There’s a reason why Maine is called Vacationland. We’re fortunate to be surrounded by beautiful beaches, mountainous areas, fresh seafood, great shopping and, well… I could just keep going!

York, Maine is one of the best representations of quintessential New England. Growing up in this town, I never understood how lucky I was to live here until I left. York is a blend between always having something to do and finding that relaxation you need.

Summer is a busy time of year for this small town but with all the activities and adventures at your fingertips, there’s no question why visitors keep coming back!

Whether this summer is your first visit to York or your fiftieth, below are some suggestions to help plan your trip!

Stonewall Kitchen
Of course, we’re going to mention visiting our headquarters. It’s hard to miss as it’s the first building you see when you exit off of 95! Swing on by for shopping, lunch, and a cooking class at our Cooking School (perfect for a rainy day or dinner date). Make sure to swing by our Viewing Gallery to see what’s cooking up in the production kitchen that day!

Nubble Lighthouse
When you think of Maine, you think of lighthouses. Completed in 1879, York is home to the Nubble Lighthouse, officially known as the Cape Neddick Lightstation. Still active today, the Nubble Lighthouse is worth the visit. Before leaving the parking lot, make sure to walk down to Fox’s Lobster House, grab a lobster roll and sit outside.
P.S. Don’t forget to save room for ice cream at Dunne’s across the street.

Photograph courtesy of John Bednarz

The Wiggly Bridge
It’s been said that this bridge may be the world’s smallest suspension bridge. There’s parking available off of Route 103 which puts you at the start of the short 0.7 mile loop of Steedman Woods. Easy terrain and dog friendly, this is the perfect walk for families to enjoy together. If you happen to walk on a particularly hot summer day, take a peek at the local kids jumping off the 103 bridge into the ocean below - a longstanding activity for kids of all ages!

Photograph courtesy of Susan Cole Kelly

Hartley Mason Reserve
Locally called the “York Harbor Park”, the Hartley Mason Reserve is a beautiful park overlooking the York Harbor Beach. With plenty of space to sit, you’ll find people soaking up the sun or reading under a shady tree! Save your spot with a blanket and go for a stroll on the Cliff Walk, a 1-mile walk along the cliff of the beach. When you start to get hungry, pack up your car and walk across the street to Ship’s Cellars Pub, a delicious restaurant that frequently hosts local musicians for live music!

Photograph courtesy of York Harbor Inn

Short Sands
Short Sands is a staple of York, Maine. It’s home to family-friendly York’s Wild Animal Kingdom, where kids have fun riding the ferris wheel that overlooks Short Sands Beach, petting deer, riding elephants and everything in between! Short Sands is also home to the infamous Goldenrod. Established in 1896, The Goldenrod is known for the Goldenrod Kisses, homemade saltwater taffy made on the premise! With small shops, a new brewery and a beach arcade, Short Sands is worth a visit!

Photograph courtesy of David Smith

Ghostly Tours of York
York, and its surrounding area, is filled with tales of ghosts, pirates and folklore. Sign up for a tour where you’ll visit the cemetery known for the witch’s grave and learn all about the history of York and York Beach. This tour is family friendly but also great if you’re looking for something unique to do with your friends or partner. To book a tour, visit: https://www.haunts.com/ghostlytoursyorkmaine

Photograph courtesy of Haunts.com

Mount Agamenticus
You can easily make this a half-day or full day event with 30,000 acres of land to explore, covering the towns of Eliot, Ogunquit, South Berwick, Wells and York. You can either hike your way up or drive to the top to enjoy the most beautiful sunset or sunrise. While you’re in the area, make sure to take a quick visit to the Center for Wildlife to learn about the organization’s efforts in teaching and protecting local wildlife. Check out their website prior to visiting to see if they have any special events going on, like the release of a barn owl back into the wild: thecenterforwildlife.org

Photograph courtesy of Maine Beer Company

Flo's
Before you turn onto Agamenticus Road, to visit the mountain, stop by Flo’s Hotdogs. It’s not uncommon to see cars parked along the main road and a line out the door waiting for Flo’s (the original owner) hotdogs! A family owned business, established in 1959, Flo’s is a must-visit place during your trip to York.

To sum this all up, there’s endless places to visit in York. I always recommend sitting down at a local restaurant and striking up a conversation with a fellow “Mainah” to ask about all the hidden gems. Regardless of the time of year, there’s always things to do and places to visit in York and its surrounding towns. Welcome to Vacationland!