Find Your Adventure at First State Heritage Park
Take a Walking Tour
Join historical interpreters in 18th-century clothing as you walk through Dover’s historic Green and learn about the lives and times of the people who lived here across three centuries.
Visit Legislative Hall, the State Capitol
Tour the grand, Georgian-style building that has been home to Delaware’s General Assembly since 1933. Guided tours are offered most days throughout the year.
Stamp your National Park Service Passport
The Old State House is part of the First State National Historical Park. Visit the Old State House—Delaware’s first permanent capital building—to receive your National Park passport stamp.
Superintendent’s Pick: Take A Lantern Tour
Experience Dover with only your lantern to light the way. Hear true stories of historic Dover in generations past. These reservation-only tours are offered on select Thursday and Friday nights in the spring, summer, and fall.
About the Park
Delaware’s first urban park without boundaries, First State Heritage Park explores the stories of remarkable Delawareans and innovative governance in the First State. Interpreters clothed head-to-toe in Revolutionary garb await to lead visitors in signature thematic walking tours, seasonal lantern-lit programs, craft workshops, and special events highlighting bygone eras. Oriented around the Dover Green, where Revolutionary soldiers marched, the US Constitution was ratified, Freedom Seekers escaped slavery, and crusading suffragists expanded equality, there is so much to discover in this historic half-acre! Visitors begin their experience at the John Bell House before visiting other sites in walking distance, including the Old State House, Legislative Hall, The Biggs Museum of American Art, the Delaware Public Archives, and Johnson Victrola Museum. Take a step back in time or relax in soft grass beneath the towering trees that have shaded visitors for 150 years, all at First State Heritage Park.
First Saturdays in the First State
On the First Saturday of each month, we want to welcome citizens and guests of Dover with a series of thematic programs and events. There is something new every month! Programs at all First State Heritage Park sites. Check the calendar for details. While the major park attractions are open throughout the week, a variety of special programs and events are developed at each site for the first Saturday of each month, some buildings, like Governor's House at Woodburn and Courtroom# 1 at the Kent County Courthouse, are only open to the public on this day or by appointment.
Market Fair
First State Heritage Park's 18th Century Market Fair brings the past to life each November, with woodworkers and weavers, horners, blacksmiths and brewers, charlatans and shepherds, soldiers, seamstresses, soapmakers and more displaying their skills and their wares on Dover's historic Green. Learn more here
First State Heritage Park Sites
John Bell House
43 The Green
Open Thursday to Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.,
Walking tours on the hour 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
School or Group Tours call (302) 739-9194 or email TourFSHP@delaware.gov
Legislative Hall
411 Legislative Avenue
A Georgian-style structure that has been home to Delaware's General Assembly since 1933.
Guided tours Thursday to Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and First Saturday of the month from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
For group tours, please call (302) 739-9194.
Visit Legislative Hall
First State Heritage Park Partners
Welcome Center & Galleries
121 Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd.
The Welcome Center offers free parking, information about First State Heritage Park programs and events, a gallery of changing exhibits on Delaware history and a rotating display of Delaware's founding documents.
The Welcome Center is open Monday - Friday: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and exhibits are open to the public
Biggs Museum of American Art
406 Federal Street
This independent, non-profit museum boasts an outstanding collection of 18th- through 21st-century Delaware and American fine and decorative arts.
Thursday to Sunday 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
$10 General Admission. Free for all members.
Call (302)674-2111 for other rates and discounts
Woodburn and Hall House
151 Kings Highway
Woodburn, the home of Delaware's governors since 1965, was built around 1798. Next door is the Victorian-era Hall House, which serves as the Governor's guest house.
Open First Saturday of the month from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., or by appointment
Delaware Public Archives
121 Martin Luther King J. Blvd. North
Delaware's Public Archives, one of the oldest archives in the country, contain materials from the 17th century to today.
Mabel Lloyd Ridgely Research Center
Monday - Friday, by appointment only
Johnson Victrola Museum
375 S. New Street
Self-guided tours Wednesday to Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (masks and rsvp no longer required)
Old State House
25 The Green
Delaware's first permanent capitol building completed in 1791 on Dover's historic Green. The State House was the home of Delaware's General Assembly until 1933.
Guided tours available Wednesday-Saturday at 10:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m., 2:00 p.m., and 3:00 p.m.
Upcoming Events
Daily Walking Tours and Programs
Thursday, December 7, 2023
9:00 AM
The Dover Green has been the heart of this capital since its 18th-century founding. Led by a historic interpreter, experience the stories of the sites and people that have defined the First State experience. There's always something new to discover each time you visit First State Heritage Park! Walking tours are offered hourly from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from December 1 through the end of January. Tours depart from the John Bell House Interpretive Center (43 The Green). Legislative Hall, Delaware's Capitol, offers guided tours from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on weekdays when the site is open. It is closed on Saturdays except for the first Saturday of each month. We encourage guests to wear comfortable shoes and bring water for all walking tours. Be advised that they frequently cover uneven ground and historic cobblestones. These programs are FREE to the public.
Add to Calendar
12/7/2023 9:00:00 AM
12/7/2023 4:30:00 PM
America/New_York
Daily Walking Tours and Programs
The Dover Green has been the heart of this capital since its 18th-century founding. Led by a historic interpreter, experience the stories of the sites and people that have defined the First State experience. There's always something new to discover each time you visit First State Heritage Park! Walking tours are offered hourly from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from December 1 through the end of January. Tours depart from the John Bell House Interpretive Center (43 The Green). Legislative Hall, Delaware's Capitol, offers guided tours from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on weekdays when the site is open. It is closed on Saturdays except for the first Saturday of each month. We encourage guests to wear comfortable shoes and bring water for all walking tours. Be advised that they frequently cover uneven ground and historic cobblestones. These programs are FREE to the public.
First State Heritage Park
Woodburn Illuminated
Friday, December 8, 2023
6:00 PM
As the days grow short, nothing is quite so comforting as the flicker of candlelight as it keeps the darkness at bay. For 18th and 19th century Americans, candle-lit illuminations, sometimes known as transparencies, were used to cheer, entertain, and celebrate. This holiday season, we're reviving the old tradition in partnership with the Biggs Museum of American Art and the Governor's staff at Woodburn to light the night with this unique art form. Stroll the grounds, enjoy the stately home's decorations, admire the gathered illuminations, listen to music, sip warming hot cocoa, and make a delicious s'more over a fire pit...there is so much waiting to revive your spirits during this one-night-only special event. Want to participate? Visit the John Bell House Thursday-Saturday beginning November 23rd to make an illumination which will be displayed at the event! Be sure to stop by and make one by December 6th, or create one yourself at the event.
Add to Calendar
12/8/2023 6:00:00 PM
12/8/2023 9:00:00 PM
America/New_York
Woodburn Illuminated
As the days grow short, nothing is quite so comforting as the flicker of candlelight as it keeps the darkness at bay. For 18th and 19th century Americans, candle-lit illuminations, sometimes known as transparencies, were used to cheer, entertain, and celebrate. This holiday season, we're reviving the old tradition in partnership with the Biggs Museum of American Art and the Governor's staff at Woodburn to light the night with this unique art form. Stroll the grounds, enjoy the stately home's decorations, admire the gathered illuminations, listen to music, sip warming hot cocoa, and make a delicious s'more over a fire pit...there is so much waiting to revive your spirits during this one-night-only special event. Want to participate? Visit the John Bell House Thursday-Saturday beginning November 23rd to make an illumination which will be displayed at the event! Be sure to stop by and make one by December 6th, or create one yourself at the event.
First State Heritage Park
Daily Walking Tours and Programs
Thursday, December 14, 2023
9:00 AM
The Dover Green has been the heart of this capital since its 18th-century founding. Led by a historic interpreter, experience the stories of the sites and people that have defined the First State experience. There's always something new to discover each time you visit First State Heritage Park! Walking tours are offered hourly from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from December 1 through the end of January. Tours depart from the John Bell House Interpretive Center (43 The Green). Legislative Hall, Delaware's Capitol, offers guided tours from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on weekdays when the site is open. It is closed on Saturdays except for the first Saturday of each month. We encourage guests to wear comfortable shoes and bring water for all walking tours. Be advised that they frequently cover uneven ground and historic cobblestones. These programs are FREE to the public.
Add to Calendar
12/14/2023 9:00:00 AM
12/14/2023 4:30:00 PM
America/New_York
Daily Walking Tours and Programs
The Dover Green has been the heart of this capital since its 18th-century founding. Led by a historic interpreter, experience the stories of the sites and people that have defined the First State experience. There's always something new to discover each time you visit First State Heritage Park! Walking tours are offered hourly from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from December 1 through the end of January. Tours depart from the John Bell House Interpretive Center (43 The Green). Legislative Hall, Delaware's Capitol, offers guided tours from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on weekdays when the site is open. It is closed on Saturdays except for the first Saturday of each month. We encourage guests to wear comfortable shoes and bring water for all walking tours. Be advised that they frequently cover uneven ground and historic cobblestones. These programs are FREE to the public.
First State Heritage Park
Daily Walking Tours and Programs
Thursday, December 21, 2023
9:00 AM
The Dover Green has been the heart of this capital since its 18th-century founding. Led by a historic interpreter, experience the stories of the sites and people that have defined the First State experience. There's always something new to discover each time you visit First State Heritage Park! Walking tours are offered hourly from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from December 1 through the end of January. Tours depart from the John Bell House Interpretive Center (43 The Green). Legislative Hall, Delaware's Capitol, offers guided tours from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on weekdays when the site is open. It is closed on Saturdays except for the first Saturday of each month. We encourage guests to wear comfortable shoes and bring water for all walking tours. Be advised that they frequently cover uneven ground and historic cobblestones. These programs are FREE to the public.
Add to Calendar
12/21/2023 9:00:00 AM
12/21/2023 4:30:00 PM
America/New_York
Daily Walking Tours and Programs
The Dover Green has been the heart of this capital since its 18th-century founding. Led by a historic interpreter, experience the stories of the sites and people that have defined the First State experience. There's always something new to discover each time you visit First State Heritage Park! Walking tours are offered hourly from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from December 1 through the end of January. Tours depart from the John Bell House Interpretive Center (43 The Green). Legislative Hall, Delaware's Capitol, offers guided tours from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on weekdays when the site is open. It is closed on Saturdays except for the first Saturday of each month. We encourage guests to wear comfortable shoes and bring water for all walking tours. Be advised that they frequently cover uneven ground and historic cobblestones. These programs are FREE to the public.
First State Heritage Park
Daily Walking Tours and Programs
Thursday, December 28, 2023
9:00 AM
The Dover Green has been the heart of this capital since its 18th-century founding. Led by a historic interpreter, experience the stories of the sites and people that have defined the First State experience. There's always something new to discover each time you visit First State Heritage Park! Walking tours are offered hourly from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from December 1 through the end of January. Tours depart from the John Bell House Interpretive Center (43 The Green). Legislative Hall, Delaware's Capitol, offers guided tours from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on weekdays when the site is open. It is closed on Saturdays except for the first Saturday of each month. We encourage guests to wear comfortable shoes and bring water for all walking tours. Be advised that they frequently cover uneven ground and historic cobblestones. These programs are FREE to the public.
Add to Calendar
12/28/2023 9:00:00 AM
12/28/2023 4:30:00 PM
America/New_York
Daily Walking Tours and Programs
The Dover Green has been the heart of this capital since its 18th-century founding. Led by a historic interpreter, experience the stories of the sites and people that have defined the First State experience. There's always something new to discover each time you visit First State Heritage Park! Walking tours are offered hourly from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from December 1 through the end of January. Tours depart from the John Bell House Interpretive Center (43 The Green). Legislative Hall, Delaware's Capitol, offers guided tours from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on weekdays when the site is open. It is closed on Saturdays except for the first Saturday of each month. We encourage guests to wear comfortable shoes and bring water for all walking tours. Be advised that they frequently cover uneven ground and historic cobblestones. These programs are FREE to the public.
First State Heritage Park
Daily Walking Tours and Programs
Thursday, January 4, 2024
9:00 AM
The Dover Green has been the heart of this capital since its 18th-century founding. Led by a historic interpreter, experience the stories of the sites and people that have defined the First State experience. There's always something new to discover each time you visit First State Heritage Park! Walking tours are offered hourly from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from December 1 through the end of January. Tours depart from the John Bell House Interpretive Center (43 The Green). Legislative Hall, Delaware's Capitol, offers guided tours from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on weekdays when the site is open. It is closed on Saturdays except for the first Saturday of each month. We encourage guests to wear comfortable shoes and bring water for all walking tours. Be advised that they frequently cover uneven ground and historic cobblestones. These programs are FREE to the public.
Add to Calendar
1/4/2024 9:00:00 AM
1/4/2024 4:30:00 PM
America/New_York
Daily Walking Tours and Programs
The Dover Green has been the heart of this capital since its 18th-century founding. Led by a historic interpreter, experience the stories of the sites and people that have defined the First State experience. There's always something new to discover each time you visit First State Heritage Park! Walking tours are offered hourly from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from December 1 through the end of January. Tours depart from the John Bell House Interpretive Center (43 The Green). Legislative Hall, Delaware's Capitol, offers guided tours from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on weekdays when the site is open. It is closed on Saturdays except for the first Saturday of each month. We encourage guests to wear comfortable shoes and bring water for all walking tours. Be advised that they frequently cover uneven ground and historic cobblestones. These programs are FREE to the public.
First State Heritage Park
Daily Walking Tours and Programs
Thursday, January 11, 2024
9:00 AM
The Dover Green has been the heart of this capital since its 18th-century founding. Led by a historic interpreter, experience the stories of the sites and people that have defined the First State experience. There's always something new to discover each time you visit First State Heritage Park! Walking tours are offered hourly from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from December 1 through the end of January. Tours depart from the John Bell House Interpretive Center (43 The Green). Legislative Hall, Delaware's Capitol, offers guided tours from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on weekdays when the site is open. It is closed on Saturdays except for the first Saturday of each month. We encourage guests to wear comfortable shoes and bring water for all walking tours. Be advised that they frequently cover uneven ground and historic cobblestones. These programs are FREE to the public.
Add to Calendar
1/11/2024 9:00:00 AM
1/11/2024 4:30:00 PM
America/New_York
Daily Walking Tours and Programs
The Dover Green has been the heart of this capital since its 18th-century founding. Led by a historic interpreter, experience the stories of the sites and people that have defined the First State experience. There's always something new to discover each time you visit First State Heritage Park! Walking tours are offered hourly from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from December 1 through the end of January. Tours depart from the John Bell House Interpretive Center (43 The Green). Legislative Hall, Delaware's Capitol, offers guided tours from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on weekdays when the site is open. It is closed on Saturdays except for the first Saturday of each month. We encourage guests to wear comfortable shoes and bring water for all walking tours. Be advised that they frequently cover uneven ground and historic cobblestones. These programs are FREE to the public.
First State Heritage Park
Daily Walking Tours and Programs
Thursday, January 18, 2024
9:00 AM
The Dover Green has been the heart of this capital since its 18th-century founding. Led by a historic interpreter, experience the stories of the sites and people that have defined the First State experience. There's always something new to discover each time you visit First State Heritage Park! Walking tours are offered hourly from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from December 1 through the end of January. Tours depart from the John Bell House Interpretive Center (43 The Green). Legislative Hall, Delaware's Capitol, offers guided tours from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on weekdays when the site is open. It is closed on Saturdays except for the first Saturday of each month. We encourage guests to wear comfortable shoes and bring water for all walking tours. Be advised that they frequently cover uneven ground and historic cobblestones. These programs are FREE to the public.
Add to Calendar
1/18/2024 9:00:00 AM
1/18/2024 4:30:00 PM
America/New_York
Daily Walking Tours and Programs
The Dover Green has been the heart of this capital since its 18th-century founding. Led by a historic interpreter, experience the stories of the sites and people that have defined the First State experience. There's always something new to discover each time you visit First State Heritage Park! Walking tours are offered hourly from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from December 1 through the end of January. Tours depart from the John Bell House Interpretive Center (43 The Green). Legislative Hall, Delaware's Capitol, offers guided tours from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on weekdays when the site is open. It is closed on Saturdays except for the first Saturday of each month. We encourage guests to wear comfortable shoes and bring water for all walking tours. Be advised that they frequently cover uneven ground and historic cobblestones. These programs are FREE to the public.
First State Heritage Park
Daily Walking Tours and Programs
Thursday, January 25, 2024
9:00 AM
The Dover Green has been the heart of this capital since its 18th-century founding. Led by a historic interpreter, experience the stories of the sites and people that have defined the First State experience. There's always something new to discover each time you visit First State Heritage Park! Walking tours are offered hourly from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from December 1 through the end of January. Tours depart from the John Bell House Interpretive Center (43 The Green). Legislative Hall, Delaware's Capitol, offers guided tours from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on weekdays when the site is open. It is closed on Saturdays except for the first Saturday of each month. We encourage guests to wear comfortable shoes and bring water for all walking tours. Be advised that they frequently cover uneven ground and historic cobblestones. These programs are FREE to the public.
Add to Calendar
1/25/2024 9:00:00 AM
1/25/2024 4:30:00 PM
America/New_York
Daily Walking Tours and Programs
The Dover Green has been the heart of this capital since its 18th-century founding. Led by a historic interpreter, experience the stories of the sites and people that have defined the First State experience. There's always something new to discover each time you visit First State Heritage Park! Walking tours are offered hourly from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from December 1 through the end of January. Tours depart from the John Bell House Interpretive Center (43 The Green). Legislative Hall, Delaware's Capitol, offers guided tours from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on weekdays when the site is open. It is closed on Saturdays except for the first Saturday of each month. We encourage guests to wear comfortable shoes and bring water for all walking tours. Be advised that they frequently cover uneven ground and historic cobblestones. These programs are FREE to the public.
First State Heritage Park
Hidden Lives
Thursday, February 1, 2024
10:00 AM
People of color have been an integral part of the Dover community across more than 300 years of history. Although their lives were tightly woven into the fabric of Dover's every day and their contributions meaningfully shaped this city, their experiences have only too rarely been included in the Dover story as they deserve to be. This February, we invite members of our community to join us as we share these hidden lives unveiled by our ongoing research, sharing deeply human stories of love and loss, hard work, painful setbacks, and triumphs against adversity. Meet a historic interpreter at the John Bell House (43 The Green) for this FREE 45-minute walking tour. This walking tour will be featured every Friday and Saturday for the entire month of February during the John Bell House’s operating hours. Tours will take place on the hour from 10 AM to 3 PM.
Add to Calendar
2/1/2024 10:00:00 AM
2/1/2024 3:00:00 PM
America/New_York
Hidden Lives
People of color have been an integral part of the Dover community across more than 300 years of history. Although their lives were tightly woven into the fabric of Dover's every day and their contributions meaningfully shaped this city, their experiences have only too rarely been included in the Dover story as they deserve to be. This February, we invite members of our community to join us as we share these hidden lives unveiled by our ongoing research, sharing deeply human stories of love and loss, hard work, painful setbacks, and triumphs against adversity. Meet a historic interpreter at the John Bell House (43 The Green) for this FREE 45-minute walking tour. This walking tour will be featured every Friday and Saturday for the entire month of February during the John Bell House’s operating hours. Tours will take place on the hour from 10 AM to 3 PM.
First State Heritage Park
Hidden Lives
Thursday, February 8, 2024
10:00 AM
People of color have been an integral part of the Dover community across more than 300 years of history. Although their lives were tightly woven into the fabric of Dover's every day and their contributions meaningfully shaped this city, their experiences have only too rarely been included in the Dover story as they deserve to be. This February, we invite members of our community to join us as we share these hidden lives unveiled by our ongoing research, sharing deeply human stories of love and loss, hard work, painful setbacks, and triumphs against adversity. Meet a historic interpreter at the John Bell House (43 The Green) for this FREE 45-minute walking tour. This walking tour will be featured every Friday and Saturday for the entire month of February during the John Bell House’s operating hours. Tours will take place on the hour from 10 AM to 3 PM.
Add to Calendar
2/8/2024 10:00:00 AM
2/8/2024 3:00:00 PM
America/New_York
Hidden Lives
People of color have been an integral part of the Dover community across more than 300 years of history. Although their lives were tightly woven into the fabric of Dover's every day and their contributions meaningfully shaped this city, their experiences have only too rarely been included in the Dover story as they deserve to be. This February, we invite members of our community to join us as we share these hidden lives unveiled by our ongoing research, sharing deeply human stories of love and loss, hard work, painful setbacks, and triumphs against adversity. Meet a historic interpreter at the John Bell House (43 The Green) for this FREE 45-minute walking tour. This walking tour will be featured every Friday and Saturday for the entire month of February during the John Bell House’s operating hours. Tours will take place on the hour from 10 AM to 3 PM.
First State Heritage Park
Hidden Lives
Friday, February 9, 2024
10:00 AM
People of color have been an integral part of the Dover community across more than 300 years of history. Although their lives were tightly woven into the fabric of Dover's every day and their contributions meaningfully shaped this city, their experiences have only too rarely been included in the Dover story as they deserve to be. This February, we invite members of our community to join us as we share these hidden lives unveiled by our ongoing research, sharing deeply human stories of love and loss, hard work, painful setbacks, and triumphs against adversity. Meet a historic interpreter at the John Bell House (43 The Green) for this FREE 45-minute walking tour. This walking tour will be featured every Friday and Saturday for the entire month of February during the John Bell House’s operating hours. Tours will take place on the hour from 10 AM to 3 PM.
Add to Calendar
2/9/2024 10:00:00 AM
2/9/2024 3:00:00 PM
America/New_York
Hidden Lives
People of color have been an integral part of the Dover community across more than 300 years of history. Although their lives were tightly woven into the fabric of Dover's every day and their contributions meaningfully shaped this city, their experiences have only too rarely been included in the Dover story as they deserve to be. This February, we invite members of our community to join us as we share these hidden lives unveiled by our ongoing research, sharing deeply human stories of love and loss, hard work, painful setbacks, and triumphs against adversity. Meet a historic interpreter at the John Bell House (43 The Green) for this FREE 45-minute walking tour. This walking tour will be featured every Friday and Saturday for the entire month of February during the John Bell House’s operating hours. Tours will take place on the hour from 10 AM to 3 PM.
First State Heritage Park
Hidden Lives
Saturday, February 10, 2024
10:00 AM
People of color have been an integral part of the Dover community across more than 300 years of history. Although their lives were tightly woven into the fabric of Dover's every day and their contributions meaningfully shaped this city, their experiences have only too rarely been included in the Dover story as they deserve to be. This February, we invite members of our community to join us as we share these hidden lives unveiled by our ongoing research, sharing deeply human stories of love and loss, hard work, painful setbacks, and triumphs against adversity. Meet a historic interpreter at the John Bell House (43 The Green) for this FREE 45-minute walking tour. This walking tour will be featured every Friday and Saturday for the entire month of February during the John Bell House’s operating hours. Tours will take place on the hour from 10 AM to 3 PM.
Add to Calendar
2/10/2024 10:00:00 AM
2/10/2024 3:00:00 PM
America/New_York
Hidden Lives
People of color have been an integral part of the Dover community across more than 300 years of history. Although their lives were tightly woven into the fabric of Dover's every day and their contributions meaningfully shaped this city, their experiences have only too rarely been included in the Dover story as they deserve to be. This February, we invite members of our community to join us as we share these hidden lives unveiled by our ongoing research, sharing deeply human stories of love and loss, hard work, painful setbacks, and triumphs against adversity. Meet a historic interpreter at the John Bell House (43 The Green) for this FREE 45-minute walking tour. This walking tour will be featured every Friday and Saturday for the entire month of February during the John Bell House’s operating hours. Tours will take place on the hour from 10 AM to 3 PM.
First State Heritage Park
Hidden Lives
Thursday, February 15, 2024
10:00 AM
People of color have been an integral part of the Dover community across more than 300 years of history. Although their lives were tightly woven into the fabric of Dover's every day and their contributions meaningfully shaped this city, their experiences have only too rarely been included in the Dover story as they deserve to be. This February, we invite members of our community to join us as we share these hidden lives unveiled by our ongoing research, sharing deeply human stories of love and loss, hard work, painful setbacks, and triumphs against adversity. Meet a historic interpreter at the John Bell House (43 The Green) for this FREE 45-minute walking tour. This walking tour will be featured every Friday and Saturday for the entire month of February during the John Bell House’s operating hours. Tours will take place on the hour from 10 AM to 3 PM.
Add to Calendar
2/15/2024 10:00:00 AM
2/15/2024 3:00:00 PM
America/New_York
Hidden Lives
People of color have been an integral part of the Dover community across more than 300 years of history. Although their lives were tightly woven into the fabric of Dover's every day and their contributions meaningfully shaped this city, their experiences have only too rarely been included in the Dover story as they deserve to be. This February, we invite members of our community to join us as we share these hidden lives unveiled by our ongoing research, sharing deeply human stories of love and loss, hard work, painful setbacks, and triumphs against adversity. Meet a historic interpreter at the John Bell House (43 The Green) for this FREE 45-minute walking tour. This walking tour will be featured every Friday and Saturday for the entire month of February during the John Bell House’s operating hours. Tours will take place on the hour from 10 AM to 3 PM.
First State Heritage Park
Hidden Lives
Friday, February 16, 2024
10:00 AM
People of color have been an integral part of the Dover community across more than 300 years of history. Although their lives were tightly woven into the fabric of Dover's every day and their contributions meaningfully shaped this city, their experiences have only too rarely been included in the Dover story as they deserve to be. This February, we invite members of our community to join us as we share these hidden lives unveiled by our ongoing research, sharing deeply human stories of love and loss, hard work, painful setbacks, and triumphs against adversity. Meet a historic interpreter at the John Bell House (43 The Green) for this FREE 45-minute walking tour. This walking tour will be featured every Friday and Saturday for the entire month of February during the John Bell House’s operating hours. Tours will take place on the hour from 10 AM to 3 PM.
Add to Calendar
2/16/2024 10:00:00 AM
2/16/2024 3:00:00 PM
America/New_York
Hidden Lives
People of color have been an integral part of the Dover community across more than 300 years of history. Although their lives were tightly woven into the fabric of Dover's every day and their contributions meaningfully shaped this city, their experiences have only too rarely been included in the Dover story as they deserve to be. This February, we invite members of our community to join us as we share these hidden lives unveiled by our ongoing research, sharing deeply human stories of love and loss, hard work, painful setbacks, and triumphs against adversity. Meet a historic interpreter at the John Bell House (43 The Green) for this FREE 45-minute walking tour. This walking tour will be featured every Friday and Saturday for the entire month of February during the John Bell House’s operating hours. Tours will take place on the hour from 10 AM to 3 PM.
First State Heritage Park
Hidden Lives
Saturday, February 17, 2024
10:00 AM
People of color have been an integral part of the Dover community across more than 300 years of history. Although their lives were tightly woven into the fabric of Dover's every day and their contributions meaningfully shaped this city, their experiences have only too rarely been included in the Dover story as they deserve to be. This February, we invite members of our community to join us as we share these hidden lives unveiled by our ongoing research, sharing deeply human stories of love and loss, hard work, painful setbacks, and triumphs against adversity. Meet a historic interpreter at the John Bell House (43 The Green) for this FREE 45-minute walking tour. This walking tour will be featured every Friday and Saturday for the entire month of February during the John Bell House’s operating hours. Tours will take place on the hour from 10 AM to 3 PM.
Add to Calendar
2/17/2024 10:00:00 AM
2/17/2024 3:00:00 PM
America/New_York
Hidden Lives
People of color have been an integral part of the Dover community across more than 300 years of history. Although their lives were tightly woven into the fabric of Dover's every day and their contributions meaningfully shaped this city, their experiences have only too rarely been included in the Dover story as they deserve to be. This February, we invite members of our community to join us as we share these hidden lives unveiled by our ongoing research, sharing deeply human stories of love and loss, hard work, painful setbacks, and triumphs against adversity. Meet a historic interpreter at the John Bell House (43 The Green) for this FREE 45-minute walking tour. This walking tour will be featured every Friday and Saturday for the entire month of February during the John Bell House’s operating hours. Tours will take place on the hour from 10 AM to 3 PM.
First State Heritage Park
Hidden Lives
Thursday, February 22, 2024
10:00 AM
People of color have been an integral part of the Dover community across more than 300 years of history. Although their lives were tightly woven into the fabric of Dover's every day and their contributions meaningfully shaped this city, their experiences have only too rarely been included in the Dover story as they deserve to be. This February, we invite members of our community to join us as we share these hidden lives unveiled by our ongoing research, sharing deeply human stories of love and loss, hard work, painful setbacks, and triumphs against adversity. Meet a historic interpreter at the John Bell House (43 The Green) for this FREE 45-minute walking tour. This walking tour will be featured every Friday and Saturday for the entire month of February during the John Bell House’s operating hours. Tours will take place on the hour from 10 AM to 3 PM.
Add to Calendar
2/22/2024 10:00:00 AM
2/22/2024 3:00:00 PM
America/New_York
Hidden Lives
People of color have been an integral part of the Dover community across more than 300 years of history. Although their lives were tightly woven into the fabric of Dover's every day and their contributions meaningfully shaped this city, their experiences have only too rarely been included in the Dover story as they deserve to be. This February, we invite members of our community to join us as we share these hidden lives unveiled by our ongoing research, sharing deeply human stories of love and loss, hard work, painful setbacks, and triumphs against adversity. Meet a historic interpreter at the John Bell House (43 The Green) for this FREE 45-minute walking tour. This walking tour will be featured every Friday and Saturday for the entire month of February during the John Bell House’s operating hours. Tours will take place on the hour from 10 AM to 3 PM.
First State Heritage Park
Hidden Lives
Friday, February 23, 2024
10:00 AM
People of color have been an integral part of the Dover community across more than 300 years of history. Although their lives were tightly woven into the fabric of Dover's every day and their contributions meaningfully shaped this city, their experiences have only too rarely been included in the Dover story as they deserve to be. This February, we invite members of our community to join us as we share these hidden lives unveiled by our ongoing research, sharing deeply human stories of love and loss, hard work, painful setbacks, and triumphs against adversity. Meet a historic interpreter at the John Bell House (43 The Green) for this FREE 45-minute walking tour. This walking tour will be featured every Friday and Saturday for the entire month of February during the John Bell House’s operating hours. Tours will take place on the hour from 10 AM to 3 PM.
Add to Calendar
2/23/2024 10:00:00 AM
2/23/2024 3:00:00 PM
America/New_York
Hidden Lives
People of color have been an integral part of the Dover community across more than 300 years of history. Although their lives were tightly woven into the fabric of Dover's every day and their contributions meaningfully shaped this city, their experiences have only too rarely been included in the Dover story as they deserve to be. This February, we invite members of our community to join us as we share these hidden lives unveiled by our ongoing research, sharing deeply human stories of love and loss, hard work, painful setbacks, and triumphs against adversity. Meet a historic interpreter at the John Bell House (43 The Green) for this FREE 45-minute walking tour. This walking tour will be featured every Friday and Saturday for the entire month of February during the John Bell House’s operating hours. Tours will take place on the hour from 10 AM to 3 PM.
First State Heritage Park
Hidden Lives
Saturday, February 24, 2024
10:00 AM
People of color have been an integral part of the Dover community across more than 300 years of history. Although their lives were tightly woven into the fabric of Dover's every day and their contributions meaningfully shaped this city, their experiences have only too rarely been included in the Dover story as they deserve to be. This February, we invite members of our community to join us as we share these hidden lives unveiled by our ongoing research, sharing deeply human stories of love and loss, hard work, painful setbacks, and triumphs against adversity. Meet a historic interpreter at the John Bell House (43 The Green) for this FREE 45-minute walking tour. This walking tour will be featured every Friday and Saturday for the entire month of February during the John Bell House’s operating hours. Tours will take place on the hour from 10 AM to 3 PM.
Add to Calendar
2/24/2024 10:00:00 AM
2/24/2024 3:00:00 PM
America/New_York
Hidden Lives
People of color have been an integral part of the Dover community across more than 300 years of history. Although their lives were tightly woven into the fabric of Dover's every day and their contributions meaningfully shaped this city, their experiences have only too rarely been included in the Dover story as they deserve to be. This February, we invite members of our community to join us as we share these hidden lives unveiled by our ongoing research, sharing deeply human stories of love and loss, hard work, painful setbacks, and triumphs against adversity. Meet a historic interpreter at the John Bell House (43 The Green) for this FREE 45-minute walking tour. This walking tour will be featured every Friday and Saturday for the entire month of February during the John Bell House’s operating hours. Tours will take place on the hour from 10 AM to 3 PM.
First State Heritage Park
Hidden Lives
Thursday, February 29, 2024
10:00 AM
People of color have been an integral part of the Dover community across more than 300 years of history. Although their lives were tightly woven into the fabric of Dover's every day and their contributions meaningfully shaped this city, their experiences have only too rarely been included in the Dover story as they deserve to be. This February, we invite members of our community to join us as we share these hidden lives unveiled by our ongoing research, sharing deeply human stories of love and loss, hard work, painful setbacks, and triumphs against adversity. Meet a historic interpreter at the John Bell House (43 The Green) for this FREE 45-minute walking tour. This walking tour will be featured every Friday and Saturday for the entire month of February during the John Bell House’s operating hours. Tours will take place on the hour from 10 AM to 3 PM.
Add to Calendar
2/29/2024 10:00:00 AM
2/29/2024 3:00:00 PM
America/New_York
Hidden Lives
People of color have been an integral part of the Dover community across more than 300 years of history. Although their lives were tightly woven into the fabric of Dover's every day and their contributions meaningfully shaped this city, their experiences have only too rarely been included in the Dover story as they deserve to be. This February, we invite members of our community to join us as we share these hidden lives unveiled by our ongoing research, sharing deeply human stories of love and loss, hard work, painful setbacks, and triumphs against adversity. Meet a historic interpreter at the John Bell House (43 The Green) for this FREE 45-minute walking tour. This walking tour will be featured every Friday and Saturday for the entire month of February during the John Bell House’s operating hours. Tours will take place on the hour from 10 AM to 3 PM.
First State Heritage Park
Daily Walking Tours and Programs
Saturday, April 8, 2028
10:00 AM
The Dover Green has been the heart of this capital since its 18th-century founding. Led by a knowledgeable interpreter, experience the stories of the sites and people that have defined the First State experience. There is always something new to discover each time you visit First State Heritage Park! Walking tours are offered hourly from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., departing from the John Bell House Interpretive Center (43 The Green). Legislative Hall, Delawares Capitol, offers guided tours from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on weekdays when the site is open. It is closed on Saturdays except for the first Saturday of each month. We encourage guests to wear comfortable shoes and bring water for all walking tours. Be advised that they frequently cover uneven ground and historic cobblestones. These programs are FREE to the public.
Add to Calendar
4/8/2028 10:00:00 AM
4/8/2028 3:00:00 PM
America/New_York
Daily Walking Tours and Programs
The Dover Green has been the heart of this capital since its 18th-century founding. Led by a knowledgeable interpreter, experience the stories of the sites and people that have defined the First State experience. There is always something new to discover each time you visit First State Heritage Park! Walking tours are offered hourly from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., departing from the John Bell House Interpretive Center (43 The Green). Legislative Hall, Delawares Capitol, offers guided tours from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on weekdays when the site is open. It is closed on Saturdays except for the first Saturday of each month. We encourage guests to wear comfortable shoes and bring water for all walking tours. Be advised that they frequently cover uneven ground and historic cobblestones. These programs are FREE to the public.
First State Heritage Park
Map and Directions
102 S. State Street
Dover, DE 19901
(302) 739-9194
Email
Park Hours
Park sites have varying hours. See the site descriptions on this page for individual site hours.
Park Office Hours
9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday
Park Office Location
Rose Cottage
102 South State Street
Dover, DE 19901
Entrance Fees
Admission is free to most First State Heritage Park sites
Maps + Downloads
Love This Park?
Activities
- Art Programs
- Guided Tours
- Culltural and Historical Programs
- School Group Programs
- Volunteering
- Walking Tours
Amenities
- Exhibit Centers
- Galleries
- Historic Sites
- Museums
- Restrooms
- Visitors Center
- Wheelchair Accessible
