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4 Attractions to Explore Along York County's Heritage Rail Trail

York County Trail
"A view of the trail on the east bank of the Codorus Creek looking back towards Route 30 on the day of the official opening of a new section of the Heritage Rail Trail County Park in Springettsbury Township Wednesday, April 22, 2015. The new 2.5 mile section runs from a new bridge over the Codorus Creek at Emig Road in Manchester to a new lot at Loucks Mill Road and Route 30 in Springettsbury Township. Kate Penn — Daily Record/Sunday News" The York County Heritage Rail Trail is a favorite historic site in York County. Here are a few things to check out while you're there.
  1. Steam Into History

Steam Into History is an authentic railroad ride through time. While you enjoy the amazing scenery both inside and outside the replica Civil War-era steam locomotive, you'll meet presidents and generals and experience the Wild West in all its glory. You'll visit historic train stops, like Hanover Junction Rail Station, and learn about the Underground Railroad. During the fall, you can enjoy a Fall Foliage train ride to take in the changing of the leaves, or you can take the kids on the Eggspecially Fun Bunny Run where they can visit and take pictures with the Easter Bunny. These and more authentic themed programs run year round on premium equipment. Bring the kids to see Santa or host a tea party with all your friends.
  1. Walking and Biking

The North Central Railroad Trail (NCR) and York County Heritage Trail (YCH) make up the York County Heritage Rail Trail. Stretching 41 miles, this majority-rural trail begins in Ashland, Maryland, as the North Central Railroad Trail. It travels north 20 miles, across the Mason-Dixon line, into Pennsylvania, where it becomes the York County Heritage Rail Trail. The trail then continues for 21 more miles to York, Pennsylvania. The NCR section is more rural, so bring any food or drink you may need on your trip. The YCH stretch has amenities every few miles so you won't go hungry, but you may want to bring change along for the vending machines. Parking can also be limited, but there are several points along the trail where you can park your vehicle. You may need to walk to the access point from the parking area, though.
  1. Tour the Colonial Complex

The Colonial Complex is adjacent to the Rail Trail in Downtown York. The four historic buildings can be toured in 45 to 60 minutes with a guide who will walk you through York County's role in the Revolutionary War as well as the everyday life and culture of the 18th century. The Golden Plough Tavern, built in 1741, was a place for travelers and locals to get their news and information. The General Horatio Gates House, built in 1751, was an upper-class English home. The reconstructed Colonial Courthouse tells the story of the Second Continental Congress. The Barnett Bobb Log House, built in 1812, is also on site. This building was relocated to the Colonial Complex and is used for artisan demonstrations and hands-on activities.
  1. York County Fire Museum

Found in the 1903 Royal Fire House, this museum is home to a collection of over 225 years' of firefighting equipment and shows how York firefighters worked and lived. With six fire trucks from the 1920s through 1950s, hand-drawn pumpers, historic alarms, and uniforms, this museum is very educational for all ages. Enjoy all of the activities and interactive attractions on York County's Heritage Rail Trail.   Some rights reserved by USACE HQ
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Springtime events near York, PA

6 Springtime Activities to Enjoy in York County

"A view of the trail on the day of the official opening of a new section of the Heritage Rail Trail County Park in Springettsbury Township Wednesday, April 22, 2015. The new 2.5 mile section runs from a new bridge over the Codorus Creek at Emig Road in Manchester to a new lot at Loucks Mill Road and Route 30 in Springettsbury Township. Kate Penn — Daily Record/Sunday News" Spring is here, so it's time to get outside and enjoy York County. There is so much to see and so many places to go, so here are a few to check out either on your own or with the family. Go Green in the City Go Green in the City is an annual interactive street fair in Downtown York. This year, the fair will have live music, a magician, and more than 50 vendors. If you're bringing the kids, check out the Kids' Zone, which has an inflatable obstacle course, jump ropes, a kids' boot camp, and sidewalk chalk. You'll all have fun enjoying the live music and snacks from the food court. Spring Wildflowers Walk Bring your friends and family for a relaxing stroll through Nixon Park, or take the opportunity for some solo quiet time. Spring wildflowers only bloom briefly in York County, Pennsylvania, so take the chance to see them before the leaves grow back on the trees and block the sun. A local guide will provide information on the wildflowers in the area on April 29th from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., and there will be plenty of opportunities for pictures and birdwatching along the way. more York Marathon and Half Marathon If you're an avid runner or have been training to get in shape, the York Marathon and Half Marathon are both challenging. Thankfully, you don't have to worry about hills. These courses are flat and take you through the city streets to the York Country Heritage Rail Trail. Both races end at Lafayette Plaza. Once you cross the finish line, pick up your medal, take a few post-race photos, and eat a banana to replenish your potassium. Sunset Scramble Bike Rides Meet a group of riders for weekly Sunset Scramble Bike Rides. This program is free, and bikers follow a different route each week so you won't be repeating your rides. Each outing is between 11 and 15 miles round trip, and no registration is required.  Just show up with your bike, helmet, water, and snack. Volunteer Volunteers are always needed to help maintain York County's parks. For example, an average of 45,000 hours are donated each year to help maintain the flower beds in Nixon Park. Groups who use the parks regularly volunteer their time to improve the facilities and the county encourages new groups to join them as well as individuals. Every little bit helps! Sunday Family Funday Presented by Weis Markets Head out to the ballpark and watch the York Revolution take on the Long Island Ducks. April 28th is Sunday Family Funday, which includes pre-game autographs and a game of catch with the players on the field. After the game, kids can run the bases. Tickets are still available throughout the park. Get yours today! Whatever you like to do, York County, Pennsylvania, is full of great springtime activities for individuals and the whole family. Some rights reserved by USACE HQ

Make the Drive to These 3 Kid-Friendly Activities Near Red Lion, PA

Get the kids ready for fun family outings around Red Lion, PA. Load the crew in a big Dodge Durango or Jeep Cherokee, and head out to discover all the exciting kid-friendly activities just down the road. Enjoy quality family time in one of the city parks, teach the kids to bowl at a historic, retro-themed bowling alley, and experience amazing activities in nature. more 1. Have a Blast in Fairmount Park On a hot and humid summer day, pack towels, swimsuits, and a picnic basket stuffed with everyone's favorite treats in the car, and take the kids, their friends, and the family pooch to Fairmount Park. With 11 acres of space, there's plenty of room to run around, explore the scenic walking paths, play volleyball and basketball, and swing and slide at the playground. Head to the Red Lion Splash Pad to cool off under the 17 water features and enjoy a lovely picnic at the pavilion before heading home. Address and Hours Fairmount Park is at 108 Boundary Avenue in Red Lion, and the splash pad is open in summer from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. 2. Knock Down Pins at the Iconic Suburban Bowlerama For over six decades, since 1958, families have been enjoying the classic activity of knocking over pins at the Suburban Bowlerama, where kids bowl for free. This unique, retro-themed bowling alley may seem like a blast from the past, but it's anything but outdated. You and your family will have tons of fun with 30 lanes equipped with state-of-the-art technology and kid-friendly bumper bowling lanes. Plus, it's a great spot to gather with friends and family to celebrate special occasions like birthdays. When it comes to food, the restaurant has a wide selection of tasty options, including tacos, pizza, burgers, and steak. Address and Hours Suburban Bowlerama is at 1945 South Queen Street in York, a short 8.7 miles from Red Lion, and is open Monday from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m., Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday between 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Friday and Saturday until 1 a.m. 3. Discover Outdoor Fun in Nature at William Kain Park Experience a fabulous day of family fun packed with outdoor activities in the magnificent 1,637-acre William Kain Park. Explore the beautiful woodlands hiking, biking, or horseback riding down 12 miles of trails and spot birds from the 350-foot-long deck. Take a leisurely paddle on the serene 220-acre Lake William or the 290-acre Lake Redman, wet your hook for largemouth bass, muskie, sunfish, and crappy, and have a delightful family barbecue at one of the picturesque picnic areas. Address and Hours William Kain Park is at 274 Hess Farm Road in York and is open from sunrise to sunset. Take a brief break from the screens and technology, embark on thrilling adventures with your kids, and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. While you're out, swing by Thornton Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram and take a brand-new model for a spin.

4 Favorite Picnic Spots in Driving Distance of Red Lion, PA

If you are eager to explore Red Lion, PA and spend some time outdoors, the city boasts numerous spots perfect for a day trip. There are parks with scenic and peaceful picnic spots for you to enjoy a meal and take part in outdoor activities. So pack a picnic basket, take the car, and head to these locations for a nature retreat. more 1. Red Lion Splash Pad Red Lion Splash Pad is a lovely park located at 108 Boundary Avenue. This is a great place to come with the kids for a picnic and outdoor games, especially during the summer months. Your children will love playing in the splash pads as you bask in the sun or relax under the shaded canopies. The park has expansive green spaces where you can lay out a blanket and enjoy a picnic. There is also a lovely playground with various amenities like slides, a jungle gym, and swings for kids to enjoy. There is ample parking, so you don't have to worry about finding nearby parking for your 2023 Jeep Compass Latitude. 2. Fairmount Park Drive to Fairmount Park at 108 Boundary Avenue for a peaceful picnic in nature. The park offers a serene escape for nature enthusiasts. It features plenty of picnic benches and pavilions. You can also lay out a blanket on the grass and relax as you enjoy a meal. Fairmount Park features various scenic paths where you can take a stroll and take in the grass fields and tall trees lining the paths. The park is connected to the Red Lion Splash Pad. If you come with kids, they can easily cross over to the water park. 3. Windsor Wonderland A short drive from the city center is Windsor Wonderland, a magical park that promises tranquility and adventure. Located at 1600 Windsor Road, this park features numerous picnic benches, tables, and a big pavilion for your picnic. If you prefer to connect with nature, you can sit on the grass that sprawls across the park. There are half-paved walking paths for you to stroll on. The park also has playgrounds where the family can play baseball, basketball, or soccer. There is also an enclosed playground for kids. Whether you are planning a visit alone or with loved ones, this park will cater to your needs. 4. Fitz Park If you are looking for a small park to burn off some energy and enjoy a quiet picnic, head over to Fitz Park at 916 S Sharon Avenue. The well-maintained green spaces are perfect for your picnic setup. The park features several courts where you can play tennis, basketball, and pickleball. You can visit these locations alone or with family to enjoy a meal and quality time outdoors. Before leaving for your trip, make sure your vehicle is in excellent condition to avoid unexpected breakdowns. Contact us at Thornton Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram to schedule a comprehensive car service.