5 Essential Stops On Your Next Trip To Delaware
While it might not have the size of a New York or Texas, travelers shouldn't sleep on Delaware. The first state admitted to the Union, and one allegedly called a "jewel" by Thomas Jefferson, it's loaded with history, local flavor, natural New England beauty, and opportunities for shopping and recreation. The destinations listed here, ranging from gardens and beaches to museums and restaurants, should satisfy anyone looking to get the most out of the Small Wonder state. This video was made with Ezvid Wikimaker.
5 Must-Visit Delaware Destinations
| Name | Location | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Delaware Botanic Gardens | Dagsboro | A mix of plateau, woodlands, and more than 1,000 feet of tidal waterfront on Pepper Creek, with professional horticultural displays and interactive programs |
| Rehoboth Beach | Eponymous | One square mile community and the largest beach resort in Delaware, offering recreational opportunities and the Rehoboth Beach Bandstand music and entertainment venue |
| Air Mobility Command Museum | Dover | Houses over 30 aircraft varying in roles and sizes, and has exhibits telling the story of humanitarian and airlift and air refueling history |
| Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley | Eponymous | Historical sites and mansions, gardens, parks, trails, zoos and nature centers, shopping and dining, and more |
| SoDel Concepts | Based in Rehoboth Beach, with other locations | Award-winning, chef-driven restaurant group operating twelve distinctive restaurants along Delaware's Culinary Coast |
Visit Wilmington & the Brandywine Valley
Cool Delaware Facts
- The first known inhabitants of the region we now call Delaware were the Lenni Lenape and the Nanticoke tribes
- It was the first state to ratify the Constitution on December 7, 1787, five days before any other colony or province
- Among the state's many nicknames is the “Diamond State"
- It's the second smallest state in the country by area after Rhode Island, stretching under 100 miles long
- In 1974, a second-grade class got a petition approved to make the state insect the ladybug
- The League of American Bicyclists named it the third most bike-friendly state in the country in 2015
- The University of Delaware offered the country's first study abroad program in 1923
- There is no sales tax in Delaware
Things to Bring on Your Next Vacation
- Travel size toiletries that won't take up too much space
- Keep your dirty clothes separate from the clean ones with a laundry bag
- A money belt for easy access to cash & cards
- If you're traveling with kids, you might want to bring along some games
- Depending on your preference, either a backpack or some nice luggage
- Cozy pillows can improve any long flight or car trip
- A travel mug for your coffee or tea
Spotlight on SoDel Concepts' Restaurants
In Depth
Delaware, located in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States, is America's second smallest state. Full of scenic nature that comprises forest, rivers, lakes and beaches, it is known as the "Blue Hen State" because its official bird is the Blue Hen. In no particular order, here are some places to consider checking out when planning a visit to "The First State" of the nation.
Starting off our list at #1, The Delaware Botanic Gardens is a world-class, inspirational, educational, and sustainable public site comprised of several gardens in Southern Delaware. This organization's mission is to create a space in the community for the benefit and enjoyment of all. Even in colder weather, visitors are able to take a walk through the property and enjoy the seasonal beauty.
The ever-changing gardens offer professional horticultural displays that create a sense of place for Southern Delaware. The center seeks to continuously expand its gardens while educating the public and fostering conservation of its unique ecological habitats. Interactive programs, both on land and around the water, are offered year-round. Activities such as guided tours, educational classes and art in the landscape are enjoyed by visitors and locals alike.
Interactive programs, both on land and around the water, are offered year-round.
At #2 on our list is The City of Rehoboth Beach. This city's charming beach and mile-long boardwalk are popular attractions for both locals and visitors. Flanked by eclectic shops, restaurants, businesses and family amusements, the area is sure to offer something of interest for everyone. Throughout the year, the boardwalk is a backdrop for festivals and events, fitness competitions or just a daily stroll by foot or bike.
The popular Rehoboth Beach Bandstand Summer Concert Series, which takes place every year from mid-June through Labor Day Weekend, is an annual event that has been providing free entertainment for the community and its visitors since 1963. Each year, over 40 bands are selected to perform in an open-air concert venue. The venue facilitates entertainment through music, movies, variety acts, and other local, regional, and national performances.
Up next, at #3 on our list, is The Air Mobility Command Museum. The museum houses over 30 aircraft varying in roles and sizes, and features exhibits telling the story of airlift and refueling history. Visitors also have the opportunity to learn about the humanitarian and war efforts that American men and women undertook to help aid those in need and support the US military.
The museum houses over 30 aircraft varying in roles and sizes, and features exhibits telling the story of airlift and refueling history.
On every third Saturday of the month, between April and October, the museum opens up some of its more impressive planes for guided tours. This event is called Open Cockpit Day. Tour guides are stationed at each aircraft to describe their history and missions. The docents are often retired crew members who have worked with the specific airplanes, bringing the descriptions to life for visitors.
Moving onto #4, Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley is a destination marked by sharp contrasts. Downtown Wilmington is the urban hub of the region, the corporate capital of America, and the largest downtown in the state of Delaware. It's a center for banking and innovation, with world-class restaurants, museums, performing arts venues, and of course, tax-free shopping.
Just a few miles outside the hustle and bustle of downtown Wilmington is the Brandywine Valley, where visitors will see the city streets turn into country lanes that house vintage estates and beautiful gardens. The Brandywine Treasure Trail Passport gives visitors access to the region's top attractions, and is a good choice for those seeking a comprehensive, valuable experience.
The Brandywine Treasure Trail Passport gives visitors access to the region's top attractions, and is a good choice for those seeking a comprehensive, valuable experience.
Lastly, at #5 on our list, SoDel Concepts is an award-winning, chef driven restaurant group based in Rehoboth Beach with restaurants operating throughout the Culinary Coast of Southern Delaware. SoDel Concepts believes in cooking beautiful, simple food, developing the community, and making the world a better place. The group's philanthropic charity gives money to local organizations that assist children, at risk youth and adults, and the elderly.
SoDel's Thompson Island Brewing Company is an independent craft brewery and restaurant that celebrates the coastal Delaware lifestyle. Located in Rehoboth Beach, the restaurant features a dining room, bar, porch and beer garden with games. It is a good place to grab a quick bite, spend an afternoon with friends, or an evening out with the whole family.
