Hanover, New Hampshire Travel Guide

Discover Hanover, New Hampshire: a blend of Ivy League prestige, natural beauty, and rich cultural experiences in the heart of New England.

Hanover, nestled along the Connecticut River in New Hampshire, is a delightful blend of natural beauty, academic excellence, and rich history. Home to Dartmouth College, one of the oldest Ivy League institutions, Hanover offers a vibrant cultural scene and a youthful, intellectual atmosphere. The college campus, with its historic buildings and expansive greens, is a focal point of the town and a must-visit for any traveler. The town is surrounded by picturesque landscapes, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The Appalachian Trail runs through Hanover, offering opportunities for hiking, biking, and nature walks. In the winter, nearby ski resorts provide excellent skiing and snowboarding experiences. The town's proximity to the Connecticut River also allows for activities like kayaking and fishing. Hanover's quaint downtown area is perfect for leisurely strolls, with its charming shops, cafes, and restaurants. The local cuisine, ranging from casual to fine dining, often features farm-to-table ingredients, reflecting the region's agricultural heritage. Cultural attractions like the Hood Museum of Art and the Hopkins Center for the Arts offer enriching experiences for art and history lovers. Whether you're exploring the scenic outdoors, delving into the academic ambiance, or enjoying the local flavors, Hanover promises a memorable visit.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Hanover.

Visit during the fall to experience the stunning foliage and vibrant colors of New England.
Check out the events calendar at Dartmouth College for public lectures, performances, and exhibitions.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking, as the town is best explored on foot.
Try the local maple syrup, a regional specialty available in many shops.
Plan a visit to the Hood Museum of Art, which houses an impressive collection of works from around the world.

Explore Hanover: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Hanover

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Browse the full guide

All Attractions

Sugarbush Farm

Experience the flavors of Vermont at Sugarbush Farm, renowned for its artisanal cheeses and pure maple syrup amidst stunning natural beauty.

4.7

Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site

Explore the Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site, a captivating journey through the life and legacy of the 30th U.S. President in picturesque Vermont.

4.7

Hood Museum of Art

Explore the Hood Museum of Art in Hanover, NH, home to a vast collection of art and artifacts that enrich the cultural landscape of the region.

4.7

The Dartmouth Green

Explore The Dartmouth Green, a serene park at the heart of Dartmouth College, perfect for relaxation and cultural experiences in Hanover, NH.

4.8

Best landmarks in Hanover

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

Browse the full guide

All Landmarks

Jesse's Steakhouse

Discover Jesse's Steakhouse in Hanover, NH, where delicious steaks and fresh seafood come together in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

4.5

Molly's Restaurant & Bar

Experience the heart of American cuisine at Molly's Restaurant & Bar in Hanover, NH, where local ingredients meet warm hospitality.

4.5

Ramunto's

Indulge in mouthwatering pizzas at Ramunto's, a beloved Hanover eatery offering fresh ingredients and a welcoming atmosphere for all.

4.2

Murphy's On the Green

Discover the charming atmosphere and delicious American cuisine at Murphy's On the Green, a must-visit restaurant and bar in Hanover, New Hampshire.

4.3

Best restaurants in Hanover

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

Browse the full guide

All Restaurants

Jesse's Steakhouse

Discover culinary excellence at Jesse's Steakhouse in Hanover - where succulent steaks meet vibrant American flavors.

4.5

Four Aces Diner

Experience classic American cuisine at Four Aces Diner in West Lebanon, NH - your go-to spot for delicious breakfasts and warm hospitality.

4.7

Molly's Restaurant & Bar

Discover the heart of American cuisine at Molly's Restaurant & Bar in Hanover - where comfort food meets warm hospitality.

4.5

Lui Lui

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Lui Lui in West Lebanon – where every meal is a celebration of flavor.

4.2

Best bars in Hanover

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

Browse the full guide

All Bars

Jesse's Steakhouse

Discover the culinary delights of Jesse's Steakhouse, where premium steaks and fresh seafood come together in a cozy New Hampshire setting.

4.5

Molly's Restaurant & Bar

Discover the essence of American dining at Molly's Restaurant & Bar in Hanover, NH, featuring diverse menus and a lively atmosphere.

4.5

Salt Hill Pub - Lebanon

Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delicious cuisine at Salt Hill Pub, Lebanon's favorite spot for locals and tourists alike.

4.4

Murphy's On the Green

Experience the best of American cuisine at Murphy's On the Green, a charming restaurant in Hanover, NH, perfect for travelers and locals alike.

4.3

Best nightclubs in Hanover

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

Browse the full guide

All Nightclubs

Jesse's Steakhouse

Experience the best of American cuisine at Jesse's Steakhouse in Hanover, offering delicious steaks, seafood, and a cozy bar atmosphere.

4.5

Molly's Restaurant & Bar

Discover the flavors of America at Molly's Restaurant & Bar in Hanover, where delicious cuisine meets a vibrant ambiance for an unforgettable dining experience.

4.5

Murphy's On the Green

Discover the heart of American dining at Murphy's On the Green in Hanover, NH, where flavor meets a welcoming atmosphere.

4.3

Nugget Theaters

Experience the magic of movies at Nugget Theaters in Hanover, NH - where indie films and blockbusters come to life in a cozy setting.

4.3

Best shops in Hanover

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

Browse the full guide

All Shops

Quechee Gorge Village

Experience the unique charm and scenic beauty of Quechee Gorge Village, a delightful shopping destination in the heart of Vermont.

4.6

Lou's Restaurant & Bakery

Discover the charm of Lou's Restaurant & Bakery in Hanover, where American cuisine meets delightful baked goods in a cozy setting.

4.6

Woodstock Farmers' Market

Discover the heart of Vermont's local produce and artisanal goods at the Woodstock Farmers' Market, a vibrant destination for food lovers.

4.7

Co-op Food Stores—Hanover

Explore the Co-op Food Stores in Hanover for a unique grocery shopping experience filled with local and organic delights.

4.5

Explore Hanover on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Hanover, mapped for you.

Hanover Essentials

Hanover, New Hampshire is accessible by various modes of transportation. The nearest major airport is Lebanon Municipal Airport (LEB), located about 6 miles from Hanover. For international flights, Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) is approximately 125 miles away. From Boston, you can take a bus or rent a car for a scenic drive to Hanover. Dartmouth Coach provides direct bus service from Boston and New York City to Hanover. Amtrak trains also stop at White River Junction, VT, which is about a 15-minute drive from Hanover.
Once in Hanover, getting around is relatively easy. The town is pedestrian-friendly, and many attractions are within walking distance. For longer distances, the Advance Transit bus service offers free transportation within Hanover and surrounding areas. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also available. If you prefer to drive, car rentals are available at Lebanon Municipal Airport and in town.
The official currency in Hanover is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, including restaurants, shops, and hotels. ATMs are plentiful and can be found in various locations around town, including on the Dartmouth College campus. It is advisable to carry some cash for small purchases or in case you visit places that do not accept cards.
Hanover is generally a safe town with a low crime rate. However, it is always wise to take standard precautions such as not leaving personal belongings unattended and being aware of your surroundings, especially at night. There are no specific high-crime areas in Hanover targeting tourists. The Dartmouth College safety services and local police work together to ensure a secure environment for residents and visitors alike.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, located in nearby Lebanon, is a top-ranked hospital providing comprehensive medical services. Hanover has a local police department and fire station to handle emergencies. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available in town, including CVS and the Dartmouth-Hitchcock Pharmacy.
Fashion: Do dress casually and comfortably, especially if you plan to explore outdoor activities. Avoid overly formal attire unless attending a specific event. Religion: Do respect the diverse religious practices in Hanover. While there are no strict dress codes, modest attire is appreciated when visiting places of worship. Public Transport: Do use the free Advance Transit buses and be considerate of other passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transportation. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile or a friendly 'hello.' Handshakes are common in formal settings. Eating & Drinking: Do try local eateries and sample regional specialties. Don't forget to tip servers, typically 15-20% of the bill.
To experience Hanover like a local, start your day with a visit to Lou's Restaurant and Bakery, a popular spot among residents. Stroll around the Dartmouth College campus, which offers beautiful architecture and a vibrant atmosphere. Attend a performance at the Hopkins Center for the Arts, often featuring student and professional productions. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Appalachian Trail passes close to Hanover, providing excellent hiking opportunities. Don't miss the Hanover Farmers Market, held on Wednesdays during the summer months, where you can buy fresh local produce and handmade goods.

When is the best time to visit Hanover?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Hanover

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Hanover. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHowdy
  [HAW-dee]
- GoodbyeSee ya
  [SEE yuh]
- YesYup
  [YUHP]
- NoNah
  [NAH]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/You're welcome
  [Please/You're welcome]
- Thank youThanks
  [THANKS]
- Excuse me/SorrySorry
  [SOR-ee]
- How are you?How are you?
  [How are you?]
- Fine. And you?Fine. And you?
  [Fine. And you?]
- Do you speak English?Speak English?
  [Speak English?]
- I don't understandI don't get it
  [I don't get it]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu?
  [Can I see the menu?]
- I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [I don't eat meat]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [Cheers!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseCheck, please
  [Check, please]
- Help!Help!
  [Help!]
- Go away!Go away!
  [Go away!]
- Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [Call the cops!]
- Call a doctor!Call a doctor!
  [Call a doctor!]
- I'm lostI'm lost
  [I'm lost]
- I'm illI'm sick
  [I'm sick]
- I'd like to buy...I want to buy...
  [I want to buy...]
- I'm just lookingJust looking
  [Just looking]
- How much is it?How much?
  [How much?]
- That's too expensiveToo pricey
  [Too pricey]
- Can you lower the price?Can you do better?
  [Can you do better?]
- What time is it?What time is it?
  [What time is it?]
- It's one o'clockIt's one
  [It's one]
- Half past (10)Half past ten
  [Half past ten]
- MorningMorning
  [Morning]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [Afternoon]
- EveningEvening
  [Evening]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [Yesterday]
- TodayToday
  [Today]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [Tomorrow]
- 1One
  [One]
- 2Two
  [Two]
- 3Three
  [Three]
- 4Four
  [Four]
- 5Five
  [Five]
- 6Six
  [Six]
- 7Seven
  [Seven]
- 8Eight
  [Eight]
- 9Nine
  [Nine]
- 10Ten
  [Ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [Where's the...?]
- What's the address?What's the address?
  [What's the address?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [Can you show me (on the map)?]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [When's the next (bus)?]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [A ticket (to ....)]

History of Hanover

Hanover was chartered in 1761 by Governor Benning Wentworth of the Province of New Hampshire. Named after the House of Hanover, a German royal dynasty, it was one of several towns established to encourage settlement in the region. The original settlers were mostly from Connecticut, bringing with them a strong Puritan ethic that shaped the town's early culture and governance.
In 1769, Eleazar Wheelock founded Dartmouth College in Hanover. Originally intended as a school to educate Native Americans, Dartmouth quickly evolved into one of the Ivy League institutions. The college's presence has had a profound impact on the town, fostering a culture of education and intellectualism that persists to this day.
During the American Revolutionary War, Hanover and its residents were active supporters of the Patriot cause. Dartmouth College even housed the New Hampshire Grants, a group advocating for independence from British rule. The town's strategic location along the Connecticut River made it a key site for communication and transport during the conflict.
In 1819, the landmark Supreme Court case Dartmouth College v. Woodward established important precedents in American constitutional law regarding the sanctity of contracts. The case arose when the New Hampshire state legislature attempted to alter Dartmouth's charter, a move that was challenged and ultimately overturned by the Supreme Court. This case solidified the college's autonomy and had broader implications for American corporate law.
The 19th century brought industrial growth to Hanover, largely due to the nearby Connecticut River, which provided power for mills and factories. The town saw the establishment of various industries, including textiles and paper manufacturing. This period also saw significant infrastructural developments, such as the construction of bridges and railroads, which facilitated further growth.
The 20th century was a period of cultural blossoming for Hanover, spurred by the continued growth of Dartmouth College. The town became a hub for arts and culture, hosting numerous events, such as the annual Dartmouth Winter Carnival, which began in 1911. The Hopkins Center for the Arts, opened in 1962, further established Hanover as a center for artistic and cultural activities.
In recent decades, Hanover has embraced technological advancements while maintaining its historical charm. The town has become home to several tech startups and research initiatives, many of which are spin-offs from Dartmouth College. This blend of tradition and innovation makes Hanover a unique and vibrant community in the 21st century.