Hanover Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, eat, stay, and what to do in Hanover, Pennsylvania. Plan your trip with our week-long itinerary and transportation options guide.


Introduction to Hanover

Hanover, Pennsylvania, is a charming town located in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country. It offers visitors a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and a vibrant cultural scene.

The town was founded in 1730 by German settlers and since then, it has grown into a bustling community with a population of approximately 17,000 people. Hanover has a small-town feel where you can experience the hospitality of its friendly residents.

List of Places to Visit in Hanover

Hanover has plenty of tourist attractions that will keep you entertained throughout your stay. From museums and historical sites to outdoor adventures and scenic views, there is something for everyone. Here are some of the must-visit spots:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Warehime-Myers Mansion, a restored 19th-century mansion with period furniture and exhibits
  • The Hanover Area Historical Society Museum, which showcases the rich history of Hanover and the surrounding area
  • The Eichelberger Performing Arts Center, a historic theater that hosts concerts and other cultural events throughout the year

Natural Attractions of Hanover: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Codorus State Park, which offers a range of outdoor activities, including fishing, boating, hiking, and camping
  • The Hanover Junction Railroad Museum, which features historic railroad equipment and artifacts
  • The Hanover Bald Eagle Nest Cam, a live camera feed of a bald eagle’s nest

Hiking/Biking Routes of Hanover

For those seeking an active outdoor adventure, Hanover offers plenty of opportunities for hiking and biking. You can explore the scenic views of the countryside while traversing its hiking and biking routes. Some of the best routes to explore include:

  • The Heritage Rail-Trail, which stretches over 21 miles from York to Hanover
  • The 21 Mile Loop, which is a combination of trails through Codorus State Park, the York County Heritage Rail Trail, and the Hanover Trolley Trail

Best Things to Do in Hanover: Activities and Tours

There is no shortage of activities to do and tours to take in Hanover. Here are some of the best things to do:

  • Take a tour of the Snyder’s of Hanover factory to see how pretzels are made
  • Visit the Utz Potato Chip Factory for a behind-the-scenes tour
  • Enjoy a round of golf at the Hanover Country Club

Week-Long Itinerary for Hanover

Plan your week-long itinerary in Hanover with the following schedule:

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit the Warehime-Myers Mansion and
  the Hanover Area Historical Society
  Museum
Day 2 Go boating and fishing in Codorus State
  Park
Day 3 Explore the Hanover Bald Eagle Nest Cam
  and the Hanover Junction Railroad Museum
Day 4 Go hiking or biking on the Heritage Rail-
  Trail
Day 5 Take a factory tour of Snyder’s of
  Hanover
Day 6 Enjoy a round of golf at Hanover Country
  Club
Day 7 Relax at the Eichelberger Performing
  Arts Center

Food and Drink Scene of Hanover

Food lovers will be delighted with the food scene in Hanover, Pennsylvania. The town is famous for its local cuisine, including the following must-try dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pennsylvania Dutch Chicken Pot Pie, a savory pie filled with chicken, vegetables, and a pastry crust
  • Shoofly Pie, a sweet molasses pie, and a local favorite
  • Soft Pretzels, large and doughy pretzels made by hand, with various dips available

Local Beverages

  • Ginger Beer, a regional non-alcoholic beverage that has been brewed in Hanover since the 1800s
  • Local craft beers from Miscreation Brewing Company

Where to Stay in Hanover: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Whether you’re on a budget or looking for luxury accommodation, Hanover offers a variety of options to choose from. Here are some recommended places to stay:

  • The Altland House Inn and Suites, a historic and well-maintained hotel with modern amenities
  • The Hampton Inn Hanover, located near downtown Hanover and famous local attractions
  • The Gettysburg Farm RV Campground, a budget-friendly option with a scenic view of the countryside

What to Buy in Hanover: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Hanover offers various unique souvenirs to bring home, such as locally made crafts, antique items, and local products. Some of the most popular items are:

  • Hanover-Brand Potato Chips and Snyder’s Hanover Pretzels
  • Pennsylvania Dutch Quilts and Crafts
  • Unique antique finds from local shops

Local Culture and Customs of Hanover

Hanover has a unique blend of cultures, from Pennsylvania German to Irish and Italian. It values tradition, art, and craftsmanship, which is evident in the local foods, the community events, and the distinct architecture of the town.

Best Time to Visit Hanover

Hanover is an excellent year-round destination, but the best time to visit is during the fall months. The countryside’s vivid hues, especially the oranges and yellows of the leaves falling from the trees, paint a breathtaking picture of Pennsylvania Dutch Country.

Do’s and Don’ts of Hanover

Make the most of your visit to Hanover with these simple guidelines:

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine, including the handmade pretzels and potato chips
  • Respect the privacy of the locals during community events
  • Visit overlooked sites that provide the town’s unique history experience

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural surroundings
  • Ignore the safety guidelines, especially when dealing with wildlife

Safety and Health

Safety in Hanover

Hanover has low crime rates and is considered a safe place to visit. However, visitors are advised to exercise basic safety precautions such as keeping personal belongings secure and staying aware of their surroundings.

Health in Hanover

Hanover has modern hospitals and healthcare facilities available for residents and visitors alike. Travelers are advised to carry travel insurance and stay up-to-date on their up-to-date their vaccinations before visiting.

Getting to Hanover: Transportation Options and Logistics

Hanover is easy to reach, regardless of your preferred mode of transportation. The following options are available:

Airports Near Hanover

  • Harrisburg International Airport, approximately 28 miles away from Hanover
  • Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport, approximately 60 miles away from Hanover

Bus Stations Near Hanover

  • Rabbit Transit, which provides transportation throughout York County
  • Greyhound Bus Lines, which has several locations nearby.

Other Options

  • Renting a car and driving to Hanover provides an opportunity to explore the countryside at your own pace

How to Get Around in Hanover

Traveling around Hanover is easiest by car, but walking and biking are also popular options. Visitors can rent bicycles from Wee Cycle in the town center. Using public transit is an easy and fuel-efficient way to get around town without a car.

Where to Go Next from Hanover: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Hanover is located in a prime location, with several nearby destinations worth a visit, including:

  • Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, site of the historic Civil War battle
  • Hershey, Pennsylvania, famous for its chocolate factories and amusement parks
  • Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, a world-class city with history, culture, and sports

Conclusion

Charming and scenic Hanover, Pennsylvania, offers visitors a chance to experience Pennsylvania Dutch Country’s rich history, natural beauty, and vibrant cultural scene. With plenty of attractions, activities, and tours, there is no shortage of things to do during your visit. Plan your trip ahead and enjoy the best that Hanover has to offer!