The Capital Dome Tower on top of the Delaware State Capital Building at night

Things to do in  Delaware

A small state worth seeing

The tiny state of Delaware is often overlooked, and seen as a blip on the way from Philadelphia to Washington DC. But when it comes to US history and economic prowess, Delaware’s size doesn’t reflect its stature. It’s packed with things to do; highlights include historic sites such as Nemours Estate, and Winterthur Museum and Gardens; the picturesque Atlantic shoreline; and the Dewey and Rehoboth Beaches that attract sunseekers from across the East Coast.

All about Delaware

When to visit

If you’re planning a trip to Delaware’s beach towns, the summer months of June through August are the best time to visit. This is when the weather is warmest—temperatures hover around 80℉ (27℃)—but when crowds are the largest, especially on weekends and holidays such as Independence Day, Memorial Day, and Labor Day. In September, you’ll find more affordable hotel rates, slightly cooler temps, and fewer tourists.

Getting around

You can travel to Wilmington in northern Delaware from Baltimore, Washington DC, Philadelphia, New York City, and Boston. The train station is within walking distance of downtown and a few minutes walk from the riverfront. There are several car rental companies at the station. DART First State operates statewide bus routes, including the Beach Connection bus (Route 305), which travels to cities in between Wilmington and Rehoboth Beach. The open-air Jolly Trolley runs between Rehoboth and Dewey Beaches between Memorial Day to Labor Day.

Traveler tips

Unlike most US states, in Delaware you can enjoy tax-free shopping. Because there’s no sales tax on big-ticket items and electronics, the state attracts folks looking to save from all over the US. A popular shopping spot, Christina Mall in Newark is easily accessible from I-95 between Baltimore and Philadelphia and is home to popular mainstream stores such as Apple, Target, and more.

Local Currency
US Dollar ($)
Time Zone
EDT (UTC -5)
Country Code
+1
Language(s)
English
Attractions
0
Tours
26
Reviews
50
EN
4958b27a-edcd-4636-8366-5ce4163aef37
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People Also Ask

How do I spend a day in Delaware?

Depending on the season, you can spend a day in Delaware sunbathing at one of its beaches, admiring colorful fall scenery in the Brandywine Valley, or boating on the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal. And of course, you can take advantage of the state’s tax-free shopping and spend a day browsing and buying.

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What is Delaware best known for?

Delaware is best known for its historical sites, beach towns, and tax-friendly laws. The First State Heritage Park in Dover features the 18th-century Georgian-style Old State House, while Wilmington is known for its riverfront district of parks, boutiques, and restaurants. During the summer months, Rehoboth and Dewey Beaches attract throngs of vacationers.

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Why is Delaware so popular?

In addition to its beautiful beaches, Delaware boasts tax-free shopping. The lenient tax laws have also drawn many out-of-state corporations who register here. Delaware offers these business-friendly laws in order to entice corporations to set up shop in the state, bringing with them jobs and revenue.

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What is the nicest city in Delaware?

The beach towns of Delaware rank highest—Bethany and Rehoboth Beaches offer picturesque coastal views and laid-back vibes. When it comes to the most livable cities, North Star and the Forty Acres enclave of Wilmington are coveted zip codes, thanks to low crime rates, excellent schools, and close proximity to Philadelphia.

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Is Delaware worth visiting?

Yes. As local residents and folks in neighboring states know, Delaware offers plenty of things to do year-round—from outdoor recreational activities and attractions like boating and fishing, to quintessential beach towns and tax-free shopping. Whether you make Delaware a stop during an East Coast road trip or plan for a longer stay, you’ll find that the state is a hidden gem on the Atlantic Coast.

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What is the best month to visit Delaware?

The summer months—June through August—are the best times to visit Delaware, especially if you’re planning a beach break. This is when you’ll experience the warmest weather, but when you’ll encounter the biggest crowds and sometimes lots of humidity. In October and November, the Brandywine Valley in northern Delaware is awash with colorful foliage.

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Frequently Asked Questions
The answers provided below are based on answers previously given by the tour provider to customers’ questions.
Q:
What are the top activities in Delaware?
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What are the top things to do near Delaware?
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