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Walking Tours

Marq Col

Are you interested in the rich history York has to offer? Want to see our city from a new perspective? Take a guided historic walking tour with one of our experienced tour guides! Walking tours are offered each month in the summer and fall. The History Center Museum and our historic sites are in the oldest area of York, near the heart of the revitalized downtown. Each tour has its own focus, and most include York’s historic Continental Square. All York walking tours will start and end at the new museum and will last 60-90 minutes. Tours are recommended for ages 12 and older. Tickets for our walking tours are $6 for History Center members and $8 for non-members. Here are the standard tours we offer through the summer.

Revolutionary York

When the British captured Philadelphia in the fall of 1777, the Continental Congress made York the capital from which it would conduct the war, and take the first step toward creating the United States as we know it. Guides will share stories of local heroes, as well as national notables such as George Washington, and “Mad” Anthony Wayne. Included in this tour is the site of a duel that was to take place between General Horatio Gates and James Wilkinson.

Civil War York

Many of the buildings that existed during the Confederate invasion of York still stand on Market Street. This tour leaves from the History Center Museum, where guides will describe what events affected the town and the roles some residents played.

York History

More than 275 years of history await you on this tour, from the Colonial Complex, past the National House to Continental Square, past the beautifully refurbished Appell Performing Arts Center, and the Quaker House. This tour covers the highlights of several different eras, while allowing you to appreciate the details of architecture and art that can only be seen on foot.

Murals of York

Scattered amongst the walls of York’s fabulous architecture, 18 murals depict scenes of the county’s proudest moments and people. Leaving from the Colonial Complex, guides will describe the background of 10 of them as you stroll down Market Street, George, and return via Philadelphia Street.

Walking Tours Continental Square

Continental Square, a stop on most of our Walking Tours, has been the center of York more than a century.