9 Things to Do in York, PA This Fall

Fall in York, PA means cooler air, changing leaves, and a full calendar of things to see and do. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or planning your first visit to the city, this season is one of the best times to get out and explore everything York has to offer, especially downtown. Here are nine can’t miss stops for your fall itinerary, starting with a place that just opened its doors.

1. Visit the Crispus Attucks York History & Culture Center

The Crispus Attucks York History & Culture Center is now open in the heart of York, and it belongs at the top of your list. Inside the 19,450 square foot facility, you’ll find interactive exhibit spaces, a rooftop terrace, an art exhibit, and community gathering areas that bring nearly a century of Black history and culture in York to life. This is where the story of York’s Black community is preserved and celebrated, from the founders and pioneers who built lasting institutions to the everyday moments that shape the community today. Grab a coffee at the cafe, take in the architecture, and spend an afternoon connecting with a story that belongs to all of York.

2. Walk or Bike the Heritage Rail Trail

Few things capture a York fall better than the Heritage Rail Trail. This scenic path winds through the county with tree cover that turns brilliant shades of gold, orange, and red as the season goes on. Whether you’re an experienced cyclist looking to log some miles or a family wanting an easy afternoon stroll, the trail offers a peaceful way to take in the season.

3. Browse Central Market York

Step inside Central Market York and step back in time. Built in 1888, this Romanesque Revival building has anchored downtown York for well over a century. More than fifty vendors sell fresh produce, baked goods, meats, flowers, and prepared foods under one historic roof. It’s open Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday mornings until 2 PM, and a Saturday visit is a great way to start a full day of exploring downtown.

4. Explore the York County History Center

Just a short walk from downtown, the York County History Center tells the story of York’s role as a temporary capital of the United States during the Revolutionary War, along with three centuries of local history. Interactive exhibits cover everything from the Articles of Confederation to York’s industrial legacy, including familiar local names like York Peppermint Pattie and Harley Davidson. It’s an easy pairing with a visit to the Crispus Attucks York History and Culture Center for a full day of local history.

5. Walk through a Corn Maze at Perrydell Farm and Dairy

Perrydell Farm and Dairy is a fall favorite for good reason. Visitors can walk through the corn maze, meet the farm’s dairy cows, and finish the visit with homemade ice cream made right on site. It’s hands on, it’s local, and it’s the kind of outing that becomes a family tradition.

6. Hike the Trails at Rocky Ridge County Park

For a quieter fall outing, head to Rocky Ridge County Park. Wooded trails wind up to rocky overlooks with views across the valley, and the changing leaves make for some of the best scenery in the county. Pack a picnic, bring the kids or the dog, and enjoy a slower pace surrounded by nature.

7. Walk the Royal Square District and Mural Park

Downtown York’s Royal Square District is where King, Queen, Duke, and Princess Streets meet, and it’s packed with personality. Wander past independent shops, antique stores, and art studios along Cherry Lane, then head to Mural Park, where color splashed works of art cover buildings and shipping containers throughout the neighborhood. It’s one of the most photographed corners of the city and a great way to spend an afternoon downtown!

8. Experience First Friday Downtown

On the first Friday of every month, downtown York closes its streets to traffic and opens its doors for First Friday. Local shops, restaurants, and art galleries stay open late, and the sidewalks fill with music, food, and neighbors catching up. It’s a great excuse to explore downtown at a relaxed pace and see the city’s small businesses at their best.

9. Step Into the Yorktowne Hotel

Even if you’re not staying the night, the Yorktowne Hotel is worth a visit. This 1925 landmark anchors downtown York with restored terrazzo floors, a wall sized mural in the lobby bar, and the Graham Rooftop Lounge, one of the best views in the city. Stop in for a coffee or a drink and take in a piece of downtown York history.

Make It a Full Day

Downtown York is compact and walkable, which makes it easy to string several of these stops together into one great day. Park once, and you can move from Central Market to the History & Culture Center to the Royal Square District without ever needing your car again. York, PA has never had more to offer, and the Crispus Attucks York History & Culture Center is proud to be part of that story. Start your visit with us, then spend the rest of the day exploring everything else this city has to offer this fall. We can’t wait to welcome you.

Plan your visit to the Crispus Attucks York History & Culture Center today.