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A Weekend in Hanover, PA: 48 Hours of Small-Town Charm, Eats & Experiences
Tucked away in South Central Pennsylvania, Hanover, Pennsylvania, is one of those towns that surprises you in the best way. Known for its snack food legacy (Utz and Snyders), Hanover balances small-town charm with an unexpected mix of local flavors, history, and character. Whether you are escaping for a weekend or just passing through, here's how to spend 48 hours soaking in everything Hanover, PA, has to offer.
Day 1: Friday Evening - Arrival & First Impressions
Check-in With Comfort and Character.
Start your weekend by checking into one of Hanover's cozy stays. Look into local bed and breakfasts like the Altland House Inn & Suites for overnight lodging just outside of Hanover, or stay central with modern options at the Hampton Inn or Holiday Inn Express, which are conveniently located close to restaurants and shops. Hanover is also home to several local Airbnbs that can accommodate multiple people.
Dinner at the Oak in Downtown Hanover
Kick off the weekend at The Oak, located on Broadway in the heart of Hanover. Grab some delicious American cuisine with a touch of Mediterranean. From wood-fired pizzas to hearth-grilled meats and scratch-made desserts, there is something for everyone. The handcrafted alcoholic beverages are also something you don't want to miss. The Oak fills up fast, so place reservations online in advance.
Evening Stroll through Downtown
After having a wonderful dinner, take a stroll through downtown Hanover. Hanover's main square features charming storefronts, murals, and a sense of community you can feel. Grab a sweet treat from The Cake Bar for that sweet craving after dinner. But hurry, they close at 8 PM.
Day 2: Saturday - Food, History & Hidden Gems
Breakfast at The Lucky Spot
Since 1933, The Lucky Spot has been serving breakfast that tastes like your mom's homemade cooking. No matter what breakfast food you are craving, they have it. Freshly made every morning, you can have the best breakfast at the Lucky Spot.
Explore History at the Hanover Area Historical Society
Dive into the town's rich past at the Hanover Area Historical Society, which includes the Warehime-Myers Mansion and the Neas House. Also, learn how Hanover played a unique role in the Civil War and how it became the snack food capital of the world.
Midday Snack Tour: Snack Capital of the World
You can't take a trip to Hanover without getting the world-famous snacks. The Utz Factory Outlet Store offers your favorite chips at discount rates and products that are hard to find elsewhere. Down the road, visit the Campbell's Snyders of Hanover Factory Store to round out your salty snack experience.
Lunch at The Famous Hot Weiner
No one does hot dogs like the Famous Hot Weiner. With two locations serving Hanover since 1923, you are bound to find this the perfect savory lunch spot in town. If you are craving milkshakes and a hot dog with chili on top, you have come to the right place.
Afternoon Antique and Local Shopping
Hanover is filled with antique shops and local small businesses. Stop by Yesteryear Antique Center for home goods and gifts with farmhouse flair, or visit Little Fox Coffee & Books, a charming used book store and coffee spot perfect for browsing. Then, finish the afternoon at COB51 Art Studio to paint a souvenir to remember your trip.
Dinner at Warehouse Gourmet Bistro
End your Saturday at Warehouse Gourmet Bistro, a cozy spot housed in a renovated warehouse. This hidden gem has an ever-changing seasonal menu and exceptional service. Their crab bisque is legendary, and their baked mac & cheese with local cheese is a comforting crowd-pleaser.
Catch a Show or Relax with Dessert
If you're up for entertainment, check out what's showing at the Eichelberger Performing Arts Center, a beautifully restored theater offering everything from concerts to plays. Want to laugh the night away? The Church of Satire hosts great comedy performances. Prefer a more relaxing end to the day? Grab dessert from York Street Treat, which offers endless soft-serve creations.
Day 3: Sunday - One Last Stroll
Tee Off With Brunch
Before heading out, enjoy a leisurely round of golf followed by brunch at South Hills Golf Club, where Highland Taps and Tables are available. If you're heading the other direction, enjoy the same experience at Bridges Golf Club with the Green Horizon Grill. Enjoy playing nine holes on the beautiful fairways with a delicious breakfast sandwich.
Walk It Off at Codorus State Park
Just a 10-minute drive from downtown, Codorus State Park offers over 3,500 acres of natural beauty. Whether you are up for a hike, a lakeside picnic, or just a scenic drive, it's the perfect way to end your Hanover weekend peacefully.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about dietary options, reservation policies, and hours of operation.
Visitors often inquire about the Hanover Historic District, which is known for its over 2600 mid-19th to mid-20th-century buildings.
In Hanover, Pennsylvania, history enthusiasts can enjoy a journey through time with visits to the Hanover Area Historical Society Museum, which showcases the town’s rich past; the Warehime-Myers Mansion, a beautifully preserved example of early 20th-century architecture; and the Neas House, one of the oldest surviving structures in Hanover, offering a glimpse into the life of the 18th-century Pennsylvania German settlers. These historical landmarks provide a captivating window into Hanover’s heritage and are a must-visit for those looking to experience the town’s historical charm.
In addition to Codorus State Park and Hickory Falls, Hanover is also known for the Snack Town Street Fair, a vibrant festival celebrating the town’s snack food heritage with craft vendors, food, and entertainment, created in partnership between the Hanover Area Chamber of Commerce and Utz Brands
Hanover provides a rich historical experience with tours like the Civil War Ghosts of Gettysburg Tour and the Spirits of Jennie Wade Ghost Night Tour in nearby Gettysburg.
Hanover, Pennsylvania, is renowned as the Snack Food Capital of the World, home to iconic brands like Utz Quality Foods and Snyder’s of Hanover, which are part of the Campbell Snacks portfolio.
Dolphin & Anchor Pub: Located in the heart of Hanover, they offer traditional beer styles with a twist.
Sign of the Horse Brewery: A contemporary brewery catering to craft brew enthusiasts with a range of house taps.
Fat Bat Brewing Company: A local brewery started by a beer-loving brother and sister team, known for their craft beer selections.
Iron Lion: A place where you can enjoy a selection of craft beers in a market setting1.
The Borough office at 44 Frederick St, Hanover has everything you will need to find your way around Hanover.