Delaware, a small Mid-Atlantic U.S. state, sits on a peninsula marked by dune-backed beaches bordering the Atlantic Ocean, Delaware River and Delaware Bay. In Dover, the capital, First State Heritage Park encompasses 18th-century Colonial landmarks like the Georgian-style Old State House. The city of Wilmington is known for the Riverfront, a waterside district of parks, boutiques and restaurants. ― Google
Best Overall:
May – October
Summer (June–August):
Best for beaches (Rehoboth, Dewey, Bethany). Expect warm temps and family crowds.
Fall (September–October):
Less crowded, mild weather, beautiful fall foliage inland.
Spring (April–May):
Great for gardens, festivals, and outdoor activities.
Winter (Nov–March):
Quiet season, but cozy for history buffs and city stays. Beaches are peaceful but chilly.
Main Airports (nearby):
Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) – 30 mins from northern Delaware
Baltimore/Washington (BWI) and DCA – 1.5 to 2 hours from southern Delaware
Wilmington Airport (ILG) – Small, with limited service
By Car:
I-95 runs through Wilmington (north), US-13 and Route 1 head to the beaches.
By Train:
Amtrak serves Wilmington — one of the busiest stations on the East Coast corridor.
Rehoboth Beach – Charming boardwalk, family fun, boutique shops, and clean beach.
Dewey Beach – More energetic vibe; great for water sports and nightlife.
Bethany Beach & Fenwick Island – Quiet, relaxing, family-friendly coastal towns.
Cape Henlopen State Park – Biking, hiking, dunes, and WWII-era observation towers.
Nemours Estate (Wilmington) – Grand Gilded Age mansion and formal French gardens.
Hagley Museum – Former DuPont gunpowder mill and estate with early industrial history.
Winterthur Museum & Garden – American decorative arts and gardens in a country estate.
Delaware Seashore State Park – Ideal for fishing, kayaking, and scenic coastal views.
Historic New Castle – Beautiful cobblestone streets and colonial architecture.
Dogfish Head Brewery (Milton) – Craft beer hub with tastings and tours.
Relax on the beach – Rehoboth, Bethany, and Lewes all offer great shoreline.
Bike the Junction & Breakwater Trail – Scenic ride between Rehoboth and Lewes.
Shop tax-free – Delaware has no sales tax, so outlets and boutiques are popular.
Kayak and paddleboard in inland bays and salt marshes.
Visit museums and estates – Especially in the Brandywine Valley (north Delaware).
Take the Cape May–Lewes Ferry – Scenic boat ride to New Jersey.
Attend local festivals – Sea Witch Festival (Rehoboth, Oct), Firefly Music Festival (Dover, summer), Apple Scrapple Festival (Bridgeville).
Beach Resorts & Inns:
Boardwalk Plaza Hotel (Rehoboth) – Elegant Victorian-style with ocean views
Hotel Bethany Beach – Reliable family-friendly option
The Bellmoor Inn & Spa – Boutique luxury in Rehoboth
Hyatt Place Dewey Beach – Modern stay near nightlife and bay
Country & City Escapes:
Inn at Montchanin Village (near Wilmington) – Historic luxury B&B
Hotel Du Pont (Wilmington) – Gilded elegance in the city
Airbnbs or beach cottages in Lewes and Fenwick Island
Budget:
Camping in Cape Henlopen or Trap Pond State Parks
Chain hotels in Dover, Newark, and Rehoboth
Delaware Specialties:
Blue crabs – Steamed with Old Bay or in crab cakes
Fried chicken – A downstate classic, often served with vinegar
Scrapple – A breakfast favorite (pork-based loaf, fried in slices)
Thrasher’s Fries – Vinegar-soaked beach boardwalk staple
Peach pie – Delaware's state dessert (peaches are historically important here)
Top Places to Eat:
Henlopen City Oyster House (Rehoboth) – Fresh seafood and craft beer
Dogfish Head Brewpub (Rehoboth) – Iconic local brews and burgers
Bluecoast Seafood Grill (Bethany Beach) – Upscale coastal fare
La Fia Bistro (Wilmington) – Inventive small plates and seasonal cuisine
Sambo’s Tavern (Leipsic) – Crab house on the water (21+ only)
🏖️ Coastal Calm & Charm: Delaware beach towns are clean, walkable, and family-focused.
🏛️ Colonial & DuPont Legacy: Northern Delaware (Wilmington/New Castle) is rich in American Revolution-era and industrial history.
🍺 Craft Beer Central: The state’s microbrewery scene (especially Dogfish Head) is well known.
🛍️ Tax-Free Shopping: A real draw for shoppers from neighboring states.
🌿 Nature & Simplicity: Life is laid-back, and locals love state parks, seafood, and seasonal festivals.