Delaware USA Travel Guide
Several East Coast cities and regions are within comfortable day-trip distance from Delaware. This provides varied experiences.
Philadelphia (30-60 a short distance from Wilmington) importance in history: Independence Hall, Liberty Bell. Baltimore (1.5 hours from Wilmington): Inner Harbor, National Aquarium. Washington D.C. (2 hours from Wilmington): National Mall, Smithsonian Museums, iconic monuments. Lancaster County, PA (1-1.5 hours from Wilmington): Amish Country cultural experiences. Cape May, NJ (1 hour ferry + drive): Victorian seaside charm.
Delaware's surrounding region holds natural beauty plus seeing wildlife.
Assateague Island National Seashore (Maryland/Virginia, 1.5-2 hours from Delaware beaches): Wild ponies, pristine barrier island beaches, excellent birdwatching. Blackwater A Protected Area for wildlife (Maryland, 1.5 hours from Delaware beaches): Large refuge for migratory birds and waterfowl, notably bald eagles.
Chesapeake Bay Region (Maryland, various points 1-2 hours away): Charming waterfront towns like St. Michaels or Annapolis, historic lighthouses, fresh seafood.
Expand historical and cultural exploration to sites playing roles in American history.
Gettysburg National Military Park (PA, 3 hours from Wilmington): Significant Civil War battlefield, Lincoln's Gettysburg Address site. Valley Forge National Historical Park (PA, 1.5 hours from Wilmington): Site of Continental Army's winter encampment during American Revolutionary War.
Amish Country (Lancaster, PA): A distinct cultural and agricultural lifestyle, horse-drawn buggies, traditional farming.
No major pilgrimage sites in Delaware or immediate vicinity draw large international tourist pilgrimages. Regional religious sites are mainly historical churches.
Escorted tours are less common for nearby major cities when starting from Delaware. Public transport links and self-driving are quite easy.
For most nearby major cities, independent travel offers optimal flexibility. Driving or trains without changes are straightforward choices.
For those with more time, a visit to Delaware pairs with extended exploration of the Mid-Atlantic region, for a comprehensive itinerary.
Combine a few days in Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley with 1-2 days dedicated to Philadelphia’s history, culture, and diverse food scene.
Extend a beach trip to include Ocean City, MD, for its lively boardwalk and amusements, plus the natural beauty of Assateague Island.
Enjoy Delaware’s coastal charm, then head west to explore the charming waterfront towns and seafood culture of Maryland's Eastern Shore.
New York City: Accessible by Amtrak (approx. 2 hours). Virginia (Richmond, Williamsburg): South on I-95 for further historical exploration. Pennsylvania Dutch Country: Explore more of this region beyond Lancaster County.
The Mid-Atlantic region welcomes varied itineraries for extended stays.
From northern Delaware, south through beaches, then Maryland Eastern Shore to Assateague Island, ending in Ocean City, MD.
Combine Wilmington, Brandywine Valley with Philadelphia, Valley Forge, and Gettysburg to dive deep into The history of the united states.
Integrate Delaware with visits to Washington D.C., Baltimore, and Annapolis for national landmarks and Chesapeake Bay culture.
