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Dover, Delaware: Where the Fun Never Stops – Best Places to Visit and Things to Do

The Golden Fleece Tavern was built right here back in the year 1730. And it has since been restored to its original condition as a museum. And the Old State House went up in 1791 just along from it. And First State Heritage Park exists to protect that whole cluster of it. So start at the park’s Welcome Center and then work outward from there.

Welcome to Dover, Delaware, a charming city that offers a broad range of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. Interested in exploring the city’s long history, checking out its art and culture scene, or enjoying some outdoor fun, Dover covers everyone. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the strongest and most fun things to do and places to visit in Dover.

If you’re a history buff, you’ll love exploring the many historical sites and landmarks in Dover. From the First State Heritage Park to the John Dickinson Plantation, there are plenty of absorbing places to visit. And if you’re interested in art and museums, you won’t be disappointed either. The Biggs Museum of American Art is worth the trip, with its serious collection of American fine and decorative art.

But Dover isn’t only about history and culture, because there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy as well. From hiking and biking to fishing and boating, you’ll find a broad range of outdoor fun in Dover. And if you cook seriously, you’ll love exploring the city’s many restaurants and cafes, which offer everything from classic American fare to international cuisine. So pack your bags and get ready to explore all that Dover has to offer.

Key Takeaways

• Dover, Delaware offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages.
• Historical sites, art and museums, and outdoor activities are just a few of the many things to do and places to visit in Dover.
• Dover’s restaurant scene offers a diverse range of options, from classic American fare to international cuisine.

Historical Dover

If you’re a history buff, Dover suits you exactly. The city is home to several historical sites that will transport you back in time to colonial America. Here are some historical sites in Dover worth the trip:

First State Heritage Park

The First State Heritage Park is a sprawling urban park that protects many of Dover’s most important historic sites and cultural landmarks. The park is just the place to start your historical tour of Dover. The park’s Welcome Center contains countless artifacts, exhibits and artworks that tell the story of Delaware’s long history.

Old State House

The Old State House is one of the better-known buildings in Dover. Built in 1791, the Old State House was the first permanent capitol building in Delaware. The building has served many purposes over the years, including as a courthouse and a city hall. Today, it is a museum that showcases Delaware’s early history.

John Dickinson Plantation

The John Dickinson Plantation is a historic site that tells the story of one of Delaware’s most important founding fathers. John Dickinson was a signer of the United States Constitution and a delegate to the Continental Congress. The plantation is a strong place to learn about Dickinson’s life and his contributions to American history.

Delaware Public Archives

The Delaware Public Archives is just the place to go if you’re interested in historical records. The archives contain a vast collection of documents, photographs and other materials related to Delaware’s history. If you’re doing research on your family history or the history of Delaware, the Delaware Public Archives is the place to be.

Legislative Hall

Legislative Hall is the home of the Delaware General Assembly. The building was completed in 1933 and has been the site of many historic legislative sessions. The building is open to the public, so you can take a tour and learn about Delaware’s legislative history.

Johnson Victrola Museum

The Johnson Victrola Museum is a museum all its own that tells the story of the Victor Talking Machine Company. The company was founded by Eldridge R. Johnson in 1901 and became one of the more successful record companies in the world. The museum is a strong place to learn about the history of recorded music and the impact it has had on American culture.

Golden Fleece Tavern

The Golden Fleece Tavern is a historic building that was built in 1730. The tavern was a popular meeting place for Delaware’s founding fathers, including John Dickinson and Thomas McKean. The building has been restored to its original condition and is now a museum that showcases Delaware’s colonial history.

So, there you have it. These are some of the strongest historical sites in Dover that you should definitely check out. Interested in colonial America or American history in general, Dover covers everyone.

Art and Museums

If you’re an art lover or history buff, Dover suits you exactly. Here are some of the museums and art galleries in the city worth the trip.

Biggs Museum of American Art

The Biggs Museum of American Art is a gem in Dover’s crown. It houses a vast collection of American art, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. The museum is named after its founder, Sewell C. Biggs, who was a collector and philanthropist. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and on Sundays from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Admission is free, but donations are welcome.

Delaware Agricultural Museum and Village

If you want to learn about the agricultural history of Delaware, the Delaware Agricultural Museum and Village is the place to be. The museum has a vast collection of artifacts related to agriculture, including farming equipment, tools, and vehicles. The museum also has a village that showcases what life was like in rural Delaware in the 19th century. The museum is open Monday through Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is $7 for adults, $6 for seniors, and $4 for children.

Air Mobility Command Museum

The Air Mobility Command Museum is a must-visit for aviation enthusiasts. The museum has a vast collection of aircraft, including military transport planes, helicopters, and fighter jets. The museum also has exhibits that showcase the history of the Air Mobility Command. The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free, but donations are welcome.

Interested in American art, agriculture or aviation, Dover has something for you. Be sure to check out these museums and galleries for a fun and educational experience.

Outdoor Fun in Dover

When you’re in Dover, you can’t miss the chance to get outside and enjoy the fresh air. Here are some of the strongest outdoor activities to try in the area.

Dover International Speedway

If you’re a NASCAR fan, you’ll love the Dover International Speedway. This one-mile track hosts two NASCAR races each year, and it’s a strong place to catch some high-speed action. You can also take a tour of the track and see what it’s like from the driver’s perspective.

Pickering Beach

For a more relaxing outdoor experience, head to Pickering Beach. This quiet beach is a strong spot for fishing, birdwatching, and just enjoying the scenery. Pack a picnic and spend the day soaking up the sun and surf.

Jonathan’s Landing Golf Course

If you’re looking for a fun and challenging round of golf, check out Jonathan’s Landing Golf Course. This 18-hole course is known for its scenic views and tricky water hazards. And if you’re not quite ready for a full round, you can always hit the driving range and work on your swing.

No matter what kind of outdoor fun you’re looking for, Dover covers everyone. So grab your sunscreen and get ready to enjoy the great outdoors.

The Air Mobility Command Museum costs you nothing at all to get into. And the Biggs Museum of American Art only asks for a donation instead. And Legislative Hall is open to the public and that costs nothing either. And the Delaware Public Archives will not charge you a thing to look. So most of a day out here can cost you only the parking.

Shopping and Dining

When it comes to shopping and dining in Dover, Delaware, you won’t be disappointed. From the quirky Spence’s Bazaar, which is like nothing else, to the varied restaurant scene, everyone is covered. And don’t forget to wash it all down with a cold brew from Fordham Brewing Co.

Spence’s Bazaar

Looking for a shopping experience like nowhere else? Spence’s Bazaar is the answer. This indoor flea market has finds all their own piled up, from vintage clothing to handmade crafts. You never know what kind of thing you’ll uncover at Spence’s Bazaar that everyone else walked straight past. Plus, the people-watching is first-rate.

Dover’s Restaurant Scene

Dover’s restaurant scene is not to be missed. In the mood for classic American cuisine or international flavors, you’ll find it here. Some local favorites include Restaurant 55, where you can indulge in hand-cut fries and craft beers, and Cool Springs Fish Bar & Restaurant, where you can savor fresh seafood dishes like swordfish and scallops.

Fordham Brewing Co

After a long day of shopping and dining, you’ll need a cold drink to see you through. Head over to Fordham Brewing Co, where you can sample a variety of delicious brews. Be sure to check out their beer menu, which includes everything from IPAs to stouts. And if you’re lucky, you might even get a tour of the brewery. Cheers.

Festivals and Events

Looking for a good time in Dover, Delaware? The festivals and events that take place throughout the year are the answer. From live entertainment to high-speed NASCAR races, something is always going on in this lively city.

Firefly Music Festival

If you’re a music lover, you won’t want to miss the Firefly Music Festival. This annual event brings in acts and people from all over the world and musical spectrum. With multiple stages and a varied lineup, you’re sure to find something that gets your feet moving and your head bobbing. Plus, with food vendors, art installations and other activities, there’s plenty to keep you busy between sets.

NASCAR Events at Dover Speedway

For those who prefer their entertainment with a bit more speed, there’s nothing quite like a NASCAR race at Dover Speedway. With high-octane action and heart-pumping excitement, these events are worth the trip for any racing fan. And with multiple events throughout the year, including the NASCAR Cup Series and Xfinity Series, there’s always a reason to head to the track.

So a music lover or a racing fan, there is plenty of fun to be had at the festivals and events in Dover, Delaware. So grab your friends, pack your bags, and get ready for a good time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the most unique thing to do in Dover, Delaware?

Well, we’re glad you asked. The thing to do in Dover that is most fully its own is to visit the Air Mobility Command Museum. Where else can you see historic aircraft like the C-47 Skytrain or the C-141 Starlifter up close and personal? Plus, it’s free. So, you can save your money for other fun activities in Dover.

What are the top places to eat in Dover, Delaware?

Ah, food, the most important part of any trip. If you’re looking for some good eats in Dover, try out 33 West Ale House & Grill for some delicious burgers and craft beer. Or, if you’re in the mood for some seafood, check out the Blue Coat Inn for their famous crab cakes. And don’t forget to stop by the Amish Country Store for some homemade treats and goodies.

What are some fun facts about Dover, Delaware that I need to know?

Did you know that Dover is the capital of Delaware? And, it’s also home to the Dover International Speedway, where NASCAR races are held twice a year. Plus, Delaware is the only state in the US that doesn’t have a National Park. But, it does have the Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge, which is a strong place to see some wildlife all its own.

What interesting things can I find in Delaware besides tax-free shopping?

While tax-free shopping is definitely a perk of visiting Delaware, there are plenty of other absorbing things to see and do. For example, you can visit the Nemours Estate, which was built by Alfred I. du Pont in the early 1900s and features wide gardens and handsome architecture. Or, you can take a trip to the Delaware Art Museum to see some serious works of art. And, of course, you can’t forget about the beaches, because Delaware has some of the strongest beaches on the East Coast.

Frequently asked questions about Dover, Delaware

Which museum here tells the Victor Talking Machine story?

That is the Johnson Victrola Museum. The company was founded in 1901 and became one of the more successful record companies anywhere in the world, which is exactly why the museum exists at all. And the Biggs Museum of American Art is the other big one. And that one was named directly after the collector who founded it. So both of those sit inside the same few downtown streets around here.

Which park here is the one protecting the historic sites?

First State Heritage Park does. It is a sprawling urban park that covers a good many of Dover’s historic sites, and its own Welcome Center holds the artifacts, the exhibits and the artworks. The Old State House from 1791 sits right inside that footprint. And the Golden Fleece Tavern from 1730 is older again still. So walk the whole lot rather than driving between any of them.

Which beach here is the quiet one for birdwatching?

That would be Pickering Beach. It is a quiet beach that suits fishing, birdwatching and a packed picnic, which is a very different proposition to a race weekend over at the Speedway. The Speedway is then a one-mile track with its two races yearly. And Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge then takes the birds as well. So check the race calendar before you go booking the quiet day.

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