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Rooted in History
Rising
with Progress

Visit Downtown 

Learn more about the origins of York and it's landmarks

A perfect place to start and plan your trip. 

Discover where history, art, and craftsmanship meet

Welcome to York

Welcome to Downtown York, South Carolina, the White Rose City, where small-town charm, rich history, and genuine community spirit come together. Rooted in centuries of stories and shaped by the people who call it home, York invites you to slow down, stroll historic streets, and experience a downtown that feels both timeless and alive.

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Long before York became a town, this land was home to the Catawba Nation. In the mid-1700s, Scotch-Irish settlers established what would become Yorkville, later chosen as the county seat in 1785 and incorporated in 1841. Today, more than 180 historic buildings remain, including landmarks like the York County Courthouse and the McCelvey Center, anchoring a downtown where history isn’t preserved behind glass, it’s part of everyday life.

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Now, Downtown York is a walkable destination filled with locally owned shops, welcoming restaurants, community events, and familiar faces. Here, shopping small means supporting neighbors, strengthening the local economy, and helping historic spaces stay vibrant. Come explore Downtown York, where the past meets the present, and every visit feels like you’ve discovered something worth coming back for

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