Dover, Delaware, is a city with a fascinating history that dates back to the 17th century.
It's one of the oldest cities in America and ranks highly in our book of top travel destinations
in the country – especially if you're someone that's as obsessed with the history of this
great nation as we are.
As the second biggest city in the US state of Delaware, Dover has a lot going for it.
If you're a racing fan, then you'll be pleased to catch a NASCAR or horse racing event in
this city as these two sports are well represented here.
Perhaps cars and equine aren't necessarily your thing. That's okay because If you're
a gaming fan, a ton of casinos and events in that category can be found here as well,
But even if you're just a pretty standard tourist and want to see some of the best attractions
that Dover has to offer, you've got plenty of options to work with here.
There's always something to do, see, or experience when visiting Dover. A trip to a museum will
expand your mind and broaden your horizons. A quick visit to a gift shop or art gallery
will give you something to bring back home with you to remember your vacation, and if
you're a foodie, there is no shortage of world-class cuisine awaiting you in this culinary haven.
Whatever sort of vacation you are hoping to have, you'll find it in Dover, Delaware.
Join us as we take a tour of some of the best sights and destinations that Dover has on
offer. After watching this video, we can almost guarantee you that you'll be checking out
flight prices and hunting for the best accommodation packages.
First State Heritage Park
This park is bursting with history. Some of the most historically significant and world-famous
sites in Dover can be found here, including the Johnson Victrola Museum, John Belle House,
Old State House, and many more fantastic places worth visiting. If you're looking for a good
starting point to begin your journey in Dover, there is no better place to get your bearings
than here.
The Air Mobility Command Museum
We've come a long way since the Wright Brothers made their first historic flight at Kitty
Hawk, North Carolina, more than a century ago. It wasn't all that surprising how their
groundbreaking invention was almost immediately adapted to serve a military purpose. At this
museum, you can get an up-close and personal glimpse of some of the most fear-inspiring
aircraft in the history of 20th and 21st-century warfare. You'll get to witness the glory of
aircraft bombers and fighter jets in a way that you never expected possible.
This fantastic museum showcases the most extensive collection of US military cargo planes and
tankers in the nation. The heavy Bomber A-26C is one of their crown jewels, but this place
is jam-packed full of some of the most impressive aircraft ever assembled.
Where else can you see attack planes and jet fighters under the same roof? This museum's
collection of rare and historically significant aircraft deserves at least a few hours of
your time, so be sure to allot a considerable chunk of your day to really get the full experience.
Not to get too derailed, but if you're enjoying this video so far, do us a favor and give
it a like and subscribe to the Viewcation channel. And don't go anywhere just yet. We've
still got several must-visit Dover-area attractions and destinations to discuss that you absolutely
must know about.
Johnson Victrola Museum
As one of the most visited and highly acclaimed museums in the country, the Johnson Victrola
Museum, named after the late-great E.R. Johnson, has a phenomenal collection of “talking
machines” that date back to the earliest days of audio engineering.
There are phonographs bearing the world-famous Victrola name that hails back to the 1800s.
A trip here will offer you a cultural experience that will enlighten you about the genesis
and evolution of audio recording and reproduction that will undoubtedly leave you feeling grateful
that humanity took this monumental technological leap. We wouldn't have the high-fidelity audio
mediums that we have today if trailblazers like E.R. Johnson didn't first work so hard
to take these first initial steps into the world of audio technological development.
Dover Downs Casino
Are you feeling lucky? If so, consider spending an even playing slots and table games at one
of Dover's premier casinos is an experience that you shouldn't miss. While you can also
have a full-fledged vacation stay here as there is lodging available and plenty of other
entertainment and relaxation options for you to choose from, a brief visit will also give
you plenty to write home about.
Dover Downs Casino is also impressive from an architectural standpoint, as both its exterior
and interior are marvels of modern design and ingenuity.
After working up an appetite doubling down on red and pulling that old familiar slot
machine lever, you can also enjoy a premium meal at one of the Casino's various restaurants.
Dover International Speedway
Get your motors running because at this 135,000 seat racetrack you'll experience an unparalleled
racing experience like none other. Built back in 1969, this internationally revered race
track is one of the most visited tourist destinations in the entire country. Part of its draw is
its enormous mascot endearingly dubbed 'Monster Mile'.
NASCAR, the sport with the second largest fan base is prominently featured here. And
in recent years, the speedway has undergone extensive revitalization and expansion efforts
that have been called a 'Monster Make Over”.
John Dickinson Plantation
Named after American politician and lawyer, John Dickinson, this plantation is open to
the public and is one of the most architecturally unique houses in its neighborhood. It features
a large collection of galleries and exhibits. A few of its most noteworthy collections include
its showcasing of Deleware-made Spirits and Wines, which gives viewers a behind-the-scenes
look at how they are produced and preserved. You'll also get a history lesson of the struggles
and heartbreak of American slave Emeline Hawkins which will no doubt leave you with a lot to
think about.
Legislative Hall
This brilliant example of neocolonial architecture is where Dover's legislative branch of government
were housed. It's a sight worth seeing, even if you have little interest in the history
of local government. It's also a museum that gives the public a chance to see what the
building itself holds while displaying portraits painted by renowned artist Thomas Sully and
other influential creative minds of his time. If you want to see where Dover's former courtrooms
and the house of legislature were held, don't pass on this excellent pit stop.
Delaware Agricultural Museum and Village
Here you will find a variety of exhibits that will give you an educational look at the history
and modern implementation of agriculture in the state of Delaware. While seeing a collection
of old rain barrels might not sound that thrilling, it's actually fairly fascinating to see all
the steps involved in bringing food from seed to table. You'll get to see the various technological
advancements that Delaware pioneers have made when it comes to farming machinery and tools
as well as how the agricultural railroad played a part in feeding the local residents in times
past.
Biggs Museum Of Art
Founded in 1993, the Sewell C. Biggs Museum of American Art Museum displays one of the
most extensive collections of American decorative and fine art in the state. The museum features
an ever-changing line-up of exhibits that rotate throughout the year, so it's always
best to check their website before planning your visit to know what you are in store for.
Intimate galleries offer visitors an unexpectedly personal experience with the art pieces on
display. The museum also proudly supports public art education while offering various
programs aimed at both children and adults to develop and refine their art skills.
Grab A Bite To Eat
Dover is a town that knows how to eat. If you're looking to get a taste of the local
flavor, there are more than a few mouth-watering options that await you. Cool Springs Fish
Bar & Restaurant on State St. serves up a wide array of surf and turf options, including
their signature crab imperial.
Restaurant 55, which is just a few doors down, is the perfect family-friendly spot to grab
a burger and fries. And if you're looking to sink your teeth into one of the finest
slices of pizza on the Eastern seaboard, check out Piazza Mia on South Red Haven Lane.
Firefly Music Festival
Music lovers rejoice! This four-day music festival which will be held in September in
2022 has been featuring big-name and emerging live acts since its inception back in 2012.
Every year, over 100 bands and musical artists perform at the event across seven stages.
The line-up features just about every genre of music you can think of, from funky jam
bands to indie rock and even EDM. It's held at the Dover International Speedway, meaning
you don't have to be a motorsports fan to get a chance to check out what this location
is all about. The expansive grounds include a marketplace, several dispersed camping areas,
restaurants and a multitude of bars to get your drink on.
Spence's Bazaar
If you are a fan of colossal flea markets with a combination of outdoor and indoor vendors,
this is the perfect place for you to stop and search for an antique or unique souvenir.
The market features an excellent selection of Amish goods, clothing items, collectibles
and memorabilia and furniture. There are also stalls that sell locally grown fruits and
vegetables and other food items. We recommend arriving early in the day, as it can get a
bit congested during peak hours, but if you're looking for a unique shopping experience,
this is it!
That wraps up our rundown of the best attractions in Dover, Deleware. Did we miss anything that
you think deserves a shout-out? If so, let us know in the comments.
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