Things To Do
in Delaware

Delaware, located along the East Coast of the United States, is one of the smallest states in the country. Known for its tax-friendly environment, many corporations have their headquarters in Delaware. The state's economy is diverse, with industries such as healthcare, financial services, and agriculture playing significant roles.

Delaware is also rich in history, with sites like the First State National Historical Park preserving its colonial past.

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $250
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
  • Coffee: $2 - $5
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $150
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring the Delaware Beaches
morning
:

Start your day by visiting the beautiful Rehoboth Beach. Take a stroll along the boardwalk and enjoy a delicious breakfast at a local café.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon lounging on the sandy shores or take part in some water activities like paddleboarding. Don't forget to grab some famous boardwalk fries for lunch!

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy a fresh seafood dinner at a beachfront restaurant. You can finish the night with a stroll under the stars along the coastline.

day 2
History and Heritage in New Castle
morning
:

Begin your morning by exploring the historic town of New Castle. Delve into the charm of colonial architecture and visit some of the quaint local shops.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, swing by the New Castle Historical Society for a tour of the Old Court House. Enjoy lunch at one of the waterfront restaurants offering great views.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with a scenic walk along the Christina River. Consider dining at a local eatery to experience Delaware's culinary delights.

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Business-friendly tax environment with no sales tax.
  • Strategic location on the East Coast, making it ideal for commerce.
  • Strong legal protections for businesses and corporations.
  • Rich history and cultural sites to explore.
  • Access to beautiful beaches and outdoor recreational activities.
  • Higher property taxes compared to some neighboring states.
  • Limited public transportation infrastructure.
  • Small size can lead to a lack of diversity in services and amenities.
  • Potential for economic reliance on a small number of industries.
  • Traffic congestion in urban areas, particularly around Wilmington.

Best Activities in Delaware

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Cape Henlopen State Park

Offers hiking and biking trails, fishing, birdwatching, and beautiful beaches.

Brandywine Creek State Park

Great for hiking, mountain biking, and picnicking, with scenic views of the Brandywine Creek.

Delaware Seashore State Park

Provides opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and wildlife viewing along the Atlantic coast.

Tours

Uncover the best of Delaware with these unforgettable tours.

Places to Visit in Delaware

Visit one of these nice places.

Cape Henlopen State Park

Offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and Delaware Bay, with opportunities for birdwatching and photography.

Brandywine Creek State Park

Features beautiful landscapes and scenic views along the Brandywine Creek, perfect for nature photography and outdoor activities.

Hagley Museum and Library

Provides historic and picturesque views of the Brandywine Valley, with opportunities to capture the essence of early American industrial life.

Food in Delaware

Delaware's cuisine is a delicious blend of coastal influences and traditional American flavors. The state's proximity to the Atlantic Ocean provides an abundance of fresh seafood, while its rich agricultural heritage adds a variety of locally-sourced ingredients to the mix. Whether you're exploring the vibrant food markets or savoring the creations of talented chefs, Delaware's food scene offers a delightful array of options for every palate.

Delaware Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Blue Crab

A quintessential Delmarva experience, indulge in steamed blue crabs seasoned with Old Bay seasoning, a local favorite. Head to Sambo's Tavern in Leipsic or any of the waterfront crab shacks for an authentic crab feast.

Must-Try!

Scrapple

A breakfast staple made with pork scraps and cornmeal, scrapple is pan-fried to crispy perfection. Try it at Helen's Sausage House or the Scrapplefest in Bridgeville.

Peach Pie

Delaware's abundance of orchards means an abundance of fresh peaches, often transformed into delectable pies. Visit the Peach Blossom in Middletown for a slice of this local dessert delight.

Unique Experiences

Get to know Delaware better with these unique experiences.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Wilmington Farmers' Market

Every Wednesday from May to November, the market offers a lively showcase of local produce, artisanal goods, and ready-to-eat treats, making it a hot spot for sampling the best of Delaware's food scene.

Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk

Explore the boardwalk for a diverse range of street food options, from piping hot Thrasher's French Fries to saltwater taffy and fresh-squeezed lemonade. Perfect for a casual and flavorful oceanfront dining experience.

Weather

The climate in Delaware is characterized as humid subtropical, with four distinct seasons. Winters are generally mild, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to low 40s Fahrenheit (around 1 to 6 degrees Celsius). Occasional snowfall can occur, but significant accumulations are rare. Spring sees gradually warming temperatures and increased rainfall, making it a pleasant time of year as flowers bloom and trees regain their leaves. Average temperatures in spring can range from the upper 40s to mid-70s Fahrenheit (about 8 to 24 degrees Celsius) as the season progresses. Summers are warm and humid, with average high temperatures in the upper 80s to low 90s Fahrenheit (about 30 to 35 degrees Celsius). This season can also bring occasional thunderstorms, particularly in the late afternoon and evening. Autumn features mild temperatures and lower humidity, creating a comfortable climate as temperatures drop from the 70s to the 50s Fahrenheit (approximately 15 to 20 degrees Celsius). Fall foliage adds vibrant color to the landscape, making it a visually appealing time of year. Delaware experiences an average annual precipitation of about 40 inches, with the wettest months typically being late spring and summer. The coastal areas may be affected by hurricanes and tropical storms during the hurricane season, which runs from June to November. Overall, Delaware's climate offers a mix of seasonal changes, making it suitable for a variety of outdoor activities throughout the year.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect personal space

In Delaware, it is important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially when having conversations.

Use polite language and manners

Using polite language, saying 'please' and 'thank you', and showing good manners are highly valued in Delaware.

Be punctual

Being on time for social gatherings, meetings, and appointments is considered respectful in Delaware.

Hidden Gems

Discover the hidden gems of Delaware with these exclusive activities.

Safety

Safety in Delaware can vary by locality, as in many states across the U.S. The overall crime rate can be higher in some urban areas, such as Wilmington, which has experienced challenges with violent crime and property crime. However, many suburban and rural areas in Delaware report lower crime rates and are generally considered safe. In terms of specific safety measures, Delaware often emphasizes community policing and collaborative efforts between law enforcement and residents to enhance public safety. The state has various programs aimed at crime prevention, as well as initiatives to address issues such as drug abuse and domestic violence. Additionally, while Delaware's roads are generally safe, it is essential for residents and visitors to remain vigilant, especially in areas with higher traffic or pedestrian activity. Traffic safety campaigns and law enforcement efforts focus on reducing accidents and promoting safe driving practices. Natural disasters, although not as frequent, can also pose safety risks, particularly with coastal flooding and hurricanes. Emergency preparedness and response plans are in place to address such situations, keeping public safety a priority. Overall, staying informed about local crime statistics, practicing personal safety measures, and being aware of the community can help individuals feel secure while living in or visiting Delaware.

Tipping in Delaware

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In Delaware, the standard practice for tipping at restaurants is to tip around 15-20% of the total bill. Some restaurants may include an automatic gratuity for larger groups. Tipping is also common in other service industries such as hotels, taxis, and for delivery services.

Payment

Payment in Delaware is commonly made using cash, credit/debit cards, or mobile payment apps. Most businesses accept major credit cards and contactless payments. It is also common to see the use of digital payment methods for online transactions and in-store purchases.

Top Things To Do

Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Delaware.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring is a great time to visit Delaware, with blooming flowers and pleasant temperatures. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities and events like the Wilmington Flower Market and Dover Days Festival.

Summer

Summer in Delaware offers warm weather and beach fun along the coastline. Popular activities include visiting Rehoboth Beach, attending the Delaware State Fair, and exploring the state parks.

Fall

Fall brings beautiful foliage and cooler temperatures to Delaware. It's an ideal time for leaf-peeping, apple picking, and attending fall festivals such as the Apple Scrapple Festival in Bridgeville.

Winter

Winter in Delaware can be cold, but it offers a charming holiday atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy winter activities like ice skating, holiday events, and exploring the festive decorations in towns like Lewes and Wilmington.

Delaware at Night

Nightlife in Delaware offers a diverse array of activities and venues for locals and visitors alike. While the state might not be as renowned for its nightlife compared to metropolitan areas, it still boasts a vibrant scene with plenty of options. In Wilmington, the largest city in Delaware, you can find trendy bars, live music venues, and upscale restaurants. The Riverfront area is particularly popular, with its scenic views and bustling atmosphere. Many places feature local craft beers and creative cocktails, catering to a variety of tastes. Rehoboth Beach, known for its summer tourism, transforms into a lively hub after dark. The Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk and surrounding areas are dotted with bars, nightclubs, and lounges. The LGBTQ+ community is particularly vibrant here, with several clubs and bars known for their inclusive and welcoming atmosphere. Newark, home to the University of Delaware, has a youthful and energetic nightlife scene. Main Street is lined with casual bars, pubs, and eateries where college students and locals enjoy live music, trivia nights, karaoke, and other entertainment. Lewes offers a more relaxed and laid-back nightlife experience, with quaint bars, coastal taverns, and local wineries providing a cozy setting for an evening out. The town’s historic charm adds a unique backdrop to the nighttime activities. No matter which part of Delaware you find yourself in, there's always something to do after the sun goes down. From sophisticated wine bars and waterfront taverns to energetic dance clubs and intimate music venues, Delaware's nightlife presents a little bit of everything for everyone.

Hiking in Delaware

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

White Clay Creek State Park

A large park with over 37 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, featuring beautiful views of the creek and surrounding forest.

Brandywine Creek State Park

This park offers a mix of paved and natural surface trails, along with scenic views of the Brandywine River and rich wildlife.

Cape Henlopen State Park

Featuring coastal trails, this park provides stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, sandy beaches, and historical sites. Ideal for hiking and observing local flora and fauna.

Alapocas Run State Park

A smaller state park with hiking trails that wind through woodlands and along the Brandywine Creek, also known for its bouldering areas.

Delaware Seashore State Park

Offers trails along the ocean and the bay, perfect for hiking while enjoying coastal bird watching and scenic views.

Unforgettable Journeys

Delve deeper into Delaware through these rare and unique activities.

Aiports

How to reach Delaware by plane.

Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)

Located approximately 30 miles from Wilmington, DE, Philadelphia International Airport is the largest airport in the region, offering numerous domestic and international flights.

Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI)

Situated about 90 miles southwest of Delaware, BWI serves the Baltimore and Washington, D.C. area with a wide range of international destinations.

Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)

Located around 125 miles northeast of Delaware, Newark Liberty is one of the major international airports in the New York metropolitan area.

Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)

Approximately 115 miles from Delaware, Dulles Airport serves the metropolitan Washington, D.C. area and offers extensive international service.

New York John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)

Located about 125 miles from Delaware, JFK is a major international gateway in the New York City area.

Walkability

Walkability refers to how friendly an area is to walking, considering factors such as pedestrian infrastructure, connectivity, safety, and access to amenities. In many parts of Delaware, walkability varies significantly between urban centers, suburban neighborhoods, and rural areas. In cities like Wilmington and Newark, walkability tends to be higher due to more developed pedestrian paths, public transportation options, and a concentration of amenities such as shops, restaurants, and parks within walking distance. Wilmington, being the largest city, features some neighborhoods with rich historical contexts and a walkable grid layout, particularly in areas close to the riverfront and downtown. Suburban areas, however, often prioritize automotive travel, leading to mixed levels of walkability. Many suburban developments in Delaware can be less pedestrian-friendly due to sprawling layouts, lack of sidewalks, and limited connectivity between residential areas and commercial centers. In contrast, rural regions of Delaware typically exhibit lower walkability, as homes and services can be quite spread out, making walking less practical. Some efforts have been made in recent years to improve pedestrian facilities and promote walkable community designs, particularly in growing areas. Overall, the walkability of Delaware is evolving, with ongoing discussions around urban planning, transportation options, and community development that aim to enhance pedestrian experiences across the state.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

White

Approximately 66% of the population identifies as White, making it the largest demographic group in Delaware.

Black or African American

About 22% of Delaware's inhabitants identify as Black or African American.

Hispanic or Latino

Roughly 10% of the population is Hispanic or Latino, making it a significant demographic group.

Asian

The Asian population comprises around 4% of Delaware's residents.

Two or More Races

Individuals identifying as two or more races account for approximately 3% of the population.

Native American

The Native American population is less than 1% of the total population.

Pacific Islander

The Pacific Islander demographic is also less than 1% of Delaware's population.

The Soul of Delaware

Discover the essence of Delaware through these truly unique experiences.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is a rapidly growing sport in Delaware, with youth leagues and high school competitions gaining popularity.

Field Hockey

Delaware has a strong tradition in field hockey, particularly among girls’ high school teams and club organizations.

Lacrosse

Lacrosse is a popular sport in Delaware, especially at the youth and high school levels, with increasing participation rates.

Basketball

Basketball is widely played in schools and recreational leagues throughout Delaware, with a notable presence in urban areas.

Baseball

Baseball remains a classic sport in Delaware, with many community leagues and a fan base that supports local teams.

American Football

American football is popular at the high school level, with many fans supporting local teams and the state's college programs.

Horse Racing

Horse racing, particularly thoroughbred and harness racing, is a notable sport in Delaware, with the Delaware Park racing venue being a key attraction.

Swimming

Swimming is a popular recreational activity and competitive sport in Delaware, with various clubs and school teams participating regularly.

Traffic

Traffic in the region is influenced by several key factors, including the population density, the presence of major highways, and the proximity to larger cities such as Philadelphia and Baltimore. In urban areas like Wilmington, you'll find typical city traffic conditions, with congestion during peak commuting hours. The road network includes major routes such as Interstate 95, which runs through the state and connects to other metropolitan areas, contributing to through traffic. State routes and local roads can also experience congestion, particularly during rush hours and in areas with high commercial activity or events. Public transportation options are somewhat limited, which leads to a higher reliance on personal vehicles. In addition, construction projects and seasonal tourist influxes, especially near coastal areas like Rehoboth Beach and Bethany Beach, can impact traffic conditions during summer months. Overall, while serious traffic jams are less common compared to larger metropolitan areas, the state does experience typical traffic challenges, especially in densely populated or popular destinations.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Delaware.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Many eateries in Delaware offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, with some restaurants like Drop Squad Kitchen in Wilmington specializing in plant-based cuisine, ensuring those with dietary restrictions have ample choices.

Gluten-free Options

Visitors with gluten sensitivities will find accommodating menus at various eateries, such as The Green Turtle with its gluten-sensitive menu highlighting safe and delicious dining options.

Cultural Immersions

Experience the heart and soul of Delaware with these cultural adventures.

Healthcare

The healthcare system in Delaware encompasses a mix of public and private providers, facilities, and insurance plans aimed at delivering comprehensive medical services to residents. The state has three major hospitals: ChristianaCare in Newark, which is the largest healthcare provider in the state, as well as Beebe Healthcare in Lewes and Nemours Children's Health in Wilmington, focusing on pediatric care. Delaware has a Medicaid program to assist low-income residents with healthcare expenses, and it also operates a health insurance exchange under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), which allows individuals to purchase insurance plans. The state has made efforts to improve healthcare access and affordability, especially for vulnerable populations. In recent years, Delaware has focused on addressing specific public health issues, such as obesity, substance abuse, and mental health. Initiatives aimed at improving preventive care and chronic disease management have also been implemented to enhance overall community health outcomes. Healthcare providers in Delaware include a range of specialists, primary care physicians, and allied health professionals, and the state has a growing emphasis on telehealth services to increase access, especially in rural areas. Additionally, Delaware has a strong emphasis on community health programs and services designed to promote wellness and prevent illness on a larger scale. Overall, while Delaware's healthcare system has strengths such as accessibility to medical services and a range of treatment options, it also faces challenges, including disparities in health outcomes and rising healthcare costs. Community collaboration and policy efforts continue to work toward improving health equity and enhancing the quality of care for all residents.

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