Located just 13 miles west of Rock Hill is York, a friendly town rich in history and southern charm. Founded in 1785, York serves as the county seat and is known as the "White Rose City" after The War of the Roses in the 1400s in England between the House of Lancaster and the House of York. The York Historic District comprises approximately 180 contributing properties and boasts an extensive 364-acre National Register Historic District, one of the largest in the state. York was also once home to the winter quarters of the Barnett Brothers Circus from 1929 through 1945. The circus was one of the first to travel by truck instead of train. Not only is York rich with history, but it is also home to many local businesses that are incredibly passionate about their community. Spend a day in York; we guarantee the city's genuine southern hospitality will have you returning for more!
Engage with History
Historically an all-female college, The McCelvey Center is home to the Historical Center of York County, the Southern Revolutionary War Institute, and the 500-seat Lowry Family Theater. Known for its incredible acoustics, you can catch the Southern Sound Concert Series, presented by the Culture and Heritage Museums. The McCelvey is currently closed and undergoing renovations.
This renovated school building houses the Culture & Heritage Museums’ art collections, archives, and historical objects related to the Carolina Piedmont. The archive serves as the County’s repository, providing opportunities for genealogical and historical research. The facility features a Search Room with access to York County court records, historical documents, maps, rare books, local newspapers, cemetery indexes, family history books, surname files, and Ancestry.com.
In nearby McConnells, you can find Historic Brattonsville. Historic Brattonsville is a 778-acre Revolutionary War living history site. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the site features more than 30 historic structures open to the public. These “house museums” chronicle the development of the Carolina Piedmont from the 1750s through the 1840s. Historic Brattonsville is one of the few living history sites with African-American interpretation and is also home to an award-winning Heritage Farm Program—costumed interpreters present demonstrations of historical farming techniques and day-to-day activities throughout the year at the Bratton Plantation. You might also recognize that Historic Brattonsville buildings were featured in the production of The Patriot, an American epic historical fiction war film written by Robert Rodat.
Have fun with the Kids
Summer is approaching, and it’s time to get too wet! Cool the kids off at the splash pad located in York City Park. This outdoor play area is loaded with various sprinklers, fountains, nozzles, and other fun ways to keep you cool while having fun! Or – cool down by grabbing a little “Scoop “ of happiness! With 40+ flavors, homemade waffle cones, delicious brownie sundaes, and much more, you can't go wrong with anything at Scoops Ice Cream!
Shop 'till You Drop on Congress Street
Searching for an extraordinary shopping experience? Look no further than Yorkville Marketplace! Nestled in the heart of the historic district in York, this 12,000 sq. ft. boutique mall features a diverse selection of new and unique items, a range of fashion choices for everyone, and even a wine and beer garden. You can also now eat at the marketplace at 1786 at Yorkville Marketplace! Opened in early 2025, 1786 will be serving wood-fired oven pizzas alongside cold craft beer and wine for you to enjoy after a busy day of shopping.
For those eager to stay on top of the latest trends, visit The Blush Blossom Boutique. It's your go-to destination for the most current and stylish offerings.
Whether you're a casual reader or a devoted bookworm, you've got to check out Books-4-Ewe! This quaint little bookshop specializes in unique, used, and rare books and has something for everyone.
Looking to include Fido in your shopping experience? Dogma & Fetch offers your furry friends the best supplies and merchandise, including food, toys, treats, and even doggy clothing! They also provide on-site grooming by appointment. There are two fun stories to get into with your dog at Dogma & Fetch.
You can also head down the road to Lulu's Gifts and Storage to shop their collection of unique gifts, beautiful jewelry, baby & children's gifts, and more!
There's much to explore; continue down Congress Street to discover your new favorite small business.
Fuel up at Local Joints
It's time to fuel up; luckily, there's no shortage of great options in York! To be surrounded by nature, you must check out The Garden Café! You can also hoof it to Hoof & Barrel and have a great time. Specializing in American classic foods and appetizers, you'll surely fill up some of the best food in York. Looking for something new? The Soco Grille is a new addition to York and serves the freshest seafood in town. You also can't go wrong with The Towne Tavern! Towne Tavern is a neighborhood tavern that serves sandwiches, burgers, salads, wings, and more! Sweet tooth? Check out Southern Touch for the most delicious sweet treats and baked goods! If you're looking for a caffeine fix, head to York Coffee Roastery or Greenhouse Coffee and be delighted by their high-quality coffee and customer service. Looking for more food options? Check out the complete list of York restaurants!
Fun on the Farms
Experience southern history, freshly grown produce, and, most importantly, peaches. Since 1923, Black’s Peaches has been a solid stable in South Carolina’s history of farming and agriculture. Today, they supply numerous products from other farmers across the state in their on-site market!
Bush-N-Vine are another of many domestically supplied markets in the area. Bring the family out to pick berries and other fruits and vegetables. Stop into the market and get some fresh produce (or more ice cream). This family-owned and operated farm has been in York for over 150 years. A must while visiting!
You can't forget to load up on cider and donuts at Windy Hill Orchard! Windy Hill Orchard, a family-owned and operated apple orchard and cider mill, is known for its beautiful apple orchards, and you are welcome to pick yourself. Stop in for some delicious hot cider during the Fall season, or get acquainted with the Hard Cider Bar! **Operation is seasonal; please check the website for current hours**
A quick ride to Filbert will lead you to the Peach Tree Orchard. Hand-spun milkshakes, soups, and sandwiches are their specialties but don't leave without a basket of South Carolina's famous peaches.