Delaware is a small state located in the northeastern region of the United States. It is bordered by Pennsylvania to the north, New Jersey to the northeast, Maryland to the south and west, and the Atlantic Ocean to the east. The state’s capital is Dover, and its largest city is Wilmington.
Delaware is known for its colonial history, beautiful beaches, and tax-free shopping. Here are some places to visit and things to do in Delaware:
Rehoboth Beach: This beautiful beach town is known for its boardwalk, restaurants, and shopping. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and water sports, as well as the many activities and events held throughout the year.
Wilmington Riverfront: The Wilmington Riverfront is a bustling area along the Christina River that features shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Visitors can take a stroll along the riverwalk, catch a show at the Playhouse on Rodney Square, or visit the Delaware Children’s Museum.
Delaware Park: Located in Wilmington, Delaware Park is a popular destination for horse racing and casino gaming. Visitors can watch live horse races or try their luck at the slot machines and table games.
Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library: This museum is located in Wilmington and features an extensive collection of American decorative arts, including furniture, ceramics, and textiles. The museum is also home to beautiful gardens and a library with over 87,000 volumes.
Historic New Castle: This charming town is located along the Delaware River and features beautiful colonial architecture, museums, and historic sites. Visitors can take a guided tour of the town or explore on their own.
Hagley Museum and Library: Located in Wilmington, the Hagley Museum and Library is a museum and research library that documents the history of American industry. Visitors can tour the historic site, which includes the original du Pont family home and gardens, a black powder mill, and a workers’ community.
Delaware Art Museum: This museum is located in Wilmington and features a collection of American art from the 19th century to the present day. The museum also offers art classes, workshops, and other educational programs.
Whether you’re interested in history, art, or outdoor activities, Delaware has something to offer visitors of all ages.
Places to Visit in Delaware
Here are some of the top places to visit in Delaware:
Rehoboth Beach: Rehoboth Beach is one of the most popular beach destinations in Delaware. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and water sports, as well as the many activities and events held throughout the year.
Delaware Seashore State Park: This park features six miles of pristine beach, as well as hiking and biking trails, campsites, and picnic areas.
Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library: This museum is located in Wilmington and features an extensive collection of American decorative arts, including furniture, ceramics, and textiles. The museum is also home to beautiful gardens and a library with over 87,000 volumes.
Brandywine Creek State Park: This park is located in Wilmington and offers hiking and biking trails, fishing, camping, and picnic areas. The park is also home to the Brandywine Zoo.
Delaware Art Museum: This museum is located in Wilmington and features a collection of American art from the 19th century to the present day. The museum also offers art classes, workshops, and other educational programs.
Historic New Castle: This charming town is located along the Delaware River and features beautiful colonial architecture, museums, and historic sites. Visitors can take a guided tour of the town or explore on their own.
Cape Henlopen State Park: This park is located in Lewes and offers miles of pristine beach, as well as hiking and biking trails, camping, and picnic areas.
Nemours Mansion and Gardens: This historic mansion is located in Wilmington and features 77 rooms of French-inspired design, as well as a beautiful garden and fountain.
Whether you’re interested in history, art, or outdoor activities, Delaware has something to offer visitors of all ages.
Best Time To Visit Delaware
The best time to visit Delaware depends on your interests and what you want to do during your visit. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect during each season:
Summer (June-August): Summer is the peak season in Delaware, especially for beachgoers. The weather is warm and sunny, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to mid-80s (Fahrenheit). Expect crowds and higher prices during this time.
Fall (September-November): Fall is a beautiful time to visit Delaware, with mild temperatures and colorful foliage. It’s also a great time for outdoor activities like hiking and biking. The crowds thin out after Labor Day, and prices are generally lower than in summer.
Winter (December-February): Winter can be cold and snowy in Delaware, but it’s also a quiet and peaceful time to visit. Many attractions close for the season, but there are still plenty of indoor activities like museums and shopping.
Spring (March-May): Spring is a popular time for outdoor activities in Delaware, especially for birdwatching and visiting the many gardens and parks. The weather can be unpredictable, with temperatures ranging from the 40s to the 70s (Fahrenheit).
Overall, the best time to visit Delaware depends on your interests and what you want to do during your visit. Summer is the most popular time for beachgoers, while fall is great for outdoor activities and lower prices.
Things to Do in Delaware
Delaware offers visitors a variety of things to see and do, whether you’re interested in history, nature, or outdoor activities. Here are some top things to do in Delaware:
Visit the Delaware beaches: Delaware’s Atlantic Ocean coastline is home to several beautiful beaches, including Rehoboth Beach, Bethany Beach, and Dewey Beach. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and water sports, as well as boardwalks and shopping.
Explore the historic city of Wilmington: Wilmington is home to several museums, including the Delaware Art Museum, the Delaware Museum of Natural History, and the Hagley Museum and Library, which explores the history of the DuPont family.
Hike or bike in Brandywine Creek State Park: This park is home to over 14 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, as well as opportunities for fishing and camping.
Tour the Nemours Mansion and Gardens: This 300-acre estate features a French-inspired mansion with 77 rooms, as well as a beautiful garden and fountain. Guided tours are available.
Visit the Delaware Seashore State Park: This park features six miles of pristine beach, as well as hiking and biking trails, campsites, and picnic areas.
Take a cruise on the Cape May-Lewes Ferry: This ferry connects Delaware and New Jersey and offers scenic views of the Delaware Bay.
Explore the DuPont Environmental Education Center: This center features interactive exhibits and educational programs about the Delaware River and its surrounding ecosystem.
Walk through the historic town of New Castle: This charming town along the Delaware River features colonial architecture, museums, and historic sites, including the New Castle Court House Museum.
These are just a few of the many things to do in Delaware. Whatever your interests, you’re sure to find something to enjoy in this beautiful state.
How to get around in Delaware
Getting around Delaware is relatively easy, whether you’re traveling by car, bus, or train. Here are some transportation options to consider:
Car: The most common way to get around Delaware is by car, either by renting a car or using your own. The state’s major highways include I-95, which runs through Wilmington, and Route 1, which connects Wilmington with the Delaware beaches.
DART First State: Delaware’s public transportation system, DART First State, operates bus routes throughout the state, including major cities like Wilmington, Dover, and Rehoboth Beach. Fares are affordable, and there are discounts available for seniors and people with disabilities.
Amtrak: Amtrak operates train service in Delaware, with stations in Wilmington and Newark. The Northeast Regional and Acela Express trains connect Delaware with cities like Philadelphia, Baltimore, and New York.
Taxis and ride-sharing services: Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Delaware’s major cities, but they may be less common in more rural areas.
Biking and walking: Delaware’s small size and flat terrain make it a great place for biking and walking. Many cities and towns have bike lanes and walking paths, and there are several bike rental shops throughout the state.
Overall, getting around Delaware is relatively easy and convenient, with a variety of transportation options to choose from.
Where to eat in Delaware
Delaware offers a variety of dining options, from seafood shacks to upscale restaurants. Here are some top places to eat in Delaware:
Dogfish Head Brewings & Eats, Rehoboth Beach: This brewery and restaurant serves up a variety of craft beers and pub-style food, including burgers, sandwiches, and pizzas.
Harry’s Seafood Grill, Wilmington: This upscale seafood restaurant is located on the Wilmington Riverfront and offers fresh seafood dishes like oysters, scallops, and crab cakes, as well as non-seafood options.
The Green Room, Wilmington: Located inside the Hotel DuPont, The Green Room is a fine dining restaurant that serves up European-inspired cuisine in an elegant setting.
Touch of Italy, Lewes: This Italian deli and market serves up authentic Italian sandwiches, pizzas, and pastries, as well as fresh pastas and sauces to take home.
The Farmer & The Cow, Newark: This burger joint serves up locally sourced beef burgers, as well as creative toppings like truffle aioli and bacon jam.
The Back Porch Cafe, Rehoboth Beach: This romantic restaurant offers a seasonal menu of fresh seafood and farm-to-table dishes, as well as an extensive wine list.
La Fia Bakery + Market + Bistro, Wilmington: This European-style bakery and bistro serves up fresh-baked breads and pastries, as well as gourmet sandwiches, soups, and salads.
These are just a few of the many dining options available in Delaware. Whether you’re looking for casual pub grub or upscale fine dining, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your appetite in the First State.
Famous street stalls in Delaware
Delaware is not particularly well-known for its street food scene, but there are still some great spots to grab a quick and delicious bite on the go. Here are some famous street stalls in Delaware:
The Wiener Wagon, Wilmington: This food truck serves up classic hot dogs and sausages with a variety of toppings, as well as sides like fries and onion rings.
I Don’t Give a Fork, Rehoboth Beach: This food truck serves up creative grilled cheese sandwiches, like the “Forkin’ Caprese” with mozzarella, tomato, and pesto, as well as sides like tater tots and mac and cheese.
Koi on the Go, Newark: This food truck serves up sushi rolls, poke bowls, and other Asian-inspired dishes, as well as bubble tea and other beverages.
Churrascaria Saudades, Wilmington: This food truck serves up Brazilian-style grilled meats and sandwiches, like the “Pork Belly Banh Mi” with marinated pork belly, pickled vegetables, and aioli.
Viva Chicken, Newark: This fast-casual restaurant serves up Peruvian-style rotisserie chicken, as well as sides like plantains and yucca fries.
These street stalls and food trucks offer a variety of cuisines and flavors, and are a great way to try something new while exploring Delaware’s cities and towns.
Where to stay in Delaware
Luxury accommodation
Delaware offers a range of luxury accommodations, from historic hotels to beach resorts. Here are some top options for luxury stays in the state:
HOTEL DU PONT, Wilmington: This historic hotel in the heart of Wilmington offers elegant rooms and suites with classic decor, as well as a French-inspired fine dining restaurant, a fitness center, and a full-service spa.
The Bellmoor Inn & Spa, Rehoboth Beach: This upscale beach resort offers luxurious rooms and suites with balconies or patios, as well as a full-service spa, multiple pools, and a complimentary breakfast buffet.
The Boardwalk Plaza Hotel, Rehoboth Beach: This Victorian-style beachfront hotel offers elegant rooms and suites with ocean views, as well as an on-site restaurant, a rooftop lounge, and a full-service spa.
The Hotel Rehoboth, Rehoboth Beach: This boutique hotel offers stylish rooms and suites with modern decor, as well as a rooftop pool and lounge, a fitness center, and a complimentary breakfast buffet.
The Avenue Inn & Spa, Rehoboth Beach: This beachfront hotel offers spacious rooms and suites with kitchenettes or full kitchens, as well as a full-service spa, a fitness center, and a complimentary breakfast buffet.
These luxury accommodations offer a range of amenities and services to make your stay in Delaware as comfortable and memorable as possible.
Where to stay in Delaware
Budget accommodation
Delaware offers a range of budget-friendly accommodations, from basic motels to affordable hotels. Here are some top options for budget stays in the state:
Quality Inn & Suites Skyways, New Castle: This budget hotel offers comfortable rooms with free Wi-Fi and breakfast, as well as an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a 24-hour business center.
Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham, Dover: This affordable hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms with free Wi-Fi and breakfast, as well as a fitness center, a business center, and a 24-hour front desk.
Days Inn by Wyndham, Newark: This budget hotel offers simple rooms with free Wi-Fi and breakfast, as well as an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a 24-hour front desk.
Atlantic Sands Hotel & Conference Center, Rehoboth Beach: This beachfront hotel offers basic rooms with free Wi-Fi and parking, as well as an on-site restaurant, a fitness center, and an outdoor pool.
Beach View Hotel, Rehoboth Beach: This affordable hotel offers cozy rooms with free Wi-Fi and parking, as well as a complimentary breakfast, a heated outdoor pool, and a rooftop sundeck.
These budget accommodations offer basic amenities and services at an affordable price, making them a great option for travelers on a budget.
Travel Tips Delaware
Here are some travel tips for visiting Delaware:
Plan your visit during the off-season: Delaware’s peak tourist season is during the summer months when the weather is warm and the beaches are crowded. Consider visiting in the spring or fall when the weather is still pleasant, but the crowds are thinner.
Explore the state’s historic sites: Delaware has a rich history dating back to colonial times. Make time to visit historic sites such as the First State Heritage Park in Dover or the Hagley Museum and Library in Wilmington.
Sample the local cuisine: Delaware has a diverse food scene, from seafood to farm-to-table restaurants. Be sure to try some of the state’s specialties, such as scrapple or crab cakes.
Take advantage of the outdoor activities: Delaware offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, biking, kayaking, and fishing. Take advantage of the state’s many parks and nature reserves.
Rent a car: While Delaware is a small state, it’s easier to get around with a car. Consider renting a car to explore the state at your own pace.
Consider a beach vacation: Delaware’s beaches are some of the most popular destinations in the state. If you’re looking for a beach vacation, consider staying in Rehoboth Beach, Bethany Beach, or Dewey Beach.
Check out the events calendar: Delaware hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including festivals, concerts, and fairs. Check the events calendar to see what’s happening during your visit.
By following these travel tips, you can make the most of your trip to Delaware and experience all that the state has to offer.