Photography by Donovan Roberts Witmer
On a sweltering late-summer day in Central Pennsylvania, hardly anything satisfies like a frosty, creamy cone (or cup) of ice cream. The folks at Crabbs Tropical Treat in Hanover are dishing out something different than the rest—their signature black raspberry soft serve ice cream—and it’s worth the trip to taste. This vintage drive-in has been in operation since the 1950’s, and not much has changed in the past half century. Between the neon cone on top of the building, the retro soda stickers and gas signs, and the carhop service, this spot is a blast (from the past, that is). Paired with Crabbs “Fat Boy”—a burger of two beef patties, melted cheese, pickles, lettuce, onions and a signature pink sauce—this meal is a summer must-have. Take a top-down cruise to Hanover next time you need to cool off, and try this local favorite!
Crabbs Tropical Treat | 2279 Carlisle Pike, Hanover | 717-632-3977