line
- Learning how Harley bikes are built from frame to finish
Even if you’re not a biker, seeing a big American manufacturing plant in action is surprisingly interesting. Be sure to:
- Check tour availability and hours ahead of time
- Wear closed-toe shoes
- Arrive a bit early for check-in
If you are a Harley fan, the gift shop and displays alone might make this a must‑do during your York visit.
6. Explore Downtown Murals and Public Art
York has a growing public art scene, and one of the easiest (and free) things to do in York is to
hunt for murals around downtown.
You’ll find colorful artwork:
- On the sides of brick buildings
- Along alleyways and parking lots
- Near restaurants and coffee shops
You can:
- Take a self-guided stroll and snap photos
- Pair your walk with stops at local spots for coffee or ice cream
- Turn it into a mini scavenger hunt with kids
If you like street art in cities like Philadelphia or Pittsburgh but want it on a smaller, more relaxed scale, York’s murals are a fun surprise.
7. Sip Local at York County Breweries and Wineries
The
York, PA area has quietly become a nice spot for craft drinks. If you enjoy trying local beer, cider, or wine, you’ll have plenty of options.
Around York and York County, you can find:
- Craft breweries with rotating taps and outdoor seating
- Cideries using local apples
- Wineries set on peaceful country hills
Many spots offer:
- Live music on weekends
- Food trucks or simple pub food
- Family-friendly outdoor areas where kids can tag along
If you’re staying overnight, you could easily make an afternoon “brewery and winery crawl” one of your main things to do near York, PA. Just be sure to plan a safe ride.
8. Spend a Day at Gifford Pinchot State Park
Looking for a lake day? About 25 minutes northwest of York sits
Gifford Pinchot State Park, a large state park centered around a 340‑acre lake.
Here you can:
- Rent kayaks, canoes, or paddleboards (in season)
- Hike miles of wooded trails
- Swim in designated areas in summer
- Enjoy a picnic with lake views
If you’re traveling with kids, bring:
- Sand toys or a ball
- Plenty of snacks and drinks
- Towels and a change of clothes
On a warm day, this is one of the best nature escapes near York and a nice balance to the city history and museums.
9. Take a Day Trip to Gettysburg National Military Park
One of the biggest perks of visiting York is how close it is to other famous Pennsylvania destinations.
Gettysburg National Military Park is only about a
35–45 minute drive from York. If you have a full day, it’s absolutely worth the trip.
There you can:
- Drive or walk the battlefield with an audio guide
- Visit the museum and visitor center
- See the massive Gettysburg Cyclorama painting
Gettysburg is powerful and emotional, especially if you have any interest in the Civil War. Many people combine a weekend in York with a day trip to Gettysburg to mix history, small‑city charm, and countryside views.
10. Catch a York Revolution Baseball Game
If you’re visiting in spring or summer and want a classic American evening, head to
WellSpan Park to watch the
York Revolution, the city’s independent league baseball team.
What to expect:
- Affordable tickets and parking
- Family-friendly atmosphere
- Theme nights, fireworks, and fun between-inning games
- Ballpark food — think hot dogs, soft pretzels, and cold drinks
Minor league and independent league games are more relaxed than big MLB stadiums. Kids can move around, and you’re close enough to the field to really see the action.
On a warm summer night, under the lights with a hot dog in hand, this is one of the most enjoyable things to do in York, Pennsylvania.
Planning Your Visit to York, PA
Here are a few simple tips to make your trip smoother:
- Getting there: York is just off I‑83, about 30–40 minutes from Harrisburg and roughly an hour from Baltimore.
- Best time to visit: Spring and fall bring mild weather and colorful scenery. Summer is great for outdoor events and baseball. Winter is quieter but cozy, with indoor attractions and holiday lights.
- Getting around: You’ll want a car. Many of the best things to do near York, PA, like Gifford Pinchot State Park and New Freedom, are an easy drive away.
Final Thoughts: Is York, PA Worth a Visit?
York, Pennsylvania isn’t a huge city, and that’s part of its charm. You get:
- Plenty of history, without big-city crowds
- Easy access to nature, trails, and lakes
- Local food, craft drinks, and small businesses
- Quick day trips to places like Gettysburg and the Maryland line
If you’re planning a road trip through Pennsylvania or looking for a new weekend getaway spot,
York and York County offer more than most people expect.
What Did We Miss?
Have you spent time in York, PA or around York County?
- Do you have a favorite coffee shop, brewery, or hiking trail?
- Is there a hidden gem attraction you always recommend to friends?
Drop your tips and experiences in the comments so other travelers can discover them too.
And if you found this guide to
things to do in and around York, Pennsylvania helpful, please
share it with a friend or on your favorite social channel. It might inspire someone’s next weekend adventure.
Comments
Post a Comment