When you imagine a getaway weekend, you might think of relaxing, sleeping in and maybe visiting some interesting places. But the one thing we all envision is the amazingly delicious food we'll have when we go out to eat.
Fortunately, in York County, we have the best of it. From downtown to riverside to hilltop, fresh flavor is found all over. We're taking you from farm-to-table at some of our favorite summer restaurants, where you'll find the perfect dish to complement your time exploring York County.
Experience York's Market District at Tutoni's Restaurant
Among the hustle and bustle of the city lies an oasis of fresh flavor at Tutoni's Restaurant.
The chefs in this Italian-inspired scratch kitchen work with local farms and farmers to serve only the best ingredients of each season. Choose from a vast menu of house-made pastas and try any of the 16 wines offered at the restaurant's self-serve wine bar.
Looking for outdoor dining to enjoy this beautiful summer? Every Thursday night this August, Tutoni's is presenting its outdoor dining series, Tutoni's Al Fresco. Purchase tickets in advance for this live music, fresh pasta and great wine event!
You'll find this farm-to-table gem in the heart of Downtown York's Market District, which certainly captures the essence of a true organic experience.
Before dinner, explore the freshly picked produce, along with other yummy goodies, that fill Central Market House. Next door, see organic soaps made right before your eyes at Sunrise Soap Company, one of York County's many popular factory-tour locations.
Your night doesn't have to end after you've had dinner at Tutoni's, either.
Consider taking in a show at the Strand- Capitol Performing Arts Center. Its impressive schedule includes Broadway productions, comedy performances, live music and so much more.
For after-dinner drinks, check out one of the stops on the Susquehanna Ale Trail, Mudhook Brewing Company. Then stroll over to White Rose Bar & Grill, opened by its current owner's grandparents over 80 years ago.
Spend this spirited weekend at the Yorktowne Hotel - A Historic Hotel of America, opened in 1925. This luxurious hotel is only a few blocks over from Tutoni's, making it the perfect place to enjoy an original York County experience.
Dine riverside at John Wright Restaurant
The liveliness of the Susquehanna River seems to spread to everything around it. This is certainly true for John Wright Restaurant, where your dining experience comes with a waterfront view.
The restaurant's fresh flavor is sourced from five different local farms, giving you a true taste of York of County. And for a taste of the river, you'll always want to try their line-caught catch of the day.
If your summer day is packed with outdoor adventures, grab a quick bite instead. John Wright Restaurant's patio is open Wednesday through Saturday for pizza and happy hour!
Before dinner, discover one of the most picturesque stops on the Mason Dixon Wine Trail at the nearby Moon Dancer Winery and Cider House, where you can taste wines ranging from European dry to Pennsylvania sweet. Enjoy live music here every weekend, as you take in gorgeous views of the river.
And if the view isn't enough, jump in! Rent paddle boards or kayaks from Shank's Mare Outfitters and turn your weekend into a river adventure. Shank's Mare is also hosting its annual Art & Outdoor Fest on August 6, giving nature and art lovers a chance to experience both in one weekend.
This part of York County is certainly not lacking when it comes to history, either. You can witness a major turning point of the Civil War at the Burning of the Bridge Diorama. The sight and sound show takes us back to the summer of 1863 when the townspeople of York stifled a Confederate advance by torching the Wrightsville Bridge. More local history lives next door at the Wrightsville Historical Museum.
Add to this historical experience by staying at The Inn at Bully's, a restored railroad hotel from 1903. Located just over the river in beautiful Columbia, this bed and breakfast perfectly complements the character of the Susquehanna.
Explore the countryside at Wyndridge Farm
Sitting on 75 acres in the rolling hills of York County is Wyndridge Farm. Not only is its craft beer, cider and soda brewed on-sight, but all of the ingredients on the menu come from theirs and other local farms. Though the menu changes based on the freshest ingredients available, Wyndridge always offers delicious veggies and savory steaks.
Really get a feeling of the countryside when you stroll through the farmstead at the Teaching Museum for the Fiber Arts & Textiles. Tour and learn hands-on the art of spinning, knitting and weaving.
When you've worked up an appetite, zip over to Brown's Orchards & Farm Market where you'll find tons of local produce plus their bakery and deli. Visit their tasting room where they pair their home-made cheeses with unusual wines from Logan's View Winery.
Then head over to The Great American Saloon, where you'll find a variety of craft beer - including some brewed right here in Central Pennsylvania.
Stay the weekend at the Red Lion Bed & Breakfast. This early 1900s, wide-windowed and cozy retreat is the perfect place to relax for your weekend off. And as an added bonus, the Red Brick Bakery & Tea Room is right down the street!
Regardless of what you choose to do in York County, you'll find fresh flavor at every turn, and a variety of themed lodging packages sure to fit your farm-to-table getaway.