When I first planned my trip to Delaware, I didn’t know exactly what to expect. It’s one of the smallest states in the U.S., but I quickly found out that Delaware is packed with charm, history, and fun things to do. From beautiful beaches and peaceful parks to old towns and museums, there’s something for everyone here.
What I really liked about Delaware was how easy it was to get around. Whether I wanted to relax on the shore or explore a historic site, everything felt close and convenient. And let’s not forget one of the best perks — tax-free shopping!
In this guide, I’ll share some of my favorite things to do in Delaware. If you’re planning a trip or just curious about what this state has to offer, these ideas will help you enjoy it just like I did.
Relax on the Beaches at Rehoboth and Bethany
One of the first things I did in Delaware was head straight to the beach. Rehoboth Beach and Bethany Beach are two of the most popular spots, and I quickly saw why. The sand was soft, the waves were gentle, and the whole place had a friendly, laid-back vibe.
At Rehoboth Beach, I loved walking along the boardwalk. There were little shops, restaurants, and even an old-fashioned arcade. I grabbed some fries, watched the ocean, and just took in the easy pace of beach life. Families, couples, and even solo travelers like me were all enjoying the sunshine.
Bethany Beach felt a little quieter and more peaceful, which was perfect when I wanted to relax and hear nothing but the sound of the waves. It was clean, calm, and perfect for reading a book or just soaking up the sun.
Explore Historic New Castle
After spending some time at the beach, I wanted to explore more of Delaware’s history — so I made my way to Historic New Castle. Walking through this town felt like stepping back in time. The cobblestone streets, old brick buildings, and colonial-style homes told stories from hundreds of years ago.
I visited the Old New Castle Courthouse, which once served as Delaware’s first state capitol. The guides were friendly and shared fascinating facts about how Delaware played a role in early American history. It really made me appreciate the deep roots of this little state.
One of my favorite things was just walking along the quiet streets and looking at the well-preserved homes. I also stopped by Battery Park, which sits right along the Delaware River. The views were peaceful, and it was a nice spot to take a break.
If you enjoy learning about American history and love charming towns, New Castle is definitely worth a visit.
Visit Wilmington’s Museums and Gardens
Wilmington was one of the highlights of my trip to Delaware. It’s the largest city in the state, but it still feels calm and easy to explore. What stood out most to me were the beautiful gardens and interesting museums.
One place I really enjoyed was the Delaware Art Museum. It had a great mix of American art and Pre-Raphaelite works. The museum itself was peaceful and well-organized, and I even found a quiet sculpture garden outside to wander through.
Then I visited the Nemours Estate, which truly amazed me. It’s a grand mansion with French-style gardens that looked like something out of a movie. Walking around the fountains, flowers, and trimmed hedges was relaxing and almost dreamlike.
There’s also Winterthur Museum and Gardens, which felt more like a storybook countryside home. The rooms are full of American antiques, and the gardens seem to stretch forever.
Enjoy Tax-Free Shopping at the Christiana Mall
One of the things I quickly learned — and loved — about Delaware is that there’s no sales tax. So of course, I had to check out Christiana Mall, which is one of the best spots in the state for shopping.
The mall had a great mix of stores, from big brands like Apple, Nordstrom, and Macy’s to more affordable options like H&M and Target. I spent a good few hours just walking around, browsing, and yes — buying a few things I didn’t really need but couldn’t resist. It felt good knowing I didn’t have to pay any extra tax at checkout.
There were also plenty of food spots to grab a quick bite or sit down for a break. I had lunch at a cozy little spot in the food court and then treated myself to coffee before heading out.
If you enjoy shopping, this is definitely a must-visit. Whether you’re just window shopping or picking up gifts and clothes, shopping in Delaware feels like getting a little bonus every time you make a purchase.
Tour Dover and the Air Mobility Command Museum
During my time in Delaware, I made sure to stop by Dover, the state’s capital. It’s a quiet city, but there’s a lot of history here — and one place that really stood out to me was the Air Mobility Command Museum.
As someone who’s not a huge aviation expert, I wasn’t sure what to expect. But once I walked in, I was truly impressed. The museum is located right next to Dover Air Force Base, and it’s full of real military aircraft — some of them are massive! I even got to step inside a few of them and imagine what it might’ve been like to fly in one.
The museum does a great job of showing how the Air Force moves supplies and people around the world. There are also displays about pilots, missions, and air history. The volunteers were friendly and full of stories, which made the experience even more fun and personal.
Go Kayaking or Hiking at Trap Pond State Park
One of the most peaceful and beautiful places I visited in Delaware was Trap Pond State Park. Located near Laurel, this park is home to the northernmost natural stand of bald cypress trees in the U.S., and paddling through them felt like entering another world.
I rented a kayak and followed one of the park’s marked water trails. The still water, the towering cypress trees with their knobby roots, and the quiet sounds of nature made it a calming and unforgettable experience.
If you prefer to stay on land, there are over 12 miles of wooded hiking trails that wind through the park. I took a leisurely walk and spotted birds, turtles, and even a few deer along the way.
Trap Pond also offers camping, cabins, and even yurts if you want to stay overnight. Whether you’re into kayaking, hiking, or just enjoying nature, this park is a must-see.
Walk Through the Hagley Museum and Library
While in Wilmington, I spent a day at the Hagley Museum and Library, and it turned out to be one of the most fascinating parts of my Delaware trip. This 235-acre site along the Brandywine River is where the du Pont family began their gunpowder business in 1802, which eventually grew into the DuPont Company.
I started my visit at the Visitor Center, where I picked up a map and learned about the site’s history. Walking through the grounds, I saw restored mills, a workers’ community, and the du Pont family’s ancestral home and gardens. The combination of industrial history and natural beauty made for a unique experience.
One of the highlights was exploring the Eleutherian Mills, the original du Pont family home, which has been preserved with many of its original furnishings. The gardens surrounding the home were also beautiful and offered a peaceful place to relax.If you’re interested in American history, industry, or just enjoy exploring scenic grounds, the Hagley Museum and Library is a must-visit.
Attend a Local Festival or Event
One of the most enjoyable parts of my trip to Delaware was experiencing the local festivals. Despite being a small state, Delaware hosts a variety of events throughout the year that showcase its culture, history, and community spirit.
In July, I attended the Delaware State Fair in Harrington, which runs from July 17 to 26, 2025. The fairgrounds were filled with carnival rides, agricultural exhibits, live music, and delicious fair food. It was a fantastic way to experience Delaware’s rural charm and community atmosphere.
Later in the year, I visited Rehoboth Beach for the Sea Witch® Festival, held from October 24 to 26, 2025. This Halloween-themed event featured a costume parade, live entertainment, and various family-friendly activities. The festive atmosphere and creative costumes made it a memorable experience.
Delaware’s festivals offer a unique glimpse into the state’s traditions and provide fun for all ages. If you’re planning a visit, I highly recommend checking the local event calendars to see what’s happening during your stay.
Take a Ferry Ride from Lewes to Cape May (NJ)
One of the most relaxing and scenic parts of my Delaware trip was taking the Cape May–Lewes Ferry. This 17-mile journey across the Delaware Bay connects Lewes, Delaware, to Cape May, New Jersey, and offers beautiful views of the water and coastline.
The ferry ride takes about 85 minutes each way. I chose to walk on as a foot passenger, but you can also bring your car, bike, or motorcycle aboard. The ferry operates year-round, with multiple departures daily. It’s a good idea to make a reservation in advance, especially during busy seasons.
Onboard, I enjoyed comfortable seating, a snack bar, and plenty of space to relax. I spent most of the trip on the open deck, watching the waves and looking out for dolphins and seabirds. The fresh sea breeze and panoramic views made the journey feel like a mini-cruise.
Arriving in Cape May, I found a charming town with Victorian architecture, boutique shops, and cozy cafes. It was a delightful place to explore for a few hours before heading back to Delaware.
Try Local Delaware Dishes and Seafood
One of my favorite parts of traveling is tasting the local food, and Delaware didn’t disappoint. The state might be small, but its food scene is full of flavor—especially when it comes to seafood.
While visiting the coast, I made sure to try the blue crabs, which are a local favorite. Whether steamed and covered in Old Bay seasoning or served in a rich crab cake, they were absolutely delicious. I also had some fresh oysters and clams, which tasted like they were pulled straight from the water that morning.
Another dish I enjoyed was the scrapple—a Delaware breakfast tradition made from pork scraps and cornmeal. I know it might sound a little strange, but fried and served with eggs, it was actually pretty tasty!
In Rehoboth Beach and Lewes, I found lots of small, family-owned restaurants and seafood shacks. Some served traditional fare, while others offered creative twists on classics. I even stopped by a local farmer’s market and tried homemade ice cream and baked goods made with Delaware-grown peaches and berries.
If you’re visiting Delaware, be sure to bring your appetite. From fresh seafood to hearty breakfasts and sweet local treats, there’s a lot to love on every plate.
Conclusion
Delaware may be one of the smallest states, but it’s packed with charm, history, and fun things to do. From sunny beach days at Rehoboth and Bethany to peaceful hikes through state parks, there’s something here for every kind of traveler. I loved exploring the historic towns, learning about the local culture, and soaking in the beautiful views across the state.
Whether you’re a foodie, a history lover, or someone just looking to relax by the water, Delaware has plenty to offer. My time here was full of simple pleasures and unexpected surprises, and I left with great memories and a desire to come back.
