There are two things I’ll always go out of my way for: a good ride and good food. So when I heard about The Dog House in Hagerstown—a local spot known for its killer hotdogs—I knew I had to check it out. And, of course, I had to make it interesting by taking the scenic route from Severn, Maryland, turning a simple food run into a proper adventure.
The Route: Back Roads Over Highways
Sure, I could’ve just hopped on I-70 and been there in about an hour and a half. But where’s the fun in that? Instead, I decided to carve my way through MD-32, US-40, and some lesser-known country roads to soak in some scenery, avoid the madness of highway traffic, and make the ride just as rewarding as the meal.
The Highlights:
MD-32 to US-40 – A smooth and easy start, passing through stretches of open land and wooded patches. The air was cool, the traffic was light, and I could just cruise.
Country Roads Near Frederick – I dipped off the main roads for a bit and rode through farmland and rolling hills. This is where the ride really came alive—no traffic, just me, the bike, and the open road.
Pulling into Hagerstown – As I got closer, the roads straightened out, and the small-town charm started creeping in. I could almost smell the food before I got there… or maybe I was just hungry.
The Destination: The Dog House
The Dog House is a no-frills, down-to-earth spot that does one thing extremely well: hotdogs. Walking in, I immediately felt at home—locals chatting at the counter, the smell of sizzling sausages, and a menu full of options that made my decision way harder than expected.
What I Ordered:
The “Everything Dog” – Chili, cheese, mustard, onions, and relish. An absolute mess in the best way possible.
Crinkle-Cut Fries – Perfectly crispy, with just the right amount of salt.
A Classic Root Beer – Because nothing pairs better with a hotdog than an ice-cold root beer.
The first bite? Heaven. The chili had just the right amount of spice, the cheese was perfectly melted, and the snap of the hotdog itself was exactly what you want in a place like this. It was the kind of meal that makes you sit back, nod to yourself, and think, Yeah, that was worth the ride.
The Ride Back: Sunset & Reflection
I took a slightly more direct route home, catching I-70 for a bit before peeling off onto US-29 and eventually making my way back to Severn. By this point, the sun was setting, casting an orange glow over the road ahead.
Riding solo at dusk is a special kind of peaceful. Just you, the hum of the engine, and the road stretching out in front of you. As someone who deals with anxiety and panic attacks, rides like these remind me why I love being on two wheels. It’s not just about the food or the destination—it’s about the feeling of being present, pushing past the fear, and finding freedom in the ride.
Final Thoughts: Worth the Trip? Absolutely.
Would I ride an hour and a half just for a hotdog again? Without hesitation. The Dog House delivered on flavor, the route delivered on adventure, and the entire experience reminded me why I love this combination of motorcycles, road trips, and great eats.
So, if you’re ever near Hagerstown and craving a damn good hotdog, hit up The Dog House. And if you need an excuse to take the scenic route? Well, now you’ve got one.
🚀Until the next ride…