250 Things To Do

250 Things To Do In & Around York County

Looking for inspiration for your next adventure? York County is bursting with experiences waiting to be discovered—from outdoor escapes along the Susquehanna River, to hands-on arts and culture, mouthwatering dining, and family-friendly fun. We’ve rounded up 250 unique things to do that showcase the best of our region. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, thrill-seeker, or simply looking for a perfect weekend getaway, you’ll find countless ways to explore, connect, and make memories right here in York County.

1. Have a sunset picnic at Highpoint Scenic Vista & Recreation Area

2. Plan a Park Hop! Travel around the county visiting any of our four state parks or 11 county parks. Check out the Park Finder tool for some guidance!

3. Paddle board on the Susquehanna River 

4. Walk, bike, or hike around 30 miles on the Heritage Rail Trail

5. Row, row, row your canoe on Lake Redman

6. Have a snowtubing adventure at AvalancheXpress 

7. Hit the slopes at Roundtop Mountain & Resort

8. Hike Mount Pisgah at Samuel S. Lewis State Park, one of the highest points in York County

9. Take your pup for a swim at Codorus State Park

10. Camp in a yurt or cottage at Gifford Pinchot State Park

11. Walk the 0.3 mile Ulmer-Root-Haines Memorial Park Trail, a rocky path featuring a scenic waterfall, a rock shelter, and descriptive signs about local plants and wildlife (directly across the street from The Indian Steps Museum!)

12. Take in the stunning views of the Susquehanna River along the Mason-Dixon Trail in Susquehanna Riverlands State Park

13. Explore even more of the Mason-Dixon Trail at Apollo County Park

14. Get an adrenaline rush with a ride on the BMX track at John C. Rudy County Park

15. Take a nature walk along the Native Lands Heritage Trail which connects with three other trailheads

16. Visit the bat inhabitants (from a distance) at the abandoned iron ore mines in P. Joseph Raab County Park

17. Meander along the East branch of Codorus Creek at Spring Valley County Park

18. Rent a pavilion for the day at William H. Kain County Park and partake in water activities on Lake Redman or Lake Williams

19. Get on the American Rail Bikes for a seven-mile peddling adventure along the Northern Central Railroad

20. Have a delightful camping experience at Ben Franklin RV Park

21. Camp right near the creek at Otter Creek Campground

22. Learn about one of the nation's largest holly suppliers, Heartwood Nursery

23. Take in the fall foliage at one of the many trails throughout our 14 state & county parks          

24. Go birdwatching amongst the gorgeous nature scenes throughout the county 

25. Do some disc golfing at Codorus Township Park

26. Take a horseback ride on one of our multi-use trails (BYOH)

27. Hike Mill Creek Falls in Airville

28. Stop by the outdoor recreation hub, Columbia Crossing River Trails Center, for maps, guides, and brochures laying out land and water trails in the area, as well as nearby attractions

29. Get your National Park Service Passport stamped and learn about the Susquehannock Indians and river history at the Zimmerman Center for Heritage, which is also the location of the starting point for Chief Uncas River Discovery Boat Tours ran by Susquehanna National Heritage Area

30. Immerse yourself in 276+ years of history

31. Learn about important pieces of Civil War history throughout the entire county

32. Explore the Civil War Trails sites scattered throughout the region, highlighting important moments that helped shape our history

33. Take a selfie with the life size statue of Marquis de Lafayette in Downtown York

34. Take a tour of the Wallace-Cross Mill Historic Site, a restored 1826 water-powered grist mill

35. Learn about local history at the York County History Center, where you can see a full-size covered wagon in person

36. Take a historic train ride along the Ma & Pa Railroad

37. Visit the Weightlifting Hall of Fame and Museum, 8,000 sq. ft. packed with history surrounding strength sports and their evolution– located in the first floor of the York Barbell corporate headquarters

38. Check out the Burning of the Bridge Diorama, which commemorates the night the bridge was set ablaze during the Civil War

39. Take a short drive to the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum & Visitor Center

40. Visit the Indian Steps Museum to learn the Native American History in York County

41. Embark on a walking tour of Lebanon Cemetery, York County's largest and one of the oldest Black-owned cemeteries

42. Join a historic tram tour of Prospect Hill Cemetery to learn about the civic monuments, and notable burials highlighting moments from York County’s past

43. Visit the Veteran’s Memorial Gold Star Healing & Peace Garden 

44. Visit the gravesite of James Smith, York's own signer of the Declaration of Independence, in the First Presbyterian Churchyard

45. Take a guided tour of the historic Golden Plough Tavern 

46. Transport yourself back in time at the Colonial Courthouse 

47. Visit the General Horatio Gates House, an authentic 18th century home

48. Snap a selfie in front of the Barnett Bobb Log House

49. Take a tour and enjoy a tasting of Cherry Bounce, authentically made at the historic Dills Tavern and Eichelberger Distillery

50. Spend some time educating yourself on the history of all things timepieces at the National Watch & Clock Museum

51. Explore the Wrightsville Historical Museum, located inside a house built in 1871

52. Check out the America250PA commemorative bell at Camp Security

53. Learn about the history of Hanover at the Hanover Area Historical Society Museum– home to storylines identifying families, industries, and events that transformed the area throughout history

54. Explore the historical Neas House, built around 1783, home to household goods, period furniture, and personal items of the Neas family

55. Take yourself on a self-guided tour of the historical Warehime-Myers Mansion, a 1913 neo-classical building with a bowling alley in the basement

56. Trace your Hanover area family roots, research local events, or explore architectural history of the area at Yelland Library

57. Wander through the brand new Crispus Attucks York History & Culture Center to learn about black history in York County, grab coffee at their in-house cafe, or take in the views from their beautiful rooftop area

58. Immerse yourself in York County’s vast contributions to progress in the farming industry at the Agricultural and Industrial Museum 

59. Gain knowledge of the history of firefighting and how they lived, worked, and played in York County at the Fire Museum, located in a 1903 firehouse (open April-November) 

60. Sip locally made beverages along the Good Libations Trails while gathering points for fun prizes

61. Enjoy cocktails at the Graham Rooftop Bar & Lounge on top of the Yorktowne Hotel

62. Savor a scratch made meal along the river at John Wright Restaurant

63. Play cornhole and have a local brew right off the Heritage Rail Trail at AleCraft Brewery 

64. Overlook the golf course while enjoying dinner and drinks at Bridgewater Public House

65. Dine in the beautiful outdoor space at Avenue Ale House and Pizza Loft at Heritage Hills Resort

66. Have an authentic speakeasy experience at the King George Speakeasy

67. Have an elegant, locally sourced dinner in the historic working mill, Table 1837 at Glen Rock Mill Inn

68. Pop your way over to Wrightsville to try dozens of fun popcorn flavors at Half Nuts Popcorn

69. Wow yourselves with good libations from the beautiful brewery on the hill, South County Brewing Co.

70. Taste more specialty popcorn and sweets at the Popcorn Loft

71. Savor delicious Italian food inside a renovated 19th century church with special events and live music at Victor's Italian Restaurant, winner of the Wine Spectator Award for Excellence

72. Look no further than Central Family Restaurant or the 83 Diner for that classic diner experience, a local favorite

73. Immerse yourself in the quirky automotive atmosphere of Quaker Steak & Lube and enjoy their award-winning wings

74. Chow down on an instagrammable acai bowl from Oola Bowls 

75. Indulge in scratch-made, gluten and dairy free goodies from Tucker&Co. Bakery 

76. Try some classic & delicious sweet treats at Banky's Bakehouse-- awesome gluten-free options available!

77. Grab a drink and some dinner in the outdoor beer garden at Gift Horse Brewing Co.

78. Celebrate throwback Thursday at Fig & Barrel Pub

79. Dine at Bloom Kitchen & Bar for an upscale experience of a unique blend of New American culinary creativity and European heritage

80. Have an elegant dinner at Tutoni's, winner of the Wine Spectator Award for Excellence since 2021

81. Get dinner in the heart of Mural Park at Collusion Tap Works

82. Take a short drive to Bube's Brewery to take a ghost tour or enjoy an intimate dinner in the underground caverns

83. Step off the rail trail for great food and local beer at Vortex Brewing Co. 

84. Experience authentic and exquisite Indian food at Hamir's Indian Fusion-- a true local favorite!

85. Check out Pullshot Coffee Roasters inside Central Market to start your day

86. Have a familiar bite at the classic Applebee's Bar & Grill, decked out with photos from throughout York County's history

87. Visit the cozy Balla Cloiche Vineyards, bringing a homey feel to your new favorite wine tasting location

88. Jam out to summertime tunes with Nissley Vineyards & Winery Estate's Summer Concert Series on the lawn

89. Schedule a private wine tasting for you and your crew at Painted Fox Winery

90. Dine on oysters and other Chesapeake Bay specialties at Rockfish Public House 

91. Snack on some Martin’s snacks, made right here in York County!

92. Munch on another York County favorite, Snyder’s Pretzels– you can also visit their outlet store in Hanover!

93. Still craving pretzels and other snacks? Check out the Utz Retail Store!

94. Grab some grub and a brew at Aldus Brewing Co. on the square in Hanover, proudly serving traditional and beyond-the-ordinary beers

95. Have Sunday Brunch at Fenderz Grill & Pub inside the Wyndham Garden York

96. Choose from a selection of more than 70 wines, shareable plates, and delightful cocktails while enjoying music on the baby grand piano at the Handsome Cab

97. Try one of Joe StrEat Cafe’s specialty roasted coffees before starting your day of adventure

98. Sip your morning brew inside an old bank vault or enjoy fantastic ice cream at Village Coffee & Cream-- located inside a meticulously restored 1850s bank building

99. Sample award-winning wines inside the Carriage House Wine Shop at Mount Hope Estate & Winery, or book a private tasting tour in the facility. Resurrect your love for mindfully hand-crafted, small batch spirits at Spirits Distillery Inc., a part of Mount Hope Estate

100. Lavender Acres Winery is sure to impress you, set within a historic mansion on the backdrop of sprawling views and a gorgeous outdoor space

101. Stop by Old Republic Distillery for a tasting of York County spirits

102. Treat yourself to the cutest mini treats and desserts at Nasim & Co. in Downtown York

103. Taste a citrusy IPA, robust stout, classic ale, or many other types of beer at Rumspringa Brewing Company, just a short drive from York County

104. Visit the Swashbuckler Brewing Company on the grounds of the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire during festival season

105. Taste what everyone has been raving about at the viral Hefty Lefty’s Hoagies and Grinders in Central Market, then shop around for local goods, desserts, and produce

106. Shop for incredible antique decor, trinkets, and more at Dover Antique Mall

107. Shop for specialty foods, charming gifts, farm-fresh delights, and delicious baked goods at Brown’s Orchards & Farm Market

108. Browse the shops along Beaver Street in downtown York

109. Fuel up at Dottie's Family Market and pick up groceries or visit the greenhouse or deli

110. Discover your next dream vintage find at My Girlfriend's Wardrobe

111. Live out your bookworm dreams at In Between Pages, home to a huge selection of secondhand books

112. Check out Bound Books for brand new books and fun gifts at this stylish shop, be sure to bring your kids to enjoy the cute children's section!

113. If cute, locally owned shops are what you're looking for, head over to Apricity Products, LLC (next door to Bound Books), for curated gifts, natural products, and candle making workshops!

114. Sustainability is the name of the game at Refillism-- find your new favorite clean-ingredient laundry detergent, try out some new eco-friendly products, refill your own container with the newest facial toner, or check out some fun events and workshops

115. Grab a locally made treat for your pup at Miss Lucy's Dog Treats

116. Browse gorgeous handmade and vintage fine jewelry at The Watchmaker's Daughter 

117. Roam through the Stewartstown Night Market in the summer, which turns into the Stewartstown Christmas Market in the winter-- located right outside Aviator Brew Hub

118. While you're at it, pour your own brew and try some craft made sodas at Aviator Brew Hub

119. Start your holiday shopping at Christmas Tree Hill in the Mansion, roaming several floors of fantastic giftable items

120. Send a souvenir from Collage Shop to your bestie back home

121. Shop for handcrafted, locally-made furniture at George's Furniture 

122. Browse more than 30 vendors including restaurants, fresh produce, delis, and baked goods in the Hanover Market House– located in an 1815 building that was originally home to the town’s only jail cell

123. Purchase the freshest produce, baked goods, and local ice cream at White Clover Farms, then be sure to pet the goats 

124. Attend seasonal events throughout the year at Flinchbaugh's Orchard and Farm Market celebrating sunflowers, peaches, apples, pumpkins, berries, tulips, and more

125. Cherry Crest Adventure Farm is the perfect place to spend the day with your family in the fall

126. Browse authentic Irish clothing, trinkets, and more before enjoying a spot of tea and lunch at Oxford Hall Celtic Shop & Tea Cafe

127. Pick up a stunning York County souvenir in the form of local art from Inspired Imagez inside Central Market

128. Pick your own strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, sunflowers, apples, and pumpkins throughout the year at Mt. Airy Orchards– and be sure to check out their seasonal festivals

129. Browse and try the best amish-made goods, top-tier lunch spots, and local products at The Markets at Shrewsbury

130. Roam the Royal Square District of downtown York, home to vibrant murals, local restaurants, quirky galleries, and fun shops 

131. If you’re here in the winter, bring home the perfect tree for your family’s holiday celebrations from Strathmeyer Christmas Trees

132. Get equipped with the latest outdoor recreation gear at Uller’s Outdoor

133. If you’re interested in farm-to-table food and where you can find it, check out York Buy Fresh Buy Local’s Local Food Guide and website for resources

134. Roam York Galleria Mall for a classic shopping mall experience

135. Peruse beautiful art pieces throughout Mural Park in the Royal Square District

136. Catch a show at the 100+ year old Strand Theatre at the historic Appell Center for the Performing Arts

137. Nurture your creative side with a stained glass class at Candi J. Duda Stained Glass and Garden Art

138. Feel the nostalgia of a drive-in movie on a warm summer night at Haar's Drive-In; family-owned and operated by the same family since 1952!

139. View the latest gallery items or take a class at Creative York 

140. Visit the 2,000 sq. ft. hub for creativity that is Marketview Arts, just a couple blocks away from the Gunter-Smith Center for Community Engagement

141. Peruse free local art galleries at one of the country's oldest art associations, York Art Association

142. Feel the power of live orchestral music from the York Symphony Orchestra

143. Take a class or camp at Dreamwrights Center for Community Arts

144. Catch a show at the Eichelberger Performing Arts Center

145. Snap a selfie with "The Tinker" an art installation across the street from the Appell Center in downtown York

146. Gather at the Metal Gear Garden, another public art installation sure to dazzle you

147. Jam out at the American Music Theatre, home to performances of all kinds from country to Celtic, folk to metal– even Christmas and holiday shows!

148. Dine while catching a show at Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre, offering Broadway-style performances, brilliant costumes and sets, and delicious food options

149. Check out a monthly art gallery at the Hanover Area Arts Guild in the heart of downtown Hanover

150. Bop over to Springettsbury Township Park for the Sounds of Summer Concert Series happening annually from June-August 

151. Check out dozens of annual events put on by the Susquehanna Folk Music Society

152. Savor the intimate setting of the Pullo Center at Penn State York, offering an array of touring shows and concerts, as well as cultural, community, and educational events all within a small theatre venue

153. Sign up for the YoCo Arts & Culture Pass to experience theaters, art galleries, cultural sites, and more to earn awesome prizes

154. Handmake your own custom soaps and bath products at Sunrise Soap Co.

155. Race an alpaca at Shear Heaven Farm 

156. Learn what it’s like to be a Turkey Hill Dairy ice cream maker for a day at the Turkey Hill Experience– then do the Taste Lab, where you can create your own unique ice cream flavor

157. Handel's of York is an ice cream lover's dream; open year-round for your favorite flavors, sundaes, and sweet treats

158. Spend the day experimenting, crafting, cooking, and playing at Keystone Kidspace

159. Attend Story Time for the kiddos at Martin Library

160. Attend a York Revolution baseball game-- five-time Atlantic League Champions (most recently in 2026)!

161. Feel the need for speed at Flostate Sim Racing, an affordable, safe, and entertaining way to immerse yourself in the world of racing

162. Catch a race at BAPS Motor Speedway

163. Bowl the day away at Colony Park Lanes & Games

164. Play pickleball at one of the many courts throughout the county

165. Get a strike then test your skills in the arcade at Laser Alleys 

166. Hit the links at the 18-hole golf course, Briarwood Golf Club

167. Get a membership and work on your swing at Out Door Country Club

168. Stay & play at the Heritage Hills Resort, complete with an 18-hole golf course

169. Take advantage of the Stay & Play package with Honey Run Golf Club and the Yorktowne Hotel

170. Practice your swing at Honey Run Golf Club, considered by many to be one of the best course layouts in Central PA

171. Bring back classic family fun with bowling at Suburban Bowlerama

172. Go ice skating at York Ice Arena

173. Keep your eye out for events that are open to the public at York's YMCA of the Roses and the York Jewish Community Center

174. What's better then free community events and building packed with amazing books? York County Libraries have plenty of things to do for the entire family all throughout the county

175. All aboard! Attend the East Coast's largest train show at the York Expo Center twice a year, the York Train Meet put on by the Train Collectors Association

176. Check out hundreds of classic cars during the NSRA's Street Rod Nationals East to kick summer into gear 

177. Ride the rides, catch a show, and learn about agriculture at the York State Fair (AKA America's First Fair)

178. During the holiday season, take a walk amongst more than one million dazzling lights during Christmas Magic at Rocky Ridge Park

179. Feel the fall fun with more than 50 festive activities, including a corn maze and pumpkin picking, to celebrate the season at Corn Cob Acres

180. Have a whimsical family outing to the Enchanted Fairy Festival

181. Hunt for treasure and attend the very unique Pirate Quest each summer

182. Try your first pawpaw at the Horn Farm Center's Wild & Uncommon Weekend

183. Have a blast at the Mason-Dixon Fair, held annually in July on the Delta-Cardiff Fire Co. fairgrounds

184. Meet the makers of your favorite York County goodies each year during our Makers Spirit Event each June

185. Stay in York County with accommodations fit for royalty when you attend the PA Renaissance Faire

186. Get in on the shenanigans each March during the York St. Patrick's Day Parade 

187. We know you love Punxsutawney Phil, but did you know you can celebrate Groundhog's Day with York County's own Dover Doug?

188. Attend York County Pride in June, organized by the Rainbow Rose Center

189. Get in the holiday spirit with the Glen Rock Carolers​

190. Visit Santa's Cabin in Hanover around the holidays

191. Get your caffeine fix during the Explore York’s Coffee Crawl, which explores amazing local coffeeshops for an entire week at the end of September

192. Grab some grub at unique food trucks every Food Truck Friday in the summer at Springettsbury Park

193. Jam out, enjoy a beer, and view local art at Glen Rock Arts and Brew Fest held at Ruins Hall each June

194. Stroll through the incredible light displays adorning the inside of WellSpan Park during Bright Nights this holiday season

195. Check out several local breweries during the popular Brew Kids on the Block event taking place on the street outside Gift Horse Brewing Co.

196. Celebrate Irish and Celtic heritage at the annual Penn-Mar Irish Festival

197. Head to Red Lion for the Annual Street Fair held each August by the Red Lion Area Business Association

198. Sample scratch made wings, pulled pork, and other impressive BBQ dishes at Smoke on the Rail

199. Get shucking at the Annual York County Oyster Festival which celebrates our colonial past with family fun, music, and food

200. Calling all gardeners, attend the York Home & Garden Show which has been taking place for more than half a century

201. Transport yourself to the Wild Wild West during PA Cowboy Weekend at the Northern Central Railway for a train robbery, shootout, live performances, and more 

202. Take a Heart of Hanover walking tour

203. Load onto the Brew Bus and enjoy exciting tours of local breweries with Brewery Tours

204. Take a York Architectural Walking Tour of downtown York

205. Book a Taste2Tour walking food tour of Downtown York to experience a bunch of local restaurants in one day– perfect for when you can’t decide where to eat

206. Get spooky on a Haunted Downtown York Ghost Tour this fall

207. Speaking of fall fun, Maize Quest Corn Maze & Fun Park is your family's one-stop-shop for autumnal bliss; wander the huge corn maze, check out the farm-fresh goods, and partake in other fun activities right on the farm

208. Take a cooking class with Locally Seasoned

209. Get inspired and unleash your creativity with a tour and classes at the Fiber Arts and Textiles Center

210. Check out the plant sales, educational seminars, and local events put on by the York County Master Gardeners

211. Embark on a bus tour to explore entertainment, art exhibits, and history presentations with the Lincoln Highway Association

212. Take a Paved Over Prominence walking tour of the downtown area, taking a look at buildings and other sites with significance in the Black community that have been demolished or paved over

213. Chug along the scenic route on the Stewartstown Railroad

214. Catch your train on the Northern Central Railway for fun themed rides and special events

215. Hop on board the Strasburg Railroad for a family outing full of fun memories

216. Stay in a giant shoe at the Haines Shoe House, perfectly renovated to combine quirkiness and modern beauty 

217. Try your luck at Hollywood Casino York

218. Relax easier than you ever thought possible at the 1881 Salt Sanctuary with yoga, salt rooms, healing sessions, and more

219. Spend the day pampering yourself or have a wellness getaway at Heartwood Spa and Salon

220. Take a relaxing scenic drive through the back roads of York County

221. Check out the instagram-worthy places to stay throughout the County like the Yorktowne Hotel

222. Spend the weekend planning your wedding or next event at Bentley Farms, Historic Ashland, The Stone Mill 1792, The Bond, or another impressive venue

223. Enjoy First Friday in downtown York, a monthly street fair to showcase local businesses

224. Stay in one of the curated rooms at the cozy B.F. Hiestand Bed & Breakfast, or book their Cannon Cottage for a private romantic getaway and enjoy scratch made baked goods and homegrown vegetables

225. Plan an affordable Valentine's Weekend escape with bae-- romantic restaurants, intimate locations, fun things to do, and more

226. Explore & support the various Black-owned businesses throughout York County

227. Explore & support the various Women-owned businesses throughout York County 

228. Stay in one of the themed rooms at Grace Manor B&B, transporting you to France, Asia, and Mexico 

229. Discover the perfect blend of serenity and style at the relaxing Heartwood Spa and Salon

230. Check out our many affordable accommodations fit for any occasion

231. Celebrate Native American history and culture at the Lawilowan American Indian Festival

232. Nature enthusiasts can shop at the York County Parks Native Plant Sale

233. Step into the past at Articles of Confederation Day, celebrating York’s pivotal role in American history

234. Join in on the county's biggest day of giving, Give Local York, when thousands of people come together to support local nonprofits and make a powerful impact on the community

235. Browse our Event Calendar for something that fits your taste in a time frame that works for you

236. Check out local live music at various venues

237. Attend the annual Snacktown Street Fair put on by the Hanover Area Chamber of Commerce each summer, full of snacks (of course), artists, craft vendors, food, and more

238. Pick your own pumpkins in the fall at various locally owned farms

239. Escape to Granary Valley Farm, a 100-acre farm stay perfect for your next relaxing getaway. Reconnect with nature, explore the property, and enjoy the peacefulness of York County

240. Take a drive up to Lake Tobias Wildlife Park to visit the 150 acres of giraffes, tigers, zebras, baboons, ostriches, gibbons, kangaroos, and so on 

241. Attend Main Street Hanover's Second Saturday each month, where the businesses of downtown Hanover come together for fun themed festivities

242. Celebrate the New Year with the iconic pickle drop in Dillsburg

243. Peruse through the local shops and businesses on Main Street in Downtown Hanover

244. Plan out where to park throughout the county ahead of time with our recent parking blog 

For more inspiration and trip ideas, check out our YoCo Twist Blog or sign up for our Getaway Guide to receive updates directly to your inbox! Seasonal festivities, small business highlights, and the best things to do await you!