It’s hard to believe, but soon we’ll be transitioning from hot summer days to cool fall nights. Discover early fall festivals, sunflower fields, scenic drives, farm markets, and cozy experiences that signal the season ahead. Plan your fall-themed adventures with this inspirational list!
Relax on the Beach: As both the college kids and young ones head back to school, the beaches become a bit calmer and less crowded. Relax on the beach with a book from Biblion in Lewes, Browseabout Books in Rehoboth Beach, or Bethany Beach Books and enjoy the last of the ocean’s warm waters or stroll along a boardwalk. Smell the salt air and enjoy the sun’s final rays of warming sunshine.
Do a Bit of Shopping: At this time of the year, sales can spike. Especially in southern Delaware, where ‘summery’ and coastal decor goes on sale. Enjoy Delaware’s tax-free shopping benefits for those back-to-school and fall decor needs. Explore the Tanger Outlets in south-eastern Delaware or Christiana Mall up north. More unique shopping destinations with one-of-a-kind small businesses can be found in Wilmington, downtown Dover, historic Lewes, Rehoboth Ave., and the Bethany Beach Boardwalk.
Visit a Farmers Market: Before it gets too chilly and stands begin to close, visit a summer farmers market like the New Castle Farmers Market, Downtown Dover Farmers Market, Riverwalk Farmers Market in Milford, Milton Farmers Market, Historic Lewes Farmers Market, and more for all things fresh. Pick up some sunflowers, or pick your own at Ramsey's Farm or Fifer's Farm Store and Kitchen. Learn about farm stores selling fresh produce here!
Plan a Scenic Ride: As the leaves begin to change color in late September, a scenic ride through Delaware is a must. Whether by car on a scenic route or on bike through one of the Delaware State Parks, appreciate the changing of the seasons. You can also explore Delaware’s waterways with Cape Water Tours and Taxi's fall foliage tours to view Delaware from a new perspective. This may be your last chance to catch a dolphin tour before the summer officially comes to a close! For something more spooky and mysterious, take the ferry to Fort Delaware, a historical area that is one of Delaware's most haunted spots. Come October, you can participate in a Paranormal Adventure at Fort Delaware with paranormal investigators.
Visit a Winery: Drive through Delaware’s beautiful countryside to one of its wineries. In southern Delaware, Nassau Valley Vineyards and Salted Vines Vineyard and Winery offer both coastal and rustic vibes, perfect for a transition from summer to fall. Or visit Harvest Ridge Winery in central Delaware. It has one of the largest vineyards in the state!
Tour a Museum: Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library, Nemours Estate, or Hagley Museum and Library are amazing inside and out! These beautiful and elegant estates can be found in northern Delaware. As the seasons begin to change, different plants bloom in the gardens and the trees display new colors. More foliage can be seen at Mt. Cuba Center or Delaware Botanic Gardens. Explore other historic homes for the scenery and historic charm. You may even learn of a ghost story or two on one of your adventures!
Taste Fall Flavors: Stop by local coffee shops, restaurants, breweries, and farm stores for fall flavors. Fifer’s Farm Store and Kitchen will be selling their apple cider donuts and Dolce Bakery and Coffee Shop will serve up a pumpkin spice latte. Heirloom, Station on Kings, and Salt Air will always outdo themselves when it comes to their seasonal decor, and top breweries like Crooked Hammock Brewery will offer seasonal flavors. Those are just some of many places to sample something warm and delicious!
