MileHacker Logo
Things to Do in Delaware

Things to Do in Delaware

Delaware USA Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

Delaware's natural landscapes provide numerous possibilities for outdoor recreation, despite its generally flat terrain.

Hiking & Water Sports

Hiking & Trekking

Delaware’s the ground is generally flat, so most hiking trails range from easy to moderate. You will not find mountainous trekking. Trails such as Junction and Breakwater Trail and Gordon's Pond Trail are popular. Some routes in White Clay Creek State Park offer more varied terrain.

Water Sports

Swimming is popular at ocean and inlet beaches. Kayaking and canoeing can be found in inland ponds (Trap Pond) and coastal bays; a Recreational kayak is an option. Paddleboarding, surfing (best after storms), fishing, crabbing (licenses are generally needed), boating, and sailing are also popular. Book water experiences via GetYourGuide.

Adventure Sports

Jet Skiing rental services are available in coastal towns. Disc Golf courses appear at some state parks (e.g., Cape Henlopen, Brandywine Creek).

Wildlife & Cycling

  • Wildlife Encounters: Bombay Hook and Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuges are premier birdwatching destinations, especially during migrations. Dolphin watching boat tours appear in warmer months. Witness annual horseshoe crab spawning during The month of may/June.
  • Cycling Routes: Delaware features an extensive network of paved and crushed stone multi-use trails, part of wider regional trails. Suitable for road and hybrid bikes.
  • Mountain Biking: Trails are featured in state parks like White Clay Creek State Park and Middle Run Valley Natural Area. For serious cyclists, a Bike repair kit can be beneficial.

Boating & Sailing

  • Marinas and boat ramps offer access to the bay.
  • Options for fun boating.
  • Sailing excursions are popular.
  • Explore coastal waters from a different perspective.

Birdwatching Hotspots

  • Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge.
  • Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge.
  • Observe diverse migratory bird species.
  • Driving tours and observation towers.

Scenic Walks

  • Gordon's Pond Trail with ocean views.
  • Junction and Breakwater Trail for diverse habitats.
  • From easy to intermediate levels of difficulty.
  • Enjoy nature's tranquility.

Fishing & Crabbing Licenses

Fishing licenses are generally necessary for both residents and non-residents and are available from the Delaware Department of Resources From nature and Environmental Control (DNREC) or local bait shops.

Cultural Immersion

Delaware has different opportunities to engage with its culture, history, and artistic community.

Workshops & Performances

  • Workshops & Classes: Local art centers (Rehoboth Art League) and major museums (Delaware Art Museum) feature workshops in painting, pottery, photography, and other crafts.
  • Cultural Performances: The Grand Performance Hall (Wilmington) hosts Broadway shows, concerts, and ballet. Delaware Theatre Company (Wilmington) has a season of plays and musicals.
  • Traditional Ceremonies: Fort Delaware State Park features Civil War reenactments and living history demonstrations. Old Swedes Historic Site hosts occasional cultural events related to its Swedish heritage.
  • Community-Based Tourism: Visiting smaller towns like Milton, Milford, or New Castle makes possible direct interaction with local the way of the way of life and culture.

Cultural Festivals & Events

Seasonal Celebrations

Delaware hosts various cultural festivals and year-round events, celebrating local heritage, arts, and seasons. The Rehoboth Beach Sea Witch Festival (October) is a sizable, family-friendly event.

Agricultural & Music Festivals

The Apple-Scrapple Festival (Bridgeville, October) celebrates local agricultural heritage. The Delaware Beer, Wine & Spirits Festival (August) showcases local craft beverages. Check GetYourGuide for event tickets.

Language Learning

English is the official language in Delaware. No certain area language learning opportunities for visitors appear typically. Non-native English speakers will find English widely understood.

Art & Craft Workshops

Engage in hands-on art and artisan workshops offered by local art centers and museums. These sessions offer a creative outlet.

Live Performances

Attend a concert, play, or ballet at a historic venue like The Grand Performance Hall. Experience Delaware's stage arts scene.

Local Interactions

Explore charming villages to interact with local residents and obtain a more authentic understanding of Delawarean life.

Relaxation & Wellness

Delaware features options for relaxation and rejuvenation, from spa treatments to tranquil outdoor locations.

Spa & Wellness

  • Spa & Wellness Center: Many hotels and resorts in Wilmington and coastal small towns have spa services (massages, facials, body treatments).
  • Hot Springs: Delaware does not have natural hot springs.
  • Yoga & Meditation: Some yoga studios offer classes or occasional retreats, notably in seaside regions and small towns.
  • Traditional Healing: Mainstream wellness services appear readily available.

Beach & Pool Clubs

Hotel & Resort Pools

A lot of accommodations and resorts across the state feature pools for guest use. These places possess a refreshing break from sightseeing.

Public Beaches

While private beach clubs often mean membership, public beaches are widely easy to reach and present ample space for relaxation and sunbathing. A Quick-drying beach towel is useful.

Tranquil Settings

Away from the busy boardwalks, find quieter stretches of beach or serene points in state parks for peaceful relaxation.

Mindful Practices

Meditation Spaces

Some retreat centers or private studios offer dedicated spaces for meditation and mindfulness practices, often in peaceful settings.

Nature Walks

The numerous national parks and wildlife refuges provide ideal backdrops for restorative nature walks and forest bathing.

Wellness Workshops

Look for local workshops focusing on stress reduction, healthy eating, or holistic well-being during your visit.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Delaware features a range of entertainment and nightlife options, from live music to casinos, providing for a range of preferences.

Live Music & Theater

  • Live Music Venues: The Grand Opera Theater (Wilmington) hosts major concerts. World Cafe Live at The Queen (Wilmington) is a personal venue for national and regional acts. Freeman Arts Pavilion (Selbyville) has concerts in the park in summer.
  • Theater & Performance Spaces: Delaware Theatre Company (Wilmington) is a professional regional theater. Clear Space Theatre Company (The Nation's summer capital) offers local productions. Universities often host collegiate and touring performances.

Nightlife & Casinos

Nightclubs & Dancing

Dewey Beach is known for its lively summer nightlife with bars and clubs for dancing. Wilmington has some clubs and dance venues. Casinos sometimes have live music and dancing.

Bar Districts & Pub Crawls

Wilmington’s Riverfront and Market Street zones have a concentration of bars. Coastal towns (Rehoboth Avenue, Route 1 in Dewey Beach) feature numerous bars popular in summer.

Late-Night Entertainment

Casinos (Dover Downs, Harrington Raceway & Casino) feature 24/7 gaming, entertainment, and late-open dining. Some bars and nightspots in urban and coastal areas stay open late, especially on weekends.

Gaming Excitement

Explore Delaware's casinos for gaming tables, slot machines, and live entertainment. These resorts present a complete entertainment package.

Open Mic Nights

Discover local talent at numerous pubs and cafes that host open mic nights, offering a relaxed and entertaining evening.

Cinemas & Drive-Ins

Enjoy modern cinema complexes or, for a nostalgic experience, seek out a drive-in theater during warmer months.

Age Restrictions

Be aware of age restrictions for certain entertainment venues, especially bars, nightclubs, and casinos. Valid ID is necessary.

Shopping & Markets

Delaware is a popular shopping destination, mainly as a result of its unique tax-free status. Beyond traditional retail, you will find local artisan goods and fresh fruits and vegetables markets.

Markets & Artisan Goods

  • Traditional Markets: Numerous seasonal farmers markets operate across the state, offering fresh local produce, baked goods, and artisan crafts.
  • Artisan Workshops & Crafts: Rehoboth Art League features galleries and a gift shop. Many coastal towns have independent boutiques and galleries offering local artisan crafts, jewelry, pottery, and fine art.

Souvenirs & Shopping Styles

Souvenir Recommendations

Tax-free items (electronics, clothing, jewelry). Beach-themed items (saltwater taffy, shell crafts). Area food products (peach preserves, Delaware wines/beers, scrapple). DuPont-related items and "First State" themed items.

Luxury & Boutique Shopping

Wilmington features stylish shops around Market Street and the Riverfront. Rehoboth Beach & Lewes boast upscale boutiques and art museums. Tanger Outlets (The Nation's summer capital) offer tax-duty-free shopping for major brands.

Ethical Shopping

Support local small businesses and artisans to ensure your tourism dollars directly benefit the community. Look for "Made in Delaware" labels when purchasing items.

Tax-Free Advantage

  • No sales tax on purchases in Delaware.
  • Significant savings on big-ticket items.
  • Popular for electronics and clothing.
  • Makes shopping more appealing.

Outlet Shopping

  • Tanger Outlets in Rehoboth Beach.
  • Three large outlet centers.
  • Major national and international brands.
  • Attracts shoppers from across the region.

Local Support

  • Support small businesses.
  • Benefit local communities.
  • Look for "Produced in Delaware" labels.
  • Fosters sustainable local economies.

Shipping & Customs

Shipping Purchases
  • Most major retailers and post offices arrange shipping for purchases.
  • Options for both domestic and international shipping appear.
International Customs
  • Items purchased (tax-free) are yet subject to import duties and personal allowances.
  • Keep receipts for all significant purchases to declare them to customs if needed.

Shopping Experience Summary

Delaware's tax-free shopping, combined with its diverse range of markets, boutiques, and outlets, has an unique retail experience for all visitors.

Activity Planning Summary

Considerations for Activities

  • Seasonal access: Many outdoor and coastal activities are best during warmer months.
  • Weather impact: Outdoor plans are susceptible to weather changes; have backup options.
  • Advance booking: Popular tours and workshops, especially during peak season, often require reservations.
  • Transportation: A car is generally necessary for accessing lots of activities outside urban centers.

Making the Most of Your Trip

  • Mix and match: Combine heritage tours with outdoor adventures for a varied itinerary.
  • Local events: Consult local tourist calendars for festivals, concerts, or unique events during your stay.
  • Family focus: Prioritize activities that provide for all age groups if traveling with children.
  • Flexibility: Allow some spontaneity in your schedule to discover hidden gems or adapt to changes.