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Dover, NH Community Guide

Situated along the banks of the Cochecho and Piscataqua Rivers, Dover is a vibrant city that beautifully blends its rich history with modern amenities. As the oldest permanent settlement in New Hampshire, Dover boasts a wealth of historical landmarks and a charming, picturesque downtown area. The city also offers a diverse array of activities, from exploring art galleries and museums to enjoying delicious dining options and unique shopping experiences. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, an art lover, or an outdoor enthusiast, Dover invites you to uncover its hidden gems and experience the warmth of its community. Learn more about how Dover could be the place for you below! 

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Aerial View of Dover, New Hampshire in the Fall

Dining & Shopping in Dover

Discover an array of options for every occasion and craving in Dover! From cozy cafés and trendy bistros to traditional eateries and fine dining restaurants, the city is brimming with culinary delights. Italian cuisine lovers can enjoy Patty B's, which consistently ranks as one of the best restaurants in the city. Seafood enthusiasts can indulge in fresh catches at Newick's Lobster House or enjoy the diverse menu at Blue LatitudesThe Sassy Biscuit and Flight Coffee Dover also offer unique atmospheres perfect for a nice cup of coffee or brunch. With such a wide range of options, Dover's dining scene is sure to satisfy any foodie's cravings.

The city's tree-lined downtown area is home to a variety of shops and galleries where shoppers can find everything from unique, locally-made goods to popular retail brands. Washington Street Mills and Cocheco Mills are popular destinations with picturesque settings and unique offerings, from art galleries to quaint shops. Specialty stores in town offer an array of items, including artisan foods, flowers, and local artwork. For those interested in fresh produce and farm goods, there are also several markets to explore. From June through October, you can collect local produce and handmade items at the Dover Farmers' Market. For locally made gifts year-round, My Country Story offers a range of unique candles, soaps, jewelry, and more. And check out the Noggin Factory Toy Shop to find all sorts of games and toys for all ages! 

 

Cocheco Mills in Dover New Hampshire

Arts & Entertainment in Dover

Dover boasts an array of venues and opportunities for both artists and enthusiasts. Downtown Dover is home to several art galleries, including The Art Center, nestled in the heart of Dover at the Washington Street Mills, which provides a space for artists to create, exhibit, and perform. For those interested in performing arts, The Strand, also in Downtown Dover, offers a wealth of entertainment experiences, from live music to theater. Additionally, the Cochecho Arts Festival is a summer-long series of outdoor concerts and performances that locals look forward to each year. For history enthusiasts, the Woodman Museum showcases local and natural history, along with fascinating art collections. The Children's Museum of New Hampshire is another popular destination, offering interactive exhibits and learning opportunities for children. 

Beaches & Parks Near Dover

Although Dover does not have any beaches of its own, there are many beautiful beaches to explore on the New Hampshire seacoast, just a short drive away. However, if you prefer to stay in Dover, there are plenty of parks and outdoor opportunities to enjoy. Hilton Park is a popular destination that provides a panoramic view of the Piscataqua River. Another favorite spot is Bellamy Park with its hiking trails and disc golf course. In addition, Dover has several parks in town, including Woodman Park, Henry Law Park, and Garrison Hill Park, all of which offer playgrounds and green spaces for various activities. For those with furry friends, Longhill Dog Park is an excellent option as well.

Golf & Tennis Clubs Near Dover

Dover offers a range of tennis and golf opportunities all within or near the community. Below are golf courses and tennis clubs that can be found within Dover or are only a short drive away.

Golf Courses: 

Tennis Clubs: 

Education in Dover

The Dover School District is responsible for education in Dover, catering to around 4,200 students and 600 staff members. The district is made up of three elementary schools (grades K-4), a middle school (grades 5-8), a high school, and a career technical center. Aside from public education, Dover has a number of private schools, such as Saint Mary Academy and St. Thomas Aquinas High School. The University of New Hampshire is also conveniently located just a 15-minute drive from Dover, providing a great local option for post-secondary education.

Demographics & Housing Statistics for Dover

Below is data from the 2020 census in Dover, New Hampshire. 

  • Population: 32,745
  • Persons between the ages of 18 and 64: 66.5%
  • Median household income (in 2021 dollars): $82,387

 

  • Households: 14,707
  • Persons per household: 2.16
  • Owner-occupied housing unit rate: 51.7%
  • Median value of owner-occupied housing units: $310,500

Commute Times to Surrounding Areas:

  • Portsmouth, NH - 21 minutes
  • York, ME - 24 minutes
  • Rye, NH - 27 minutes
  • Hampton Beach, NH - 30 minutes
  • Newburyport, MA - 38 minutes
  • Biddeford, ME -  45 minutes
  • Manchester, NH - 52 minutes
  • Concord, NH - 55 minutes
  • Portland, ME - 57 minutes
  • Nashua, NH - 1 hour 8 minutes 
  • Boston, MA - 1 hour 14 minutes

*All times are approximated and can change depending on traffic and time of day. 

Learn More About Life in Dover with Stephen Oates! 

Interested in learning more about living in Dover, New Hampshire? Contact Stephen Oates today for more information on housing options in Dover! Learn more about the buying and selling process on the seacoast of New Hampshire and create an account to save your favorite listings and receive updates when similar properties hit the market.