York Travel Guide

Discover all the best places to visit, things to do, and local culture and customs in York, South Carolina, USA.


Introduction to York

York, a city located in the Olde English district of South Carolina, has become a popular tourist destination over the years due to its rich history, natural beauty, and exciting attractions. Known for its hospitality and charm, York offers a variety of activities and tours, cultural and historical landmarks, incredible cuisine, as well as comfortable lodging.

List of Places to Visit in York

The incredible list of places to visit in York includes:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Historic Brattonsville: A 775-acre Revolutionary War site that includes 30 preserved structures and gardens, allowing visitors to experience and learn about life in the 18th and 19th centuries.
  • McCelvey Center: A cultural and historical complex featuring exhibits, events, and educational programs, promoting regional heritage.
  • The Sylvia Theater: A historic landmark showcasing live music events, films, theatrical plays, and more.

Natural Attractions of York: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Kings Mountain State Park: Offering visitors diverse outdoor adventures, such as hiking, kayaking, fishing, picnicking, and camping amidst stunning views of the Piedmont of South Carolina.
  • Allison Creek Blueway: A popular spot for fishing, boating, and swimming, with picturesque views of the Lake Wylie.
  • Vernon Grant’s Mural: A breathtaking murals located in the heart of the city and is based on the nostalgic memories of beloved artist Vernon Grant.

Hiking/Biking Routes of York

For those seeking adventure, York is also home to several hiking and biking routes, some of the best include:

  • Clover / Lake Wylie Loop: A 20-mile bike route through York County, featuring stunning views of the Lake Wylie and N.C. Mountains.
  • Three Rivers Greenway: A 12.5-mile biking and hiking trail along the Saluda, Broad, and Congaree Rivers.
  • McConnells Trace Trail: A 3.1 mile hiking trail offering scenic views of the surrounding landscapes and historic sites.

Best Things to Do in York: Activities and Tours

In addition to the above, York has plenty of activities and tours for visitors of all ages, including:

  • York County Sports Complex: Featuring year-round sporting events from soccer, baseball to football.
  • Carolina Thread Trail: A 13-county regional trail boasting over 300 miles of trails, featuring hand-curated luxury tours or self-guided trails.
  • Arends Wellness Center: A community recreation center offering fitness and wellness programs for individuals and families.

Week-Long Itinerary for York

York has so much to offer that a week-long itinerary would be the perfect way to experience it fully.

Day Action Plan
Day 1 Visit Historic Brattonsville and explore the Colonial-era buildings and gardens. In the afternoon, head to the Sylvia Theater for a movie or play.
Day 2 Hike the McConnells Trace Trail in the morning, followed by kayaking at Lake Wylie or Allison Creek. Enjoy dinner at Galleria Loffredo, a top-rated Italian restaurant.
Day 3 Visit the McCelvey Center and learn about the region’s history and culture. Head to the Arends Wellness Center in the afternoon for fitness classes or wellness programs.
Day 4 Enjoy a day at the Kings Mountain State Park, where you can go fishing, hiking, and camping within stunning natural scenery. In the evening, visit the Carolina Thread Trail to unwind and relax.
Day 5 Spend the day exploring local businesses and stores, including York County Arts Council, a non-profit offering arts events and exhibitions. Lunch at The Flipside Restaurant and grab a coffee at Laroma Coffeehouse.
Day 6 Take a guided tour of York County wineries, such as Clover Hill Vineyards & Winery, for wine tasting and relaxation. End the night with a show at the Sylvia Theater.
Day 7 Explore the Three Rivers Greenway hiking trail in the morning and spend the afternoon at the York County Sports Complex watching a soccer or baseball game. End your week with some traditional Southern cuisine at either Cotton Hills Farm restaurant or Mayflower Seafood restaurant.

Food and Drink Scene of York

York has a diverse food and drink scene, with plenty of options for all tastes and budgets.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Carolina BBQ: A pulled pork sandwich that is slowly smoked, and is typically served with coleslaw and mac and cheese.
  • Shrimp & Grits: A southern comfort classic that includes shrimp and cheese grits, topped with bacon and sausage gravy.
  • Peach Cobbler: A sweet Southern dessert that features fresh peaches, cinnamon, and buttery streusel topping.

Local Beverages

  • Sweet Tea: A Southern staple, sweet tea is a refreshing drink made by adding sugar to freshly brewed tea.
  • Craft Beer: York has numerous breweries with a vast selection of craft beers.

Where to Stay in York: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

York has several options for comfortable lodging, including:

  • The Historic White Home: A historic bed and breakfast featuring rooms decorated with antique furnishings.
  • The Lodge at Lake Wylie: A luxurious log cabin near Allison Creek.
  • Comfort Inn: A budget hotel that is conveniently located near many of York’s attractions.

What to Buy in York: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Some of the best souvenirs from York include:

  • Vernon Grant’s Mural Prints
  • Carolina BBQ Sauces
  • Southern Comfort Food Cookbooks
  • Local Craft Beers

Local Culture and Customs of York

York is a city that values Southern hospitality, strong family connections and love for the outdoors. Most people in York are hardworking and value their independence. They are also deeply religious and have strong ties to their churches. Southern hospitality is a way of life, and visitors can expect to be welcomed with open arms.

Best Time to Visit York

The best time to visit York is in the spring and fall seasons, from March to May and September to December. During these months, temperatures are mild and pleasant, making it perfect for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of York

Do:

  • Respect the locals and their culture, including their religious beliefs and customs.
  • Embrace Southern hospitality, and enjoy your stay.
  • Explore the outdoor activities and natural beauty of the region.

Don’t:

  • Practice hunting or fishing without proper permits.
  • Use offensive language or behave disrespectfully.
  • Litter the natural surroundings.

Safety and Health

Safety in York

York is a relatively safe city, with a crime rate that is lower than the national average. Visitors should ensure that they take the usual precautions when traveling, including:

  • Avoiding unfamiliar areas at night
  • Not leaving valuables in plain sight
  • Keeping car doors locked

Health in York

York has several medical facilities including urgent care clinics, pharmacies, and hospitals. Visitors should ensure that they have health coverage before traveling, and take the necessary health precautions.

Getting to York: Transportation Options and Logistics

Visitors can access York by various means of transport. Here are a few options:

Airports Near York

  • Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) is the closest major airport, located approximately 25 miles away from York city center.

Bus Stations Near York

  • Greyhound Bus Lines have a station in Rock Hill, which is approximately seven miles away from York.

Other Options

  • Taxis, rental cars, and ridesharing services are available from the airport to York.

How to Get Around in York

  • Car rentals are a common means of transportation in York, with many national car rental companies available at the airport.
  • Biking and walking are also great ways of exploring the city, especially if you’re planning to explore downtown York.

Where to Go Next from York: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

York is situated just a few hours away from several popular destinations, including:

  • Asheville, North Carolina: A beautiful mountain town known for its art, culture, and natural beauty.
  • Charleston, South Carolina: A charming historic town teeming with old-world charm and Southern hospitality.
  • Charlotte, North Carolina: The largest city in the Carolinas, Charlotte is a vibrant and growing metropolis that offers something for everyone.

Conclusion

York, South Carolina, is a destination that should be on every traveler’s list. From the impressive amount of outdoor activities, cultural and historical landmarks, delicious food and drink, and comfortable accommodations, visitors can experience a unique hospitality throughout their stay in York. We hope this comprehensive tour guide encourages you to add York to your “must-visit” list and experience all that the city has to offer.

Downtown York Historic District Downtown York Historic District