Hanover, NH Travel Guide: Things to Do, Where to Eat, and Where to Stay Right Now
Money Magazine calls Hanover, New Hampshire one of the “Best Places to Live in America” and with good reason. Nestled in New Hampshire’s quaint Upper Valley on the picturesque Vermont border, this lively enclave literally has a river that runs through it, classic colonial architecture, renowned farm-to-table dining options, upscale shopping and well... prestigious Dartmouth College, established in 1769 and chartered before the American Revolution.
SEE.
From the historic Dartmouth Green (where the Baker Bell Tower plays the “Alma Mater” daily), Fraternity Row, Downtown Hanover, to the beautiful turn-of-the-century estates that border Occum Pond and the Hanover Country Club—you’ll want to enjoy these architectural views by taking them all in on foot. Luckily, the town of Hanover, New Hampshire is both very walkable and bikeable—making it perfect for exploring.
Established in 1772, the Hood Museum of Art encompasses important holdings of American, Native American, European, African and Melanesian art—including a significant collection of indigenous Australian contemporary art and a major archive of photojournalism.
The study of objects, whether works of art, artifacts, or natural history specimens, has always been an integral part of the curriculum of Dartmouth College. The first reference to the development of a collection at Dartmouth dates to 1772, when Anglo-American scholar and missionary David McClure wrote to the first president of the College, the Reverend Eleazar Wheelock, that he had “collected a few curious Elephant Bones found about six hundred miles down the Ohio, for the young Museum at Dartmouth.” The Hood Museum of Art is free and open to the public.
TASTE.
Led by Chef Justin Dain, PINE offers an outstanding farm-to-table menu focused on both presentation, taste and refined service.
You’ll need to savor the Diver Scallop Crudo—which is nothing short of amazing with its blackberry, lime and jalapeño kombucha emulsion. Some other favorites include...
Sweet pea and mint ravioli with tendrils, morels and toasted parmesan—as well as pan-roasted diver scallops with pea tendrils, tiny onions, baby turnip, pistachios and tarragon emulsion.
With handcrafted dishes that are deliciously fulfilling and equally stunning in appearance, perhaps nothing compared to the rhubarb and rose water panna cotta for dessert. Surprisingly light and delicately fragrant—you’ll be left craving more.
Have you made a reservation yet?
DO.
On the banks of the Connecticut River, a relaxing walk from the Dartmouth Green, you can enjoy a serene outing at Ledyard Canoe Club. Since 1920, the club has promoted environmental stewardship through sustainable usage of the river and river cleanups. During the spring, summer and fall, canoe, kayak and stand-up paddle board rentals are available daily. And the best part? They are pet-friendly!
Everything you need (or may want), is at your fingertips in Downtown Hanover, New Hampshire. From the latest preppy fashions at J. Crew, kitchen and bath essentials at Main Street Kitchens and luxurious handcrafted artisanal goods from Vermont staples such as Farmhouse Pottery and Simon Pearce—your choices are seemingly endless.
DRINK.
Tucked away behind a wall of royal blue hydrangeas, affording views of Dartmouth College and its historic colonial architecture…
The terrace at PINE Restaurant at the Hanover Inn is the perfect spot to unwind with a handcrafted cocktail and soak in the Ivy league atmosphere.
STAY.
Location, location, location. Located directly across the street from the Dartmouth Green and a very short stroll to upscale boutiques, cafes and picturesque nature walks, it only makes sense to stay at the Hanover Inn—which has offered legendary hospitality dating back to 1780.
You'll fall in love with the details of your luxurious accommodations: Suite 408 is located on the 4th floor and welcomes you with an expansive entry hall and half bathroom for guests. The long hall brings you into a comfortable seating and dining area surrounded by windows overlooking the Dartmouth Green on one side and Moose Mountain on the other. Off the dining area, you’ll find a private master bedroom with additional views of Moose Mountain and beyond.
Your designer master bathroom awaits, complete with high-end toiletries, an expansive mirrored white marble vanity and spacious spa-like shower with glass door—perfect for relaxing after exploring the town of Hanover.
WHAT YOU'LL LOVE
1. BREAKFAST ROOM SERVICE (with a view). Try the Belgian waffle with strawberries, pecans, whipped cream and fresh New Hampshire maple syrup or the egg white omelet with goat cheese, pesto, roasted yellow tomatoes and home-fried purple potatoes—for a healthy alternative. A perfect pairing with freshly-squeezed orange juice.
