Dive into 18th-Century Life with a Tour of the Colonial Complex
Uncover York County’s key role in the Revolutionary War and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the 18th century during our engaging 45-60 minute guided tour. First up, the Golden Plough Tavern, standing proud since 1741, beckons you to experience colonial life firsthand. Next door is the General Horatio Gates House, where you can delve into the story of American General Horatio Gates and his pivotal stay during the harsh winter of 1777-1778, a slice of history brought vividly to life. Then step into the reconstructed Colonial Courthouse, where echoes of the Second Continental Congress and members’ debate over the Articles of Confederation still linger. And finally, don’t miss the Barnett Bobb Log House, a charming relic from 1812 relocated to our Colonial Complex. Ready to embark on a journey through time in our historic buildings? Schedule your tour now and let the Colonial Complex ignite your passion for history!
View our calendar or call ahead to see tour schedule changes.
Tour times will shift are shifting!
Visit Us
Colonial Complex
Opening April 4 for the 2026 season.
Open seasonally, April to November. All tours start at the History Center Museum where you will meet your guide. Tours are typically 60-75 minutes in length. Please reference our calendar for any tour cancelations or changes!
Our 18th Century buildings unfortunately do not have temperature control so please visit our calendar in case tours are changed due to rising heat throughout the summer.
Hours:
September 8 through October 31 Colonial Complex tours will take place at 11 am and 2 pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. Friday and Saturday tours will be offered at 11 am, 1 pm, and 3 pm.
Please note that on November 3 through November 28 all Colonial Complex tours are offered at 11 am and 2 pm Tuesday through Saturday.
Sunday – closed
Mondays – closed
The Colonial Complex will not offer tours on November 14 as we celebrate Articles of Confederation. The site will be closed on Thanksgiving.
Address:
York County History Center Colonial Complex
121 N. Pershing Ave., York PA 17401
717-848-1587
See History Come to Life
The Colonial Complex offers a variety of engaging ways for students to learn through hands-on demonstrations and educational programs that are designed to be compatible with current Pennsylvania academic history standards.-
The reproduction of the original York County Courthouse was built in 1976 as part of the nation’s 200th anniversary. -
Actors portraying figures from history are a fixture at the history-themed events we host for the community. -
Children and adults can learn about the work of colonial period tradespeople, including blacksmiths. -
Colonial Complex tours feature a visit inside our historic buildings, including the Plough Tavern. -
The Colonial Courthouse displays a number of artifacts from the colonial period.
Bring your class or school group on a field trip to the History Center for a day of hands-on history.
