Dover, the capital of Delaware, offers a rich tapestry of experiences for visitors and residents alike. This charming city has something for everyone, from historical landmarks to modern attractions. Explore 35 exciting activities showcasing Dover’s best festivals, food, and more.

Visit the Air Mobility Command Museum. Aviation enthusiasts will love this museum. It houses a vast collection of vintage aircraft and offers interactive exhibits. Climb aboard a real C-47 transport plane or try your hand at a flight simulator.
Explore the First State Heritage Park. Step back at this urban park, which connects historical and cultural sites in downtown Dover. The park offers guided tours and reenactments that bring Delaware’s history to life.
Attend the Firefly Music Festival. Music lovers flock to Dover for this annual event. The Firefly Music Festival attracts big-name artists and up-and-coming performers. Dance the night away under the stars in the Woodlands of Dover International Speedway.
Tour the John Dickinson Plantation. Visit the boyhood home of John Dickinson, known as the “Penman of the Revolution.” The plantation offers guided tours and insights into 18th-century life in Delaware.
Enjoy a race at Dover International Speedway. Feel the thrill of NASCAR at the “Monster Mile.” Dover International Speedway hosts exciting races throughout the year. The roar of engines and cheering crowds creates an unforgettable atmosphere.

Stroll through Silver Lake Park, a picturesque park offering a peaceful retreat. Walk the trails, picnic, or fish in the lake. It’s a perfect spot for nature lovers and families.
Visit the Biggs Museum of American Art. Art enthusiasts shouldn’t miss this gem. The Biggs Museum houses an impressive collection of American fine and decorative arts, from paintings to furniture. It offers a comprehensive look at American artistic heritage.
Explore the Delaware Agricultural Museum and Village. Step into rural life at this unique museum. It features a recreated 1890s village and exhibits farming history. Learn about Delaware’s agricultural heritage through interactive displays.
Attend the Dover Days Festival. This annual event celebrates Dover’s history and culture. It features parades, historical reenactments, and local food vendors. It’s a fun-filled weekend for the whole family.
Shop at the Dover Mall. Indulge in retail therapy at Dover’s largest shopping center. The Dover Mall offers a wide range of stores and dining options. It’s perfect for a rainy day or some air-conditioned comfort.
Visit the Old State House, Delaware’s first state capitol building. The Old State House offers guided tours and exhibits on the state’s political history. Its Georgian architecture is a testament to colonial craftsmanship.
Enjoy a show at the Schwartz Center for the Arts. Catch a live performance at this historic theater. The Schwartz Center hosts concerts, plays, and other cultural events. Its intimate setting provides a unique entertainment experience.

Explore the Johnson Victrola Museum. Music history comes alive at this unique museum. Learn about the development of sound recording technology. See a vast collection of phonographs and Victor Talking Machines.
Dine at Restaurant 55. This popular eatery offers gourmet burgers and craft beers. It provides a modern twist on classic American cuisine, and the extensive beer selection pairs perfectly with the innovative burgers.
Visit the Delaware State Police Museum to Learn About the history of law enforcement in Delaware. The museum features exhibits on police equipment, vehicles, and notable cases, illuminating how policing has evolved.

Attend the African American Festival. This annual event celebrates African American culture with music, dance, food, and crafts. It’s a vibrant celebration of diversity and heritage.
Explore the Delaware Public Archives. History buffs will love delving into Delaware’s past—the archives house documents dating back to the 17th century. Researchers and curious visitors alike can explore the state’s rich history.
Visit Delaware State University. Tour the campus of this historically black university. Delaware State University offers beautiful grounds and exciting architecture. Check out their events calendar for public lectures and performances.
Enjoy a meal at Cool Springs Fish Bar & Restaurant. Savor fresh seafood at this local favorite. Cool Springs offers a wide range of seafood dishes in a casual setting. Their crab cakes are a must-try Delaware delicacy.
Attend the Amish Country Bike Tour. Cycle through picturesque Amish country. This annual event offers routes of varying lengths. Enjoy the beautiful countryside and sample local Amish cuisine at rest stops.
Visit the Delaware State Capitol Building. Tour the seat of Delaware’s government. The Capitol Building offers free guided tours. Learn about the state’s legislative process and admire the building’s architecture.

Explore the Dover Green Historic District, one of the nation’s best-preserved historic districts. The Dover Green features buildings dating back to the 18th century. It’s a photographer’s dream and a history lover’s paradise.
Attend the Delaware Wine and Beer Festival and sample local wines and craft beers at this annual event. The festival features Delaware’s best wineries and breweries. Enjoy live music and food pairings as you sip and savor.
Visit Woodburn: The Governor’s House Tour, the official residence of Delaware’s governor. Woodburn is open for public tours by appointment. Admire its Federal-style architecture and learn about its history.
Enjoy a performance by the Dover Symphony Orchestra. Experience classical music in an intimate setting. The Dover Symphony Orchestra performs several concerts throughout the year. It’s a cultural treat for music lovers.

Explore the St. Jones Reserve. Nature enthusiasts will love this coastal reserve, which offers hiking trails and birdwatching opportunities. Through interactive exhibits, you can learn about Delaware’s coastal ecosystems.
Visit the Delaware National Estuarine Research Reserve to discover Delaware’s unique coastal environment. The reserve offers educational programs and guided walks and is a great place to learn about coastal conservation.
Attend the Dover Comic Con. Embrace your inner geek at this annual event. Dover Comic Con features cosplay contests, artist alleys, and panel discussions. It’s a fun-filled day for comic book fans and pop culture enthusiasts.
Explore the Delaware State Museums. Visit a collection of museums showcasing Delaware’s history. These include the John Dickinson Plantation and the Old State House. Each offers unique insights into different aspects of Delaware’s past.

Enjoy a meal at Restaurant 55. Savor gourmet burgers and craft beers at this popular eatery, which offers a modern twist on classic American cuisine. Their extensive beer selection pairs perfectly with their innovative burgers.
Attend the Dover Pride Festival. This annual event celebrates diversity and inclusion. It features music, food, and community activities. It’s a colorful celebration of the LGBTQ+ community.
Visit the Delaware State Fair. Experience a classic American fair near Harrington. The Delaware State Fair offers rides, games, livestock shows, and concerts. It’s a summer tradition not to be missed.
Explore the Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge. Nature lovers will appreciate this coastal wilderness, which offers driving tours and walking trails. It’s a paradise for birdwatchers and wildlife photographers.
Attend the Dover Days Festival. This annual event celebrates Dover’s history and culture. It features parades, historical reenactments, and local food vendors. It’s a fun-filled weekend for the whole family.
Visit the Delaware Sports Museum and Hall of Fame. Sports fans will enjoy this tribute to Delaware’s athletes. The museum showcases memorabilia and interactive exhibits. Learn about the state’s rich sporting history and its notable athletes.

Conclusion

Dover, Delaware, offers a diverse array of activities that cater to all interests. From its rich historical heritage showcased in museums and historic sites to its vibrant cultural scene with festivals and performances, there’s always something happening in this capital city.

Nature lovers can explore parks and reserves, while food enthusiasts can savor local delicacies and craft beers. The city’s festivals, like the Firefly Music Festival and Dover Days Festival, unite the community and attract visitors from far and wide.

These events showcase Dover’s ability to blend its historical roots with contemporary culture, creating unique experiences for all who attend. Dover’s proximity to natural attractions like the St. Jones Reserve and Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge allows visitors to easily escape into nature.

These areas offer opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and simply enjoying the beauty of Delaware’s coastal ecosystems. Dover offers unparalleled access to important sites for those interested in history and politics. The Old State House, Delaware State Capitol, and various museums provide insights into the state’s role in shaping American history.

While perhaps not as renowned as some larger cities, Dover’s food scene offers many delicious options. From fresh seafood to gourmet burgers, Dover’s restaurants taste Delaware’s culinary heritage with a modern twist.