Hanover Inn Dartmouth

The hotel is widely celebrated for its quintessential New England charm and its unparalleled central location directly adjacent to Dartmouth College, making it a signature feature that defines the guest experience. This elegant and historic establishment is consistently praised for its impeccable cleanliness, comfortable accommodations, and the exceptionally friendly and attentive staff who ensure a welcoming atmosphere. The on-site Pine Restaurant also stands out as a major highlight. It is an ideal choice for Dartmouth visitors, including alumni, parents, and prospective students, as well as families seeking a convenient base for exploring the town, and couples looking for a charming getaway. To enhance your stay, guests often recommend requesting a room with a campus view, though it's wise to clarify the specific vista, and be sure to take advantage of the hotel's prime position for easily walking to local shops and eateries.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests frequently commend the hotel's thoughtful amenities, which contribute significantly to a comfortable stay. The updated fitness center is a notable feature, providing a well-equipped space for exercise, though some note it leans more towards cardio equipment. Unique touches like a grand piano in a common area add to the hotel's refined ambiance. Mornings are made convenient with a self-serve coffee station in the lobby, offering excellent coffee, and guests appreciate the daily cookies provided in the afternoon. In-room comforts include plush robes and slippers, along with an in-room coffee maker for personal use. While some rooms feature a mini-fridge, some guests wished for more consistently stocked options. The hotel also provides umbrellas for rainy days and offers well-appointed conference spaces and event venues. Some guests have noted occasional issues with the HVAC system not maintaining desired temperatures, and a few mentioned the absence of a pool or hot tub.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The hotel consistently receives high praise for its cleanliness and the overall comfort of its accommodations. Guests frequently describe the rooms as spacious and commend the comfortable beds and high-quality linens that ensure a restful sleep. Many reviews highlight the generally quiet atmosphere within the rooms, contributing to a peaceful stay, although a few isolated comments mentioned minor street noise or noise from external AC units. The modern bathrooms are often appreciated for their cleanliness and amenities, including Gilchrist & Soames products, though some guests found certain bathrooms to be a bit cramped or noted issues with vanity design. While most experiences are positive, a very small number of reviews mentioned isolated instances of less-than-perfect cleanliness, such as residual odors or minor issues with fixtures, and some noted that the HVAC system could be temperamental. Many rooms also feature pleasant sitting areas and desirable campus views.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's Pine Restaurant is a significant highlight, consistently lauded by guests as excellent and often described as one of the best dining establishments in the area. Reviewers frequently praise the delicious food and the vibrant atmosphere of the restaurant and its bar, which is known for its exceptional cocktails and knowledgeable bartenders. Breakfast at Pine receives particular acclaim, with many guests enjoying the variety and quality of options, and the ricotta pancakes are specifically recommended. While the dining experience is overwhelmingly positive, a few guests have noted mixed feedback on specific dishes, such as cold fries or dry chicken, or found the menu to be somewhat limited or the service to be slow during peak times. Room service is also available and is generally described as quick, efficient, and offering high-quality meals, further enhancing the dining convenience for guests.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is a major draw, placing guests directly across from Dartmouth College and within easy walking distance of numerous shops and restaurants in the charming town. This prime position makes it exceptionally convenient for college visits, exploring the campus, and enjoying local amenities without needing a car. While the location is universally praised, parking is primarily handled through a mandatory valet service. Most guests find the valet efficient and helpful, though some have experienced delays during busy periods or expressed concerns about the security of their vehicles. A few guests noted the absence of a self-parking option and suggested that a public parking garage is available a couple of blocks away for those who prefer it. The hotel's proximity to public transportation, such as the Blue bus route, also provides convenient access to nearby medical facilities.

Staff & Service
The hotel's staff consistently receives outstanding praise for their friendly, helpful, and attentive service, which significantly enhances the guest experience. Many reviewers highlight the efficient check-in process and the staff's willingness to go above and beyond, providing personalized attention such as welcoming cookies or assistance with special occasions. The valet service is frequently commended for its efficiency and pleasant demeanor. Guests appreciate the staff's proactive problem resolution, whether it's addressing room issues like heating or assisting with unexpected challenges like a flat tire or a lost wallet. The hotel also offers notable pet-friendly service, providing amenities for furry companions, and family-friendly service, including offering cots. While the vast majority of interactions are positive, a very small number of reviews mentioned isolated instances of less welcoming or indifferent behavior from certain staff members.

Additional Information
The hotel beautifully blends its historic charm and old-world elegance with modern comforts, creating a unique and inviting atmosphere. Guests should be aware that the hotel has been undergoing ongoing renovations, which have updated rooms and facilities like the gym, generally without causing disruption to guests. The hotel maintains a pet-friendly policy, even providing amenities like dog bowls and beds in rooms, though one guest reported a strong, lingering pet odor in their assigned room, suggesting occasional challenges with deep cleaning. There is also construction adjacent to the hotel, which some guests noted could impact certain room views, so it is advisable to inquire about this when booking. The overall hotel atmosphere is described as warm, cozy, and lively, particularly appealing to those seeking a true New England experience.