​3 Fun Things to Do in Dover, New Hampshire

Dover, New Hampshire, is the largest city in the state’s Seacoast region and, as it was founded in 1623, the oldest permanent settlement in the state. Given its size, proximity to the ocean and long history, then, there’s lots to do and see here. But what should you do if this is your first visit? Here are three suggestions.

1. Visit one of the area museums.

There are several worthwhile museums in the area, with options to pique every interest, no matter if you’re traveling solo and want to explore the regional history or you’re traveling with the kids and need something fun and hands-on.

For the former, try the Woodman Institute Museum, which features a wide array of exhibits that focus on everything from curiosities to art, culture to natural science. Artifacts among the museum’s collection range from indigenous items to Abraham Lincoln’s saddle to one of Napoleon’s cannons.

For the latter, try the Children’s Museum of New Hampshire, which features two floors of fun for children from toddler-age to middle schoolers. The museum focuses on STEAM topics and fun ways to get kids learning without them even realizing it.

Photo courtesy of https://woodmanmuseum.org/

2. Get outside.

Just because Dover, New Hampshire, is near the coast, that doesn’t mean that the beach is the only place to go in town for some outdoor fun. You can also explore the area’s other natural habitats for outdoor adventure at whatever your desired pace.

The Bellamy River Wildlife Management Area, for example, offers 400 acres of riverside shoreline, tidal creeks, wetlands, woodlands, ponds and more. You can hike, cross-country ski in the winter and keep your eyes peeled for the resident wildlife, such as the migrating waterfowl, including osprey and sandpipers. This wildlife area is also home to the endangered New England cottontail rabbit.

Photo courtesy of https://www.facebook.com/nhfishandgame

Hilton Park at Dover Point is a great choice for waterfront views as you walk the scenic parkland. This park also features a historical angle, as it is the oldest continually occupied spot in the state and once home to a fishing company, around the time of the area’s first European settlement.

3. See the sights from atop Garrison Hill Tower.

If you’d prefer to enjoy your scenery from more of a birds-eye vantage point, do so from atop Garrison Hill Tower. The restored metal structure offers 360-degree views from 298 feet above the ground, at which point you’ll be able to see the state’s White Mountains to the west, as well as the Isles of Shoals. The spot also offers a historic slant, as the original wooden observatory tower was built in 1880, but the hill was used similarly by indigenous populations long before.

Photo courtesy of http://www.seacoastnh.com/Travel/Scenic-Walks/Garr...

Need More?

Need more ideas on what to do and see while you're in Dover, New Hampshire, for the first time? Be sure to check out the Discovery Map Dover, New Hampshire guide for more top activity recommendations, as well as recommendations for where to dine, drink, sleep and shop.