Things To Do
in Dover
Dover, the capital of Delaware, sits along the St. Jones River and blends government history with a compact, walkable downtown. The city offers a mix of 18th-century architecture, museums, and family-friendly attractions within a short drive of Maryland and the Delaware coast. Outdoor spaces, riverfront parks, and the nearby coastal towns make Dover a convenient hub for day trips.
Seasonal events and a growing culinary scene give visitors a sense of both heritage and modern Delaware.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic downtown area of Dover, where you can stroll past charming colonial architecture and quaint shops. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and coffee while soaking in the atmosphere. After breakfast, take a guided walking tour to learn about the city's rich colonial history and its significance in American independence.
In the afternoon, head over to the Delaware State Museum, where you can explore various exhibits that showcase the state's history and culture. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant featuring farm-to-table dishes, allowing you to taste the local flavors. Spend the rest of the afternoon visiting the picturesque Silver Lake Park, where you can walk the trails or relax by the water.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant overlooking the river, indulging in fresh seafood caught from local waters. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the riverwalk, where you can enjoy live music and vibrant local art displays. Conclude your evening with a nightcap at a cozy bar, soaking in the warm atmosphere of Dover's nightlife.
Begin your day early with a visit to the Dover Green, a beautiful public park that is perfect for a morning walk or jog. After enjoying the fresh air, grab breakfast at a local diner, where you can treat yourself to a classic American breakfast. Spend some time exploring the surrounding area, taking in the sights and sounds of nature.
In the afternoon, head to the nearby Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge, where you can hike along scenic trails and observe various species of birds and wildlife. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the serene surroundings, taking a break to appreciate the beauty of nature. Continue your exploration by visiting the refuge's observation tower for breathtaking views of the wetlands.
As evening approaches, return to Dover and unwind at a local brewery, sampling craft beers and enjoying a relaxed atmosphere. Afterward, choose a cozy restaurant for dinner, perhaps trying some local specialties like crab cakes or clam chowder. Finish the night with a leisurely stroll back to your accommodation under the starry sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $3-6 |
| 🚌Local public transit (1-way fare) | $1-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $100-180 |
| 🎟️Movie or event ticket | $10-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact and walkable downtown
- Rich history and government heritage
- Easy day trips to beaches and nature
- Casino entertainment nearby
- Smaller nightlife compared to big cities
- Some attractions require driving to reach
- Limited high-end dining options in the immediate area
Places to Visit in Dover
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic green domed capitol with classic neoclassical architecture, best photographed from the surrounding lawn.
Historic 18th century building with a red-brick exterior and stately interior tours.
Picturesque public square with seasonal landscaping and viewlines to government buildings.
Exhibits and aircraft on outdoor display offer dramatic aviation photography against the tarmac.
Elegant building with a courtyard and sculpture garden for architectural and art photography.
Food in Dover
Dover Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Pan-seared crab cakes made with blue crab and light breadcrumbs, served with a citrusy remoulade.
Must-Try!
Seasonal sandwich featuring a crispy soft-shell crab with lettuce and tomato.
A Delaware comfort classic: crisp slices of seasoned pork scrapple served with eggs.
Local white fish sandwich with tartar sauce and fresh toppings.
A regional dessert made from persimmon puree, often served with cream.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market with locally grown produce, baked goods, and prepared foods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly greeting and a please/thank you go a long way. Keep conversations courteous and avoid loud behavior in quiet spaces.
Respect lines and personal space in shops and markets; wait your turn.
Safety
Tipping in Dover
Ensure a smooth experience
A standard 15% to 20% tip in restaurants and bars for good service. Some venues add a service charge for larger groups.
Credit cards and mobile payments are widely accepted; cash is always an option for smaller places.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon thunderstorms; pack sunscreen, stay hydrated, and plan outdoor visits for mornings or evenings.
Mild temperatures with colorful foliage; ideal for walking tours and outdoor dining.
Cool to cold with a chance of snow; indoor activities and museums are great options.
Mild and blossoming; showers are common, so bring a light rain jacket.
Dover at Night
Hiking in Dover
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal multi-use trail offering marsh and forest scenery, about 25-30 miles from Dover.
Historical park with short nature walks and interpretive trails around the Dover area.
Airports
How to reach Dover by plane.
Located about 70-75 miles southwest of Dover; provides regional flights and connections.
Major international hub about 90 minutes northeast; many domestic and international flights.
Major hub about 1.5-2 hours south-southeast; frequent flights.
Small regional airport near Wilmington, around 30-40 minutes northeast; limited domestic service.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live in and visit Dover; family-friendly activities are common.
Residents commute to nearby cities for work; a proportion of residents are professionals in government and services.
Dover attracts retirees drawn to its slower pace and cultural amenities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Auto racing has a strong following; the track hosts events and draws visitors year-round.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Dover.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Dover restaurants offer vegetarian options; look for salads, veggie burgers, pastas, and seafood dishes. Ask about ingredients and substitutions; many menus feature seasonal veggie dishes.