Dover is a dynamic city known for historic architecture, craft breweries and acclaimed music festivals. Its tree-lined streets reveal boutique shops, artisan cafes and farm-to-table restaurants. There are also a handful of historic sites and museums, as well as a top NASCAR speedway.
Things to do in Dover
Built in 1791, the Old State House once served as Delaware's state capitol building. Today it features a well-curated museum exploring the history, politics and geography of the First State. It also showcases a fantastic art collection, including a portrait of George Washington.
Continue the history lesson at First State Heritage Park, where you'll find 19 unique historic sites and a handful of art galleries. Don't miss the Biggs Museum of American Art, which showcases colonial portraits and contemporary Impressionism. Nearby is the clapboard John Bell House, which now serves as an interpretive visitor centre.
While the iconic Dover Air Force Base isn't open to the public, you can tour the nearby Air Mobility Command Museum. It houses more than 30 meticulously restored vintage planes, including Lockheed C-130 Hercules, Vietnam War–era C-7 Caribous and a WWII Fairchild C-119 Flying Boxcar.
Dover boasts a creative food scene, with everything from artisan coffee to gourmet burgers on offer. Housed in a historic 1850s building, Governor's Café is a coffee shop by day and wine bar by night. On summer nights, the outdoor patio at Golden Fleece Tavern is filled with locals enjoying gourmet fare.
Getting around Dover
Downtown Dover is easy to get around on foot, while the city is well-serviced by local buses and taxis. Rental cars are best for exploring Delaware. Dover is a 1.5-hour drive from Philadelphia.