Things to do · Kent County
Small-town charm, big history and serious race-day energy.
Central Delaware is where the First State began. Dover is the capital, the countryside is dotted with farm stands and Amish buggies, and the bayshore is some of the best birding on the East Coast. It’s laid-back, affordable and within an hour of the beaches.
The can’t-miss list
If you only have a weekend, start here.
- First State Heritage Park
Dover’s historic district, built around The Green, where Delaware became the first state to ratify the U.S. Constitution in 1787. Tour the Old State House and Legislative Hall.
Insider tip: Most of the historic sites are free, and the guided walks are excellent. - Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge
Thousands of acres of tidal salt marsh near Smyrna, with a wildlife drive, boardwalk trails and observation towers.
Insider tip: Visit in late fall, when huge flocks of snow geese fill the sky. - Dover Motor Speedway
The "Monster Mile," a one-mile concrete oval that has hosted NASCAR for decades and draws big crowds on race weekends.
Insider tip: Book lodging early for race weekends, because the whole region fills up. - Air Mobility Command Museum
A free museum at Dover Air Force Base with historic military aircraft you can walk through.
Insider tip: Bring the kids. Climbing inside the cargo planes is the highlight. - Killens Pond State Park
A wooded park near Felton with a pond for kayaking, trails, cabins and a summer water park.
Insider tip: Rent a kayak at golden hour, when the pond is calm and quiet.
Get outside
Marshes, ponds and back-road bike rides.
A pretty path along the Mispillion River through downtown, with shops and restaurants nearby.
A restored gristmill with trails, a millpond and nature programs.
A tiny bayside fishing village with a calm beach, charter boats and a laid-back feel.
Quiet farm roads for scenic drives and bike rides, with roadside stands selling produce and baked goods.
Eat & drink
Farm stands, local pours and comfort food.
A family farm market with pick-your-own produce, fall festivals and seasonal baked goods.
Small-batch spirits made in a converted movie theater on Main Street.
A winery on the Delaware-Maryland line, with tastings and live music on weekends.
A Delaware institution famous for its giant sausage sandwiches. Expect a line, and it’s worth it.
History & culture
Where Delaware’s story starts.
Fine and decorative art from the region, from colonial times to today.
The boyhood home of the "Penman of the Revolution," with interpreters showing 18th-century life.
A quirky, free museum honoring Dover native Eldridge Johnson and the early days of recorded sound.
A re-created farming village and exhibits on the state’s farming roots.
Fun & games
For when you want a little excitement.
Casino, hotel, dining and concerts next to the speedway.
Ten days every July of rides, livestock, fair food and big-name concerts.
Harness racing at one of the country’s oldest tracks.
Historic Main Street shops, cafés and seasonal events.
Your year here
What locals look forward to, season by season.
Spring
- Dover Days festival on The Green
- Spring migration on the bayshore
- Strawberry season at local farms
Summer
- NASCAR race weekend at the Monster Mile
- Delaware State Fair in Harrington
- U-pick berries at local farms
- Kayaking at Killens Pond
Fall
- Snow geese at Bombay Hook
- Fifer Orchards fall festival
- Corn mazes and hayrides
Winter
- Holiday lights in downtown Dover
- Cozy tastings at local wineries
- Museum days in the capital
Love this lifestyle?
Where to live in Kent County
Historic homes near The Green, newer subdivisions and easy access to Route 1.
A charming downtown with quick access to Wilmington and an hour’s drive to the beaches.
A walkable downtown on the Mispillion River, between Dover and the beaches.
Quiet neighborhoods, orchards and good value just south of Dover.
Picture yourself in Kent County?
Kent County gives you more home for the money and an easy drive to everything. Let’s find your spot.
Keep exploring
Hours, seasons and fees change. Check each attraction’s website before you go.