Need a cozy New England escape with history, breweries, and small-town charm? Head to Dover! As the oldest permanent settlement in New Hampshire, Dover blends centuries of history with a lively downtown, riverfront views, and easy access to both coast and countryside. Whether you’re exploring local museums, enjoying farm-to-table dining, or paddling the Cocheco River, Dover offers relaxed vibes and year-round appeal.
Dover, NH Highlights:
- For Adventurous Travelers: Paddle the Cocheco River – Rent a kayak or canoe and enjoy a peaceful paddle past bridges, mills, and woodlands.
- For History Buffs: Visit the Woodman Museum – Explore artifacts from colonial days to the Civil War in one of New England’s best regional museums.
- For Shoppers: Browse downtown Dover boutiques – Discover locally owned shops, artisan gifts, and books in a walkable, historic setting.
- For Couples: Stroll Henry Law Park and the riverwalk – Enjoy gardens, scenic river views, and seasonal concerts in this peaceful central green space.
- For Families: Play and learn at the Children's Museum of New Hampshire – Hands-on exhibits, STEAM activities, and creative fun for kids of all ages.
Best Time to Visit Dover, NH
The best time to visit Dover is from May through October, when mild weather allows for riverside walks, outdoor dining, and seasonal festivals. Fall brings vibrant foliage, while winter offers holiday charm and cozy cafés. Spring blooms with community events and market season.
How to Get to Dover, NH
- By Car: Dover is easily accessible via Route 16 and Route 4, about 1.5 hours north of Boston and 20 minutes from Portsmouth.
- By Train: The Amtrak Downeaster line connects Dover to Boston and Portland with a scenic and comfortable ride.
- By Plane: Portsmouth International Airport (PSM) and Boston Logan Airport (BOS) are the closest major airports.
Where to Stay in Dover, NH
- The Garrison Hotel & Suites – Modern amenities, pool, and a great location near downtown and hiking trails.
- Dover Inn & Suites – Budget-friendly option with clean, comfortable rooms and easy access to local attractions.
- Vacation Rentals – Quaint New England homes and riverside cottages for a cozy, local experience.
Best Things to Do in Dover, NH
1. Step Into History, Art, and Nature at the Woodman Institute Museum
The Woodman It was opened in 1916 under the name of Woodman Institute. The museum's campus includes three Federal style brick houses. One of them is the former home of Senator John P. Hale, noted abolitionist. The museum features exhibits of local history, natural history, art and antiques. One of the most notable item is the saddle in which President Abraham Lincoln rode to see the troops not long before his assassination. There are also examples of Dover's textile products, relics from the wars in which the United States has fought, a 10-foot stuffed polar bear from the Arctic, an old 13 star American flag, an old piano with genuine ivory keys, and a collection of stuffed animals. .
Woodman Institute Museum, 182 Central Ave, Dover, NH 03820, Phone: 603-742-1038
2. Shop Handcrafted Pottery Treasures at Salmon Falls Stoneware
Salmon Falls Stoneware is a pottery studio in Dover, New Hampshire, where artist Andy Cochran makes and sells his beautiful, unique hand-crafted, salt-glazed pottery, including baking items, kitchenware, serving items, crocks, vases and more. The pottery occupies the old Boston & Maine Engine House since1983. The artist and his staff produce a line of first-class salt-glaze pottery that is recognized across the country for its exceptional quality. The artist also offers pottery classes in his studio, teaching the basics of making artistic objects out of clay. The classes are great way to spend some time with friends or family working together.
75 Oak St, Dover, NH 03820, Phone: 603-749-1467
What to do if you are traveling with kids:
3. Hike Peaceful Trails and Spot Wildlife at the Savage Wildlife Preserve
The Raymond & Simone Savage Wildlife Preserve is a 26-acre park on the Salmon Falls River in South Berwick, near the town of Dover, New Hampshire. The preserve is bordering Shorey's Brook and contains a mix of forests and fields and tidal and fresh waterfront. It is great diverse habitat for much wildlife such as bald eagles, sea and bay ducks, shorebirds and upland birds, deer and small mammals. The preserve is open to the public. It is managed by the Great Works Regional Land Trust, which considers the preserve one of our most important state properties, for its ecological importance and its value for public recreation.
15 Dover Rd, South Berwick, ME 03908, Phone: 207-646-3604
Where to Eat:
4. Savor Comforting Italian Favorites at Patty B’s
Patty B's is an authentic Italian restaurant in Dover, New Hampshire, a popular spot where locals go when they want to celebrate a special event, or when they crave a delicious Italian dish made from scratch. The dining room is spacious and cozy, beautifully decorated and welcoming. There are tables on the porch for al fresco dining. Patty B makes Italian food the way her family used to do it for generations–with the freshest ingredients, made from scratch and prepared using the old family recipes. Their signature marinara sauce takes eight hours to make and you can taste the difference. The menu is extensive and includes many classic Italian dishes. Their large wine list has great wines from all over the world. They have beautiful private room for special occasions that can fit 100 guests.
34 Dover Point Rd, Dover, NH 03820, Phone: 603-749-4181
More Places to Eat in Dover, NH
- Stalk Restaurant – Contemporary bistro offering upscale comfort food, craft cocktails, and seasonal New England ingredients.
- La Festa Brick & Brew – Cozy pizza joint with wood-fired pies, local beer, and a relaxed, family-friendly feel.
- Blue Latitudes – A long-standing downtown favorite known for seafood, pasta, and creative American cuisine.
If you are interested in local events:
- Dover Dines Restaurant Week (April) – Sample prix fixe menus from local favorites and discover new culinary gems.
- Apple Harvest Day (October) – Celebrate fall with live music, crafts, food vendors, and apple-themed festivities downtown.
- Cochecho Arts Festival (Summer) – Free concerts, arts performances, and family events in Henry Law Park all summer long.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30–60 Minutes of Dover, New Hampshire:
- Portsmouth (20 min) – Historic harbor town with boutique shopping, museums, and lively waterfront dining.
- Rye Beach & Odiorne State Park (30 min) – Coastal trails, tide pools, and sweeping ocean views near the NH Seacoast.
- Durham & UNH (10–15 min) – Stroll a college town with galleries, gardens, and the Seacoast Science Center nearby.
- Newmarket (15–20 min) – A hidden gem with historic mill buildings, riverfront cafés, and local charm.
- Exeter (25–30 min) – Classic New England downtown with bookstores, farmers markets, and riverside paths.
I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:
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Where is Dover located?
- Dover is a city in Strafford County, New Hampshire, and the largest city in the Seacoast region.
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What is Dover’s role in Strafford County?
- It serves as the county seat of Strafford County.
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Where can nature lovers visit in Dover?
- Dover is home to The Raymond & Simone Savage Wildlife Preserve, offering nature lovers a serene retreat.
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What are some family-friendly attractions in Dover?
- The city features the Children's Museum of New Hampshire, a popular destination for families.
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What cultural and historical attractions can be found in Dover?
- The Woodman Institute Museum focuses on history, science, and the arts, with an emphasis on Dover’s history.
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What is a significant historical landmark in Dover?
- Founded in 1839, St. Thomas Episcopal Church is a significant historical landmark.
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