Need a small-town getaway with snack factory tours, Civil War history, and charming countryside? Head to Hanover! Nestled in south-central Pennsylvania near the Maryland border, Hanover is known as the “Snack Food Capital of the World.” Whether you're tasting chips straight from the source, exploring battle history, or strolling downtown shops, Hanover offers a blend of hometown flavor and heritage.
Hanover, PA Highlights:
- For Adventurous Travelers: Hike or kayak at Codorus State Park – Just minutes from downtown, enjoy boating, fishing, birdwatching, and miles of wooded trails.
- For History Buffs: Explore the Hanover Junction and Civil War Trails – Learn about Abraham Lincoln’s connection to the area and Hanover’s role in the Gettysburg Campaign.
- For Shoppers: Stroll Downtown Hanover – Browse antique stores, boutiques, and local markets along a quaint and walkable main street.
- For Couples: Enjoy a tasting at local breweries or vineyards – Try locally crafted beer or wine at spots like Something Wicked Brewing or Halbrendt Vineyard & Winery.
- For Families: Tour the Utz and Snyder’s of Hanover snack factories – See how pretzels and chips are made and pick up fresh snacks in the gift shops.
When I like to visit Hanover, PA
The best time to visit Hanover is spring through fall (April–October), when the weather is ideal for outdoor adventures, festivals, and exploring the surrounding countryside. Autumn is especially scenic with vibrant foliage and harvest events.
Tips for getting to Hanover, PA
- If you are traveling by car: Hanover is located along PA-94 and PA-116, about 20 minutes from Gettysburg and 45 minutes from Harrisburg or Baltimore.
- By Air: Harrisburg International Airport (MDT) and Baltimore/Washington International (BWI) are both within an hour’s drive.
- By Train/Bus: Amtrak and regional buses serve nearby cities like York and Harrisburg, with car rentals available for local travel.
Where I like to stay in Hanover, PA
- Altland House Inn & Suites – A historic inn with modern rooms, a popular restaurant, and easy access to downtown.
- Hampton Inn Hanover – Comfortable hotel with free breakfast and an indoor pool near shopping and restaurants.
- Hanover Hotel & Banquet Center – Budget-friendly with convenient access to major roads and local attractions.
Best Things to Do in Hanover, PA
1. Codorus State Park
This 3500 acre state-run park, three miles from Hanover was opened in 1970. It encompasses Lake Marburg which was formed when the Codorus Creek was dammed up. The lake has 26 miles of shoreline and is the habitat of many species of fish, including cold water fish such as rainbow and brown trout. Rowing vessels and sailing boats are permitted on the lake, as well as motorboats with less than 20 Hp engines. Camping facilities for RVs and tents are available at the Codorus State Park, some with electrical points. Hunting of certain species is allowed and winter sports, such as sledding and skiing are popular.
2. Warehime Myers Mansion
The Myers family, founders of the Hanover Shoe Factory, built two similar houses in 1911. One of them is now the Warehime Myers Mansion. It was purchased by William Warehime, a neighbor of the Myers family in 1997. He donated the house, along with the contents, grounds and an endowment, to the Hanover Area Historical Society. Tours of the first and second floors operate on Wednesday and Saturday afternoons. There is a bowling alley in the basement and themed rooms. At Christmas time dozens of decorated trees give the mansion a festive air. The other building is the Sheppard Mansion which is now a Bed and Breakfast.
Warehime Myers Mansion, 305 Baltimore St, Hanover, PA 17331, Phone: 717-637-641
3. Eichelberger Performing Arts Center
In 1896, Captain Eichelberger erected the building which now houses the Arts Center. It was originally a private academy but after four years, he donated it to the city for use as a public school. In the 1960s the building was no longer suitable for that purpose and was sold to commercial developers. A third of the building was set aside for the purposes of the performing arts and educational outreach. It is fully utilized throughout the year, with a full program of performances. The studio, conservatory and theatre are also available for hire for private events and functions.
Eichelberger Performing Arts Center, 195 Stock Street, Suite 203, Hanover, PA 17331, Phone: 717-637-7086
Where to Eat:
4. Warehouse Gourmet Bistro and Brew Pub
Keith and Melinda Stambaugh were born and raised in Hanover. When Keith was still a bachelor, he graduated with a fine art degree and bought a romantic old brick building which he turned into an art studio. His new wife had notions of opening a restaurant and recruited her husband and father to start a catering business in the building. Demand from customers led to the opening of a sit-down bistro, with a Bohemian atmosphere. Keith, already a self-taught baker, turned his hand to crafting beer. The art studio was given over to a brewery and pub which is open from Tuesday to Saturday.
Warehouse Gourmet Bistro and Brew Pub, 7 Pennsylvania Avenue, Hanover, PA 17331, Phone: 717-451-9898
5. The Famous Hot Weiner
The Famous Hot Weiner was established in 1923, has occupied the same premises since 1928 and still in the hands of the original owners. There are now three locations run by various members of the 4th generation. The old family recipe is still being used for the Famous Chilli Sauce and their Everything sandwich is a legend. The vast menu goes beyond their award-winning hot dogs, however, to include fish, chicken and burgers. Shakes, sundaes and other desserts will satisfy the sweet tooth. Packs of 12 Wieners can be enjoyed anywhere in the continental USA, via the online shop and shipping. The shops are closed on Sundays.
NORTH HANOVER - 160 Dart Drive, Hanover, PA 17331, Phone: 717-632-2424
DOWNTOWN HANOVER - 101 Broadway, Hanover, PA 17331, Phone: 717-637-1282
WEST YORK - 2179 York Crossing Drive, York, PA 17408, Phone: 717-430-4949
6. Bay City Restaurant & Seafood Company
William 'Ted' Smith pioneered the seafood restaurant business in Hanover. In 1963, he and his VW Beetle, with its back seat removed, transported bushels of crabs across state lines daily. The first restaurant focused on take-outs but grew to 100 seats before 1991, when Ted built a 600 seat establishment. This complex houses an indoor restaurant, an outdoor deck, a banquet house and a shop which sells fresh and cooked seafood. There is also a lounge area with weekly, live entertainment. Other services include off-site catering and an on-site wedding coordinator. Bay City Restaurant & Seafood Company is open 7 days a week.
110 Eisenhower Dr., Hanover, PA 17331, Phone: 717-637-1217
If you are a photographer, don't miss:
7. AOS Marina at Codorus State Park
There are few more enjoyable activities on a hot summer day than having fun on a boat. If you are in the Hanover area, the AOS Marina on Lake Marburg in the Codorus National Park is the place to go. Here you can hire everything you need for a fun day out on the lake. Rentals start with canoes and kayaks, but there are many larger options for families or groups. If you fancy trying your hand at fishing you will find all the equipment you need at the on-site store which stocks tackle, bait, snacks, drinks and more. At busy times of the year you should consider reserving your boat or pontoon ahead of time to avoid disappointment.
AOS Marina at Codorus State Park, Marina Drive, Hanover, PA 17331, 717-632-7484
My favorite local events:
- Snack Town Street Fair (July) – Celebrate Hanover’s snack legacy with food vendors, music, games, and local makers.
- Dutch Festival (August) – A popular summer festival with crafts, rides, fair food, and community fun.
- Fall Harvest Festival at Codorus State Park (October) – A seasonal event with hayrides, pumpkin painting, and nature activities.
My favorite day trips within 30–60 Minutes of Hanover, Pennsylvania:
- Gettysburg (25 min) – Tour the battlefield, museum, and visitor center in one of America’s most iconic historic towns.
- York (35 min) – Visit the York Central Market, Harley-Davidson Factory Tour, and more.
- Littlestown (15 min) – A quiet historic town with antique stores and country drives.
- Hanover Shoe Farms (10 min) – Visit one of the world’s largest Standardbred horse farms (free tours available).
- Hershey, PA (1 hr) – Enjoy Hersheypark, Chocolate World, and spa or museum attractions in “The Sweetest Place on Earth.”
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