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Where to Stay in Delaware

Where to Stay in Delaware

Delaware USA Travel Guide

Accommodation Types

Lodging Options

  • Luxury Hotels

    Concentrated mainly in Wilmington, like the historic Hotel du Pont, these spots emphasize high-end amenities, spa services, and gourmet dining. Some upscale beach resorts in Rehoboth Beach also appear, especially during peak season. IHG Hotels

  • Mid-Range Hotels

    Widely available across the state, including popular national chains. These offer comfortable rooms and consistent amenities like free Wi-Fi and breakfast. Booking.com

  • Budget Hotels/Motels

    Found along major roadways and in smaller towns, these spots give economical options for travelers. They feature basic, clean rooms with standard amenities. Agoda

  • Hostels

    Formal hostel options are very limited in Delaware. Budget travelers might find shared room options in some vacation rentals. Hostelworld

Unique & Outdoor Stays

  • Bed & Breakfasts (B&Bs) & Historic Inns

    These charming options are common in historic towns like Lewes, New Castle, and Dover. They often reside in beautifully restored historic homes.

  • Beachfront Rentals

    Along the coast, numerous houses, condos, and apartments appear for weekly or nightly rentals. Popular with families and groups during summer. Vrbo

  • Self-catering options

    Extremely popular, especially in coastal areas. Websites like Airbnb manage a vast inventory. Some extended-stay hotels appear in larger cities. TrustedHousesitters

  • Camping and Outdoor Accommodation

    Delaware State Parks feature numerous campgrounds with sites for tents and RVs. They offer amenities and proximity to beaches, trails, or lakes. If you plan to camp, a Lightweight camping tent makes a practical item to bring.

Neighborhood Guide

Each region and its neighborhoods present a distinct character, proximity to attractions, and ambiance.

Wilmington & Brandywine Valley

Pros
  • Access to world-class museums, cultural institutions.
  • Fine dining and corporate headquarters.
  • A good base for day trips to Philadelphia.
  • A diverse culinary and nightlife scene.
Cons
  • Can have urban concerns in specific areas.
  • Public transit is limited outside immediate downtown.
  • Tourist areas and the Riverfront generally safe.

Dover

Pros
  • Central location for exploring northern and southern parts.
  • Historical attractions.
  • Generally more affordable cost.
Character & Proximity
  • State capital, historical importance.
  • Home to Dover Air Force Base, NASCAR track.
  • Home to Dover Downs Hotel & Casino.

Coastal & Southern Delaware

Coastal Pros
  • Direct access to beautiful beaches, ocean activities.
  • Tax-free shopping, diverse dining.
  • Lively the feeling in summer.
  • Closer to Salisbury - Ocean City Wicomico Regional Airport.
Coastal Cons / Southern Inland
  • Very crowded and expensive in summer.
  • Many businesses seasonal.
  • Parking may be challenging.
  • Southern Inland: Fewer major attractions, more limited dining/entertainment.

Safety Considerations & Ambiance

Safety

Tourist areas are generally safe. Urban areas like Wilmington warrant general urban precautions. Coastal towns are very safe but can experience petty theft during busy summer periods.

Noise and Ambiance

Coastal towns, especially Rehoboth and Dewey Beach, can be lively and noisy in summer. Wilmington has typical urban noise levels. Inland areas and historic towns offer a quieter, more relaxed ambiance, notably outside of peak tourist season.

Booking Strategies

Planning ahead is notably beneficial in popular areas and during peak seasons.

Advance Booking Recommendations

  • High Season (Summer, June-August): Booking accommodation several months in advance is advisable, especially for coastal rentals and popular hotels. Demand is extremely high, and prices peak.
  • Shoulder Season (Spring/Fall): Booking a few weeks to a month in advance for popular B&Bs or hotels, especially for weekends or during special events.
  • Low Season (November-March): Finding last-minute deals is easier, but booking ahead for popular properties or in the area of major holidays is still recommended.
  • Consider using a Travel planner notebook to keep track of all your securing a spot and plans.

Booking Platforms & Policies

  • Trusted Platforms: Major Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) like Booking.com, Agoda, and vacation rental platforms like Airbnb and VRBO. Reserving directly with properties is also an option.
  • Seasonal Price Fluctuations: Prices are highest in the summer at the beaches due to peak demand. Off-season generally has the best value.
  • Negotiation Customs: Negotiating walk-in rates is generally not customary for chain hotels. Some independent motels or B&Bs during the off-season might offer a slight discount.
  • Deposit and Cancellation Policies: Policies vary widely. Coastal rentals often have strict cancellation policies. Hotels often allow free cancellation up to 24-48 hours before check-in.

State Park Reservations

Booking Campgrounds
  • Reserve campsites via the Delaware State Parks website.
  • Amenities include electric hookups and bathhouses.
  • Proximity to beaches, trails, or lakes.
  • An affordable way to stay close to nature.
Private Campgrounds
  • Several privately owned campgrounds appear across the state.
  • They include a range of facilities.
  • These can include pools, mini-golf, and cabins.
  • Sites for both tents and RVs.

Homestay & Community Tourism

Homestays

True homestays or formal community-based tourism are less common in Delaware compared to some international destinations.

Connections With locals

Vacation rental platforms can facilitate connections with local hosts, presenting a more localized experience than a hotel.

Cultural Exchange

While not a main focus, these connections allow for a form related to culture exchange during your stay.

Accommodation Recommendations

Delaware features options throughout all budget levels and travel styles.

Budget & Mid-Range Options

Budget Picks

For budget-conscious travelers:

  • Simple motels along major routes (e.g., US 13/113).
  • Camping options in Delaware State Parks.
  • Shared rooms or private rooms in vacation rentals found on platforms like Airbnb.
Mid-Range Picks

For comfort and value:

  • Chain hotels like Hampton Inn or Holiday Inn Express for consistent quality.
  • Well-rated independent motels.
  • Mid-tier vacation rentals.

Luxury & Family-Friendly

Luxury Picks

For indulgence and premium experiences:

  • The Hotel du Pont in Wilmington for a historic, opulent stay.
  • High-end beachfront hotels in Rehoboth Beach or Lewes.
  • These spots present premium amenities and ocean access.
Family-Friendly Picks

Ideal for families:

  • Vacation rentals (houses/condos) in coastal towns due to space and kitchens.
  • Hotels featuring pools and complimentary breakfast.
  • State park campgrounds for outdoor fun and nature access.

Solo & Long-Stay Recommendations

  • Solo Traveler

    Mid-range hotels or B&Bs offer comfort and security. Campgrounds present an option for nature immersion and affordability. Consider properties with good common areas for social interaction.

  • Long-Stay Accommodations

    Extended-stay hotels (e.g., Residence Inn, Homewood Suites) feature kitchenettes, laundry facilities, and amenities for longer visits. Vacation rentals may also be a cost-effective choice for monthly rates, especially off-season.

Properties with Historical Significance

  • Historic B&Bs

    Many historic Bed & Breakfasts in New Castle and Lewes feature stays in beautifully preserved colonial and Victorian homes.

  • The Hotel du Pont

    In Wilmington, it is a historic landmark, showing early 20th-century grandeur.

  • First State National Historical Park

    While not direct lodging, historic properties within this park present unique insights into the state's past.

Accommodation Overviews

Cost & Style Overview

Luxury Hotels range from $250 - $700+ for indulgence. Mid-Range Hotels are $120 - $250 for comfort and value. Budget Motels/Inns are $70 - $150 for budget-conscious stays. B&Bs/Historic Inns are $150 - $300 for charm and personalized visits. Vacation Rentals cost $150 - $600+ daily for families and groups. State Park Campgrounds are $30 - $70 per site for nature lovers.

  • Luxury Hotels: High-end amenities, excellent locations.
  • Mid-Range Hotels: Reliable, good amenities.
  • Budget Motels/Inns: Affordability, basic comfort.
  • B&Bs/Historic Inns: Unique character, homemade breakfast.
Considerations for Each Type

Luxury Hotels have the highest cost and less local character. Mid-Range Hotels can be generic. Affordable Motels/Inns feature fewer amenities. B&Bs/Historic Inns have limited availability and less privacy. Vacation Rentals have cleaning fees and strict cancellation. State Park Campgrounds have fundamental amenities and are weather dependent.

  • Vacation Rentals: Space, kitchen, privacy.
  • State Park Campgrounds: Affordable, outdoor access.
  • Coastal Hotels: Crowded in season.
  • Roadside Motels: Varying quality.

Homestay Opportunities

Direct Local Interaction

Though structured homestays are rare, vacation rental platforms can connect you with local hosts for a more personalized stay.

Authentic Experience

This pathway to accommodation creates an authentic sense of local life during your visit.