Introduction
If you’ve ever found yourself on the cusp of a travel escape where you want just the right mix of fun, relaxation, novelty, and convenience—then my recent weekend in Hanover, Maryland, hit that sweet spot. Tucked between Baltimore and Washington, D.C., this lively community surprised me with its breadth of activities: from high-energy entertainment and retail powerhouses to laid-back parks and family-friendly outings. Below you’ll find the 12 best & fun things to do in Hanover, MD, as I experienced and enjoyed them. Consider this your all-in-one itinerary inspiration.
12 Best & Fun Things To Do In Hanover, MD (2026)
1. Shop & explore at Arundel Mills
One of the most unmistakable experiences in Hanover is a stop at Arundel Mills. This sprawling outlet-and-entertainment complex features over 200 stores—including big names like Coach, Michael Kors, H&M, Under Armour and more.
But it’s not just about shopping: dining, entertainment, and other fun ventures fill the space, making it a full-day destination.
Tip: Arrive relatively early if you hope to snag parking near your favorite stores and avoid peak weekend crowds.
See Also: 18 Best & Fun Things To Do In Camden, NJ
2. Experience excitement at Live! Casino & Hotel Maryland
For an elevated level of entertainment, Live! Casino & Hotel is a standout. Located right beside Arundel Mills, it features thousands of slot machines, many table games, live entertainment, top-tier restaurants and a hotel.
Whether you’re into gaming, live shows or just want to soak up a high-energy atmosphere, this place delivers.
Tip: Even if you’re not a gambler, consider booking dinner or a show here — the vibe is worth it.
3. Catch a blockbuster or indie film at Cinemark Egyptian 24 & XD
When you’re already in the area of Arundel Mills, why not enjoy a movie in a big way? Cinemark Egyptian 24 offers a full cinema experience with multiple screens, including an XD format for immersive viewing.
Tip: Choose a later showtime after your shopping spree so you roll from retail to popcorn without leaving the area.
4. Test your wits at Mission Escape Rooms – Arundel Mills
A fun twist: the escape-room experience at Mission Escape Rooms inside Arundel Mills turns a regular outing into a memorable adventure. You’ll need teamwork, problem-solving and a sense of fun.
Tip: Book your time slot in advance—these themed rooms tend to fill up on weekends.
5. Archery/fun-combat zone at Dodgebow Baltimore
For a more active outing, Dodgebow offers a thrilling experience: archery combat with foam-tipped arrows in an inflatable-barrier arena. Great for groups and families looking to do more than dine or shop.
Tip: Wear comfortable clothes and shoes you don’t mind moving around in.
6. Hidden gem: Hanover Ridge Park & green-space relaxation
If you need a break from shopping and indoor entertainment, Hanover Ridge Park offers a quieter pace: walking trails, a pond, playgrounds, and fresh air. While specific published sources are less prominent, local guides call out nearby parks for leisurely visits.
Tip: Bring a picnic and go in the late afternoon for golden-hour light and fewer crowds.
7. Visit the outdoors/green paths around Hanover & surrounding area
Hanover’s location means easy access to outdoor recreation beyond malls and arcades. Whether it’s a short trail, biking via the nearby BWI trail, or just enjoying suburban nature — this region gives you a breath of fresh air. According to sources, Hanover is just a short drive from trail networks in Anne Arundel County.
Tip: Fit this into your morning before the heavier activities so you feel energized for the rest of the day.
8. Family-friendly fun: dining and arcade at Dave & Buster’s – Arundel Mills
Especially if you’re traveling with kids or just want a fun evening, Dave & Buster’s inside Arundel Mills offers both dining and a large arcade/games area. A great way to unwind after shopping or a long day of activity.
Tip: Use the restaurant portion for dinner and plan winning-tickets adventures afterward.
9. Enjoy themed entertainment at Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament
Want something totally different and memorable? Medieval Times provides a dinner with live action: knights, jousting, a theatrical show and meal included — all inside the Arundel Mills entertainment complex.
Tip: Book this for an evening when you’re less worried about early wake-ups — it runs on showtime cycles.
10. Explore local restaurants & craft bites
Beyond big attractions, Hanover also has a lively dining scene. Whether you’re at Arundel Mills with its many restaurants, or venturing a little further into local spots, you’ll find good food, casual bites, and craft-beer opportunities. The Visit Annapolis guide mentions dining and entertainment as part of the Arundel Mills experience.
Tip: Save room for dessert or a specialty coffee—especially after shopping or an arcade session.
11. Visit nearby attractions for variety
While Hanover itself is packed with things to do, branching out slightly adds variety. For example, the nearby region offers the National Cryptologic Museum (in broader Annapolis area) and trail systems like the BWI bike trail. Hanover’s central location makes these side excursions quite doable.
Tip: Pick one “off-site” activity for one of your days so you don’t feel confined to a mall-heavy schedule.
12. Plan for special events & seasonal fun
One of the things I enjoyed most: Hanover isn’t static. Whether it’s concerts at Live! Casino’s venue, seasonal events at the mall or themed family nights, you’ll find something extra. For example, Arundel Mills is described as a major tourist destination with ongoing events.
Tip: Before your visit, check the Arundel Mills or Live! Casino website for upcoming shows or event nights to time your trip for extra fun.
Final Thoughts
My weekend in Hanover, MD reminded me what a clever mix of “city-adjacent” fun and suburban ease can feel like when done right. Here are a few take-aways from my time there:
- Balance your pace. I found it worked best when I mixed high-energy spots (like the casino, arcade or escape room) with low-key breaks (a nature walk, park time, or relaxed meal).
- Use the location. Hanover sits between major cities and near BWI airport—so getting there or pivoting to nearby areas is easy.
- Book smart. For experiences like escape rooms, dinner shows or a hotel night at Live!, advance planning made a difference.
- Be flexible. Rain or weather changes might push you indoors (which works fine in Hanover — plenty of indoor fun).
- Enjoy the variety. Shopping, entertainment, dining, green spaces — all within one community. I loved how my itinerary could pivot from “retail spree” to “walk in the park” to “arcade challenge” seamlessly.