John Bell House: A Glimpse into Dover's Past
Step back in time at the John Bell House, Dover's oldest wooden structure and interpretive center for Delaware's First State Heritage Park.
The John Bell House, nestled on The Green in Dover, Delaware, is a mid-18th-century structure that offers a unique glimpse into the life of early Dover residents. As the oldest wooden-frame building in the city, it has served many purposes, from a workshop and tavern outbuilding to a post office and private residences. Today, it functions as the interpretive center for the First State Heritage Park.
A brief summary to First State Heritage Park's John Bell House
- 43 The Green, Dover, Delaware, 19901, US
- +1302-739-9194
- Visit website
- Wednesday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 9 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit on the First Saturday of the month for special thematic programs and events throughout the First State Heritage Park.
- Check the First State Heritage Park's event calendar for workshops and educational programs at the John Bell House.
- Take the free walking tours that start at the John Bell House to explore Dover's historic Green and learn about the surrounding landmarks.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Dover Transit Center, head east on Loockerman Street towards S State St. Continue straight for about 0.3 miles until you reach The Green. Turn left onto The Green and walk about 0.1 miles. The John Bell House will be on your right at 43 The Green.
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Public Transport
From the Dover Transit Center, take the DART First State bus route 104 toward Wilmington. Get off at the Loockerman St & State St stop. From there, head south on State St, then turn left onto E Loockerman St. Walk straight for about 0.3 miles, then turn left onto The Green. The John Bell House will be on your right at 43 The Green. A single fare on DART First State is $2.
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Taxi/Ride-Sharing
From anywhere in central Dover, a taxi or ride-sharing service to the John Bell House at 43 The Green typically costs between $5 and $15, depending on traffic.
Discover more about First State Heritage Park's John Bell House
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bradford-Loockerman House
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Parke-Ridgely House
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Golden Fleece Tavern
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Liberty Bell Replica
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Historic cemetery.
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John Bullen House
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Fire Service Memorial
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World War I Memorial
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USS Delaware
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Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs
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Visit Central Delaware - Kent County Tourism
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Delaware's Quaint Villages
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Unmissable attractions to see
First State Heritage Park
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The Old State House
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The Green
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Biggs Museum of American Art
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The Schwartz Center for the Arts
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Old Presbyterian Church & Cemetery
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Delaware Legislative Hall
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First State Heritage Park Welcome Center and Galleries
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Delaware Public Archives
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Johnson Victrola Museum
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Welcome to Dover, DE Mural
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Spence's bazaar
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Woodburn: Governor's House
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Essential places to dine
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Great Wall Kitchen
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9 East Taphouse
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Caribbean Cuisine
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Zook's Corner
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Bangkok Thai Cuisine
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TGI Fridays
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Delicious Fusion
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La Tonalteca - Dover DE
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El Nopal
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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AMP Antiques and Designs
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Dragonish Boutique
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GiftCard Room LLC
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ShopDoozz
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My Luxury Emporium
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My Roots
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Sozo
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Anna & Mike's Pizza
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Bayview Tavern
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