Cities and Towns in Adams County, Pennsylvania
Founded in 1800, Adams County is one of 67 counties in the state of Pennsylvania. Historically, Adams County was formed from parts of York County. The city of Gettysburg is the county seat. With FIPS code of 1, Adams County has a population of 104,127 and area of 522 square miles (1,352 km²).
List of all cities in Adams County, PA alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Abbottstown, PA | 17301 | 717 |
| Arendtsville, PA | 17303 | 717 |
| Aspers, PA | 17304 | 717 |
| Beecherstown, PA | 17307 | 717 |
| Bendersville, PA | 17306 | 717 |
| Biglerville, PA | 17307 | 717 |
| Bonneauville, PA | 17325 | 717 |
| Brysonia, PA | 17307 | 717 |
| Carroll Valley, PA | 17320 | 717 |
| Cashtown, PA | 17310 | 717 |
| Center Mills, PA | 17304 | 717 |
| Charnita, PA | 17320 | 717 |
| East Berlin, PA | 17316 | 717 |
| Fairfield, PA | 17320 | 717 |
| Fairplay, PA | 17325 | 717 |
| Floradale, PA | 17307 | 717 |
| Gardners, PA | 17324 | 717 |
| Gettysburg, PA | 17325 | 717 |
| Goodyear, PA | 17324 | 717 |
| Greenstone, PA | 17320 | 717 |
| Guernsey, PA | 17307 | 717 |
| Heidlersburg, PA | 17325 | 717 |
| Hunters Run, PA | 17324 | 717 |
| Hunterstown, PA | 17325 | 717 |
| Idaville, PA | 17337 | 717 |
| Kingsdale, PA | 17340 | 717 |
| Littlestown, PA | 17340 | 717 |
| McKnightstown, PA | 17343 | 717 |
| McSherrystown, PA | 17344 | 717 |
| Mount Tabor, PA | 17324 | 717 |
| New Oxford, PA | 17350 | 717 |
| Orrtanna, PA | 17353 | 717 |
| Peach Glen, PA | 17375 | 717 |
| Pine Grove Furnace, PA | 17324 | 717 |
| Starners Station, PA | 17324 | 717 |
| Table Rock, PA | 17307 | 717 |
| Toland, PA | 17324 | 717 |
| Uriah, PA | 17324 | 717 |
| White Hall, PA | 17340 | 717 |
| York Springs, PA | 17372 | 717 |
Major Cities and Towns in Adams County, Pennsylvania
1. Gettysburg
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 2.5 square miles
- Population: Approximately 7,600
- Zip Codes: 17325
- Latitude and Longitude: 39.8309° N, 77.2311° W
Location and History
Gettysburg, the county seat of Adams County, Pennsylvania, is most famous for being the site of the Battle of Gettysburg during the American Civil War in 1863. This pivotal battle, which resulted in a Union victory, marked the turning point of the war and remains one of the most significant events in American history. The town was established in 1786, and by the time of the Civil War, it had grown into a small but important market town. Following the battle, Gettysburg’s landscape was transformed into a vast National Military Park dedicated to preserving the battlefield and honoring the soldiers who fought there. The town itself offers a glimpse into 19th-century life, with many buildings reflecting its historical significance, including several that served as hospitals and headquarters during the battle. Over time, Gettysburg has become a major tourist destination, drawing millions annually who come to visit its rich historical sites, museums, and memorials.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Gettysburg is home to several educational institutions, including Gettysburg Area School District, which operates Gettysburg High School, Gettysburg Middle School, and several elementary schools. The town is also known for Gettysburg College, a private liberal arts institution that attracts students from around the country. Major landmarks in Gettysburg include the Gettysburg National Military Park, which encompasses the battlefields and monuments dedicated to the soldiers who fought there. The Gettysburg National Cemetery, where President Abraham Lincoln delivered the Gettysburg Address, is another key historical site. Visitors can also explore Eisenhower National Historic Site, the former home of President Dwight D. Eisenhower, located just outside the town. Other notable landmarks include Shriver House Museum, Dobbin House Tavern, and The David Wills House, all of which provide insight into the town’s history during the Civil War and its post-war recovery.
2. Hanover
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 2.6 square miles
- Population: Approximately 15,000
- Zip Codes: 17331
- Latitude and Longitude: 39.7835° N, 76.9836° W
Location and History
Hanover is a borough located in the southern part of Adams County, close to the Maryland state line. Originally settled in the early 18th century by German immigrants, the town’s name comes from the House of Hanover, the ruling dynasty of Great Britain at the time of its founding. Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, Hanover grew as an industrial center, particularly with its focus on manufacturing and food production. It became a key location for the development of the snack food industry, particularly potato chips and pretzels, and today, companies such as Utz Quality Foods and Snyder’s of Hanover are headquartered here. Despite its industrial roots, Hanover also has a charming small-town feel with tree-lined streets, historical buildings, and a vibrant downtown. The town’s location along major transportation routes helped it thrive in the post-industrial era, and it remains a significant commercial hub in the region.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Hanover is served by the Hanover Public School District, which includes Hanover Senior High School, Hanover Middle School, and several elementary schools. The town also has a strong educational community, with HACC – Hanover Campus, part of the Harrisburg Area Community College system, offering higher education opportunities. Hanover’s landmarks reflect both its industrial past and cultural significance. The Hanover Historic District is home to several preserved buildings that date back to the 19th century, offering a glimpse of its early days. Codorus State Park, located just outside of Hanover, is a popular destination for outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and boating. Additionally, The Hanover Junction, a former railroad station that was a key stop during the Civil War, is a historical site of interest. The town’s role in the snack food industry is also celebrated at the Utz Factory Store and Snyder’s Pretzel Museum, where visitors can learn about the history of the area’s most famous products.
3. Bendersville
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.7 square miles
- Population: Approximately 400
- Zip Codes: 17306
- Latitude and Longitude: 39.9167° N, 77.2806° W
Location and History
Bendersville is a small, rural village located in the northern part of Adams County, Pennsylvania. Originally settled in the 18th century, the village was named after the Bender family, early settlers who played a key role in its establishment. The area was primarily agricultural, and Bendersville developed as a farming community with a focus on orchards, particularly apple farming, which remains an important part of the area’s economy. Over time, Bendersville remained a quiet village, with much of its economy rooted in agriculture and its proximity to nearby larger towns such as Gettysburg and Hanover. Today, the town retains much of its rural character and is known for its scenic views and peaceful environment. Bendersville’s location near Biglerville, another small town, has allowed it to benefit from the commercial and cultural activities of its larger neighbors while maintaining its own quiet charm.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Bendersville is served by the Upper Adams School District, which includes Biglerville High School, Biglerville Middle School, and several elementary schools. The town itself does not have many major landmarks due to its small size, but the surrounding area offers several points of interest. The Adams County Fruit Belt, which includes the orchards surrounding Bendersville, is a key agricultural feature of the region. The town’s proximity to South Mountain provides visitors with opportunities for hiking and outdoor recreation. The Cumberland Township Park offers a place for residents and visitors to gather for community events, picnics, and sports. Additionally, the town is close to The Eisenhower National Historic Site in Gettysburg, which is easily accessible for those looking to explore the area’s rich history.
4. Arendtsville
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.9 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,000
- Zip Codes: 17303
- Latitude and Longitude: 39.8939° N, 77.2739° W
Location and History
Arendtsville, a small town in Adams County, is located just a few miles north of Gettysburg and is part of the Upper Adams Township. The town was established in the 19th century and named after a prominent local family, the Arendts, who were early settlers in the area. Arendtsville was historically known for its agricultural roots, particularly its apple orchards and vineyards, which contributed to the development of the local cider and wine industries. The town also served as a center for farming, and many of its buildings reflect the rural lifestyle of its early settlers. Although it remains a small community, Arendtsville has a rich connection to the agricultural heritage of Adams County, and it continues to thrive as part of the Adams County Wine Trail. The town’s historic character and proximity to Gettysburg have made it a quiet but appealing destination for those seeking a slower pace of life.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Arendtsville is part of the Upper Adams School District, which includes Biglerville High School and Upper Adams Middle School. Although small, Arendtsville is home to several local landmarks. The Apple Valley Railway operates a heritage railroad that provides scenic tours through the orchards and rural areas around the town. Additionally, The Adams County Winery located just outside of town offers wine tasting and a glimpse into the area’s winemaking history. Arendtsville is also close to South Mountain, which provides opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying the natural beauty of the region. For those interested in history, the Gettysburg National Park is just a short drive away, allowing visitors to explore the Civil War history that defines the broader region. The town’s proximity to The Eisenhower National Historic Site adds another historical dimension to its attractions.