The Yorktowne Hotel stands as a testament to York's resiliency. The small city not far from the Susquehanna River played an important part in American history, and this sensational stay in the heart of downtown York celebrates its own history by marking 100 years in 2025. We visited the White Rose City to experience the lively food scene, tour historic sights before America's 250th, and catch a bit of nightlife.
First opened in 1925, The Yorktowne Hotel has long stood as a symbol of sophistication in the heart of downtown York, Pennsylvania. Designed in the Renaissance Revival style, the hotel was envisioned as a centerpiece of the city's social and cultural life. Through the mid-20th century, it flourished as a destination for travelers (attracting guests such as Eleanor Roosevelt and Frank Sinatra). However, as highway travel and roadside motels reshaped American tourism, The Yorktowne's prominence waned, and the property eventually fell into disrepair.
A new chapter began in 2015 when the York County Industrial Development Authority acquired the building with the goal of restoring its grandeur. The hotel closed in 2016 for an extensive, multi-year renovation. The restoration preserved original architectural details while updating the property with contemporary comforts. From the terrazzo floors to the elegant ballrooms and modernized guest rooms, every element was reimagined with care. The addition of new amenities—including a stylish rooftop lounge—blends timeless charm with modern hospitality.
In 2025, as the hotel turned 100-years-old, we stayed in a King Corner Room. Room 406 was spacious and quiet. With its dining table and comfy seating, this room would be great for an extended stay.
Just beyond the hotel's grand lobby, downtown York is an inviting mix of history and contemporary culture. We took a stroll to Central Market York, a 19th-century marketplace filled with local vendors offering artisanal foods, farm-fresh produce, and handcrafted goods. Next time we will catch a show at the Appell Center for the Performing Arts, which hosts concerts, plays, and films beneath its vintage marquee. Our history excursion included stops at the York County History Center, a guided tour of the Colonial Complex, and a Revolutionary York Walking Tour.
On summer evenings, the cheers from an Atlantic League park echo through the streets as fans gather for a York Revolution baseball game. York is truly an unmistakable slice of small-city Americana.
HELPFUL LINKS:
The Yorktowne Hotel: yorktowne.com
Explore York: www.yorkpa.org