Located on the outskirts of the greater DMV area lies Dover, Delaware, a charming town full of American history, opportunities to explore nature, and spots to connect with the community and friends.
With just shy of 40,000 residents, it’s the second-largest city in the state, but with its peninsular location, Dover residents are able to escape the more populated primary I-95 corridor.
While Dover is an inland city, it takes just 45 minutes to reach the Atlantic Ocean and the various activities that comprise the seaside experience. It’s also just over an hour away from Annapolis, Maryland, and two hours from Washington, D.C. This makes it easy to access larger city amenities, while also enjoying a quieter lifestyle and the benefits of beautiful spaces to explore.
Things to do in Dover, Delaware
Although set apart from larger metro areas, Dover is well in the supply of entertainment options, dining, and outdoor pursuits.
Golf lovers can enjoy 18 holes at Maple Dale Country Golf Club’s USGA championship-rated course, and families are sure to enjoy the club’s playground and Olympic-size swimming pool. Dover Par 3 and driving range is a perfect spot to practice your swing.
Nature lovers will find paradise at the Delaware National Estuarine, a research facility, and salt marsh and open water habitat that kids of all ages are sure to love exploring.
Families will love playing at Dover’s numerous parks, and people of all ages can find an afternoon or evening of fun with friends at AMF Doverama Lanes, the city’s bowling alley.
Bally’s Dover Casino Resort offers elegant accommodations, a full-service spa and salon, and multiple dining options for an on-the-town date night. Aptly named, the resort’s main attraction is its onsite casino, featuring 2,500 slots and table games and harness racing.
Auto racing has a 50+ year history in Dover, with the Dover Motor Speedway—more fondly known as Monster Mile—having hosted numerous NASCAR race weekends. Beyond auto racing, it also is home to the Firefly Music Festival which has featured some of the biggest names in music.
History buffs will enjoy the city’s rich history, ties to colonial days, the public archives, galleries, and The Old State House, the state’s first permanent capital building.
There are also ample dining options, as well as the Pizzadili Vineyard & Winery and Fordham & Dominion Brewing Company for unique libation experiences.
Life in Dover
One of the most appealing aspects of life in Dover is the ability to easily access the beach, nature, and larger cities, while also enjoying larger home lot sizes and plenty of space.
When searching for a home in Dover, families are sure to find numerous options, each with generous square footage and lot sizes not typically found in larger cities in proximity to the DMV.
While there are existing homes, Dover is a great spot to consider building new. The market’s location and area proximity hold a fairly steady real estate market, and many of the public schools provide area families with an enviable experience. When paired with the city’s welcoming environment and charm, Dover is the perfect spot for families who want a bit of space.