Haines Shoe House
May 11, 2018
If you’re looking for a unique roadside attraction during your trip to Pennsylvania, then we highly recommend you pay a visit to the Haines Shoe House! Located off of US-30 on the way to York, the Haines Shoe House is the perfect place to grab some ice cream and take a tour with your family. Learn about the famous marketing scheme behind the house, discover its history and architecture, and spend a day exploring the landscapes of Pennsylvania! Read on to find out more about the Haines Shoe House and start planning your visit today.
Looking for more activities around the Haines Shoe House? Download our free Vacation Guide and get all our best recommendations that will help you navigate the area like a local! This tool has helped many travelers cut their planning time in half, and we want the same for you. Here are some of the things you can find in our guide:
- Outdoor activities
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All You Need to Know About the Haines Shoe House
History of the Haines Shoe House
The Haines Shoe House was first created by Mahlon Haines as a marketing scheme in 1948. Haines owned a shoe business that claimed to make shoes “from hoof to hoof,” raising their own cattle for leather. Haines was said to have handed the architect a work boot, telling him, “build me a house like this.”
Unique Architecture
This incredible shoe-shaped house is 25 feet tall and contains five stories. It has a living room is located in the toe, a kitchen in the heel, two bedrooms in the ankle, and an ice cream shop in the instep. Today, the Haines Shoe House is owned by a married couple, Mel and Jeff Schmuck, who love old, unique things. The Shoe House is a perfect fit! Most days, you can find Mel serving up delicious ice cream and cake pops. Or, try some fudge with peanut butter laced throughout!
When to Visit
Haines Shoe House is a seasonal attraction opened from spring to fall. From the first day of spring to Memorial Day, the house is open on weekends. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, it’s open Wednesday through Sunday. between Memorial Day and Labor Day. From the end of the summer season through Halloween, it’s open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
Stop By on Your Way to York!
Haines Shoe House is the perfect place to stretch your legs on your drive to York, PA. During your stay in York, check out the York Central Market or explore the York Heritage Rail Trail. Golfers can even fix their heel strike at Grandview Golf Club & Cafe.
Have a Wonderful Stay at the Historic Smithton Inn
Book our Sage Room! This beloved accommodation features delicate details and a peaceful atmosphere where you can relax and rest well. Take a hot shower in your private bathroom, nestle up by the fireplace, or sit down at your writing desk and scribble memories from your day. Then, get a good night’s sleep in the comfortable queen bed. Wake up the next day feeling as refreshed as ever and join us downstairs where a delicious homemade breakfast awaits you!
Book your stay today at the Historic Smithton Inn! We are looking forward to hosting you.