lots to see in york pa

Local Attractions

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Fun, Exciting & Educational Things to Do Near York, PA

Wyndham is a Full-Service Hotel in the Heart of South Central PA

Are you planning to come to the York, PA area? After booking your room at The Wyndham Hotel in York, start putting together your itinerary.

It easy to “Hub and Spoke”!  Overnight in York and plan your day trips to area attractions in the neighboring towns of GettysburgLancaster and Hershey. Most are just 30 minutes away! Ready to have an amazing time? Book your room or suite now!

If you’re not familiar with York County and its surrounding communities, we suggest adding one or more of the following things to do on your list.

  • Hershey Park. It’s definitely one of the top tourist attractions in our region — and for good reason! Where else can you enjoy so many roller coasters and other rides while smelling and tasting chocolate? Be sure to visit next-door Chocolate World free of charge to add to the experience.
  • Hershey Zoo. Do you love learning about nature and its animals? Discover creatures indigenous to central Pennsylvania at The Hershey Zoo, which connects to Hersheypark.
  • The Hershey Story. Are you a chocoholic? Embrace your chocolate enthusiasm by learning more about Milton S. Hershey, the man who helped build what was called a Chocolate Town.
  • York Expo Center. The York Expo Center hosts plenty of events throughout the year. Check out their website and find out what all the fuss is about. You might be surprised at the amazing entertainment available!
  • Harley Davidson. The Harley Davidson plant isn’t far from The Wyndham Garden York Hotel, making it easy to discover all the ins and outs of this globally recognized leader in motorcycles and related technologies.
  • Harrisburg Capitol Building. If you’ve never taken a trip to the Pennsylvania State Capitol Building in Harrisburg, be sure to add it to your schedule. It doesn’t cost anything to visit this amazing piece of historical architecture where key legislation is passed daily.
  • Strawberry Square. In downtown Harrisburg, Strawberry Square not only connects to the Harrisburg Capitol grounds, but it provides a place to shop and eat. Be sure to go to the Whitaker Science Center while you’re in Strawberry Square. Their exhibits always provide a wow-worthy experience.
  • Gettysburg. The whole town of Gettysburg is a must-see for any visitor to the region with at least a few hours to spare. You’ll not only get to visit the Gettysburg Battlefield, but you can also indulge in shopping and culinary treats while you explore everything this community makes available to visitors.
  • Dutch Wonderland. Operated by Hersheypark, Dutch Wonderland is perfect for the younger set or for families that have younger children. All the rides are geared toward preschool and elementary ages, providing a treat for kiddos not quite prepared for larger amusement park venues.
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  • Tanger Outlets, York Galleria Mall, Gettysburg Outlets, Hershey Outlets and Park City Mall. Want to do a little browsing or buying while in York? Check out the many opportunities at the area’s best shopping places.
  • Inner Harbor, Baltimore. Looking for some family fun and adventure? The Inner Harbor, located in Baltimore, Maryland, offers plenty of family-friendly museums, restaurants and of course the famous National Aquarium.
  • Agriculture and Industrial Museum. This museum in York, PA, features more than 20 exhibits on two floors spotlighting 300 years of transportation, agriculture and the development of manufacturing and industry. Visitors can learn more about how York County has made large contributions to the progress of industry and agriculture. Hands-on experiences for visitors of all ages are included in some exhibits.
  • The Fire Museum of York County. This museum, located in the historic 1903 Royal Fire House, allows visitors to see how York Firefighters spent their time. More than 225 years of firefighting equipment is housed in the building. Six fire trucks ranging from the 1920s to the 1950s, hand-drawn pumpers, uniforms and historic alarm systems are just a few of the exhibits and items on display.
  • Weightlifting Hall of Fame – York Barbell – York, PA. You can find a history of the evolution of strength sports at The Weightlifting Hall of Fame. Housed on the first floor of the headquarters for York Barbell, visitors can learn about the history of these sports, from mythology and early Olympic Games to the modern-day specialized sports of Olympic bodybuilding, weightlifting and powerlifting.
  • Naylor Wine Cellars. The beautiful Naylor Wine Country is located on 80 acres of rich farmland in the valleys of Southern York County. Some of the most rewarded and respected estate wines of the state are produced here and date as far back as the 1800s.
  • Historic Ephrata Cloister — Protecting a Legacy of William Penn’s Holy Experiment. The Historic Ephrata Cloister has been bringing in visitors since its start in 1732. The community’s unique lifestyle has created exquisite architecture, one-of-a-kind music and incredible artwork. Visitors can explore the preserved historic site and learn more about the history and culture of such a captivating story of the nation’s history.
  • York Revolution Games. Minor League baseball is thriving in York! Snag a great seat for an upcoming York Revolution game and enjoy a day at the ballpark with friends or family.
  • York College. Looking for a small liberal arts college along the Susquehanna Valley? York College attracts students from around the globe who appreciate its legacy and offerings.
  • Penn State YorkWant to be a part of The Pennsylvania State University system while still enjoying a small-town experience? Penn State York is the ideal choice for many first-time college students, as well as returning adults.
  • Harley Davidson. Harley-Davidson in York is an assembly facility that was established in 1973. Various manufacturing operations are performed onsite, as well. Visitors can explore exhibits that outline the manufacturing and assembly processes of the factory at the Vaughn L. Beals Tour Center. One unique family-friendly aspect of the facility is The Kids’ Corner, an area designed for children under 12 years old.
  • Old Republic Distillery. Celebrating the art of making spirits, Old Republic Distillery was the first distillery in York County since prohibition. This site produces handcrafted, small-batch distilled spirits of the utmost quality, ensuring as much local agriculture is utilized as possible. Tastings, signature cocktails and bottle purchases are all available at the distillery!
  • Golden Plough Tavern; General Horatio Gates House; Barnett Bobb Log HomeThese three historic buildings illustrate private and public life in early York. Tavern and family life, as well as political intrigue are all reflected in the buildings located in downtown York.
  • York FairgroundsThe York Fair, “America’s First Fair®” is an annual fair held in September, beginning the first Friday after Labor Day in York, PA. In 2015, the York Fair celebrated 250 years since the first York Fair in 1765. Check out yorkfair.org to see a complete listing of entertainment and events held at the York Fairgrounds throughout the year. The Wyndham Garden hotel is the closest hotel to the fairgrounds!
  • Turkey Hill Experience. The Turkey Hill Experience involves interactive, hands-on exhibits teaching visitors about dairy culture. Learn how the company selects and creates its popular iced tea and ice cream flavors — you’ll even be able to create your own ice cream flavor!
  • Studio Gallery 234. Established in 1988 by Mary Todenhoft, Studio Gallery 234 features rotating exhibits showcasing contemporary fine art by regional artists.
  • Honey Run Golf ClubOne of the premier golf courses in Pennsylvania. Nestled in the rolling hills of York, PA, Honey Run Golf Club offers a beautiful backdrop with the top South Central, PA golf experience. Features 6,797 yard, par 72 challenge with water coming into play by the Honey Run Creek which flows through the property. After a long day of golf, enjoy refreshments at Stingers Bar & Grill, located in the Clubhouse.