I wasn't originally planning on coming here but got a recommendation from another museum. It's in walking distance of the state capitol so on a nice weather day, we found street parking and strolled over. It's a free museum, and I wouldn't say to drive hours out of your way to come, but it was fun for about an hour after doing something else nearby. They have a lot of different musical devices to see, but they had one they played for an example which was cool to hear. We talked to two guides since it was empty, and both were clearly knowledgeable and passionate about the products, which made it a much better experience rather than just reading the signs. There are also 2 levels of museum including a whole section on Nipper the dog merchandise over time. They also had a big display vintage ad. So overall this won't take too long to look through, but it was a neat little find, was free, and had people there to answer all my questions. Worth the stop and giving a donation to. read more

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Well worth a visit for fans of music and history. ER Johnson was actually a native of Dover, which I never knew. The staff is incredibly knowledgeable and passionate, and we were taken on an amazing personal tour. The museum is two stories, with bathrooms in the basement. We spent about 45-60 minutes being shown around and learning about vinyls, record players, and the history of music recording. Some of the large decorated players they have upstairs are beautiful and definitely worth seeing. Admission is free with a donation box at the end. A parking lot is shared with the church next door. read more

A wonderful little museum if you are looking for something to do in Dover Delaware. My kids really enjoyed the short tour, and learned a lot about how music was made before the days of iPods and smartphones! Also it is FREE and there is Plenty of parking. Note, however that it is only open Wednesday through Saturday. read more

This is an excellent museum with a great staff of dedicated people willing to explain the history of Victrola and demonstrate the exhibits. It was very interesting and detailed in what I believe was s purpose built facility. Kids loved it also!! read more

I would HIGHLY recommend this museum to someone in the Dover area looking for something different to do. The focus is entirely on the Victrola player and the man who invented in during the early 20th century. They have tons of Victrolas, as well as many horns, and hundreds of thousands of original Victor records. The museum guide is extremely knowledgeable and will play music for you on the different machines so that you can see the differences as the years have gone on. Don't reject if they are willing to take you around -- you'd miss everything fantastic. While it's not the fanciest looking museum on the inside, it really does give good context for the history and the collection is fabulous. Best part? It's free! read more

Really cool place and very knowledgeable you'd guide. Definitely worth learning how He converted continuous winding required to wind and walk away. read more

Definitely visit this museum if you have the time!!! They have a tour guide for each floor (there's only two) and they both knew a lot about Johnson and the Victor's and obviously cared about the exhibit a lot. Steven, the guide for the first floor was very funny and engaging. Even if you go into the museum not particularly interested, you will be by the time he's done talking. The story behind the giant of the music industry of the early 1900s is cool enough, but the personable feel the staff adds makes the experience not one to miss. Oh and it's free so there's no reason not to go ;) read more

Despite all the positive reviews I read on-line about this museum, you just don't realize how great it is until you actually visit. The tour is a must do. Very knowledgable staff, well worth the price (free). It is a must do for any Victrola or history fan. So glad I made the time to rent a car specifically to visit this museum while visiting Delaware for a half marathon. read more

If you listen to music, read music, write music, sing music, or just think about music, this is worth your while. Learn about the way things used to work and about sayings such as "Put a sock in it," and "Put a lid on it." This museum shows you not only the evolution of sound recording, but of culture, history, and defying the odds that others believe are stacked against you. Mr. Johnson was an incredible engineer with an ear for good sound AND an eye for marketing to people and accommodating their needs and wants. It's worth a trip to Dover just for this, not to mention the other historically significant sights! read more

Go here! It's free, it's totally unique and it's full of history. When I went I got a personal tour. Learned so much. I'd suggest 45mins. I believe the site is always staffed with a volunteer and it's free! read more

Visiting this museum is the best choice you could make when passing through the great state of Delaware. They have an amazing variety of Victrola players and some really neat old advertising. This is a not to be missed once-in-a-lifetime museum to visit when in Dover. The guides are all extremely friendly and knowledgeable. If you have a love for music and how we got to where we are today, then this museum is for you! read more