Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Dover gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from DOV to the city takes roughly 20 minutes by Taxi/Rideshare, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
Important Details Before You Go
Three things to verify before you walk out of DOV:
- Can you legally enter United States? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 20-minute journey each way by Taxi/Rideshare, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
Getting to Dover from the Airport
From DOV, the Taxi/Rideshare gets you to Dover in around 20 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 40 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxi/Rideshare offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Dover might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$9 USD
- A meal: ~$18 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$37 USD
Cards are increasingly accepted in Dover, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
What to Do With Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at DOV aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Dover itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Exploring Dover on a Layover
Two recommendations for your time in Dover:
Start with Air Mobility Command Museum. Worth a stop if you have at least an hour to spare. Then, if time allows, make your way to Legislative Hall – Delaware State Capitol. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
If you’d rather stay inside DOV — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Dover AFB Base Exchange (BX)
- Dover AFB Fitness Center
Best Bites Near DOV
For food in Dover, local travelers recommend Restaurant 55. If you have time for a second stop, La Tolteca is another popular pick.
Back at DOV, Dover AFB Base Exchange Food Court is the go-to. Starbucks – Dover AFB BX rounds out your in-terminal options.
Need a Nap? Options at DOV
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at DOV.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at DOV for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Dover or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Dover genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.