Delaware

Delaware, the "First State," is small but packed with history, natural beauty, and charming coastal towns. It offers a blend of historic landmarks, scenic outdoor spaces, and tax-free shopping, making it a unique and convenient destination. Here's an in-depth guide:

Top Attractions and Activities

Historic Highlights

1. Historic New Castle

   • Explore cobblestone streets lined with colonial-era buildings.

   • Visit the New Castle Court House Museum, where Delaware declared its independence from Pennsylvania and England.

2. First State Heritage Park (Dover)

   • A “park without boundaries” in the capital city, featuring historic sites like the Old State House and Biggs Museum of American Art.

3. Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library

   • A world-class museum and estate showcasing American decorative arts and stunning gardens.

4. Hagley Museum and Library

   • Discover the history of the DuPont family and their role in industrial America at this riverside estate and gunpowder works.

5. Fort Delaware State Park

   • Located on Pea Patch Island, this Civil War-era fort can be reached by ferry. It offers living history programs and scenic views.

Coastal and Outdoor Adventures

1. Rehoboth Beach

   • Known as the “Nation’s Summer Capital,” this family-friendly beach offers a lively boardwalk, unique shops, and great seafood.

2. Cape Henlopen State Park

   • A natural gem with sandy beaches, hiking trails, and opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and birdwatching.

3. Bethany Beach and Fenwick Island

   • Quieter coastal towns perfect for relaxation, with charming boardwalks and pristine beaches.

4. Delaware Seashore State Park

   • Offers camping, swimming, and watersports, with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and Indian River Bay.

5. Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge

   • A haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, featuring trails, observation towers, and marshland habitats.

Unique Attractions

1. Nemours Estate (Wilmington)

   • A lavish mansion and French-style gardens built by Alfred I. du Pont.

2. Dewey Beach

   • Known for its nightlife, watersports, and family-friendly vibe.

3. Dogfish Head Craft Brewery (Milton)

   • A must-visit for craft beer enthusiasts, offering tours and tastings of innovative brews.

4. John Dickinson Plantation (Dover)

   • Explore the boyhood home of John Dickinson, a Founding Father known as the “Penman of the Revolution.”

5. Air Mobility Command Museum (Dover)

   • Features an impressive collection of historic military aircraft and interactive exhibits.

Shopping and Dining

1. Tax-Free Shopping

   • Enjoy tax-free shopping at malls like Christiana Mall and outlet centers in Rehoboth Beach.

2. Farm-to-Table Dining

   • Delaware’s culinary scene emphasizes fresh, local ingredients, including seafood, produce, and craft beverages.

3. Blue Crabs and Seafood

   • Don’t miss iconic dishes like steamed blue crabs, crab cakes, and oysters.

4. Local Delicacies

   • Try “scrapple,” a traditional breakfast meat, and saltwater taffy from coastal candy shops.

Festivals and Events

1. Firefly Music Festival (Dover)

   • A premier multi-day music festival featuring top artists across genres.

2. Delaware State Fair (Harrington)

   • Offers family-friendly entertainment, concerts, and agricultural exhibits.

3. Sea Witch Festival (Rehoboth Beach)

   • A Halloween-themed festival with parades, contests, and family activities.

4. Rehoboth Beach Jazz Festival

   • Showcasing world-class jazz performances in a seaside setting.

Best Time to Visit

• Spring (March to May): Perfect for outdoor activities, blooming gardens, and mild weather.

• Summer (June to August): Ideal for beach vacations and lively coastal events.

• Fall (September to November): Enjoy cooler weather, fewer crowds, and scenic foliage.

• Winter (December to February): A quieter season, perfect for exploring museums and historic sites.

Delaware’s combination of history, natural beauty, and vibrant coastal towns makes it a great destination for travelers of all interests.