Dover

The capital of Delaware, U.S.A.’s first state, offers plenty to see and do: a rich American heritage, relaxing lakeside space, local wines and craft beer. Dover was established as a court town for Kent County in 1683 and is home to a range of historical landmarks. Follow the Delaware History Trail, with 36 sites of the small state’s pioneering past, grand estates and museums.

Go back in time to a 19-century village at the Delaware Agricultural Museum and Village, which is open from Tuesdays through Saturdays. Learn how the Delaware farming community has put food on the table for generations with the museum’s informative tours and programs. Visit the First State Heritage Park to see historic estates such as the Old State House, Delaware Legislative Hall and the antique wooden John Bell House. The First State Heritage Park Welcome Center and Galleries are open seven days a week.

Discover Delaware’s acclaimed wineries and breweries on the Wine and Ale Trail, starting at the Wilmington riverfront and continuing to the Atlantic Ocean. Explore Dover’s secluded Silver Lake, the source of the St. Jones River, and its surrounding park. Pack a picnic lunch to grill on the provided barbeques. Walk around the park’s paths and watch ducks peacefully paddling on the water.

Watch and listen to the roaring engines of the twice-annual NASCAR races at Dover International Speedway. Travel around Dover with the cheap and convenient Dart Bus system or your personal or rental car.

Just 85 miles (136 kilometers) from Philadelphia and 65 miles (104 kilometers) from Annapolis, Dover is easy to get to. Catch an Amtrak train to Wilmington or a flight to New Castle Airport, both approximately an hour’s drive north from Dover. Summers in Dover are hot and humid, and winters are relatively mild. Despite very light snow conditions, low temperatures and rain can continue into spring, so pack appropriate warm clothing.

Visit Dover for an interesting glimpse into the nation’s past and a thoroughly modern culture.