Things To Do
in Delaware
Delaware is a compact, coastal-to-historic state on the Mid-Atlantic that blends beaches, countryside, and city life. It’s known for its colonial history, Brandywine Valley scenery, and easy weekend getaways. The coast offers laid-back beaches and boardwalk towns, while the interior features gardens, museums, and charming small towns.
With short travel distances between attractions, Delaware makes it easy to experience ocean, nature, and culture in a single trip.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Wilmington and check into your hotel, taking a moment to freshen up after your journey. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling Delaware specialties such as scrapple and the famous chicken and waffles. After breakfast, take a stroll along the Riverwalk for stunning views of the Christina River.
Visit the Delaware Art Museum, where you can explore collections showcasing American art and illustration. Afterward, enjoy lunch at the nearby Trolley Square, known for its vibrant shops and restaurants. Spend your afternoon discovering the historic district, marked by charming architecture and notable landmarks.
Dine at one of Wilmington’s renowned eateries, where you can savor local seafood dishes. After dinner, enjoy a night of entertainment at the Grand Opera House, which often features performances ranging from concerts to theatrical productions. Conclude your evening with a relaxing walk through the city, taking in the local nightlife.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a trip to the picturesque Brandywine Valley. Visit the stunning Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library, where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of its extensive gardens and learn about American decorative arts. Stroll through the gardens and enjoy the breathtaking scenery.
Head to Longwood Gardens, one of the premier botanical gardens in the U.S., for a delightful afternoon. Explore the many themed gardens, greenhouses, and fountains that make this place a horticultural paradise. Enjoy a light lunch at the onsite café, focusing on fresh and seasonal ingredients.
As the sun sets, make your way to the nearby town of Kennett Square, known for its mushroom farming. Indulge in dinner at a local restaurant that specializes in farm-to-table dishes featuring seasonal ingredients. After dinner, relax at a cozy tavern and enjoy a craft beer or local wine.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🏠1-bedroom apartment rent (city center/urban area) | $1,200-1,900/mo |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $3-4 |
| 💡Utilities (monthly) | $100-180 |
| ☕Coffee in cafe | $3-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact size makes it easy to explore in a weekend
- Coastal towns offer seafood and beaches
- Rich history and Brandywine Valley scenery
- Crowded peak summer beach towns
- I-95 and Route 1 can be busy during rush hours
- Some rural areas have limited public transit
Places to Visit in Delaware
Visit one of these nice places.
Elegant gardens and historic grounds with year-round color and architectural backdrops near Wilmington.
Alcoves of greenery, flowing waterways, and skyline glimpses—great for wide-angle river scenes.
Coastal dunes, pine forests, and expansive ocean horizons perfect for sunset photography.
Colorful storefronts, ferris wheel, and lively crowds provide dynamic street photography opportunities.
Historic fortress on Pea Patch Island with coastal vistas and maritime textures.
Food in Delaware
Delaware Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Classic crab cakes made with local blue crab, best enjoyed at coastal crab houses in Rehoboth and Wilmington.
Must-Try!
Thin-cut fries served hot with vinegar or traditional dips, a staple along the Rehoboth Beach boardwalk.
Pan-fried slices of cornmeal and pork, a regional breakfast staple found in many diners and taverns.
Butter-drenched or mayo-coated lobster meat in a lightly toasted bun, popular in coastal towns during summer.
Seasonal sandwich featuring a delicate soft-shell crab with tangy remoulade or sauce.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A large indoor/outdoor market north of Wilmington offering seafood, produce, ethnic foods, and prepared foods.
Seasonal market with locally grown produce, baked goods, and regional specialties in a historic coastal town.
Seasonal street food stalls offering seafood bites, saltwater taffy, ice cream, and quick coastal eats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be polite in neighborhoods, queue when waiting, and respect local coastal rules in protected areas; cash is commonly accepted but cards are widely used.
Safety
Tipping in Delaware
Ensure a smooth experience
Tip 15-20% in sit-down restaurants; round up or add a dollar per drink at bars; tip taxi or rideshare drivers 10-15% depending on service.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm, humid days with coastal sea breezes; beaches and boardwalks are busy, so arrive early for parking and plan water-resistant photo plans for long days.
Milder than many inland areas, with occasional snow; museums and historic sites are peaceful, making it good for indoor photography and quiet strolls.
Blooming gardens and bird migrations brighten landscapes; ideal for nature and garden photography in Brandywine Valley and coastal towns.
Pleasant temperatures and fall foliage in parklands; great lighting for landscape and architectural shots.
Delaware at Night
Hiking in Delaware
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal dune trails and pine forest routes with ocean views near Lewes.
Creekside wooded trails close to Wilmington with scenic meadow views.
Hiking and wildlife viewing around creeks and woodlands near Newark.
Waterfront and forest trails in southern Delaware with ponds and wildlife.
Airports
How to reach Delaware by plane.
Major international hub about a short drive from northern Delaware; broad domestic and international connections.
Large, accessible hub in the region with frequent flight options and ground transport to Delaware.
Small regional airport near Wilmington serving general aviation and some commercial flights.
Coastal Maryland airport within a couple of hours’ drive for southern Delaware travelers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Suburban neighborhoods around Wilmington and Dover with family amenities.
Coastal towns attract retirees seeking milder winters and slower-paced living.
A mix of White, Black or African American, Hispanic/Latino, and Asian communities distributed across urban and rural areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Delaware Park Racetrack in Wilmington hosts thoroughbred racing and related events.
Dover International Speedway hosts NASCAR events and regional races.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Delaware.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Delaware restaurants offer vegetarian entrées or customizable veggie plates; request rotating veggie specials and sides, explore farm markets for fresh produce, and ask for dairy-free options when needed.