Woodside East is a southern suburb of Dover, located in Kent County in central Delaware.
The population of Woodside East was about 3,500 at the last census. While it’s close to many of the state’s most popular attractions, it’s relatively underdeveloped compared to cities in northern Delaware.
Nearby Dover offers a variety of year-round attractions and activities, such as museums, games, horse and racing, and many historic sites.
Here are 15 fun and educational activities in and around Woodside East that often rank high on visiting holidaymakers’ itineraries.
1. Anna & Mike’s Pizza
If there’s one thing, there’s definitely no shortage of pizza places in Delaware.
Anna & Mike’s Pizza is located on DuPont Highway in Felton, just down the road from Woodside East. Diners tend to agree that their pizza is way ahead of the competition.
They’re open daily from 11am to 10pm and serve pizzas in a variety of sizes with a variety of crust options. Their ingredients range from classic and traditional to modern and slightly quirky.
Anna & Mike’s is a locally run community store, so consider supporting the family business rather than dining at a national chain.
2. Delaware State Fair
State Fairs are amazing community resources for locals and tourists looking to have fun on a limited budget, and they are especially popular for those traveling with young children.
The Delaware State Fair is held annually in Harrington from late July to mid-August.
It’s an action-packed event that draws crowds from near and far, with many visitors having a great time and returning many times.
Activities and facilities include livestock and farm shows, carnival rides and games, plenty of food options, and family activities for all ages.
3. Firefly Music Festival
The Firefly Festival is fast becoming one of the most anticipated annual events in the First State. While it’s definitely not the cheapest festival, it’s a must-see for lovers of live entertainment and great music.
The festival attracts established and up-and-coming musicians from across the country, and previous guests have noticed that it rivals larger, more established festivals like Coachella in California.
Fireflies attract large crowds and tend to have a carnival-like vibe, so it may not be suitable for claustrophobic, introverted, and people traveling with children with sensitive ears.
4. Air Mobility Command Museum
Although Dover was the state’s capital long before the Air Force, the city now revolves primarily around the base. It offers visitors many options for activities to choose from.
The Air Mobility Command Museum is a must-see for military and aviation history buffs. Its impressive collection includes dozens of vintage and modern warbirds operating in a variety of capabilities, from fighters and interceptors to bombers and aerial tankers.
The museum’s planes have been restored to near pristine condition, often with access to some larger airframes and cockpits.
5. Grey Fox Grille & Public House
The area around Dover and Woodside East is full of historic attractions, many of which are pubs.
Back in the days of the Revolution, bars were popular meeting places for thirsty patriots and other pesky characters to drink, gossip, and debate the issues of the day.
Gray Fox Grille & Public House isn’t that far behind, but it has 1880s architecture that gives guests a glimpse into the historic past.
Located near Dover city centre, they are known for their cosy atmosphere, delicious pub food and an extensive selection of beer, wine and spirits.
6. Dover Downs Hotel & Casino
While Dover has many attractions of its own, it’s often a stopover for those traveling between neighboring Maryland and Pennsylvania to Rehoboth Beach and Ocean City.
Many beachgoers come to Dover Downs Hotel & Casino on their way to play the slot machines, grab a bite to eat or take part in a horse race or two.
For those who will be in the area for more than a few hours, Dover Downs offers a choice of 24/7 activities, many of which are family-friendly.
It’s also a massive live entertainment venue, and their restaurants are rumored to rival those in Las Vegas and Atlantic City.
7. Biggs Museum of American Art
The Biggs Museum of American Art is located in an area called The Green in downtown Dover.
One of the state’s most historic areas, it’s filled with museums, galleries, residences, businesses, and watering holes that have played an important role in American history over the years.
The Biggs Museum has an impressive collection of American art, much of it from the Revolutionary War.
Admission is inexpensive, and most visitors who appreciate art and history find it a poignant attraction well worth a visit.
The area is easy to explore on foot, so it’s perfect for those interested in stretching their legs after a day in the car.
8. Dover International Speedway
Dover International Speedway is a regional racing icon that draws racing fans from all over the country during the summer months.
Speedways host races of all levels, but the most popular are NASCAR events.
Even for those who aren’t usually hardcore fans, it’s often one of the most exhilarating experiences of their trip, with live entertainment, plenty of food and drink options, and family-friendly activities for traveling with kids.
Race weekends are fast at hotels and campgrounds in Dover and surrounding towns, so plan accordingly.
9. John Dickinson Plantation
John Dickinson is not as famous as the other founding fathers and signatories of the U.S. Constitution, but he is a historic figure who once owned a plantation in Delaware.
For many visitors, exploring the John Dickinson Plantation is like stepping back in time. While you’ll find much of it local and regional in nature, some of it was at the forefront of national issues in the years leading up to the Revolutionary War and founding.
The house is inexpensive to visit, and most guests spend a few hours presenting themselves around the house and expansive plantation.
10. Roosevelt Entrance Shipwreck
Delaware’s maritime history dates back to the days when the state was just a colony. Since then, thousands of shipwrecks have occurred along the mid-Atlantic coast.
Thankfully, shipwrecks are rare these days, but nautical history buffs still have ample opportunities to visit sites like the Roosevelt Bay Wreck.
The ship ran aground and eventually sank in the 1770s. Although the crew survived, the cargo was lost forever.
For those who don’t want to venture out to sea, there are historical signs inland and many guided tours of various shipwrecks.
11. Cannonball House
During the Revolutionary War, cannons did not have the muzzle velocity they have today, and shells would often get stuck on the walls of buildings instead of going straight through.
The Cannonball House is so named because it still carries the iron bullets fired at it by the British during the War of 1812.
It is one of the most unique historic attractions on the Delaware coast and is now administered by the Lewis Historical Society.
The house has been converted into a maritime museum, displaying interesting and educational historical memorabilia, as well as lighthouse history tidbits from up and down the coast.
12. Zwaanendael Museum
The Dutch were one of the first settlers in North America, establishing a colony in what is now Delaware more than three centuries ago.
Established to preserve and promote the history of the area, the Zwaanendael Museum features impressive architecture including elements such as Dutch-style carvings, shutters and designs.
The museum is relatively inexpensive to visit and offers guests glimpses into the past that they might otherwise miss.
The collection includes artifacts, clothing, weapons and nautical equipment, as well as memorabilia salvaged from shipwrecks and lighthouses up and down the Delmarva Peninsula from Maryland to Virginia.
13. Henloppen Point State Park
Despite its small size, Delaware is home to several state parks. They are located all over the state, providing convenience for those who live in the Eastside of Woodside.
Located on the state’s southern coast, Cape Henlopen State Park has impressive beaches, majestic sand dunes and sweeping ocean views.
The park covers more than 5,000 acres. While water sports are at the top of most tourists’ to-do lists, there are a variety of land-based activities to choose from.
Cycling, bird watching, sunbathing and wildlife photography are popular, as are kite flying, surfing and fishing.
14. Delaware Children’s Museum
Children’s museums used to be rare, but these days, they are becoming more common.
Located in Wilmington, the Delaware Children’s Museum is for curious young adults, from toddlers to teens.
The museum’s interactive exhibits touch upon science, technology, animals and engineering. There are also special programs and seasonal events at various times throughout the year.
The museum is open year-round and is generally considered good value for money by frugal travelers.
Since their event schedule is complete, it’s best to check their schedule online before going on a special trip.
Where to Stay: Best Inn Woodside East (DE), Delaware
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