Dover, the capital city of Delaware, is situated in the central part of the state and serves as the county seat of Kent County. Located on the St. Jones River, Dover is approximately 89 miles southeast of Baltimore, Maryland, and 97 miles southwest of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. As the second-largest city in Delaware, Dover is a hub of cultural, historical, and governmental significance. The city’s population, estimated at around 38,000 residents, enjoys a rich tapestry of attractions, including historic landmarks, museums, parks, and recreational facilities. Dover is home to Delaware State University, a historically black university known for its academic excellence and cultural diversity. Major landmarks in Dover include the Delaware State Capitol, Legislative Hall, and the John Dickinson Plantation, offering visitors insight into the city’s rich colonial history and contributions to American governance.
Climate and Weather Overview
Dover experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot, humid summers and relatively mild winters. The city enjoys four distinct seasons, with variations in temperature and precipitation throughout the year. Below is a detailed overview of Dover’s climate, including average temperature, precipitation, and sunny days for each month.
Average Monthly Climate Data
| Month | Average Temperature (°F) | Precipitation (inches) | Sunny Days |
| January | 39 | 3.47 | 10 |
| February | 41 | 2.92 | 10 |
| March | 49 | 3.88 | 10 |
| April | 58 | 3.70 | 9 |
| May | 68 | 3.96 | 9 |
| June | 77 | 4.24 | 9 |
| July | 81 | 4.41 | 9 |
| August | 80 | 4.29 | 9 |
| September | 73 | 3.63 | 8 |
| October | 61 | 3.38 | 8 |
| November | 52 | 3.39 | 8 |
| December | 42 | 3.34 | 9 |
Weather by Month
January
January in Dover is characterized by chilly temperatures, with average highs around 39°F (4°C) and lows around 25°F (-4°C). The month typically sees moderate precipitation, with an average of 3.47 inches of snow and rain. Despite the cold weather, there are still plenty of indoor activities to enjoy in Dover, such as visiting museums, art galleries, and local theaters.
Recommended Activities: Visiting the Delaware Agricultural Museum and Village, exploring the Biggs Museum of American Art, attending performances at the Schwartz Center for the Arts.
February
February brings similar weather to Dover, with average highs around 41°F (5°C) and lows around 27°F (-3°C). Precipitation levels remain moderate, with an average of 2.92 inches of snow and rain. While outdoor activities may be limited due to the weather, there are still plenty of cultural and educational attractions to explore in Dover.
Recommended Activities: Touring the Johnson Victrola Museum, learning about Delaware’s history at the First State Heritage Park, enjoying live music at local venues.
March
March marks the transition to spring in Dover, with average highs around 49°F (9°C) and lows around 32°F (0°C). Precipitation levels increase slightly, with an average of 3.88 inches of rain. As the weather begins to warm up, outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and visiting parks become more enjoyable.
Recommended Activities: Exploring Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge, hiking along the Michael N. Castle Trail, attending the Dover Days Festival.
April
April brings milder temperatures to Dover, with average highs around 58°F (14°C) and lows around 39°F (4°C). Precipitation levels remain moderate, with an average of 3.70 inches of rain. Spring is in full swing, making it an ideal time to explore outdoor attractions and engage in recreational activities.
Recommended Activities: Visiting the Delaware State Arboretum, picnicking at Silver Lake Park, attending the Dover International Speedway’s NASCAR races.
May
May is a pleasant month in Dover, with average highs around 68°F (20°C) and lows around 49°F (9°C). Precipitation levels increase slightly, with an average of 3.96 inches of rain. The city’s parks and outdoor spaces come alive with vibrant foliage and blooming flowers, offering beautiful settings for outdoor activities.
Recommended Activities: Exploring the Governor Bacon Health Center Trails, birdwatching at Killens Pond State Park, attending the Dover Days Arts & Crafts Festival.
June
June brings warmer temperatures to Dover, with average highs around 77°F (25°C) and lows around 59°F (15°C). Precipitation levels remain moderate, with an average of 4.24 inches of rain. The longer days and pleasant weather make it an ideal time to explore outdoor attractions and participate in recreational activities.
Recommended Activities: Kayaking on the St. Jones River, hiking at Fork Branch Nature Preserve, attending the Firefly Music Festival.
July
July is one of the warmest months in Dover, with average highs around 81°F (27°C) and lows around 64°F (18°C). Precipitation levels increase slightly, with an average of 4.41 inches of rain. Despite the heat, outdoor activities such as swimming, boating, and fishing are popular ways to stay cool and enjoy the summer weather.
Recommended Activities: Swimming at Killens Pond State Park, boating on Tidbury Creek, attending the Delaware State Fair.
August
August brings continued warm temperatures to Dover, with average highs around 80°F (27°C) and lows around 63°F (17°C). Precipitation levels remain moderate, with an average of 4.29 inches of rain. Outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, and attending county fairs are popular ways to enjoy the summer weather.
Recommended Activities: Camping at Lums Pond State Park, hiking the Junction and Breakwater Trail, attending the Delaware State Fair.
September
September marks the transition to fall in Dover, with average highs around 73°F (23°C) and lows around 55°F (13°C). Precipitation levels decrease slightly, with an average of 3.63 inches of rain. The cooler weather and changing foliage make it an ideal time for outdoor activities such as hiking, apple picking, and attending fall festivals.
Recommended Activities: Exploring the Auburn Valley State Park, apple picking at Fifer Orchards, attending the Delaware Wine and Beer Festival.
October
October brings cooler temperatures to Dover, with average highs around 61°F (16°C) and lows around 43°F (6°C). Precipitation levels remain moderate, with an average of 3.38 inches of rain. The city’s parks and outdoor spaces showcase vibrant fall foliage, offering beautiful settings for outdoor activities and scenic drives.
Recommended Activities: Exploring the Alapocas Run State Park, visiting the Nemours Estate’s Fall Family Festival, attending the Delaware Wine and Beer Festival.
November
November is a transitional month in Dover, with average highs around 52°F (11°C) and lows around 35°F (2°C). Precipitation levels increase slightly, with an average of 3.39 inches of rain. The cooler weather and shorter days make it an ideal time for indoor activities such as visiting museums, art galleries, and local theaters.
Recommended Activities: Touring the Delaware Agricultural Museum and Village, exploring the Johnson Victrola Museum, attending performances at the Schwartz Center for the Arts.
December
December brings cold temperatures and winter weather to Dover, with average highs around 42°F (6°C) and lows around 28°F (-2°C). Precipitation levels remain moderate, with an average of 3.34 inches of snow and rain. Despite the chilly weather, there are still plenty of indoor and outdoor activities to enjoy in Dover during the holiday season.
Recommended Activities: Visiting the Air Mobility Command Museum, ice skating at the Centre Ice Rink, attending holiday markets and events.