Are you wondering about all the things to do in Dover Delaware and Kent County?
You’re in the right place!
Dover is the state capital of Delaware and is part of Kent County which sits in the middle of the state. Delaware may be our second smallest state but it’s got a lot to explore packed within its boundaries.
So, this guide will highlight the best Dover attractions, as well as more broadly Kent County Delaware activities, to help you plan your visit to Dover and the rest of the collection of towns known as Delaware’s quaint villages.
Where is Dover, Delaware and Kent County?
To start, let’s get oriented. When you’re small in size geographically, it’s easy to be overlooked, so to speak. Dover, the state capital of Delaware, is in the heart of Kent County and is only 3 hours south of New York City.
Kent County is located in the middle of Delaware and is home to Delaware’s Quaint Villages which includes towns like Dover, Smyrna, Bowers Beach, Harrington, Camden, and Milford.
East Coast road trippers especially like to include New York City, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C. on their itinerary not realizing the hidden gems they’re passing by in Delaware. For reference, Dover is only 90 minutes south of Philadelphia and just 2 hours to the east of Washington D.C.
And if you’re also hoping to see the estates, gardens, and scenic byways in Wilmington Delaware, they’re all just an hour or so away from Dover.
As the first State to ratify the Constitution, Delaware is proud of its historical significance and loves welcoming visitors who want to stand in the footsteps of our colonial roots. Beyond that, there are museums, natural beauty, beautiful coasts, and plenty of entertainment options to discover.
So, when you’re eyeing the map and planning out a getaway to some of the country’s biggest cities, consider spending a few days getting to know one of the country’s smallest states.
Things to Do in Dover Delaware and Kent County
Dover stands as Delaware’s capital city and is now the state’s second-largest city. Notably, it’s home to historical buildings that witnessed the birth of the USA itself.
But Dover offers more than historic sites – it’s also a vibrant hub of culture and modern attractions. You can experience the adrenaline rush of NASCAR races at Dover Motor Speedway or enjoy a night at the casino at Dover Downs. Read on to learn more about the top things to do in Dover, DE!
1. Channel Your Inner Pilot at the Air Mobility Command Museum.
Located at Dover Air Force Base (Dover AFB), the Air Mobility Command Museum has more than 30 types of aircraft that have served a range of purposes throughout history.
But before you think this museum is just for aviation and history buffs, consider how powerful it is to be up close (and even possibly inside) these massive military cargo planes! It was amazing to sit in a fully restored C-47A Skytrain used to transport the paratroopers into Normandy and drop them behind German lines for D-Day to see a VC-9C aircraft that served as Air Force Two for over 3 decades.
Maybe it’s just the teacher in me, but when you’re actually sitting inside a D-Day military jet, the history comes alive more than it ever could by just reading it in the pages of a book! Plus, there’s a flight simulator where you can even try to “fly” one of the planes at the museum.
Even better, the museum entry is free and offers veteran-led tours through the museum where you can hear first-hand accounts of how these planes have been flown and used. Not to mention, the informative displays detailed key information about the time periods and the planes throughout the museum.
If you visit on the 3rd Saturday of every month between April and October, many of the museum’s aircraft are open to the public to walk through with guides.
But, no matter when you visit, I’m sure you’ll agree this is one of the best Delaware museums!
2. Go Back to Colonial Times in Historic Dover.
Delaware was the first state to ratify the Constitution and with that comes great patriotic pride! There are a lot of things to do in Dover where you can go back in history and learn more about what life was like at the start of the United States and even before when William Penn helped shape Delaware. More details on where and what are below.
The historic downtown area itself is a compact set of pedestrian-friendly blocks surrounding First State Heritage Park. The small streets are lined with preserved period homes and historic buildings, with the oldest being the John Bell House dating back to the mid-18th century.
The Delaware Archives building houses a Welcome Center where you can get more information about the historic area and any events happening during the time of your visit.
3. Uncover History at the Delaware Public Archives.
This is the perfect spot to begin your exploration of historic Dover.
Aside from the Welcome Center, the archives are a historical treasure with exhibitions, research collections, computers for ancestry research, and Saturday morning programs where an expert from the archives talks about specific historic time periods in American history and cultural topics about Delaware and beyond.
When I visited, the archives had an interesting WW1 Trench Art Exhibit, which I’d honestly never heard of! Pieces of art are made from military equipment that’s been thrown away, sometimes by soldiers in the military themselves.
4. Learn Dover Delaware History on a Tour in First State Heritage Park.
Throughout the year, free guided tours through Dover’s historic district begin at the John Bell House.
If you want an immersive Dover historic Green experience, you can take a walking tour with historical interpreters. The tours are led by historical interpreters who are dressed in colonial clothes. Combine this with the compact, but well-preserved, historic district as a backdrop, and you’ll be transported back to the very start of the United States.
The themed walking tours last for about an hour and depart every hour between 10 am- 3 pm, Wednesday-Saturday. The area is a true historic center, perfect for walking. Touring around, I couldn’t help but think that I was bound to bump into one of the Founding Fathers at any turn!
5. Tour the Old State House in Dover Delaware.
This building dates back to 1791 and to the earliest days of the United States itself!
The Old State House originally was the home of Delaware’s state capitol and a courtroom on the main level. As you explore historic Dover and understand Delaware’s pride in being the first State to join the Union, you realize how important this building was and the many decisions and events that took place inside its walls that affected Delaware and the daily life of the new State’s citizens.
Today, the Old State House is open daily. It’s free and open to the public. Historically dressed guides wait inside to tour visitors through the building and share their passion for this piece of Delaware and Colonial history.
6. Visit Delaware’s Legislative Hall.
One of the can’t-miss destinations in Delaware is the Legislative Hall, located in the historical district of downtown along Legislative Avenue and across from the Old State House. As someone passionate about history and curious about Delaware’s rich history, I made the time to visit.
The Delaware Legislative Hall is the state capitol building of Delaware. This iconic structure serves as the hub for the legislative activities of the Delaware General Assembly, housing its chambers and offices. It’s a symbol of the state’s rich history and democratic heritage.
Legislative Hall is built in a colonial style and connected by a grand center staircase. The first floor leads to the chamber and offices which you can explore if you want an up-close view of the place. We went to the second floor for an overlooking view of the chambers and offices.
You can also get around with the help of a guide if you decide to go on a tour. Keep your eyes peeled for portraits of famous Delawareans and snapshots of historic moments in Delaware. It’s like walking through a history book!
Best of all, admission is totally free, and you can roam around at your own pace with a self-guided tour. The only downside? The Legislative Hall is only open on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., so plan your visit on a weekday.
7. Tour the Historic Grounds of John Dickinson Plantation.
Along our drive in Dover, we saw a historic site sign on the road and decided to follow it to this plantation. In total honesty, I hadn’t done a lot of research on this NATIONAL HISTORIC LANDMARK beforehand and didn’t know if we’d have time to visit. I’m so glad we didn’t miss it!
This place is where John Dickinson, known as the Penman of the Revolution because of the things he wrote about liberty and freedom, spent much of his life. You’ll learn all about his work and accomplishments, especially his role in emancipating people in the African American community, including those who were once “owned” by his father.
The visit starts at the John Dickinson Visitor Center where you can watch a short film about the plantation, get your passport stamped, and meet your tour guide. Then, they’ll take you around Poplar Hall and share stories about the place. The mansion features well-preserved household items from the original settlers and it remains an active plantation.
They’re open Tuesday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with guided tours of the mansion at specific times. It’s free to enter, but donations are appreciated to help preserve this historic spot.
8. Discover the Johnson Victrola Museum.
Have you ever visited a small, niche museum, not sure at all what to expect only to stumble upon a hidden gem? Of all the things to do in Dover, the Johnson Victrola Museum is one of the most unique museums in the state of Delaware. If you listen to and/or love music, this museum is for you!
Visitors are treated to a guided tour all about the history of recorded sound.
When I visited, the expert tour guide shared his knowledge, as well as a few jokes, all while playing music on phonographs from the earliest models up through their evolution. What made the visit truly magical was the opportunity to listen to music on these vintage phonographs. The visit was interactive, interesting, and of all the museums in Dover, a true standout from my visit.
The Johnson Victrola Museum is free to visit and is just a short walk from Dover’s historic square.
9. Watch Live NASCAR in Delaware at Dover International Speedway.
I fully admit I’m much more of a history buff than an avid NASCAR fan. However, no list of things to do in Dover Delaware would be complete without spotlighting Dover International Speedway. It’s one of the most popular things to do in Dover for visitors coming to this part of Delaware, and it’s perfect if you want to experience an adrenaline-pumping adventure.
The Dover Delaware Monster mile NASCAR track hosts race weekends, events like the Firefly Music Festival, and even experiences that allow you to drive a car on the track.
From where I was in the stands, the views up high seemed to give the best vantage point. And if you’re staying at the Dover Downs Hotel & Casino, you just might get lucky and land a room with racetrack views. (Just imagine waking up to the sight of the Monster Mile from your hotel room window!)
10. See Local Art Pieces at the Biggs Museum of American Art.
If you’re an art enthusiast, the Biggs Museum of American Art is a must-visit. It’s named in honor of Sewell C. Biggs, a prominent local art collector. The museum houses an array of American paintings, decorative art, antique furniture by early American artisans, and one of the most impressive collections of silver in the nation.
Beyond its impressive permanent collection, the Biggs Museum continually refreshes its offerings with a lineup of changing exhibits. Be sure to check their website and plan your visit to a showcase that piques your interest.
We spent time admiring the permanent collection and, admittedly, I was amazed by the intimate selection of pieces created by Delaware’s talented artists. Whether you’re a seasoned art scholar or a curious traveler, the Biggs Museum is truly worth your time.
The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. every Thursday to Sunday. Check out their website to learn more about their current and upcoming exhibitions so you can plan ahead!
11. Find Fun & Entertainment at Dover Downs Hotel & Casino.
And, speaking of luck, if you’d like to give yours a test, the Dover Downs Hotel and Casino has more than enough to keep you occupied.
I’m too tight-fisted to do anything more than sweat when I see all those slot machines and poker tables. But, for those who enjoy a night or a weekend at the casino, it’s easy to see how this would be the perfect fit for fun and entertainment.
I stayed at the Dover Downs Hotel and loved how spacious the room and bathroom were. Even better, you’d never know there was a full casino in the building. The rooms were quiet and gave no hint of the nightlife happening a few floors down. A full breakfast buffet was also served at the hotel, which always makes for a great start in the morning.
12. Take a Trip Back in Time at the Delaware Governor’s Mansion.
Located in Dover, the Governor’s House, also known as Woodburn, has a special place in Delaware’s heritage. This historic mansion was built in 1798 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. As avid lovers of history, architecture, and art, our visit to this stately mansion was an absolute highlight of our Delaware travels and easily one of the best things to do in Dover.
If you’re planning a visit, tours are available only by appointment from Monday to Friday. Just remember to book at least 24 hours in advance. This means you get to explore the mansion, all while chatting with a friendly and knowledgeable guide.
Stepping into the mansion, we were immediately struck by its grandeur and rich history. As we moved from room to room, our guide led us to the Grand Hall, Dining Room, and other rooms, sharing stories and insights about the house and the families who lived there, even a few who may have never left!
In addition to exploring the mansion’s interiors, you can also wander through the beautiful gardens and appreciate the mansion from the outside.
Other Things to Do Near Dover, Delaware
Heading outside the historic city of Dover, you’ll find yourself surrounded by quaint towns nestled within Kent County. These charming communities offer a serene escape from the center of Dover, inviting you to explore the great outdoors and see more cultural sites.
13. Go Birding at Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge.
North of Dover in the town of Smyrna, the Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge protects the tidal flat and salt marsh that are important to migratory birds and other wildlife. As a result, it’s the perfect place to bird-watch and see animals like deer, foxes, and turtles.
The refuge is open year-round for visitors to drive the 12-mile route through the wetlands and/or get out to walk along one of the 5 walking trails.
A few of the trails even have towers where you can get your own bird’s-eye view of the habitat! Depending on the season, look for herons, egrets, bald eagles, geese, and terns, to name a few.
Just a heads up though, if you’re planning to go during the summer, make sure to bring bug spray.
14. Wander among Delaware’s Quaint Villages.
Kent County’s charm comes from its small towns and quaint villages you discover along the way.
The more you explore the more you find out what makes each place unique. So whether you’re having dinner at the Lemon Leaf Cafe in Smyrna or walking along the riverfront path with an ice cream cone in hand in Milford, each village has its own things to see, do, and try.
I’d be leaving something out if I didn’t share about my discovery in Milford. I had the opportunity to visit the beautiful Causey Mansion, a Bed & Breakfast just off the main road that runs through downtown.
The gardens surrounding the house are lush and purposefully wild, revealing fountains and statues as you walk. Inside, history is everywhere you look with each antique just waiting to tell its story.
It’s definitely a spot to see or even stay if you have the time.
15. Take in the Salty Sea Air in Bowers Beach.
Bowers Beach is a tiny village along Delaware Bay, about 25 minutes from Dover. As with Kent County’s other quaint villages, there are shops and a Maritime Museum telling the town’s story, which has been dictated by the bay.
You can walk along the beach or head to JPs on the Wharf for some fresh seafood. There’s a bar and a sitting area outside along the water channels that lead out into the open water. You can watch fishing boats come and go and relax as the sun sets.
If you’d like to get out onto the water, Captain’s Lady Charters offers fishing trips and even cruise charters if you’re with a larger group.
16. Go for a Farm Outing at Fifer Orchards.
When you’re done on the coast, head inland to explore Kent County’s farms and the surrounding Amish life. Fifer Orchards has been a family-run Delaware farm for 100 years! It offers everything from berry picking in the late spring and early summer months to apple picking, tractor rides, and fall festivals later in the year.
Their farm store is loaded with fresh produce and homemade goodies all from the surrounding orchards and fields. I loved the homemade peanut butter and cider doughnuts, along with the fresh strawberries and blueberries from the orchards. It’s definitely one of the best farmers markets to visit when you’re in the area.
Just watch out for horse and buggies on the road as you drive to the farm! 😉
Final Thoughts: Things to Do in Dover Delaware
Dover Delaware and Kent County with its quaint villages offer such a fantastic mix of things to do. Whether you’re a nature-lover, history buff, NASCAR fan, or just looking to explore small-town shops and museums, there are so many fun things to do in Dover and beyond!
And given Delaware’s great location, it’s seamless to include it while touring other spots along the East Coast. The only thing left to do is to plan your own visit to Dover and Kent County!
What things to do in Dover Delaware and Kent County are on your list?
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