Dover is a picturesque and charming city. It has an old-fashioned, rustic vibe, that definitely brings the entire place together. There’s a lot to see and learn here. One can learn so much about the history of Delaware and take back amazing memories. There are several historical buildings that not only give you an insight into history but also offer knowledge and experiences galore. The Firefly Music Festival is also held here. Be it restaurants or historical buildings or the lush green parks and farms, the country vibe that Dover offers takes us right back into our childhood countryside holidays. If you’ve been planning to visit this captivating and homespun city, then make sure to go through our list of the top things to do in Dover, Delaware. Read on to know more!
1. Drink up at Fordham & Dominion Brewing Company
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Established in 2007, Fordham & Dominion Brewing Company in Dover were two separate bodies that joined forces because of their shared values and philosophy. This brewing company is known to produce a great variety of sodas and craft beers. As one body and two souls, the brewery as a whole produces over 20 beer styles. Under the brand name of Dominion, the brewery brews a specialty soda, along with orange cream, and ginger ale, to name a few.
Fordham & Dominion Brewing Company
Address: 1284 McD Dr, Dover, DE 19901
Website: Fordham & Dominion Brewing Company
Opening hours: Tue - Fri: 3pm - 9pm; Sat: 12pm - 8pm; Sun: 12pm - 6pm (closed on Mon)
2. Visit Woodburn: Governor's House
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Woodburn or Governor’s House, also known as Delaware Governor’s Mansion, is listed under the National Register of Historic Places. This official residence of Delaware’s Governor dates back to 1790. And this mansion has been home to the Governor since 1965. Fun fact: it is said that the mansion is haunted by spirits that enjoy a nice glass of wine. The spirits are known to leave the filled decanter empty every night. Visitors can take a tour of the mansion from Monday to Friday between 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.
Woodburn: Governor's House
Address: 51 Kings Hwy SW, Dover, DE 19901
Website: Woodburn: Governor’s House
3. Go shopping at Dover Mall
Situated on the U.S Route 13 in Dover, Dover Mall is a shopping mall where visitors can enjoy some tax-free shopping. The mall features anchor stores including Old Navy, JCPenny, and Victoria’s Secret, to name a few. Along with over 85 retail stores, a food court, and theatres, the mall also comprises two spaces, which are a strip mall called Dover Commons and Dover’s fulfillment center that was converted out of Macy’s and Sears vacant stores.
Dover Mall
Address: 1365 N Dupont Hwy, Dover, DE 19901, United States
Website: Dover Mall
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 11am - 7pm; Sun: 12pm - 6pm
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4. Learn about local police history at Delaware State Police Museum
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Delaware State Police Museum on Thursday, January 28, 2021
Explore the vintage beauty and history at Delaware State Police Museum. This is a great spot to check out a large collection of artifacts that date back hundreds of years. You’ll get to see uniforms, vintage cars, helicopters, and so many more from the history of the state’s police force. Along with these, you’ll also get to see some of the top criminal cases from the 20th century in the exhibits and chapters that tell the life and death of state troopers.
Delaware State Police Museum
Address: 1425 N Dupont Hwy, Dover, DE 19901
Website: Delaware State Police Museum
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 3pm (closed on Sat & Sun)
5. Go skating at the Dover Skating Center
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Once you’ve explored all the attractions of Dover, or if you want to break away from a mundane routine, head to Dover Skating Center for a day of absolute fun! Located near DuPont Highway in Dover, Delaware, this center is the largest skating center in the state. You could be visiting Dover with your friends, family, or alone, head to the center and book an open skate session. If you’re new to skating, fret not, you can sign up to learn how to skate, too.
Dover Skating Center
Address: 2201 S Dupont Hwy, Dover, DE 19901
Website: Dover Skating Center
Opening hours: Mon: 12:30pm - 2:30pm, 3pm - 5pm; Tue & Thu: 6:30pm - 8:30pm; Fri: 7pm - 9pm; Sat: 12pm - 2pm, 2:15pm - 4:15pm; 7pm - 9pm, Sun: 12:45pm - 2:45pm, 3pm - 5pm
6. Try your luck at Dover Downs Casino
Dover Downs Casino is located on North Dupont Highway. The property also has a hotel and a race track. The casino has gambling tables, slot machines, games, and much more. There is a restaurant upstairs where you can indulge in a sumptuous meal. The staff here is friendly and the entire place remains clean and tidy.
Dover Downs Casino
Address: 1131 North Dupont Highway; Dover, Delaware
Website: Dover Downs Casino
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
7. Swing by Johnson Victrola Museum
Johnson Victrola Museum showcases the life and achievements of E.R. Johnson who was a native of Delaware and founded Victor Talking Machine Co. The museum doesn’t have an entrance fee. It looks vintage and has that age-old charm to it. There are some really interesting exhibits that you can find here. The staff here is knowledgeable, helpful, and courteous. One can learn so much about the history of photographs and even get an insight into how they work. You can even get the opportunity to hear some of the very first recordings.
Johnson Victrola Museum
Address: 375 S New St, Dover, DE 19901, United States
Website: Johnson Victrola Museum
Opening hours: Thu - Sat (self-guided tours - 1am, 11am, 1pm, 2pm; closed from Sun - Wed)
8. Spend a day at John Dickinson Plantation
John Dickinson Plantation is an 18th century, well-preserved and interesting place where one can learn more about John Dickinson. The Poplar House is also located on the plantation which offers free tours. The tours provide insight into the life of John Dickinson, who was one of the founding fathers. It is a historical treasure that is surrounded by lush greenery. Make sure to visit the museum and spend some time in the lush garden.
John Dickinson Plantation
Address: 340 Kitts Hummock Rd, Dover, DE 19901, United States
Website: John Dickinson Plantation
Opening hours: Thu: 8:30am - 4pm (self-guided tours on Fri, Sat & Sun)
9. Learn new things at Air Mobility Command Museum
Air Mobility Command Museum is the only museum dedicated to the history of airlift and air refueling which is located in a restored WWII hangar. There are a large number of aircraft that one can see here including Cargo haulers, fighter jets, helicopters, and several other aircraft. Inside the museum, you can get a tour and learn more about the history and how these aircraft work, and after you’re done, you can tour inside the aircraft and explore them. The tour guides are people who have flown these aircraft and they always have the most interesting stories to share. There is a gift shop here as well where one can buy lovely souvenirs.
Air Mobility Command Museum
Address: 1301 Heritage Rd, Dover AFB, DE 19902, United States
Website: Air Mobility Command Museum
Opening hours: Thu - Sat: 10am - 3pm (closed from Sun - Wed)
10. Take a tour of Legislative Hall
The Legislative Hall is a great place to learn more about the rich American history. It is the state capitol building of Delaware and it houses the offices of those representatives who are part of the Delaware General Assembly. Make sure you take a tour while you’re there. You will learn so much about Delaware’s history and know stories of those who have worked here and you might even get to see the Senate in action. Guided tours are available from 10am - 1pm. Check out the amazing memorials and sculptures.
Legislative Hall
Address: 411 Legislative Ave, Dover, DE 19901, United States
Website: Legislative Hall
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 4:30pm (closed on Sat & Sun)
11. Witness an event at Dover International Speedway
Dover International Speedway is a race track situated on North Dupont Highway in Dover. It opened in 1969 and has held several NASCAR races over the years. It also showcases a huge monster sculpture. There are tons of entertaining activities on a race day that one can indulge in. The entire atmosphere of the stadium is cheerful and vibrant. You can get a tour of the speedway or even attend an event at the place. During events, there are food trucks in the vicinity which serve delectable snacks.
Dover International Speedway
Address: 1131 N Dupont Hwy, Dover, DE 19901, United States
Website: Dover International Speedway
12. Appreciate the exhibits at Biggs Museum of American Art
Biggs Museum of American Art is a great place to discover American art and there are several exhibits spread over three floors that can be explored. One can find historic marvels as well as artwork by modern artists here. The exhibits change often which makes it perfect for those who want to discover something new every time they visit. Admission is free first Saturday of every month.
Biggs Museum of American Art
Address: 406 Federal St, Dover, DE 19901, United States
Website: Biggs Museum of American Art
Opening hours: Wed- Sat: 10am - 4pm (closed from Sun - Tue)
Price: 10 USD
13. Collect something unique at Spence’s Bazaar & Flea Market
Spence’s Bazaar & Flea Market is a great place to shop for collectibles and other items. One can find some amazing artifacts. You don’t have to spend too much either. The entire atmosphere is quite lively and makes the experience worthwhile. There are a lot of things available here, right from clothes to essential items to personal hygiene products. You can even find handmade goods in the market.
Spence’s Bazaar & Flea Market
Address: 550 S New St, Dover, DE 19904, United States
Opening hours: Tue & Fri: 7:30am - 5pm; Sat: 7:30am - 3pm (closed on Mon, Wed, Thu & Sun)
14. Enjoy the fresh air at Silver Lake Park
Silver Lake Park is located in Dover, Delaware, and it offers some of the most stunning views. A stroll at the park is extremely refreshing. One can even spot different kinds of fish in the Silver lake. This picturesque location offers a peaceful and rejuvenating atmosphere. There are picnic tables around, where you can enjoy a nice family get-together.
Silver Lake Park
Address: Washington St, Dover, DE 19901, United States
Website: Silver Lake Park
Opening hours: 8:30am - 5pm (daily)
15. Check out the Old State House
Old State House is a historic capital building which was built in 1791. It showcases the beautiful Georgian architectural style and stands two-stories high. It is an extremely interesting building that portrays the rich history of Delaware. It is recommended to get a tour of the building to know more about the historical value of the building. There are several exhibits on display that are not only informative but engaging as well. Those who are interested in history must explore the Old State House.
The Old State House
Address: 25 The Green, Dover, DE 19901, United States
Give your heart away to Dover
That was our list of the top places to visit in Dover. It is truly a rustic city that has a lot to offer. There’s something for everyone to see. It isn’t like any other bustling city, but it offers simple pleasures. Whether its the beautiful farms or the local markets, you will always find that Dover has a foot set in the past. It is the perfect place to visit with your loved ones. Make sure to explore Dover and spend some quality time with your friends and family. You will surely end up wanting to come back soon after your trip.
Note: Some attractions may be temporarily closed due to Covid19 but may still be offering virtual tours. Visit the official websites to know more.
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