Things To Do
in Delaware

Delaware, known as the First State, is located in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States. It is bordered by Pennsylvania to the north, Maryland to the west and south, and the Atlantic Ocean to the east. Despite its small size, Delaware boasts a rich history, beautiful beaches, and vibrant cultural attractions.

The state is famous for its tax-free shopping and is home to several historic sites and natural parks.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Wilmington
morning
:

Start your day at the Delaware Art Museum, which features American art and illustrations. Enjoy breakfast at a local café.

afternoon
:

Visit the historic district of Old New Castle, where you can walk along cobblestone streets and explore colonial architecture. Stop for lunch at a nearby eatery.

evening
:

Dine at a renowned restaurant in Wilmington and catch a performance at The Grand Opera House.

day 2
Day 2: Rehoboth Beach Adventure
morning
:

Head to Rehoboth Beach and enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a beachfront café. Spend some time walking along the boardwalk.

afternoon
:

Relax on the beach or explore the shops and attractions in the area. Grab lunch at a popular seafood shack.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a restaurant with ocean views and experience the vibrant nightlife at local bars and clubs.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Fast Food Meal$8-12
🍕Pizza Slice$2-4
Coffee$3-5
🥘Dinner for Two at a Mid-Range Restaurant$50-80
🏨Hotel Room (Mid-Range)$100-200

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Diverse attractions from beaches to historical sites.
  • Tax-free shopping for visitors.
  • Rich cultural and culinary experiences.
  • Limited public transportation options.
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist season.
  • Some areas may lack nightlife options after hours.

Places to Visit in Delaware

Visit one of these nice places.

Cape Henlopen State Park

A stunning natural area with beaches, dunes, and picturesque views of the Atlantic Ocean.

New Castle Historic District

A charming area filled with colonial architecture, perfect for capturing the essence of Delaware's history.

Brandywine Park

A beautiful park in Wilmington featuring manicured gardens and scenic waterways, ideal for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Delaware

Delaware offers a delightful culinary scene that reflects its coastal heritage and diverse influences. From fresh seafood to hearty comfort food, the local dishes are a must-try for any visitor.

Delaware Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Blue Crab Cakes

A local favorite, these crab cakes are made with fresh blue crab meat and seasoned to perfection.

Must-Try!

Scrapple

A traditional Delmarva dish made from pork scraps and cornmeal, often served for breakfast.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Wilmington Riverfront Farmers Market

Open on Thursdays, this market features local produce, artisanal foods, and food trucks offering delicious bites.

Climate Guide

Weather

Delaware experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid, with average temperatures ranging from 70°F to 90°F (21°C to 32°C). Winters can be cold, with temperatures averaging between 30°F to 40°F (-1°C to 4°C), often accompanied by snow. Spring and fall bring mild temperatures, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Delawareans value politeness and often greet strangers with a friendly smile or nod.

Respect for Nature

Enjoying the outdoors is important, so be respectful of natural spaces by following Leave No Trace principles.

Diversity Acceptance

Delaware is home to a diverse population, so embracing cultural differences and showing respect is encouraged.

Safety Guide

Safety

Delaware is generally safe for tourists, but like any destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in urban areas. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas, and keep valuables secure. It's advisable to stick to well-traveled paths and inform someone of your plans when hiking.

Tipping in Delaware

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip service workers 15-20% in restaurants and bars. For taxi drivers, rounding up to the nearest dollar is typical.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and many places also accept mobile payment methods like Apple Pay and Google Wallet.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Summer is warm and ideal for beachgoers, with plenty of events and activities along the coast.

Fall

Fall showcases vibrant foliage and is perfect for hiking and enjoying harvest festivals.

Winter

Winter can be chilly, but it offers beautiful holiday decorations and events, especially in larger towns.

Nightlife Guide

Delaware at Night

Delaware's nightlife scene offers a mix of casual bars, lively pubs, and upscale clubs, particularly in Wilmington and Rehoboth Beach. Live music is popular, with many local venues hosting bands and DJs. The beach towns come alive with nightlife during the summer, offering beach parties and events that attract both locals and tourists.

Hiking in Delaware

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

The Appalachian Trail

Though primarily located further west, sections of the Appalachian Trail can be accessed in the nearby Maryland region, providing stunning hiking opportunities.

White Clay Creek State Park Trails

Offering over 30 miles of hiking trails, this park features beautiful scenery and a variety of terrains, attracting hikers of all skill levels.

Airports

How to reach Delaware by plane.

Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)

Located about 30 miles from Wilmington, this major airport offers numerous domestic and international flights, making it a convenient entry point for visitors to Delaware.

Getting Around

Walkability

Delaware's urban areas, especially Wilmington and Rehoboth Beach, are quite walkable with pedestrian-friendly streets, shops, and attractions located close together. Sidewalks are well-maintained and there are various parks and public spaces to enjoy. However, rural areas may require a car for transportation.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

African American Community

A significant demographic group, particularly in Wilmington and surrounding areas, contributing to the cultural richness of the state.

Hispanic Community

The Hispanic population is growing in Delaware, with vibrant cultural contributions, especially in urban areas.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a popular sport in Delaware, with local teams and minor league games attracting fans during the spring and summer months.

Football

Football, particularly college and high school games, draws significant attention in Delaware, with a strong local following.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Delaware can vary, particularly during rush hour in urban areas like Wilmington. Generally, the roadways are manageable, but congestion can occur on major highways. Public transportation options include DART First State buses, which service many areas, though they may not be as frequent as in larger cities.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Delaware.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian/Vegan Options

Many restaurants in Delaware offer vegetarian and vegan options, especially in larger cities like Wilmington and Rehoboth Beach.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Delaware has a robust healthcare system with numerous hospitals and clinics available throughout the state. Major cities like Wilmington have access to specialized medical services, while rural areas may have fewer options. Emergency services are reliable, and most facilities accept a variety of insurance plans.

Discover United States

Read more in our United States 2025 Travel Guide.

United States Travel Guide