York, Maine delights visitors with centuries of rich history and natural wonders. This charming coastal town’s roots stretch back to the early 1600s, and its official incorporation happened in 1652. Today, it welcomes travelers with a unique character and countless attractions.
The town’s landscape splits into four distinct areas, each boasting its own charm. York Village proudly displays the area’s historical heritage. York Harbor’s cottage-lined streets offer stunning views of Long Sands Beach. Tourist attractions pack York Beach, while Cape Neddick remains a peaceful residential oceanfront community. Visitors flock to popular spots like Cape Neddick Nubble Lighthouse, which earned 4.7/5 stars from 1,783 reviews, and Long Sands Beach with its impressive 4.6/5 stars from 690 reviews.
York’s Wild Kingdom excites families and thrill-seekers with over 20 carnival rides and a zoo that houses more than 50 different animal species. Nature lovers can explore Mount Agamenticus, a 692-foot hill that anchors a massive 10,000-acre conservation region. The area features more than 40 miles of hiking and biking trails. York Maine’s attractions create perfect memories for every type of traveler.
York Beach (Long Sands & Short Sands)

Image Source: York Parks and Recreation Department
York’s coastline features two distinct sandy stretches that attract thousands of visitors each year. These beaches along Route 1A give beachgoers a chance to relax or seek adventure.
York Beach Overview
Long Sands Beach extends for 1.5 miles and showcases white sand, tide pools and rocky areas. Visitors will find this spacious beach halfway between York Harbor and York Beach villages. Short Sands Beach spans a quarter-mile between rocky cliffs. This pocket beach sits within Ellis Park and anchors York Beach’s bustling area. Visitors love both beaches. Long Sands scores 4.6/5 from 690 reviews. Short Sands gets 4.4/5 from 503 reviews.
Why Visit York Beach
York Beach goes beyond swimming and sunbathing. Long Sands has designated surfing zones with orange flags. Water sports enthusiasts will feel right at home here. Short Sands Beach adds extra fun with a playground, basketball courts and a gazebo where summer concerts happen. The area around Short Sands buzzes with shops, restaurants and classic spots. The Goldenrod, 127 years old, makes over eight million pieces of salt-water taffy each year.
Best Time to Visit York Beach
Peak season runs from late June through August with temperatures around 79°F. The beaches attract three to five thousand visitors daily during these months. May, September or early October see fewer crowds but still have pleasant weather. Winter brings a completely different vibe with rough ocean conditions. Most amenities stay closed during winter months.
Local Tips for York Beach
- Summer parking fills up by 9am
- Beach fires are not allowed
- Dogs must stay away between 8am-6pm from May 20th to September 20th
- Lifeguards watch the beach from 9am-4:30pm June through Labor Day
- High tide pushes water right up to Long Sands’ breakwater
York Beach Accessibility
Both beaches welcome everyone. Long Sands provides flat sand entry points and accessible bathrooms. Short Sands offers a beach wheelchair at the lifeguard stand. You’ll also find accessible sidewalks, bathrooms, and beachfront parking here.
Cape Neddick and Nubble Lighthouse

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Maine’s most iconic landmark, the Cape Neddick Light or “Nubble Lighthouse,” stands majestically on a small rocky island 100 yards from Cape Neddick Point. This historic beacon has become coastal Maine’s symbol since builders completed it in 1879.
Cape Neddick Lighthouse Description
The remarkable tower stretches 41 feet high with brick lining and cast iron sheathing. Its position helps it reach 88 feet above sea level. The Victorian keeper’s house shows off beautiful gingerbread trim. The lantern room’s walkway railing features unique 4-inch brass replicas of the lighthouse. The fourth-order Fresnel lens guides mariners along the rugged coastline and remains one of just eight in Maine.
Why Visit Nubble Lighthouse
Photographers worldwide consider Nubble Light among their favorite subjects. The lighthouse’s red and white colors create stunning contrasts against the Atlantic Ocean. The lighthouse’s significance extends beyond Earth – it appears on the Voyager Golden Record as one of our planet’s most prominent structures, right next to the Great Wall of China and Taj Mahal. December brings a magical holiday lighting display that locals cherish.
Best Ttime to Visit Nubble Lighthouse
The golden hours at sunrise and sunset create perfect conditions to photograph the lighthouse. Many photographers say spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) bring dramatic skies and soft, diffused light. Notwithstanding that, each season at Nubble Light brings its own visual charm.
Local Tips for Nubble Lighthouse
- Fox’s Lobster House and Cape Neddick Lobster Pound serve classic New England seafood
- Sohier Park’s gift shop stocks lighthouse-themed souvenirs
- Resident bald eagles make their home on the island
- Early arrival means better parking chances, especially on weekends
Nubble Lighthouse Accessibility
The lighthouse itself stays closed to visitors, but Sohier Park on the mainland provides excellent viewing spots. The park offers free but limited parking, picnic areas, and great vantage points. On top of that, it undergoes improvements to boost pedestrian safety and climate resilience.
Visit Sugarloaf mountain Maine.
Old York Historical Society

Image Source: oldyork.org
The Old York Historical Society sits at the heart of York Village and keeps alive the heritage of one of America’s earliest English settlements. Three historical organizations came together to create the society, which traces its roots back to 1896.
Old York Historical Society Overview
Nine historic buildings make up the Old York Historical Society and seven of these buildings have earned spots on the National Register of Historic Places. The Old Gaol stands as the collection’s centerpiece – Maine’s first prison ran from 1656 until 1869 and welcomed its first museum visitors on July 4, 1900. You’ll find amazing collections of furniture, textiles, needlework and fine arts here. The society’s prized possessions include remarkable 18th-century crewelwork bed-hangings and a black walnut dining table dating back to 1730.
Why Visit Old York Historical Society
The Old York Historical Society takes you back three centuries with its authentic historical experience. You can step inside the Old Gaol, Jefferds Tavern, the York Corner Schoolhouse, and discover “The Best of York: Treasures from the Collection” exhibition. The society brings history to life through educational programs, historical demonstrations and specialized walking tours that light up York’s colonial past.
Best Time to Visit Old York Historical Society
Historic buildings welcome visitors from late May through October. Summer hours run Tuesday through Saturday (May-September), while fall hours operate Thursday through Saturday from 10am to 4pm (September-October). The society spices up your visit with themed walking tours, history of chocolate demonstrations, and seasonal tavern dinners throughout the year.
Local tips for Old York Historical Society
- Book your spots early for popular guided tours, especially when you have interest in Perkins House Museum tours at 1pm on Fridays and Saturdays
- Make time for History of Chocolate Demonstrations every Thursday through September
- The Research Center at Beech Ridge welcomes researchers year-round by appointment
Old York Historical Society Pricing
Adult tickets cost $10, while children under 18 and members get in free. Special walking tours cost the same as general admission, with children’s tickets at $5. Membership starts at $35 if you have individual needs and goes up to $60 for households. Members enjoy free admission, special event invitations and shop discounts.
Old Gaol (Colonial Jailhouse)
The Old Gaol stands proudly as America’s oldest surviving prison building. This National Historic Landmark lets visitors experience colonial America’s justice system through its thick stone walls and centuries-old cells.
Old Gaol History
The story of this remarkable building started in 1656 when John Parker became Maine’s first executioner and prison keeper. The original wooden prison deteriorated over time, leading to construction of a stone-walled building in 1720. The facility grew larger with additions like the prison keeper’s house (1729), a kitchen (1737), second-floor cells with tall windows (1763) and a debtor’s cell (1799). A storage cellar completed the structure in 1806. The building served York County as its official provincial jail until 1760.
Why Visit Old Gaol
The prison’s dungeon, cells, and replica yard pillory await exploration. The building gives visitors a fascinating look into 18th-century penal practices. The gaol’s 2.5-foot thick stone walls lined with oak planking tell the story of colonial justice.
Best Time to Visit Old Gaol
Visitors can explore the Old Gaol from late May through October. Summer hours run Tuesday through Saturday (10am-4pm). Fall visits (September-October) are possible Thursday through Saturday.
Old Gaol Pricing
Tickets cost $10 for adults. Children under 18 and museum members enter free. Each ticket comes with a self-guided tour.
Old Gaol Accessibility
The building’s historic nature creates accessibility limitations. Visitors receive an informational leaflet that guides them through the rooms and cells.
Emerson-Wilcox House Museum

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The Emerson-Wilcox House stands proudly as a remarkable example of vernacular Georgian architecture in Southern Maine. This historic building has served many purposes throughout its existence. George Ingraham built this modest center-chimney dwelling around 1735.
Emerson-Wilcox House Background
The house started with just a parlor, hall, and two bedchambers. Edward Emerson made major changes in 1760. He moved an older structure from 1710 elsewhere in town, which created today’s distinctive “L” shaped building. Emerson’s store occupied the west end of the Long Parlor, where he sold sugar, molasses, rum and spices. The house grew to fifteen rooms after a final addition in 1817. That same year, David Wilcox, who served as a delegate to the 1819 Maine State Constitutional Convention, bought the property.
Why Visit Emerson-Wilcox House
This house shows how middle-class residents lived in 18th-century York, rather than the grand mansions of the wealthy. The building tells many stories through its past roles as a general store, stage tavern, tailor shop, post office and family home. Visitors get a detailed look into everyday colonial life. The house’s uneven interior floors reveal how buildings evolved across generations, as different structures connected over time.
Best Time to Visit Emerson-Wilcox House
The Emerson-Wilcox House remains closed after a car crash in 2021 damaged the ground floor severely. Restoration continues with plans to welcome visitors again by 2024. The house used to offer guided tours on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday afternoons. Tour times were scheduled at 11:30am and 2:30pm.
Perkins House Museum

Image Source: Seacoastonline.com
The Perkins House Museum stands elegantly by the York River next to Sewall’s Bridge. This charming gabled structure, which once housed ferrymen and sea captains, reflects Maine’s rich coastal heritage through the ages.
Perkins House History
In 1898, Mary Perkins and her daughter Elizabeth turned this riverside property into their summer home. They redesigned it to capture the spirit of colonial New England. These preservation-minded women left both the house and its contents to the Old York Historical Society’s predecessor after Elizabeth passed away in 1952. Mark Twain would visit the house to use the Perkins’ telephone—York’s first—during his summers across the river.
Why Visit Perkins House
The museum maintains the Perkins family’s original furnishings and belongings perfectly. The rooms received a careful restoration in 2020 to match their exact appearance during Elizabeth’s last visit in 1951. The house feels less like a museum and more like a luxurious post-war home whose residents have just stepped out.
Perkins House Pricing
Visitors pay $10 for admission, while children under 18 pay $5. Members get free entry to the museum.
Best Time to Visit Perkins House
Guided tours run at 1pm every Friday and Saturday between May 30 and October 25. Each tour accommodates eight people and takes about an hour.
How to plan a Maine road trip.
George Marshall Store Gallery

Image Source: George Marshall Store Gallery
The George Marshall Store Gallery sits in a beautiful 155-year-old building along the York River’s edge. This charming space has transformed from a general store into one of the area’s finest art venues. The gallery perfectly blends Maine’s rich history with its dynamic art scene today.
George Marshall Gallery Overview
A stunning historic building right on the York River houses the George Marshall Gallery. This creates a perfect backdrop to view amazing artwork. The gallery operates as a modern art space, even though it belongs to the Museums of Old York. The gallery’s 21-year history has built a solid reputation. It features both well-known artists and rising stars from the region.
Why Visit George Marshall Gallery
The gallery draws art lovers with its carefully selected exhibitions that change approximately every five weeks. Visitors will find diverse collections of paintings and small sculptures displayed with plenty of breathing space. The beautiful waterfront location lets you enjoy both artistic creations and nature’s beauty at once. The gallery has become a must-see spot for anyone looking for contemporary art in York Maine.
Best Time to Visit George Marshall Gallery
The gallery welcomes visitors Wednesday through Friday (10am-2pm) and Saturday through Sunday (11am-5pm) during fall. You can also stop by “by appointment and by chance”. The staff might need to step out occasionally, so it’s smart to check before you visit. Just email info@georgemarshallstoregallery.com or call (207) 351-8200 to confirm your visit. The gallery grounds host Wednesday Plein Air painting meetups through September. These sessions are a great way to experience this artistic venue.
Steedman Woods & Wiggly Bridge Trail

Image Source: AllTrails
Steedman Woods sits between the York River and Barrell’s Mill Pond. Visitors can cross America’s smallest suspension bridge while learning about peaceful nature trails. Richard Steedman donated this natural area in 1978 to keep it “forever wild”.
Trail Description
Several interconnected trails give hikers different options. A quick 0.6-mile loop takes about 12 minutes, while a longer 1.8-mile out-and-back route provides more adventure. The trails are easy with gentle elevation changes—ranging from 22-59 feet based on your chosen path. The star attraction is the Wiggly Bridge, a tiny suspension bridge from 1936 that got its name from the gentle swaying motion people feel as they cross.
Why Hike Wiggly Bridge Trail
The smallest suspension bridge in the U.S. (maybe even the world) is just the beginning. Hikers can spot fishing boats in York River’s harbor and soak in amazing views. The path weaves through rich forest filled with plants and wildlife, making it one of York Maine’s most peaceful spots. The bridge area features interesting plaques that tell Barrell’s Mill Pond’s story, which goes back to 1726.
Best Time to Visit Wiggly Bridge Trail
The trail sees most visitors from March through November, though its beauty shines throughout the year. The golden light during early morning or late afternoon creates magical shadows on the trail.
Local Tips for Wiggly Bridge Trail
- Parking spots are few—come early before they fill up
- Keep dogs leashed and carry out their waste
- The Wiggly Bridge side doesn’t allow bikes
- Wear sturdy shoes that work well on uneven ground
- Plan 30-60 minutes based on your speed and route choice
Wiggly Bridge Distillery

Image Source: Wiggly Bridge Distillery
Wiggly Bridge Distillery started as a simple dinner conversation between father and son and evolved into an award-winning craft spirits destination along York’s Route 1 corridor. Adult travelers consider this distillery one of York Maine’s most distinctive attractions.
Wiggly Bridge Distillery Overview
David Woods and his son David established this family business in 2013, driven by their passion for quality spirits and craftsmanship. Their hands built the copper pot stills that create their products’ unique flavor profiles. The distillery’s main operations run from a beautifully restored 1880s barn at 441 US Route 1, while a smaller location serves York Beach.
Why Visit Wiggly Bridge Distillery
The distillery’s award-winning small-batch collection includes White Whiskey, Small Barrel Bourbon, White Rum, Small Barrel Rum, Vodka and Gin. Guests can take hour-long guided tours to learn about the distillation process. The barn’s tasting room welcomes visitors with exposed post and beam construction and natural light, where they can enjoy expertly crafted cocktails.
Wiggly Bridge Distillery Pricing
Each tour costs $14.95 and includes a craft cocktail plus spirit samples. Cocktails cost between $12-14 for guests who skip the tour.
Best Time to Visit Wiggly Bridge Distillery
The Route 1 location opens daily. Hours run from 11am to 7pm Monday through Thursday and 11am to 8pm Friday through Sunday. Weekday visits offer a more relaxed atmosphere than the busy weekends.
York’s Wild Kingdom Zoo & Amusement Park

Image Source: yorkswildkingdom.com
York’s Wild Kingdom serves as the life-blood of family entertainment in the region. This unique destination combines a zoo and amusement park, making it one of the most exciting family activities in York Maine.
York’s Wild Kingdom Overview
The attraction features over 50 species of exotic animals including African lions, monkeys and Bengal tigers. Visitors can enjoy more than 20 rides in the amusement park section from classic Ferris wheels to bumper cars. The park’s grounds feature an 18-hole mini-golf course, batting cages and an arcade.
Why Visit York’s Wild Kingdom
The park’s dual attractions create a perfect family destination. Visitors can feed deer, explore butterfly gardens, and watch live animal presentations. Educational wildlife exhibits blend seamlessly with classic carnival rides to create an experience that appeals to all age groups.
Best Time to Visit York’s Wild Kingdom
The park welcomes visitors from late May through early September. Daily operations run from mid-June through Labor Day. Weekday visits tend to draw smaller crowds than weekends.
York’s Wild Kingdom Pricing
Adult tickets cost $17.75, while seniors pay $14.75. The zoo-only experience costs $13.75 for adults. The park offers separate ride tickets and combo packages.
York’s Wild Kingdom Accessibility
The zoo section’s paved walkways make most animal exhibits accessible to wheelchair users. While the zoo area welcomes visitors with mobility challenges, some rides have specific physical requirements.
Dunne’s Ice Cream at Cape Neddick

Image Source: Tripadvisor
Dunne’s Ice Cream stands as one of York’s sweetest treasures, drawing people who want to cool off after exploring the coast at Cape Neddick. This family-run spot has earned its place in the hearts of both locals and tourists.
Dunne’s Ice Cream Flavors
The shop crafts about 30 ice cream flavors right on site. You’ll find everything from simple vanilla and chocolate to unique seasonal treats. Their Maine Blueberry and Maple Walnut flavors capture the taste of New England perfectly. Coffee Oreo and Black Raspberry Chip rank high on the customer favorite list. The shop also keeps several dairy-free sorbet options ready to serve guests with dietary needs.
Why Visit Dunne’s Ice Cream
The ice cream quality speaks for itself, but Dunne’s laid-back vibe makes it the perfect way to wrap up your day of York Maine sightseeing. Families love the big scoops and fair prices. New customers always mention the warm service and cozy outdoor seating. The shop’s location near Nubble Lighthouse makes it easy to grab dessert after your adventures.
Best Time to Visit Dunne’s Ice Cream
The sweet spot for ice cream is summer evenings from 6-8pm when the crowds thin out. Weekday afternoons offer a more peaceful experience. The shop runs from late April through October, staying open later in July and August. Their rich flavors taste just as good on crisp fall days as they do in summer heat.
York Harbor Inn

Image Source: York Harbor Inn – Family of Inns and Restaurants in York, Maine
York Harbor Inn stands gracefully along coastal Route 1A, near some of Maine’s finest beaches. This charming seaside establishment blends historical character with modern comforts in its 65 guest rooms.
York Harbor Inn Overview
The property includes seven distinct buildings. The Main Inn houses the front desk and restaurants. Harbor Hill Inn showcases luxury rooms with ocean views. Other buildings are Harbor Cliffs Inn, Yorkshire House (built in 1743), the pet-friendly Harbor Crest Inn, Chapman Cottage and 388 at York Harbor. Recent upgrades feature new bathrooms in rooms 16 and 301. The Yorkshire House Atrium Spa now boasts a year-round jacuzzi and firepit area.
Why Stay or Dine at York Harbor Inn
The inn’s three distinctive dining venues create memorable experiences:
- The 1637 Main Dining Room serves fine cuisine with ocean views and live weekend music
- The Ship’s Cellar Pub showcases tiger maple wood paneling with sailing-themed décor
- The Tavern at Chapman Cottage welcomes guests with outdoor dining and small plates during summer (June-September)
Every guest reservation comes with a generous Country Inn Buffet Breakfast.
York Harbor Inn Pricing
Room prices change with the seasons. January and February typically have the best rates. Military guests get a 10% discount on rooms with valid ID.
Best Time to Visit York Harbor Inn
Fall months of September and October bring peaceful days filled with colorful foliage and occasional beach-worthy weather.
Stonewall Kitchen York Company Store

Image Source: Stonewall Kitchen
The Stonewall Kitchen York Company Store sits just off I-95 on Route 1, greeting visitors with tempting aromas from its production facility. This flagship location serves as the headquarters of Maine’s most recognized specialty food brands.
Stonewall Kitchen Store Experience
Friendly staff welcome guests with samples from their extensive specialty food line. The sprawling campus has a Company Store, and visitors can explore the Café, production facility and main offices across the grounds. Shoppers will find kitchen gadgets, cookware, tableware, and home décor beyond the usual jams and sauces. Year-round, guests can watch the operating production line through viewing gallery windows and learn how jam is made.
Why Visit Stonewall Kitchen
The demonstration kitchen serves delicious samples and provides helpful recipe suggestions that culinary enthusiasts love. Summer brings beautiful outdoor spaces filled with colorful flowers that garden lovers appreciate. Stonewall Kitchen’s signature Wild Maine Blueberry Jam and Dilly Beans rank among the most popular souvenirs.
Best time to visit Stonewall Kitchen
Visitors can stop by daily from 9am-6pm. The abundant gardens and outdoor seating make summer visits special, while winter draws people in with comfort food and warm beverages.
Stonewall Kitchen Pricing
This free attraction fits perfectly into any York Maine itinerary.
Union Bluff Hotel

Image Source: www.unionbluff.com
Union Bluff Hotel has graced Short Sands Beach’s shoreline since 1868. This historic landmark combines classic charm with modern luxury and serves as both a place to stay and a destination for visitors to York’s coastal attractions.
Union Bluff Hotel Overview
Three distinct buildings make up the hotel’s 70 deluxe rooms. The Main Building contains 42 rooms that come with ocean views and balconies. The Annex welcomes families with spacious configurations that fit up to six guests. The Meeting House serves as a wedding and event venue that sometimes doubles as guest accommodation.
Why Stay at Union Bluff Hotel
The hotel’s oceanfront location makes it special, and its two exceptional restaurants add to the appeal. Guests can enjoy casual meals at The Union Bluff Pub & Grill’s indoor/outdoor setting or savor upscale dining at The Union Grill. Every room comes equipped with mini-fridges, Keurig coffeemakers, flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi. Some rooms feature cozy fireplaces or private balconies.
Union Bluff Hotel Pricing
You’ll find room rates between $171 and $528, with prices changing based on season and room choice.
Best Time to Visit Union Bluff Hotel
Summer draws the biggest crowds, but the hotel gets quieter after York HarvestFest, which happens the weekend after Columbus Day. The hotel welcomes guests throughout the year.
Stage Neck Inn

Image Source: Stage Neck Inn
Stage Neck Inn sits on a peninsula with stunning Atlantic views and welcomes guests to experience luxury accommodations with amazing coastal scenery. This oceanfront resort gives travelers the perfect mix of comfort and sophistication while they discover York Maine’s attractions.
Stage Neck Inn Amenities
The property boasts 58 rooms, each uniquely furnished with cozy sitting areas and safes. Guests can enjoy both indoor and outdoor pools, a fitness center, hot tub and sauna. The on-site day spa helps you unwind with detox wraps, massages and facials. The resort’s two outdoor tennis courts and garden give you plenty of ways to stay active.
Why Stay at Stage Neck Inn
Stage Neck Inn shines as a landmark destination where guests take in stunning ocean and harbor views. The gentle sound of waves creates a peaceful atmosphere across the property. Every overnight guest gets a free New England Breakfast at Shearwater restaurant’s ocean-view setting. New visitors love deals like the $150 dining credit you can get for $125.
Stage Neck Inn Pricing
Room prices vary from $321 to $639 based on season and room type. The resort adds a fee of $10 per room night for 2025 stays and $20 for 2026 bookings.
Best Time to Visit Stage Neck Inn
July marks peak season at the inn. Smart travelers can find the best deals during April and March. You’ll pay less for midweek stays, with Tuesday and Thursday rates lower than Saturday prices.
When Pigs Fly Bakery

Image Source: When Pigs Fly Breads
This 30-year old bakery, When Pigs Fly Bakery, started by Ron Siegel in York, has grown from a small operation into one of the area’s most popular culinary spots. York’s beloved bakery attracts visitors year-round with its artisanal bread products.
When Pigs Fly Bread Varieties
The bakery creates 25 unique bread varieties that range from classic recipes to innovative flavors. Their selection features traditional staples like pumpernickel, rye and sourdough. The creative offerings stand out with chocolate bread, lemonade bread, spinach ciabatta and tomato varieties. Local customers love their signature combinations: apricot, date, and walnut; blueberry, orange, and walnut; and baby spinach, onion and garlic ciabatta.
Why Visit When Pigs Fly Bakery
The bakery’s steadfast dedication to natural ingredients sets them apart and they never use artificial additives. Each loaf takes 36 hours to create. Customers can find more than just bread here – the menu features cookies, cakes, specialty foods and their famous Maine blueberry bread pudding cake. The bakery’s products are now available in more than 500 stores throughout New England, New York and New Jersey.
Best Time to Visit When Pigs Fly Bakery
Customers can visit the bakery from 10am to 6pm every day. The best selection is available early in the morning since popular items sell out fast.
York Antiques Gallery

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York Antiques Gallery sits inside a historic 1880s dairy barn and offers a wealth of treasures for collectors and casual browsers alike. This unique spot takes up four full floors packed with carefully selected items from decades and centuries past.
York Antiques Gallery Overview
The gallery at 746 US-1 has more than 30 booths and 65 display cases filled with antiques that change regularly. More than 50 specialists rent space in this multi-dealer shop to show off their best finds from all over the country and around the world. The building’s layout has sections dedicated to artifacts from Africa, France and many places in between.
Why Visit York Antiques Gallery
This place feels more like a museum than your typical antique shop, with historical treasures arranged thoughtfully throughout. Rugs hang gracefully over railings and artwork adorns the walls, while every corner reveals something interesting. Shoppers can browse through furniture, china, masks, nautical items, pottery and countless other collectibles. The experience itself is worth the visit, even if the items are beyond your budget.
Best Time to Visit York Antiques Gallery
The gallery opens daily. New visitors should plan to spend several hours exploring all four floors. The collection is so big that comfortable walking shoes make sense. Weekday mornings work best for serious collectors who want one-on-one time with the knowledgeable staff.
Mount Agamenticus

Image Source: agamenticus.org
Mount Agamenticus stands 692 feet above sea level and serves as the centerpiece of a 10,000-acre conservation area. This region is home to Maine’s most diverse collection of plant and animal species. Nature enthusiasts will find this spot a perfect addition to their York Maine itinerary.
Mount Agamenticus Trail Info
The mountain’s network of trails caters to all skill levels. Visitors can take the Big A Trail, a mile-long accessible loop that wraps around the summit. Adventurous hikers might prefer the Blueberry Bluff Trail with its steep terrain and exposed bedrock that rewards them with stunning southern views. The Ring Trail stretches 1.5 miles and winds halfway up the mountain through different forest landscapes.
Why Hike Mount Agamenticus
The summit rewards hikers with breathtaking panoramic views. The vista stretches from the Atlantic Ocean to the New Hampshire Seacoast and Mount Washington appears 90 miles away on clear days. Wildlife thrives here, and the area has become a haven for birdwatchers who come to observe the numerous migratory species.
Best Time to Visit Mount Agamenticus
The mountain shines brightest during spring and fall when mild weather combines with spectacular scenery. Each season brings its own charm – summer beckons hikers while winter transforms the trails into perfect venues for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
Local Tips for Mount Agamenticus
- Bring water with you in any season
- Use sunscreen even when clouds fill the sky
- Layer your clothing since weather conditions change quickly
- Protect the trails by staying on marked paths
Comparison Table
| Attraction Name | Type/Category | Key Features | Best Time to Visit | Admission/Price | Operating Hours/Season |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| York Beach (Long & Short Sands) | Beach/Recreation | Long Sands stretches 1.5 miles with tide pools; Short Sands features a playground and basketball courts | Summer months June-August with 79°F average temperature | Free | Lifeguards patrol 9am-4:30pm (June-Labor Day) |
| Cape Neddick Lighthouse | Historic Landmark | Classic 41-ft tower showcases Victorian keeper’s house and Fresnel lens | Spectacular views during sunrise/sunset; Spring or Fall seasons | Free viewing | Available year-round (viewing only) |
| Old York Historical Society | Museum Complex | Rich heritage displayed across nine historic buildings with remarkable collections | Pleasant weather May-October | Adults: $10, Under 18: Free | Tue-Sat 10am-4pm (Summer) |
| Old Gaol | Historic Museum | America’s oldest surviving prison features massive 2.5-ft thick walls | Mild weather May-October | Adults: $10, Under 18: Free | Tue-Sat 10am-4pm (Summer) |
| Wiggly Bridge Trail | Nature Trail | Scenic paths stretch 0.6-1.8 miles featuring America’s smallest suspension bridge | Pleasant seasons March-November | Free | Year-round |
| Wiggly Bridge Distillery | Craft Distillery | Unique hand-built copper stills offer spirits tasting experiences | Weekdays provide smaller crowds | Tours: $14.95 | Mon-Thu 11am-7pm, Fri-Sun 11am-8pm |
| York’s Wild Kingdom | Zoo & Amusement | Home to 50+ animal species with 20+ rides and mini-golf | Peak season Late May-Early September | Adults: $17.75, Seniors: $14.75 | Daily operations (mid-June through Labor Day) |
| Stonewall Kitchen | Retail/Food | Flagship store features café and production facility viewing areas | Regular hours 9am-6pm daily | Free entry | Year-round |
| Mount Agamenticus | Nature/Recreation | Majestic 692-ft peak offers multiple trails and sweeping panoramic views | Clear weather during Spring and Fall | Free | Year-round |
Enjoy Things to Do in York Maine
York, Maine captures the essence of New England with its perfect mix of history and natural beauty. This coastal town welcomes visitors to four distinct areas packed with unique experiences. History buffs can check out centuries-old buildings like the Old Gaol, America’s oldest jail still standing. Nature enthusiasts will love hiking Mount Agamenticus’s trails or taking a walk across the famous Wiggly Bridge.
Kids and parents will love York’s Wild Kingdom, the only place in the region that combines a zoo with an amusement park. Beach lovers can pick between the sprawling 1.5-mile Long Sands or the cozy Short Sands Beach and its nearby attractions.
Food lovers should head over to Stonewall Kitchen’s flagship store, When Pigs Fly Bakery and Dunne’s Ice Cream. The Cape Neddick Nubble Lighthouse offers amazing photo spots in any season. Fall and spring usually create the most stunning backgrounds.
York’s places to stay include historic spots like York Harbor Inn and Union Bluff Hotel. The luxurious Stage Neck Inn sits right on the ocean and each property shows off a different view of this coastal treasure.
York creates lasting memories year-round. Summer brings lively beaches and busy attractions. Fall shows off amazing colors with smaller crowds. Winter turns into a quiet coastal getaway, and spring brings new life to the area. York is a perfect choice for anyone looking for real New England charm and activities that everyone will enjoy.















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