Top 15 Activities in Woodside East, Delaware

Woodside East is a southern suburb of Dover situated in central Delaware’s Kent County.

According to the most recent census, Woodside East hosts a population of approximately 3,500 residents. While it is conveniently close to many of the state’s most frequented attractions, it remains relatively undeveloped in comparison to Delaware’s northern cities.

The nearby city of Dover presents a variety of year-round attractions and events, including museums, gaming, horse and auto racing, as well as numerous historical sites.

Outlined below are 15 engaging and educational activities in and around Woodside East that frequently appear at the top of vacationers’ itineraries.

1. Anna & Mike’s Pizza

Delaware is certainly not lacking in pizzerias.

Located on DuPont Highway in Felton, just a short distance from Woodside East, Anna & Mike’s Pizza has garnered acclaim for its quality, often praised as surpassing the competition.

The establishment operates daily from 11 AM to 10 PM, offering a wide selection of pizzas in various sizes and crust options. Their toppings range from traditional favorites to unique and contemporary choices.

As a locally-owned family establishment, it presents a wonderful opportunity to support small businesses over national chains.

2. Delaware State Fair

State fairs serve as remarkable community assets for both locals and visitors seeking enjoyable experiences on modest budgets, and they are particularly popular among families traveling with children.

The Delaware State Fair takes place annually in Harrington from the end of July through mid-August.

This vibrant event attracts crowds from afar, with many attendees enjoying the experience so much they return multiple times.

Among the varied events and features are livestock and farm shows, carnival rides and games, a plethora of delicious food options, and family-oriented activities for all ages.

3. Firefly Music Festival

The Firefly Music Festival has rapidly gained prominence as one of Delaware’s most eagerly anticipated annual events. Although it is not the most economical festival, it represents a must-visit occasion for enthusiasts of live entertainment and quality music.

This festival attracts notable and emerging artists from across the country, and attendees have remarked that it rivals larger, more established music events like California’s Coachella.

Firefly draws substantial audiences and generates a festive, Mardi Gras-like atmosphere, which may not be ideal for individuals who prefer quieter environments or those accompanying children with sensitive ears.

4. Air Mobility Command Museum

Despite Dover being the state capital long before the establishment of the Air Force, the city’s landscape has evolved significantly around the military base, offering a plethora of activities for visitors.

The Air Mobility Command Museum is an essential destination for aficionados of military and aviation history. The impressive collection encompasses numerous vintage and modern aircraft that have served various functions, including fighters, interceptors, bombers, and in-flight refueling tankers.

The aircraft housed at the museum have been meticulously restored to their near-original condition, with opportunities to explore some of the larger fuselages and cockpits available to visitors.

5. Grey Fox Grille & Public House

The region surrounding Dover and Woodside East is rich in historical attractions, with several pubs among them.

During the Revolutionary War, pubs served as popular gathering places for patriots and others to engage in convivial activities.

While the Grey Fox Grille & Public House does not date back to that period, it occupies buildings from the 1880s, providing patrons with a glimpse into the historical narrative of the area.

Located near downtown Dover, the establishment is renowned for its warm atmosphere, delectable pub food, and a wide selection of beers, wines, and spirits.

6. Dover Downs Hotel & Casino

Although Dover boasts a variety of attractions, it frequently serves as a stopover for individuals traveling between Maryland and Pennsylvania en route to Rehoboth Beach and Ocean City.

Numerous vacationers en route to the beach take time to visit Dover Downs Hotel & Casino for gaming, dining, or horse racing.

For travelers with extended stays, Dover Downs provides a continuous array of activities, many of which cater to families.

Additionally, it has established itself as a prominent venue for live entertainment, with dining options that are reputed to compete with those found in Las Vegas and Atlantic City.

7. Biggs Museum of American Art

Situated in the downtown area known as The Green, the Biggs Museum of American Art is one of Delaware’s most historic districts.

This area is home to a variety of museums, galleries, historic homes, businesses, and establishments that have contributed significantly to the nation’s history.

The Biggs Museum features an exceptional collection of American art, much of which dates back to the Revolutionary War era.

With an affordable admission fee, visitors who appreciate art and history often find this attraction to be a profoundly rewarding experience. It is also ideal for those wishing to stretch their legs after a lengthy car journey.

8. Dover International Speedway

The Dover International Speedway is a renowned racing venue that attracts automobile racing enthusiasts from all over the country during the summer months.

The speedway hosts races across various classes, with NASCAR events being particularly popular.

Even for individuals who may not be avid racing fans, attending an event here can be one of the most thrilling experiences of their trip, complete with live entertainment, extensive food and beverage options, and family-friendly activities suitable for children.

It is advisable to plan ahead for accommodations, as both hotels and campgrounds in and around Dover tend to fill up quickly during race weekends.

9. John Dickinson Plantation

While John Dickinson may not be as widely recognized as other founding fathers who signed the U.S. Constitution, he is still a historically significant figure who once owned a plantation in Delaware.

For many visitors, exploring the John Dickinson Plantation feels akin to stepping back in time. The exhibits primarily focus on local and regional history, with some elements reflecting pivotal issues during the Revolutionary War and the formation of the nation.

The plantation is affordably accessible, and most visitors enjoy several hours exploring the home and the expansive grounds.

10. Roosevelt Inlet Shipwreck

Delaware’s maritime history dates back to its days as a colonial territory, during which thousands of shipwrecks have occurred along the mid-Atlantic coast.

While shipwrecks are infrequent in contemporary times, maritime history enthusiasts have opportunities to explore sites like the Roosevelt Inlet Shipwreck.

This ship grounded in the 1770s and ultimately sank, although all crew members survived, leaving the cargo lost to the depths.

For those uninterested in venturing out to sea, historical markers exist inland, and numerous guided boat tours of various wrecks are also available.

11. Cannonball House

During the Revolutionary War, the technology of cannons was not as advanced as it is today, leading to instances where cannonballs would become lodged in the walls of structures rather than passing through them.

The Cannonball House derives its name from an iron projectile still embedded in its structure from British fire during the War of 1812.

As one of Delaware’s most distinctive historic attractions, it is currently managed by the Lewes Historical Society.

The former residence has been transformed into a maritime museum featuring intriguing and educational artifacts, as well as elements of lighthouse history from the surrounding coastlines.

12. The Zwaanendael Museum

The Dutch were among the initial settlers in North America, establishing a colony in what is now Delaware over three centuries ago.

The Zwaanendael Museum was founded to conserve and promote the region’s historical heritage, showcasing impressive architectural features that include Dutch-inspired carvings, shutters, and design elements.

The museum boasts an affordable admission price, offering visitors insights into aspects of history they may otherwise overlook.

The collection encompasses artifacts, garments, weaponry, and nautical instruments, along with memorabilia salvaged from shipwrecks and lighthouses along the Delmarva Peninsula, spanning from Maryland to Virginia.

13. Cape Henlopen State Park

Despite its relatively small size, Delaware is home to several state parks, conveniently located for those residing in Woodside East.

Cape Henlopen State Park, situated along the southern coastline of the state, features stunning beaches, impressive dunes, and vast ocean views.

This expansive park spans over 5,000 acres and, while water activities are typically the primary attraction, there are numerous options for land-based recreation as well.

Popular activities include biking, birdwatching, sunbathing, wildlife photography, kite flying, surfing, and fishing.

14. Delaware Children’s Museum

Children’s museums, which were once a rarity, have become increasingly prevalent.

The Delaware Children’s Museum, located in Wilmington, caters to curious minds, from toddlers to adolescents.

Its interactive exhibits explore themes in science, technology, animals, and engineering. Throughout the year, special programs and seasonal events are also featured.

Open year-round, it is generally regarded as a reasonable option for budget-conscious travelers.

Given its full calendar of events, it is advisable to verify the schedule online prior to planning a visit.