Museums @ Downtown Dover

There are a variety of museums downtown that reflect Dover's unique and rich history and present day. Whether you want to explore colonial Dover's past, the meeting place for today's legislators, or exhibits for music and art, you can find a downtown museum to connect you to our legacy.

Many of the museums are free of charge, and be sure to visit their websites for current operating hours.

For special monthly promotions, learn more about First Saturdays.

Biggs Museum of American Art
One of the finest collections of American fine and decorative arts. Special features of the permanent collection include the only comprehensive representational American paintings collections on the Delmarva Penninsula, as well as changing exhibitions throughout the year relating to historical and contemporary art topics. Intimate galleries offer guests an unexpected and personal experience with the collection. Also offers educational programming for adults and children.

406 Federal St
(302) 674-2111

Delaware Public Archives
As the repository for records of Delaware state and local governments, the Archives contains thousands of documents and other materials that can help with researching one's genealogical roots as well as curated public exhibitions on Delaware's history.

121 North Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
(302) 744-5000

Friends of Old Dover Museum
Preserving Dover, DE's historic & architectural heritage for future generations. Museum open every First Saturday from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

323 S. State St.
(302) 857-0123

John Bell House
The oldest wooden structure on The Green serves as the interpretive center for the First State Heritage Park, where visitors can learn about the history of Dover and take thematic walking tours around Dover's historic Green. Special events hosted frequently.

43 The Green
(302) 739-9194

Johnson Victrola Museum
“Founded in 1967, the Johnson Victrola Museum details the origin of recorded music. Exhibits showcase the life and legacy of Eldridge Reeves Johnson, a pioneer in early sound recording and co-founder of the Victor Talking Machine Company.”

375 S. New St.
(302) 739-3262

Legislative Hall
Legislative Hall is a Georgian Revival colonial structure of handmade brick and it has an 18th century style interior. It was designed by Architect E. William Martin under the direction of the State Buildings and Grounds Commission created by Governor Buck in 1931. The commission was also instructed to aquire all the lands now known as the 'Capital Square Complex.'  Free guided tours: Monday-Friday 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. & on First Saturdays and select holidays from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

411 Legislative Avenue
(302) 744-4114

Dover Fire Department Museum
Explore the history of Dover Fire Department at the Robbins Hose Company at Station No. 1. Open Monday through Friday during normal business hours.

103 S. Governors Ave.
(302) 736-7168

Old State House
Built in 1791, the Old State House served as Delaware's capitol during the United States' critical early years as a nation. With additions and modications, the building continued to serve as the state capitol until 1933, for 141 years! Visitors can receive a National Park Passport Stamp, receive guided tours, and explore the current exhibition. Open for tours at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 2 p.m., and 3 p.m. on Wednesdays through Saturdays.

25 The Green
(302) 744-5054

Woodburn and Hall House
Woodburn has served as the official residence of the Governor of Delaware since it was purchased by the state in 1965. Today, historians credit Woodburn's historical importance as much to the home's architecture as to its previous notable residents. Gentlemen farmers, landowners, an abolitionist, two U.S. Senators, two doctors, a dentist, a judge, and eight recent Delaware Governors have all left their imprints on this fine home.

151 Kings Hwy SW
(302) 739-5656