New History Center Museum Opens in York

York County has a fantastic new museum where visitors can explore 300 years of American history, dating from York’s Revolutionary roots and industrial achievements up to and including the history makers of today.

The York County History Center Museum opened in August 2024 in a 19th century former steam-generating plant that has been converted into a 15,000-square-foot state-of-the-art immersive experience. It’s conveniently located in the heart of historic Downtown York City, one block away from the York County History Center’s Colonial Complex, where the buildings date back to the 1700s. This enlarged campus provides outdoor programming and exhibit space which has greatly expanded the historical interpretation of York County.

The new museum offers lively, hands-on interactive educational opportunities for students as well as adults wanting to learn more about York County’s rich heritage. Combined with the Colonial Complex, it’s an ideal destination for history lovers who are interested in York’s connections to Gettysburg, Lancaster, and Philadelphia.

The new museum has been intentional in sharing stories from all parts of the York community, with a focus on diversity and inclusion, and provides visitors with a dynamic and inclusive experience within a vibrant cultural hub. You’ll find a seamless blend of historic architecture and modern technology which brings the past to life.

The York County History Museum also offers a variety of engaging events and programming throughout the year, including First Fridays, Homeschool Days, WWII Briefings, Second Saturdays, Spirits of the Past Historic Mixology Classes, Bookmarked, ALLVETS, South Central PA Genealogical Society Programs, Civil War Roundtables, and more.

To learn more about the new museum and to see a complete list of featured exhibits, visit YorkHistoryCenter.org.

Nearby, you’ll find the popular York County Heritage Rail Trail, two historic market houses, a variety of shopping and dining options. Get even more ideas for your getaway with the free York County Travel Guide.