Dover is the capital city of Delaware, and it is a charming destination with a rich history since colonial times in the eastern part of the United States. Dover was founded in 1683 by William Penn, and was established as the court town for the newly formed Kent County. Dover was officially laid out in 1717, and its central location made it an ideal choice for the state capital of Delaware, which was moved from New Castle to Dover in 1777. Delaware was one of the 13 states in July 1776 agreeing to the United States Declaration of Independence, and in 1787 it became the first state to ratify the constitution of the first union of states.

After Dover became the state capital, The Green, Dover’s historic central square, played a crucial role in the state’s political life. The city saw the construction of important buildings like The Old State House in 1791, which served as the state’s first permanent capitol. Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, Dover expanded with the development of educational institutions, such as Delaware State University, and military installations, including the Dover Air Force Base. Today, Dover blends its rich historical heritage with modern attractions.

The Green is a great place to start exploring the city. The square exudes of colonial atmosphere and forms the First State Heritage Park. The Dover Green was laid out in 1717 to serve as a gathering area for the growing town. Today, you can enjoy the beautiful streetscape and visit two interesting houses. The John Bell House is the oldest wooden structure on The Green, dating from mid 18th century, and it is a place where you can learn about the history of Dover. At the eastern end of The Green is the Old State House. From its completion in 1791 through the 1930s the Georgian-style Old State House served as the seat and center of Delaware’s General Assembly, thereby being the Delaware State Capitol. Today, it is a museum.

From the Old State House, you can walk east and find the Delaware Legislative Hall, which is the present state capitol building of Delaware. It was designed in the Colonial Revival architecture style by E. William Martin and Norman M. Isham, and built 1931–1933. The chosen style fits the buildings around The Green and 18th century Delaware making a harmonious addition to the early day houses. The Delaware Legislative Hall is an active political center of the state, and the beautiful building is open for visitors on guided tours. The interior is 18th century style as well and feature the chambers, a portrait gallery, and more.

You can continue your journey through the heart of Dover’s historic district for its charm and to see more important buildings and attractions like the Delaware Supreme Court, the Kent County Courthouse, and Biggs Museum of American Art. The Biggs offers changing exhibitions throughout the year relating to historical and contemporary art topics. A few minutes to the north is Woodburn, the Delaware Governor’s Mansion, which is a beautiful example of Georgian architecture and the official residence of Delaware’s governors since 1965. In the other direction is the Christ Episcopal Church with origins in the early 18th century.

In the outskirts of the small-town capital city, there are more interesting places. The John Dickinson Plantation was the home of one of America’s founding fathers. The historic site tells the stories of 18th-century plantation life. At the Delaware Agricultural Museum, you get take a look at and learn more about the state’s farming history, with exhibits and demonstrations. A more modern attraction is the NASCAR track, Dover International Speedway. It is know as the Monster Mile, and the track hosts races and events throughout the year. At the track, you can see the popular Monster Monument at Victory Plaza.