Delaware was my 49th state and you can read more about my brief visit here. I wanted to delve deeper into what Delaware has to offer–I will certainly need to return to explore more! Here is what I found…
Delaware is a tiny state with lots of history, nice scenery, and fun things to do. From charming coastal towns to historic landmarks, there is something for everyone to enjoy when visiting Delaware. If you are planning a trip to Delaware, here are the top Delaware attractions you won’t want to miss.
Exploring the Coastal Towns
Delaware is home to some of the most charming coastal towns on the East Coast. Rehoboth Beach, Bethany Beach, and Lewes all attract beachgoers and provide a range of activities, such as swimming and sunbathing, as well as shopping and dining.
Rehoboth Beach is known for its lively boardwalk, lined with shops, restaurants, and amusement rides. Bethany Beach is a quieter option, perfect for a relaxing day by the ocean. And Lewes, the oldest town in Delaware, is full of history and charm, with its quaint streets and historic buildings.
Discovering Delaware’s History
Delaware played a significant role in the founding of the United States, and there are many historic Delaware landmarks and sites to explore. The First State National Historical Park is very popular. It has places like the New Castle Court House Museum and the John Dickinson Plantation.
A must-see for history enthusiasts is the Hagley Museum and Library, situated on the premises of the initial DuPont gunpowder mills.
Visitors can tour the restored mills and learn about the history of the DuPont family and their impact on the state.
Visiting the DuPont Mansions
The DuPont family also left their mark on Delaware through their lavish mansions, which are now open to the public for tours. The most famous is the Nemours Estate, a 300-acre property with a 77-room mansion, formal gardens, and a reflecting pool.
Another impressive DuPont mansion is Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library, which features a 175-room mansion filled with antiques and decorative arts. The surrounding gardens and grounds are also worth exploring, with over 60 acres of natural beauty.
Enjoying Outdoor Activities
Delaware may be small, but it is full of natural beauty and outdoor activities. The state is home to several state parks, including Cape Henlopen State Park, which offers hiking trails, beaches, and a historic lighthouse.
Visit Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge for a special outdoor adventure. You can see many different birds and animals there.
And for a more leisurely outdoor activity, take a scenic drive along the Delaware Bayshore Byway, which offers stunning views of the coastline and wildlife.
Exploring the Brandywine Valley
The Brandywine Valley is a picturesque region in northern Delaware, known for its rolling hills, scenic drives, and charming towns. This area has many attractions, like Longwood Gardens, a expansive garden that takes pride in their art of horticulture.
Another must-visit in the Brandywine Valley is the Brandywine River Museum of Art, which features a collection of American art, including works by the Wyeth family. And for a taste of local wine, head to the Chaddsford Winery, located just across the state line in Pennsylvania.
Shopping and Dining in Wilmington
Wilmington, Delaware’s largest city, is a hub for shopping and dining. The city’s Riverfront district is a popular destination, with its waterfront restaurants, shops, and entertainment options. Read more about my experience at the Riverfront walk here.
For a unique shopping experience, head to the Wilmington Farmers Market, where you can find fresh produce, local goods, and handmade crafts. And for a taste of Delaware’s famous seafood, try one of the many seafood restaurants in the city, such as Big Fish Grill or Harry’s Seafood Grill.
Additionally, here are some of the top-rated restaurants in Delaware:
- Mariachi Restaurant: Located at 14 Wilmington Ave, Rehoboth Beach, DE, 19971. They offer fresh homemade Latin food in a beautiful beach setting.
- Fins Ale House and Raw Bar: Located at 243 Rehoboth Ave, Rehoboth Beach, DE, 19971. They focus on fresh fish, choice raw oysters, and local craft beer.
- Salt Air: Located at 50 Wilmington Ave, Rehoboth Beach, DE, 19971. They offer farm-to-table fresh cuisine, an upscale atmosphere, and great hospitality.
- Dogfish Head Brewings & Eats: Located at 320 Rehoboth Ave, Rehoboth Beach, DE, 19971. They offer a wide selection of off-centered ales and a menu full of specialty wood-fired pizzas, entrees, and yummy sandwiches.
- Restaurant 55: Located at 2461 S State St, Dover, DE, 19901. They specialize in gourmet burgers using fresh ground angus beef.
- Agave Mexican Restaurant: Located at 137 2nd St, Lewes, DE, 19958. They offer a welcoming, warm, and friendly atmosphere with traditional & modern Mexican food offerings.
- Le Cavalier: 42 W 11th St, Wilmington, DE 19801. The dining room’s historic character is on full display with high, painted ceilings and velvet banquettes.
For more options, you can check out the list of top restaurants in Delaware on Tripadvisor and onlyinyourstate.com or lonelyplanet.com.
Or try a Food Tour, which is our favorite way of exploring any new place.
Visiting the Delaware Art Museum
Art lovers won’t want to miss the Delaware Art Museum, located in Wilmington. The museum features a collection of American art, including works by famous artists such as Howard Pyle and John Sloan.
The museum also hosts special exhibitions and events throughout the year, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in the arts.
Planning Your Delaware Vacation
Whether you are looking for a beach getaway, a history-filled trip, or a scenic outdoor adventure, Delaware has something for everyone. With its charming coastal towns, historic landmarks, and natural beauty, it is the perfect destination for a vacation.
Finding Accommodations
When planning your Delaware vacation, consider staying in a vacation rental. You get more space and privacy with this choice than a regular hotel room. Many rentals are close to popular places and offer an experience that hotels cannot offer.
Airbnb and VRBO have lots of vacation homes in Delaware. You can choose from beach cottages to old houses in Brandywine Valley.
Getting Around
Delaware is a small state, making it easy to get around by car. Yet, if driving is not your preferred mode of transport, there are alternative options available.
The DART First State bus system provides public transportation throughout the state, and the Wilmington Train Station offers Amtrak service to major cities on the East Coast.
Conclusion
Delaware may be small, but it is full of unique and exciting attractions. From its charming coastal towns to its historic landmarks and natural beauty, there is something for everyone to enjoy in the First State. So, plan your trip to Delaware and discover all that this hidden gem has to offer.