Discover What Lauren Days Loves About Downtown York
Plan Your Visit
Downtown Map and Visitor Information
Downtown Dish
Cheers to 45 Years
Granfalloons Tavern celebrates a legacy of great food and good times
York County Trail Towns
Celebrating 35 Years of Trailblazing in York County
The creation of the York County Rail Trail Authority and its vision for the future
BLOOM Business Empowerment Center
A Cut Above: The Evolution of World A Cuts Barber Institute
The impact of Patrick Winters of the barbering industry, from York and beyond
Historic York
First Capital Dispensing Company: Raising a Glass to 50 Years
The history, music, and community of a Downtown York institution
Sojourn Noir Spotlight
From Honeymooners to Happy Family, Downtown York Welcomes You
Why Diana and Omari keep returning to York for lasting memories
Downtown Dweller
Urban Charm & Community
Robert Faucette on living the Downtown life
Listicle
10 Cafes to Fuel Your Day
Downtown York has the perfect coffee spot for every taste
Events
What's Happening Around Downtown York
The opinions expressed in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.
The Legacy of The New Hub Store and its Next Chapter
By Hannah Beard | Marketing & Merchant Engagement Manager
For over a century, 51 S. George Street has been home to a staple of York’s retail community. What began as a work uniform store under the ownership of Ruthie and Harold Smotkins has transformed into The New Hub Store, a well-known destination for eclectic dress wear, thanks to its dedicated owner, Willie Standley. Now, after 31 years at the helm, Willie is preparing to pass the torch to his son, Jabarri Brown, ensuring that the store’s rich legacy continues for generations to come.
Willie, a lifelong York resident, took over the store after working there for years. When he became the owner, he rebranded it as The New Hub Store, reflecting his vision for the business while honoring its past. “The business itself is 103 years old this year,” he shares with pride. “It started as a family business, focused on work clothes and jeans, or ‘dungarees’ as they called them back in the day. But I wanted to adapt to the demand—casual wear is everywhere, but you don’t just walk into any store and find a great suit. You have to go to a place that specializes in it.”
Owner, Willie Standley (right), and Next Generation Owner, Jabarri Brown (left)
“I want to thank York. The people here have been good to me and have supported me all these years. I hope the community continues to support my son as he takes over.”
Willie Standley, Owner
Happy Hour at Granfalloons is a daily tradition, running from 4:30 to 6:30 PM, with half-price drafts, wine, and well drinks. But beyond the drinks and food, what truly sets Granfalloons apart is its people. The staff boasts over 100 years of combined experience in the bar industry, ensuring every visit feels like coming home. Regulars have their corner of the bar, where familiar faces greet newcomers with the same warmth that has defined Granfalloons for decades.
“During the Summer of COVID in August 2020, our ownership group picked up the torch, and with the help of our amazing kitchen staff, we rebuilt the menu,” shares Z. Dylan Bauer, Co-owner. “Now, we’re known for serving some of the best food in town. Our new tavern menu offers patrons tasty yet affordable options (e.g., a $5 quesadilla or the $9.80 1980 Burger), while our ever-changing ‘Signatures Board’ features some of the best entrées and food specials around.”
Onion Rings
Served with Uncle Larry’s special sauce
Margarita Italiano
Tequila, amaretto, agave, cherries, sour, and lime juice
Abbi Jo Ferree, Kitchen Manager
Throwback Menu Items
1980 Burger
¼ lb. 100% beef patty, American cheese, lettuce, tomato, and onion on a bun
1980 Round Steak
Cheesesteak with American, sauteed onion, and pickles, in a bun
As Granfalloons gears up for its 45th-anniversary celebration, longtime patrons and new visitors alike can look forward to special events, throwback menu items, and plenty of surprises to honor its legacy. Whether you're an industry professional unwinding after a shift, a longtime regular reminiscing over past years, or a newcomer discovering this York institution for the first time, there’s always a place for you at Granfalloons.
With vegetarian options available and a kitchen that stays open until 11 PM daily, Granfalloons remains a go-to destination for those seeking great food, great people, and a guaranteed good time. As the end of summer 2025 approaches, all are invited to raise a Cooler Beer and toast to 45 years of memories, laughter, and the enduring spirit of Downtown York’s favorite neighborhood tavern.
1980 Fried Chicken Sandwich
Breaded chicken, pickles, and mayo, and for extra flare, toss in wing sauce and/or add bacon
Trailblazing in York County
By David Gonzalez, Jr. | Director, Economic Initiatives
The second project is the Hanover Trolley Trail, a trail proposed to run from Hanover Borough to West Manchester Township, with hopes of a possible connection to the Heritage Rail Trail. The trail is undergoing phased development with a current plan of 8.5 miles, building on nearly 3 miles of completed sections and working toward an eventual 15+ miles of completed trail from end to end. The Hanover Trolley Trail not only provides a trail corridor but is also improving 16.8 miles of watershed. The project is restoring the Oil Creek’s banks in Heidelberg Township and diverting the creek channel into 6 acres of new wetlands, which the trail will run adjacent to.
Building on YCRTA’s Legacy of Success
“Today, the Heritage Rail Trail and now the Hanover Trolley Trail offer over thirty-five miles of recreational trail to our residents and visitors to the area,” shares Gwen Loose. “It’s been a great ride – full of challenges, celebrations, and friendships.” According to Gwen, seeing families and people of all ages and ability levels exercising in York County’s great outdoors is the best reward. YCRTA recently finalized its 2025-2029 Strategic Plan to continue to build sustainably on its premier trail system and support the wellness of our neighbors and the economic growth of York County.
To complement the work of the YCRTA, County Parks, and other recreational entities, the York County Economic Alliance created the York County Trail Towns program in 2020 to leverage countywide outdoor assets for economic opportunity. To date, the Trail Towns program services 7 communities and 55 Trail-Friendly designated businesses that are working to cultivate York County as a hub for outdoor recreation.
To learn more about the York County Trail Towns program, visit: yorkcountytrailtowns.com
Seven Valleys
First Capital Dispensing Company: Raising a Glass to 50 Years
The history,
and community of a Downtown York institution
By Brendan Salyards | Manager, Economic Initiatives
First Capital Dispensing Company, located on the corner of W. Philadelphia and N. Pershing Streets, is a haven for locals and tourists to unwind, celebrate special occasions, and enjoy fantastic live music. The bar opened its doors in April 1975 as one of the first bars in York to feature live music, and it is one of the few that has consistently maintained live music events throughout its history. First Capital remains much the way it was when the bar opened, with owner Michael Axe committed to preserving the character of this York institution, for example, remaining a smoking bar.
The bar is a quintessential pub, and St Patrick’s Day is a big event each year with special menus, including iconic Irish-fare such as Shepherd’s Pie, Corned Beef and Cabbage, and Guinness Stew. First Capital’s wooden chairs and small tables seem to have been extracted from the Emerald Isle, their purpose as platforms for patrons to carouse. The bar top is weathered from 50 years of conversions, lubricated by the libations dispensed from the bar. The ambiance is enhanced by its light fixtures and empty bottles that now serve to illuminate First Capital’s hallowed hall.
The spirit of the place lies in the sense of family created by local regulars and passing tourists, which encourages folks to visit decades later. “It’s always a pleasure to see people's faces when they walk in the door,” shares Mike. “Folks will say, ‘Oh, I worked here 30 years ago and wanted to stop in to see the place again.’”
First Capital has a great selection of local and traveling bands. Once, members of the Carolina Chocolate Drops, an old-time string band based in Durham, North Carolina, dropped in for a jam session after a performance at the Appell Center. The bar showcases a broad range of music, from Bluegrass and jazz to country folk. Open mic nights, held weekly on Wednesdays at 9:00 pm, are a chance to check out local up-and-comers or take up the mic yourself.
Mondays at First Capital are Snack Club nights, where patrons pool snacks, both local and exotic, on the center table to share. Those wishing to capture their own piece of history can purchase commemorative 50th Anniversary t-shirts at the bar. The bar is open Monday to Saturday, 3:30 PM to midnight-ish, depending on the crowd. Stop in and raise a glass to this Downtown York institution!
Downtown Dweller
Urban Charm & Community
ROBERT FAUCETTE ON LIVING THE DOWNTOWN LIFE
By Bronley Martin | Urban Revitalization Manager
Robert Faucette has called Downtown York his home for 14 years. Nestled in the city's heart, he enjoys the unique charm, convenience, and community spirit that make living downtown so special. His apartment, which he has called home for six years, exudes the easygoing energy reflected in Robert’s personality.
One of the biggest perks of urban living for Robert is its walkability. He rarely needs to use his car because everything he loves is just a short stroll away. Whether he's grabbing a morning coffee at The Green Bean Roasting Co., browsing through Central Market to see what might catch his eye for lunch, or meeting up with friends at Archetype Pizza, First Capital Dispensing Co., or Granfalloons Tavern, he appreciates the simplicity of getting around without the hassle of traffic or parking.
A key facet of Robert’s life is his career in the restaurant industry. Robert spent the first ten years of his restaurant career working in kitchens and still enjoys cooking at home in his cozy but well-appointed kitchen. Several years ago, he transitioned to the front of the house and is now the general manager at Rockfish Public House. Located on N. George Street’s Restaurant Row, Rockfish is known for its fresh oysters, extensive surf and turf menu, and convivial atmosphere, an environment where Robert thrives. “I meet different people every day, some visiting York for the first time and some that have become
regular patrons”, Robert said. “And after a long Friday or Saturday managing a busy restaurant, it is nice to know that home is just a quiet 5-minute walk away.”
Beyond work, Robert enjoys being part of the social fabric of York. He deeply values the sense of camaraderie among residents and business owners. “Downtown York isn’t just a place to live; it’s a place where neighbors support one another, and there’s always something happening”, Robert explained. Even with all the things to do, sometimes, a board game night with his close group of friends, many of whom are neighbors, is the best bet for a fun evening.
Living downtown has also made it easy for him to stay active. He often takes his dog, Riley, on morning walks along the Heritage Rail Trail or enjoys a yoga session at a Sattva Center for Meditation & Yoga. The accessibility to green spaces, like Penn Park, provides a nice balance to urban living.
For Robert, Downtown York is more than just a place to live—it’s home. The strong sense of community, walkable lifestyle, and vibrant energy make it the perfect place for him. Whether he’s serving up delicious seafood at Rockfish or just relaxing at home, Robert is exactly where he wants to be.
Events
MAY
2
Give Local York & First Friday presented by WellSpan Health
5 - 9 pm | Downtown York
Join in celebrating York County’s biggest day of giving with fun and activities for all! Give Local York’s 24-hour fundraising spree will run from 9 pm on May 1 through 9 pm on May 2. Learn more at givelocalyork.org
For details, visit downtownyorkpa.com
MONTHLY:
FIRST FRIDAYS presented by WellSpan Health
5 - 9 pm | Downtown York
• June: Kick Off Pride Month
• July: Beaver St. BBQ with York Revolution
• August: Family Fun Daze Downtown
WeCo THIRD FRIDAYS presented by WellSpan Health
5 - 9 pm | WeCo District
MAY 14
DOWNTOWN UPDATE: Deep Dive Into Downtown Data: Foot Traffic and Visitorship
7:30 - 9am | The Bond, 134 E. King St.
For details, visit yceapa.org
MAY 13 | 11:30 AM – 1 PM
A Focus on Mental Health, A WBCO Luncheon Event presented by UPMC 11:30 - 1 pm
Heritage Hills Resort, Terrace Room, 2700 Mt. Rose Ave
MAY 28
Non-Profit Resiliency & Capital Campaigns, An Economic Insights Series Event presented by Glatfelter Insurance Group
7:30 - 8:30 am
Wyndham Garden York, 2000 Loucks Rd
MAY 29
Legislative Luncheon presented by Buchart Horn, Inc. 11:30 - 1:30 pm
Heritage Hills Resort, Terrace Room, 2700 Mt. Rose Ave
JUNE 12
37th Annual Golf Outing presented by Stewart & Tate and UPMC
7:30 - 2 pm
Royal Manchester Golf Links, 5700 Board Rd, Mt. Wolf
