Dover is the state capital of Delaware and is home to a number of popular attractions. The 1791 Old State House and the Biggs Museum of American Art are both part of the First State Heritage Park, a set of sites situated around a centuries-old Green. The city is also home to a NASCAR race track, the Dover International Speedway, and the Air Mobility Command Museum. You can also check out the Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge, which is located on Delaware Bay.
Dover Castle
Dover Castle is a medieval castle located in Dover, Kent, England. It is a Grade I-listed landmark and is thought to have been built in the 11th century. It has been called the “Key to England” and is one of the largest in England.
The White Cliffs of Dover are an important landmark and are best seen from the sea. You can board a pleasure boat from Dover’s port and explore the cliffs from there. You can also visit the White Cliffs Visitor Centre run by the National Trust. Parking is available at a cost, so consider this when planning your visit.
Another great place to visit in Dover is Dover Castle. It has a Great Tower that is similar to the White Tower in the Tower of London. It is 83 feet tall and has walls up to 21 feet thick. Henry II built this tower to help defend the castle, and it was completed under King John and Henry III. There are six rooms in the Great Tower that have been reconstructed as they would have been during Henry II’s time. There are also staff in the tower to help you with any questions you have.
The castle has many hidden passages, and it is home to a lighthouse and a church. The Underground Hospital is another attraction in Dover that is worth visiting. It features original hospital equipment and is an excellent place to get a fascinating history lesson.
Delaware State Museum
One of the best places to visit in Dover is the Delaware State Museum. The museum is free to visit and has a large collection of historical items. It has three floors and the architecture blends with the surrounding historic buildings. You can visit both the museum and the Air Mobility Command Museum.
There are many free things to do in Dover. Many of the museums and historic sites offer free events. For example, there are guided tours of the Woodburn and Legislative Hall that are led by historic interpreters in period attire. You can also take a lantern tour at the cemeteries around town – however, you must make reservations ahead of time. There are also annual festivals and events in Dover. The Harvest Festival celebrates fresh local produce, the annual tree-lighting ceremony includes caroling, and a festive nighttime parade starts from Loockerman Street.
Another place to visit in Dover is the Old State House, which was once the seat of government for the state. This building was built between 1787 and 1792 and showcases Georgian architecture. The building contains a collection of historic artifacts, paintings, and archives. You can learn about the history of local governance through its tours and learn from the knowledgeable guides. The museum is located on the Green in Dover.
If you’re looking for something a bit different, consider a weekend trip to Dover. There are dozens of things to do and see in this vibrant city. You can experience the history and culture of the area, or get swept up in the excitement of a fun racing event. You can even get some great shopping done during your visit.
Bally’s Dover Casino Resort
If you are looking for a casino that offers world-class gaming, look no further than Bally’s Dover Casino Resort in Dover, Delaware. This 5-star hotel and casino features 2,500 slots and a full range of table games, including a sportsbook. In addition to harness racing, simulcasting, and parlay betting, the resort also features several dining options and a spa.
The casino has an impressive array of amenities and offers excellent service. Its 500 rooms are well-appointed with refrigerators, LCD televisions, pillowtop beds, and complimentary Wi-Fi. Guests can also enjoy a full-service spa and take advantage of the resort’s fitness center and indoor pool.
Dining options at Bally’s Dover Casino Resort include casual and fine dining options. The newest restaurant in the casino, the Royal Prime Steakhouse, offers a royal dining experience. Other popular restaurants include Jerry Longo’s Meatballs and Martinis, Sugar Factory, and the Carousel Bar. The Sugar Factory was named the “Most Instagrammed Restaurant in the United States” by Food & Wine Magazine. Whether you’re looking for delicious Italian or American dishes, there’s something to suit any taste at Bally’s Dover Casino Resort.
Dover Downs Hotel and Casino is a top entertainment destination in the Mid-Atlantic region. Its 500-room hotel boasts a full-service spa and several restaurants. In addition to the casino, Dover Downs features a 1,500-seat Rollins Center. The hotel’s restaurants offer a buffet breakfast, steak, pizza, and salads. The hotel also offers rooms for families and groups.
Estuary Research Reserve
Delaware National Estuarine Research Reserve is a unique natural landscape, with two components. The first component is located on Blackbird Creek. It features freshwater wetlands, ponds, and forest lands. The second component is located on St. Jones River. Both parts feature diverse ecosystems.
The Reserve is part of the National Estuarine Research Reserve System, a partnership between coastal states and NOAA. Its mission is to preserve the region’s natural resources and promote coastal stewardship. The reserve is managed by the state’s Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control. NOAA’s Office of Coastal Management provides funding and technical assistance to reserve managers and researchers.
The Reserve’s two components are connected by trails and feature a variety of natural habitats. Blackbird Creek is a major spawning site for horseshoe crabs, which provide food for migratory shorebirds. In addition, the Reserve contains a visitor center, interactive exhibits, and a research lab.
The Reserve also works with local communities and regional organizations to address water quality issues. It integrates research and education to develop management strategies to protect the estuary and provide recreational opportunities. It also provides estuary education for adults through its Teachers on the Estuary program, provides long-term water quality monitoring, and offers opportunities for graduate students to conduct research.
The Reserve is a vital resource for research and monitoring of coastal waters. There are a variety of programs offered to the public, including a guided tour. During Arts in the Estuary, attendees can meet Delaware artists who use the estuary as a source of inspiration.
Underground Hospital
A trip to the Underground Hospital in Dover will give you a taste of what life was like for soldiers who were injured during the Second World War. It replicates the hospital, complete with artifacts and exhibits. You can even get a glimpse of life in 1941 as you tour the museum.
Dover Castle has a number of underground tunnels, including one that was used during the Second World War as a medical dressing station and hospital. This tunnel was dug out during World War II to protect the Castle from air raids. There, the staff worked around the clock, rarely seeing daylight. The Underground Hospital was also used as a command centre during the war.
The tunnel complex was laid out on a grid system, with longer tunnels linking the smaller tunnels. The smaller tunnels contained reception areas, wards, and the operating theatre. There were also kitchens and stores. The complex was staffed by the Royal Army Medical Corps. It was bombproof and air-tight, but the conditions were cramped. Despite these limitations, the medical unit remained operational until the 1950s.
The Dunkirk Tunnels were transformed into an air-raid shelter, military command centre, and underground hospital during the Second World War. Admiral Ramsey directed the evacuation of Dunkirk from this location, and his headquarters were located within the tunnels. Today, visitors can experience the ambiance of the hospital’s operating room through audiovisual effects. During the tour, you can even follow the story of an injured pilot.
