Delaware, aka the First State, remains an undiscovered gem for many travelers. Which I think is a real shame! It’s so underrated that it’s even garnered the nickname “Dela-where?”
Sandwiched between the hustle of Washington D.C. and historic Philadelphia, to me, Delaware offers a refreshing blend of natural beauty, charming towns, and vibrant coastal life. So, no matter if you’re craving the quiet charm of historic towns or the gorgeous beaches along the Atlantic coast, Delaware promises a vacation suitable for every type of tourist.
From picturesque beaches to cultural hotspots, below, we unravel 8 compelling reasons why Delaware (the second-smallest state in the U.S.) should top your travel list.
The BEST Reasons to Visit Delaware
1. Plenty of pristine beaches
Delaware’s coastline is brimming with pristine beaches that are the perfect spots to spend a sunny day. It was actually its beaches that initially piqued my interest in Delaware. One of our favorites is Rehoboth Beach, fondly known as the “Nation’s Summer Capital,” which is Delaware’s vibrant beachy epicenter. Its iconic mile-long boardwalk is home to an array of shops, eateries, and amusement rides. It’s an especially popular choice for families and couples.
Not too far away is charming Dewey Beach, known for its laid-back, youthful vibe. Here you can enjoy live music at one of its bustling bars or conquer the waves via windsurfing and parasailing.
For a quieter escape, we recommend looking to Bethany Beach or Fenwick Island.
Related Read: The cutest towns near San Francisco!
2. Plenty of excellent hotels
After a day of exploration, you’ll want a cozy place to relax. And thankfully, Delaware is home to plenty of charming accommodation options. We particularly like the Rehoboth Beach hotels. They’re the perfect mix of comforts and luxury!
One of our top choices here is the Canalside Inn – a boutique hotel that balances modern amenities with quaint charm. Nestled near downtown Rehoboth, it’s conveniently located close to shops, restaurants, and the famous boardwalk.
3. Rich history and heritage
In Wilmington, the state’s largest city, you should check out the Hagley Museum and Library, where you can explore the DuPont family legacy and the birthplace of American industry.
In New Castle, you can step back in time to the cobbled streets of Colonial America, marveling at historic buildings like the Old New Castle Courthouse and the Dutch House.
While Delaware’s capital, Dover, boasts the First State Heritage Park, where you can delve into the history of Delaware’s role in the American Revolution and Civil War. History buffs will love exploring Fort Delaware State Park, an island fortress that once held Confederate prisoners during the Civil War.
4. It’s heaven for outdoorsy types
Delaware’s relatively small size hides a world of outdoor adventure.
If you love to hike, you can hike the lush trails of Brandywine Creek State Park, where rolling meadows and woodlands converge into scenic vistas.
Or kayak through the quiet tributaries of Trap Pond State Park, home to the northernmost stand of bald cypress trees. Cape Henlopen State Park is the perfect spot to bike along coastal trails, fish from the pier, or simply soak up the sun on miles of sandy beaches.
For birdwatchers, Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge is the ideal place to spend a day, as here you can observe migratory shorebirds and waterfowl in their natural habitat.
5. It’s heaven for foodie’s too
Delaware’s restaurant scene promotes the state’s coastal bounty and farming heritage. Rehoboth Beach hosts a vibrant foodie scene, with the Rehoboth Beach Farmers Market offering fresh produce and artisanal goods. Here, restaurants like Dogfish Head Brewings & Eats and Henlopen City Oyster House serve up fresh, innovative dishes that showcase local seafood.
FYI, blue crab is the signature dish here, so definitely try it out!
For craft beer enthusiasts, the Delaware Beer, Wine & Spirits Trail is the perfect way to sample the state’s craft beer (at spots like Revelation Craft Brewing Company). Or if you’re more of a wine fan, you should head over to Salted Vines Vineyard & Winery.
And, the Delaware Culinary Trail, with its collection of classic diners and farm-to-table eateries, also promises an unforgettable experience. This is the best way to sample the state’s top restaurants.
6. A thriving cultural scene
Wilmington’s Riverfront district is home to the Delaware Art Museum and the Grand Opera House, showcasing a blend of contemporary and traditional art forms.
While at the Delaware Contemporary, modern art blends with community-driven exhibitions. And the Freeman Arts Pavilion near Bethany Beach hosts many world-class performances throughout the year, with outdoor concerts ranging from symphony orchestras to indie bands.
And the Zwaanendael Museum in Lewes offers a glimpse into Delaware’s maritime history and Dutch heritage, while local theaters like Clear Space Theatre Company bring Broadway-quality productions to Rehoboth Beach.
7. Tax-free shopping!
Delaware boasts one of the best perks for shopaholics: tax-free shopping. The state’s tax-free status means you can splurge without worrying about extra costs at checkout. Discover luxury brands and designer outlets at the Tanger Outlets in Rehoboth Beach, often dubbed the “Mile of Style.”
While for unique finds and local treasures, browse the boutiques and antique shops in Lewes and New Castle. And the Christiana Mall near Wilmington combines high-end fashion with everyday brands.
8. It’s very family-friendly
At Rehoboth Beach, families love Funland, a charming amusement park with rides, games, and attractions suitable for children and adults alike. And the Delaware Children’s Museum in Wilmington has amazing interactive exhibits focused on science, technology, and the arts.
In Dover, the Air Mobility Command Museum showcases an impressive collection of vintage aircraft, offering guided tours and flight simulators for aviation enthusiasts. At Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library, children can immerse themselves in a whimsical world at the Enchanted Woods, a magical fairy-tale garden designed especially for little explorers.
Best time of year to visit:
It’s hard to say as everyone is different, but generally, late spring (May to early June) and early fall (September to October) are ideal in Delaware. During these months, the weather is pleasant, with mild temperatures and less humidity compared to the summer peak.
Thanks for Reading!
As I said, Delaware is often overlooked as a vacation destination. But to me, it’s the perfect choice if you’re after a diverse and enriching experience. No matter if you want to simply bask in the sun on Rehoboth Beach, explore Wilmington’s cultural scene, or enjoy tax-free shopping, Delaware offers something unique for everyone.
So, what are you waiting for – pack your bags and set your sights on this hidden gem!
While you’re here, why not check out my other North American blog posts – some of my favorites include:
The Best Day Trips from San Francisco
15 Best Things to Do in Seattle
Moving to New York – these are the best towns to visit from your new home!
Last Updated on October 17, 2025 by snaphappytravel