Delaware USA Travel Guide
Options for various trip durations from 24-hour layovers to multi-week explorations.
A 24-hour layover could involve Wilmington/New Castle (history) or Coastal (seasonal beach). Weekend getaways focus on Brandywine Valley history or a seasonal beach retreat. One-week offers a comprehensive balance of history, culture, and coast.
Plan your visit from speedy highlights to extensive explorations.
Option 1 (Wilmington/New Castle): Arrive PHL, take SEPTA to Wilmington, then taxi to Historic New Castle. Dinner in Wilmington. Focus on history and urban highlights.
Option 1 (Brandywine Valley & History): Day 1: Hagley Museum, dinner in Wilmington. Day 2: Winterthur, Historic New Castle, show at The Grand Opera House. Day 3: Nemours Estate, depart.
Days 1-3: Northern Delaware & Brandywine Valley. Base in Wilmington/Newark. Explore Winterthur, Nemours, Hagley, Historic New Castle, breweries/wineries.
Combine the one-week Delaware itinerary with multi-day extensions to nearby cities. This allows for dives into each region, relaxed pacing, and niche interests.
For stays beyond a week, consider renting a vacation home or apartment, especially in coastal areas during the off-season for better rates. Extended-stay hotels in Wilmington or Newark also cater to longer visits.
Offers a settled experience and cultural immersion, especially off-season.
Located in Wilmington or Newark, amenities like kitchenettes are present.
Live like a local with longer stays, exploring at leisure.
Tailor your Delaware trip to your specific passions with these themed itinerary suggestions.
Route: Start Wilmington (Fort Christina, Old Swedes Church), Hagley Museum. Full day in New Castle Historic District. South to Dover (Dover Green, Old State House). Conclude in Lewes (Ryves Holt House, Zwaanendael Museum).
Route: Begin Wilmington for fine dining and international cuisine. Explore the Delaware Beer, Wine & Spirits Trail, including Dogfish Head Craft Brewery. Coastal towns (Lewes, Rehoboth) for fresh seafood.
Route: Start with hiking and biking in White Clay Creek State Park. South to Trap Pond State Park for kayaking through bald cypress swamps. Conclude at the coast for ocean activities and extensive coastal biking trails.
Route: Focus heavily on the beaches (Rehoboth, Dewey, Bethany) for swimming, boardwalk amusements, and mini-golf. Include a visit to the Delaware Children's Museum (Wilmington), seasonal water park at Killens Pond State Park.
Route: Wilmington is a main stop: visit the Delaware Art Museum, a performance at The Grand Performance Hall, architectural grandeur of Nemours Estate and Hagley. Explore historic architecture of New Citadel and Lewes.
Route: Focus on the tranquility of Delaware's state parks for reflection and nature immersion (e.g., Trap Pond or Prime Hook A Protected Area for wildlife). Enjoy the calming influence of ocean beaches and serene bay waters.
Delaware offers options for various budget levels, allowing you to tailor your trip costs.
Accommodation: Mainly camping in Delaware State Parks ($30-70/night), or budget motels ($70-120/night). Look for shared rooms in vacation rentals if present.
Accommodation: Mid-range hotels, charming B&Bs, or moderate vacation rentals. Food: Mix of casual restaurants, some nicer dinners, and occasional self-catering.
Accommodation: Luxury hotels (Hotel du Pont), high-end beachfront resorts, or exclusive vacation rentals. Food: Fine dining experiences, potentially private chef services, and gourmet markets.
Travel during the shoulder or off-season for better accommodation rates and fewer crowds. Delaware offers tax-free shopping for purchases. Look for package deals on accommodation and attractions.
Each season in Delaware offers distinct advantages and unique experiences. Summer highlights: water sports (kayaking, paddleboarding, jet skiing) are popular. Enjoy outdoor concerts at venues like the Freeman Arts Pavilion. Experience the lively nightlife in Dewey Beach.
