The Green
The Green: Dover's Historic Heart
First State Heritage Park: A Walk Through Delaware's History
Discover Delaware's rich history and culture at First State Heritage Park, an urban park connecting Dover's most significant landmarks.
First State Heritage Park in Dover, DE, is an urban park connecting historical and cultural sites, offering a deep dive into Delaware's past. Explore the Old State House, John Bell House, and other landmarks that tell the story of the First State.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to First State Heritage Park
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Wednesday
9 am-4 pm
Thursday
9 am-4 pm
Friday
9 am-4 pm
Saturday
9 am-4 pm
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Getting There
Walking
First State Heritage Park is centered around the Dover Green and is easily accessible on foot from most downtown Dover locations. From the Dover Transit Center, head east on W Loockerman St, then turn right onto The Green. The park is at 43 The Green. Walking allows you to explore the historical sites and landmarks at your own pace.
Public Transport
The DART First State bus service connects to Dover, with routes to the Dover Transit Center at 79 W Loockerman St. From the Transit Center, it's a short walk to First State Heritage Park. Check the DART First State website for current bus schedules and fares. A single fare for a local bus trip is $2.00.
Car
If driving, navigate to The Green in Dover, DE. From central Dover, take N State St north and turn left onto W Loockerman St until you reach The Green. First State Heritage Park is located at 43 The Green. Free parking is available at the First State Heritage Park Welcome Center and Galleries at 121 Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard North.
Local tips
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Check the park's schedule for guided tours and special events to enhance your visit.
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Wear comfortable walking shoes, as there are several walking paths and areas to explore.
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Visit the First State Heritage Park Welcome Center for information, maps, and exhibits.
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Explore the park during weekdays to avoid larger crowds.
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Take advantage of the free parking available at the Welcome Center.
Discover more about First State Heritage Park
First State Heritage Park, Delaware's first urban park without boundaries, links historic and cultural sites in Dover, the state capital since 1777. This unique park offers an immersive experience into the history of the First State, with attractions centered around the historic Dover Green.
The park includes key sites such as the Old State House, Delaware Legislative Hall, and the John Bell House, each offering a glimpse into different aspects of Delaware's past. The Welcome Center provides a great starting point, offering information, exhibits, and free parking. Visitors can explore the park's sites, join guided walking tours, and participate in special programs and events that bring history to life.
Key attractions within the park include the Old State House, which served as the state's capitol from 1791 to 1933. Legislative Hall, built in Georgian style, has been home to Delaware's General Assembly since 1933. The John Bell House offers a glimpse into everyday life in Dover during its earliest days. The First State Heritage Park Welcome Center and Galleries serves as an entrance portal to Delaware's state capital and the historic city of Dover.
A brief summary to First State Heritage Park
Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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