5 Things To Do In York County
Just south of Charlotte, York County is a vibrant area, packed with outdoor recreation excursions, local restaurants and buzzing breweries. The county is home to Lake Wylie, Kings Mountain State Park and Kings Mountain National Military Park, where a pivotal Revolutionary War battle unfolded. Anne Springs Close Greenway is a natural escape, perfect for an afternoon picnic or hike. When hunger strikes, explore the food scenes of Downtown Rock Hill, Fort Mill, or York and don’t miss the opportunity to visit nearby watering holes like Slow Play Brewing and Legal Remedy Brewing.
To help you plan your visit, we rounded up 5 must-do activities. For a full list of things to do in York County, click here.
1. Step Back In Time At Historic Brattonsville
Delve into the rich history of York County by visiting Historic Brattonsville, a living history museum that takes you back to the 18th and 19th centuries. Wander through the well-preserved buildings and interact with costumed interpreters who bring the past to life. Learn about the daily lives of settlers and African Americans during this era and learn the stories of courage and perseverance. With its picturesque landscapes and immersive exhibits, Historic Brattonsville promises an engaging experience for history enthusiasts and families alike.
2. Explore Nature’s Beauty
Enjoy the great outdoors at Anne Springs Close Greenway, a 2,100-acre nature preserve offering a variety of outdoor activities. Hike or bike along the scenic trails that weave through lush forests, or enjoy a relaxing canoe float. Equestrian enthusiasts can admire the scenery from a different perspective on the many horseback riding trails. With picnic areas, playgrounds and a nature center, the greenway provides an idyllic retreat.
On the other side of York County is the 6,885-acre Kings Mountain State Park. Discover miles of forested trails, two fishing lakes, a spillway, picnic shelters, campsites and more. (Bonus: Down the road from the state park is Kings Mountain National Military Park, where the Battle of Kings Mountain was fought in 1780.)
3. Fill Up On Delicious Food
York County boasts a vibrant culinary scene, with a variety of restaurants, breweries and wine bars. FM Eatery in Downtown Fort Mill entices visitors with its fusion of flavors, offering a mix of small and large plates. For those seeking an unforgettable dining experience, Kounter in Rock Hill is known for serving artfully crafted meals. The Flipside Restaurant is a local favorite, renowned for tasty comfort food and warm, inviting ambiance. And Garden Café in York serves Southern-style meals in a cozy setting.
Attention beer lovers. Grab a gold beer at Slow Play Brewing and unwind on the patio. Legal Remedy Brewing, Rock Hill’s first brewery, is also a go-to spot, serving a variety of craft beer and the brewpub menu items from a restored car dealership.
4. Pick Your Own Produce & Flowers
From juicy strawberries in the spring to plump pumpkins in the fall, the u-pick offerings are abundant in York County. U-pick farms, including Cherry Place Farm, Bush-N-Vine Farm, and Springs Farm, are not only a chance to savor the freshest produce but also an opportunity to create cherished memories with friends and family in South Carolina. Just be sure to check what is in season before planning your visit.
5. Take On Giant Coasters At Carowinds
For an exhilarating day of family fun, head to Carowinds, an amusement park situated on the border of North and South Carolina. With its thrilling roller coasters, water rides, live shows and family-friendly attractions, Carowinds guarantees an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. Beat the summer heat at Carolina Harbor, the park’s water park and scream as loud as you can on thrilling rides.
