With over 150,000 visitors annually, the Museum of York County contains the world's largest collection of mounted African animals, exhibits of rare animal species and famous Indian murals. The museum also has a planetarium and an art gallery with monthly exhibitions.

There are over 100 identified Historic Sites in York County. One of the better known sites is Historic Brattonsville, which played an important part in the county's history dating from 1776 until after the Civil War.

Located in Rock Hill, Glencairn Gardens is known for its many beautiful azaleas and dogwoods.It features a variety of flowers, a miniature geyser, a lily pond, and winding paths throughout. It also hosts Come-See-Me Festival week each spring when the garden is at its peak.

Winthrop University hosts many events such as the Fine Arts Series, the Concert Series, and the Film Festival. Acclaimed symphony orchestras, small string groups, and contemporary lecturers appear at the college's 3,500 seat auditorium.

Within commuting distance of York County, the Charlotte area offers a wide variety of cultural activities. Among these are:

Discovery Place · North Carolina Dance Theatre · Mint Museum of Art · Opera Carolina
Charlotte Symphony · Blumenthal Performing Arts Center · Bobcats Arena