Outdoor Adventure

Richard M. Nixon County Park & Nature Center is nestled in a large plot of deciduous forest in Springfield Township. The park offers an extensive trail system perfect for any variety of nature enjoyers or hikers. Easy, low-incline trails follow a small stream through a shaded area, perfect for viewing aquatic animals and insects, as well as enjoying a beautiful, low-stakes hike. For the more adventurous of hikers, steeper trails leading up large hills through the forest can be found just outside the nature center. Once the midday sun becomes too hot and bright, seek refuge in the nature center itself! Inside, there are educational models of animals placed in exhibits representative of their natural biomes, a bird feeder viewing station, and other interesting features, including live animals!

Lunch and Fun Activity

For lunch, head to Marcuzzo’s Pizza in West York for a diverse selection of Italian American cuisine. My favorite aspect of Marcuzzo’s Pizza’s food options is their experimental pizzas. A display case of freshly made slices flaunts pizza varieties such as stuffed buffalo chicken, crab alfredo, General Tso’s chicken, and over one dozen more options. Penn State student Marquise Williams explained, “[Marcuzzo’s Pizza] has so many options. Like, I genuinely cannot decide what I want when I walk in because it is all great.” Of course, standard options such as pepperoni and plain are also available for those who want to keep it simple and classic. After lunch, get ready for some games!

Timeline Arcade on West Market Street is not an ordinary arcade; visitors pay an hourly rate of $10 to play as many games as they wish! Most of the games featured at Timeline Arcade are classic games not found at more commercial arcade chains. As Penn State student Jake Russell explained it, “[Timeline Arcade] is like someone’s collection of old games that they are kind enough to let the public explore.” Even for those who may not consider themselves arcade-goers, Timeline Arcade offers a fun and unique experience that cannot be found at other arcades.

Dinner and Dessert to End the Day

For dinner in York, PA, an excellent locally owned option is Crimson American Grill found on South Queen Street. Here, many classics such as burgers, steaks, sandwiches, and chicken wings can be enjoyed. There are options for vegans and vegetarians such as plant-based burgers, as well. Beyond the classics, Crimson American Grill offers pastas, salads, seafood, soups, and more. Their diverse menu makes Crimson American Grill a great dinner location to satisfy any craving! While Crimson American Grill does offer some dessert options, below is an alternative dessert location to finish the day!

Head back to Marcuzzo’s Pizza to end on a sweet note, for in the same building the Sweet Shack can be found! Owned and run by the same people in charge of Marcuzzo’s Pizza, the Sweet Shack offers a variety of ice cream creations, including milkshakes and sundaes as well as standalone flavors. York College of Pennsylvania student Imani Mendez said, “the Sweet Shack behind Marcuzzo’s [Pizza] is my favorite place to get ice cream. It is local, [cost-effective], and delicious!”