These Six Classic Massachusetts Hot Dog Stands Sell Fantastic Franks
By Kim Falchek|Published June 19, 2024
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Kim Falchek
Author
Kim Falchek has been exploring the towns, trails, and hidden gems of Massachusetts since her college days in Boston. When not writing, Kim enjoys photography, going on road trips, and spending time at the beach. Kim has previously been a contributing writer for LA Family Travel, Global Munchkins, and Latched Mama. She currently lives in Salem, Massachusetts where she and her family embrace all things Halloween!
Nothing screams summer more than a delicious hot dog and a refreshing ice-cold root beer! While you can order franks pretty much anywhere you dine, they always taste better when you buy them from a roadside stand or retro diner. While hot dog joints are not as prevalent as they once were years ago, you can still find some fantastic ones scattered throughout Massachusetts. These six classic hot dog stands have been serving fabulous franks for decades and definitely know how to do it right!
George’s Coney Island
has been slinging great dogs since 1918. My family and I first visited this iconic Worcester establishment last year and we now have all of our friends and co-workers hooked. Not only are the franks delicious (George’s uses a special secret chili sauce) but visiting here is like taking a trip back in time. An old-fashioned jukebox and repurposed church pew seating will definitely have you feeling nostalgic. Please visit George’s Coney Island website for more info.
You can find more delicious dogs when you visit a little red shack located off the beaten path in Leicester. Hot Dog Annie’s
is take-out only, but you can enjoy your meal at one of the outside picnic tables. This 65+-year-old stand is known for its barbecue dogs and homemade root beer and cream soda.
Baldwinville may be tiny, but it holds an iconic Massachusetts roadside eatery. Lee’s Hot Dog Stand is a family-owned business that has been going strong for over 75 years. Not only does this special place know how to cook up a great foot-long hot dog (the franks are bigger than the buns), but Lee’s also serves fantastic burgers, seafood, and ice cream. Find out more at the Lee’s Hot Dog Stand Facebook page.
Tom's Famous Long Hot Dog & Grill has been a fixture in the Pioneer Valley since 1954. As the name states, the famous stand is known for its foot-long dogs which can be ordered in several different ways. From a traditional chili dog to a bacon Mexican cheese dog, you can’t go wrong with the frankfurters at Tom’s. The stand also serves delicious burgers, grinders, and specialty sandwiches. Visit on a Friday evening and enjoy a “cruise night” of classic cars. Find out more at the Tom's Famous Long Hot Dog & Grill Facebook page.
You can find even more Coney Island dogs in the city of Fall River. Established in 1920, Nick's Original Coney Island Hot Dogs is well known for their great franks as well as their famous clientele of actors and former politicians. The dogs are made with an authentic sauce that the restaurant keeps under lock and key. If you come in hungry, take advantage of the buy five, get one free hot dog special. Find out more at Nick’s Hot Dog’s website.
Our list of retro hot dog joints is not complete without telling you about Jack's Hot Dog Stand in North Adams. Jack’s has been around for over 100 years and has stood the test of time. Owned by the same family since 1917, this classic stand offers delicious hot dogs and other lunch and dinner menu items at affordable prices. A must-stop on any visit to the Berkshires! More information can be found at Jack’s Hot Dog Stand website.
Have you visited any of these six classic hot dog stands? Which one is your favorite? If you or someone you know is interested in learning more about the history of hot dogs, I suggest checking out the book, Hot Dog: A Global History by Bruce Kraig.
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