Road Trips in Delaware | Day Trips in Delaware
What Delaware is Known For: Historic landmarks, beautiful beaches, and tax-free shopping.
Delaware’s Nickname: The First State
Delaware’s Official Hobby: Fishing
Delaware’s Most Popular State Park: Cape Henlopen State Park | Lewes, Delaware
Delaware offers a charming mix of historic towns, scenic coastlines, and vibrant cultural attractions for amazing Delaware road trips. Whether you’re exploring its picturesque beaches, historic sites, or scenic byways, Delaware promises an enriching and enjoyable journey.
Start your journey in the historic town of Lewes, known for its beautiful beaches and rich maritime history. Visit the Zwaanendael Museum to learn about the area’s Dutch heritage, and take a stroll through the charming downtown area filled with shops, restaurants, and historic homes. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore Cape Henlopen State Park, where you can enjoy swimming, hiking, and scenic views from the observation tower.
Drive to the picturesque town of Rehoboth Beach, often referred to as “The Nation’s Summer Capital.” Stroll along the famous Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk, enjoy the sandy beaches, and explore the vibrant downtown area filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants. Visit Funland, a classic amusement park that has been entertaining visitors since 1962.
Head to the charming town of Dover, the capital of Delaware. Explore the historic First State Heritage Park, which includes the Old State House and the John Bell House. Visit the Air Mobility Command Museum to see historic aircraft and learn about the history of military aviation. Don’t miss a visit to the Biggs Museum of American Art to view an impressive collection of American fine and decorative arts.
Don’t miss the scenic beauty of the Brandywine Valley, known for its rolling hills, gardens, and historic estates. Visit the Hagley Museum and Library, the site of the original DuPont gunpowder mills, and explore the beautiful gardens at Nemours Estate. The Brandywine River Museum of Art showcases American art, including works by the Wyeth family.
Delaware’s scenic byways, such as the Brandywine Valley National Scenic Byway, provide breathtaking views and lead to quaint small towns like Odessa and New Castle. In Odessa, visit the Historic Odessa Foundation to tour beautifully preserved 18th- and 19th-century homes. In New Castle, explore the cobblestone streets and historic buildings, and visit the New Castle Court House Museum.
Delaware Road Trip Checklist
Before you go on any road trip or day trip its advised you prepare and get the items you need including a phone charging cable, fix-a-flat tire repair, a cozzy neck pillow and more. This all inclusive guide is a day trip checklist to make sure if your road trip goes a little too long you are still covered. Make sure to check it out!
Before going on any Delaware road trip or day trip check out these items. Save money and time buy preparing the items you need instead of buying on the go.
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Top Road Trip Routes in Delaware
1. The Coastal Heritage Trail
Route: DE-1
Cities: Lewes, Rehoboth Beach, Bethany Beach
Attractions: Zwaanendael Museum, Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk, Fenwick Island State Park
2. The Historic Capital Loop
Route: US-13
Cities: Dover, Camden, Smyrna
Attractions: First State Heritage Park, Air Mobility Command Museum, Biggs Museum of American Art
3. The Brandywine Valley Byway
Route: DE-52
Cities: Wilmington, Greenville, Montchanin
Attractions: Hagley Museum and Library, Nemours Estate, Brandywine River Museum of Art
4. The Colonial Trail
Route: DE-9
Cities: New Castle, Odessa, Delaware City
Attractions: New Castle Court House Museum, Historic Odessa Foundation, Fort Delaware State Park
Best Times to Visit
Delaware’s moderate climate means there are great times to visit throughout the year.
- Spring (March to May): Ideal for exploring gardens and enjoying mild weather and blooming flowers.
- Summer (June to August): Perfect for coastal activities, beach visits, and outdoor festivals.
- Fall (September to November): Offers cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage, especially in the Brandywine Valley.
- Winter (December to February): Great for indoor cultural activities, holiday events, and cozying up in historic inns.
Local Cuisine
Delaware’s culinary scene features fresh seafood and classic American fare. Here are some must-try foods and restaurant recommendations in smaller towns:
- Crab Cakes: Try the crab cakes at Bluecoast Seafood Grill in Bethany Beach, known for their fresh and flavorful seafood.
- Scrapple: Enjoy this traditional Delaware breakfast dish at Helen’s Sausage House in Smyrna.
- Salt Water Taffy: Visit Dolle’s Candyland in Rehoboth Beach for their famous salt water taffy, a local favorite.
- Fried Chicken: Savor crispy fried chicken at Willey’s Farm in Townsend.
- Peach Pie: Try a slice of homemade peach pie at Fifer Orchards in Camden-Wyoming, especially during peach season.
Most Unique Stays in Delaware
- Dogfish Inn
- Location: Lewes, Delaware
- What makes it unique?: A cozy, beer-themed inn by Dogfish Head Craft Brewery. Perfect for beer enthusiasts and located close to the beach and historic sites.
- The Bellmoor Inn & Spa
- Location: Rehoboth Beach, Delaware
- What makes it unique?: A luxurious boutique hotel offering elegant rooms, a full-service spa, and beautiful gardens. It’s just a short walk from the beach and boardwalk.
- Hotel du Pont
- Location: Wilmington, Delaware
- What makes it unique?: A historic hotel known for its opulent decor, fine dining, and exceptional service. It’s a landmark in the Brandywine Valley.
- Inn at Montchanin Village
- Location: Montchanin, Delaware
- What makes it unique?: A charming boutique hotel set in a restored 19th-century hamlet. Offers luxurious accommodations and is close to Wilmington’s attractions.
- The Towers Bed & Breakfast
- Location: Milford, Delaware
- What makes it unique?: A Victorian bed and breakfast offering elegant rooms and period decor. It’s a perfect romantic getaway with easy access to Delaware’s beaches.
Travel Tips
- Beach Parking: During the summer, beach parking can be crowded, especially in popular areas like Rehoboth Beach and Bethany Beach. Arrive early to secure a spot.
- Tax-Free Shopping: Take advantage of Delaware’s tax-free shopping, especially in the outlets and malls in Rehoboth Beach and Newark.
- Historic Tours: Many of Delaware’s historic sites offer guided tours. Check the schedules and book in advance to make the most of your visit.
- Bird Watching: Delaware is a prime spot for bird watching, especially in the Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge. Bring binoculars and a field guide to spot a variety of species.